#Microblog Monday 517: The Way Back
4 hours ago
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Oh, and since I posted the others...
(SERIOUSLY, this is BADDDDDD-just a fair warning!!!!!) Here is a pic of what my poor tummy looked like before the ER on Saturday! It's looking better now...def. not as angry!!!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Or Impetigo?!
So, I went to the RE today for a follow-up. Man, my Dr. is missing all the action! Apparently she's been in Disney World. The guy I've been seen has been great though. It was the same one that I saw last Monday, and, he was floored at my stomach. It's 100% worse that it was than when I saw him last week. He immediately got in touch with a dermatologist and whisked us away to meet with him. He said that it didn't look like typical cellulitis, but, that it was definitely infected and out of control.
The dermatologist was very kind and considerate...and empathetic of my madness. He said his opinion was that it is more impetigo. He prescribed a steroid cream, an oral steroid, and wants me to continue the antibiotic and antibiotic cream. I took the steroid and put the steroid cream on as soon as I got them from the pharmacy, and it's already feeling better. It's not looking better, but, I'm not going quite as insane. It's starting to be a little painful since it's drying up and such now. I've been laying pretty still and low as to not irritate things. I am hopeful that things will start looking up soon! And start healing! Please keep sending those good thoughts and prayers my way! They suggested not going to work until at least Weds or Thursday, depending on how things are healing up.
Here's a little excerpt on impetigo if you are interested. VERY similar to cellulitis, except not as likely to enter the blood stream (yes, cause that would be bad!!! We don't want that!!!). And, it's contagious...which, would explain why I have hives all over now!!!
The dermatologist was very kind and considerate...and empathetic of my madness. He said his opinion was that it is more impetigo. He prescribed a steroid cream, an oral steroid, and wants me to continue the antibiotic and antibiotic cream. I took the steroid and put the steroid cream on as soon as I got them from the pharmacy, and it's already feeling better. It's not looking better, but, I'm not going quite as insane. It's starting to be a little painful since it's drying up and such now. I've been laying pretty still and low as to not irritate things. I am hopeful that things will start looking up soon! And start healing! Please keep sending those good thoughts and prayers my way! They suggested not going to work until at least Weds or Thursday, depending on how things are healing up.
Here's a little excerpt on impetigo if you are interested. VERY similar to cellulitis, except not as likely to enter the blood stream (yes, cause that would be bad!!! We don't want that!!!). And, it's contagious...which, would explain why I have hives all over now!!!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Today's word of the day: Cellulitis
I made a trip to the ER last night after speaking with the on call Dr. I was concerned about the spread of hives and incessant itching!!! I should have gone to the Dr. on Friday! Damn pride! Anyway, I was diagnosed with cellulitis and now am on an antibiotic cream and an antibiotic. I am to follow up with my RE tomorrow. Won't they be thrilled? I definitely won't be going into work on Monday. I am not sure when I will return. Hopefully the antibiotics will kick in soon and start the healing process. I'd appreciate your prayers, as this is so very frustrating and a little scary. Here's an excerpt from eMedicine on what this really is (I had copied from WebMD, but, it was rather bleak! So, this sounds better!):
Cellulitis Overview
Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin and the soft tissues underneath the skin. It occurs when bacteria invade broken or normal skin and start to spread under the skin and into the soft tissues. This results in infection and inflammation. Inflammation is a process in which the body reacts to the bacteria. Inflammation may cause swelling, redness, pain, and/or warmth.
* People at risk for developing cellulitis include those with trauma to the skin or other medical problems such as the following:
o Diabetes
o Circulatory problems such as inadequate blood flow to the limbs, poor venous or lymphatic drainage, or varicose veins
o Liver disease such as chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis
o Skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, infectious diseases that cause skin lesions such as chickenpox, or severe acne
Cellulitis Causes
* Injuries that break the skin
* Infections related to a surgical procedure
* Any breaks in the skin that allow bacteria to invade the skin (examples are chronic skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis)
* Foreign objects in the skin
* Infection of bone underneath the skin (An example is a long-standing open wound that is deep enough to expose the bone to bacteria. Sometimes this occurs in people with diabetes who have lost sensation in their feet.)
Cellulitis Symptoms
Cellulitis can occur in almost any part of the body. Most commonly it occurs in areas that have been damaged or are inflamed for other reasons, such as inflamed injuries, contaminated cuts, and areas with poor skin condition or bad circulation. The common symptoms of cellulitis are as follows:
* Redness of the skin
* Red streaking of the skin or broad areas of redness
* Swelling
* Warmth
* Pain or tenderness
* Drainage or leaking of yellow clear fluid or pus from the skin; large blisters may occur
* Tender or swollen lymph nodes near the affected area
* Fever can result if the condition spreads to the body via the blood
When to Seek Medical Care
Call your doctor if you have any of the following signs or symptoms of cellulitis:
* Fevers or chills
* Redness on the skin
* Red streaks from skin
* Increased warmth in the affected area
* Swelling
* Tenderness
* Drainage from the skin
Go to the hospital's emergency department if you have any signs or symptoms of cellulitis, especially the following:
* High fevers or chills
* Nausea and vomiting
* Obvious enlargement or hardening of the reddened area
* Increasing pain
* Numbness of the reddened or tender area when lightly touched
* Other medical problems that may be affected by even a minor infection
Exams and Tests
Most likely the doctor will make the diagnosis from a medical history and physical examination.
* The doctor may also draw blood for testing if he or she feels the infection is severe enough to be in the bloodstream.
* The doctor also may order an x-ray of the area if there is concern that a foreign object is in the skin or that bone underneath is infected.
* The doctor may try to draw fluid from the affected area with a needle and send the fluid to the laboratory for a culture.
Cellulitis Treatment
Self-Care at Home
* Rest the area of the body involved.
* Elevate the area of the body involved. This will help decrease swelling and relieve discomfort.
* Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). This will decrease the pain as well as help keep the fever down.
Medical Treatment
* If the infection is not too severe you can be treated at home. The doctor will give you a prescription for antibiotics to take by mouth for a week to 10 days.
* The doctor may use intravenous (IV) or intramuscular antibiotics in these situations:
o If the infection is severe
o If you have other medical problems
o If you are very young or very old
o If the cellulitis involves extensive areas or areas close to important structures; for example, infection around the eye socket
o If the infection worsens after taking antibiotics for two to three days
* You may need hospitalization if the infection is well developed, extensive, or in an important area, like the face. In most of these cases, IV (intervenous) antibiotics need to be given until the infection is under good control (two to three days) and then you can be switched to oral medications to be taken at home.
Medications
Antibiotics are prescribed by mouth or by injection. Be sure to tell your doctor about any reactions you may have had in the past to antibiotics.
Surgery
* Rarely, severe infection may need surgery.
* An abscess, or collection of pus in the tissue, may need to be opened surgically to allow drainage.
* Dead tissue may need to be cut away to allow healing.
Next Steps
Follow-up
Once you leave the doctor's office, be sure to take all the antibiotics prescribed. DO NOT stop taking the antibiotics early, even if the infection seems to be gone. The doctor may want to see you in two to three days to see if the cellulitis is improving.
Prevention
* It is very important to keep your skin clean by practicing good personal hygiene.
* If you notice pain or discomfort from an area of the skin, check to see what it looks like. If it appears inflamed and progresses from one day to the next, you will most likely need treatment.
* Avoid situations that may injure your skin, especially if you have swelling from circulatory problems.
* Wear sturdy, well-fitting shoes or slippers with loose-fitting cotton socks. Avoid walking barefoot in areas where you do not have a good idea about what you are walking on, for example, in garages, on a littered beach, or in the woods.
* If you do injure your skin, wash the area with soap and water and check to make sure that the injury is getting better over the next several days.
* Certain injuries may be at greater risk for infection than others. You may need to take antibiotics to prevent infection or have other preventive care. Be sure to contact your doctor if you have injuries such as these:
o Animal or human bites
o Puncture injuries deeper than a half-inch, such as stepping on a nail
o Crushed tissue that bleeds, burns that blister, frostbite, or deep injuries with dirt in them
o Injuries in contact with sea water
* Find out if you have diabetes or other significant medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease. These conditions may be present without symptoms. Follow your doctor's instructions for management of these conditions.
* Talk to your doctor if you have swelling in your limbs that does not go away.
Outlook
Most people respond to the antibiotics in two to three days and begin to show improvement. In rare cases, the cellulitis may progress to a serious illness by spreading through the bloodstream. Some forms of severe cellulitis may require surgery and leave a person with scarring. Rarely, cellulitis can be life-threatening.
Cellulitis Overview
Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin and the soft tissues underneath the skin. It occurs when bacteria invade broken or normal skin and start to spread under the skin and into the soft tissues. This results in infection and inflammation. Inflammation is a process in which the body reacts to the bacteria. Inflammation may cause swelling, redness, pain, and/or warmth.
* People at risk for developing cellulitis include those with trauma to the skin or other medical problems such as the following:
o Diabetes
o Circulatory problems such as inadequate blood flow to the limbs, poor venous or lymphatic drainage, or varicose veins
o Liver disease such as chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis
o Skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, infectious diseases that cause skin lesions such as chickenpox, or severe acne
Cellulitis Causes
* Injuries that break the skin
* Infections related to a surgical procedure
* Any breaks in the skin that allow bacteria to invade the skin (examples are chronic skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis)
* Foreign objects in the skin
* Infection of bone underneath the skin (An example is a long-standing open wound that is deep enough to expose the bone to bacteria. Sometimes this occurs in people with diabetes who have lost sensation in their feet.)
Cellulitis Symptoms
Cellulitis can occur in almost any part of the body. Most commonly it occurs in areas that have been damaged or are inflamed for other reasons, such as inflamed injuries, contaminated cuts, and areas with poor skin condition or bad circulation. The common symptoms of cellulitis are as follows:
* Redness of the skin
* Red streaking of the skin or broad areas of redness
* Swelling
* Warmth
* Pain or tenderness
* Drainage or leaking of yellow clear fluid or pus from the skin; large blisters may occur
* Tender or swollen lymph nodes near the affected area
* Fever can result if the condition spreads to the body via the blood
When to Seek Medical Care
Call your doctor if you have any of the following signs or symptoms of cellulitis:
* Fevers or chills
* Redness on the skin
* Red streaks from skin
* Increased warmth in the affected area
* Swelling
* Tenderness
* Drainage from the skin
Go to the hospital's emergency department if you have any signs or symptoms of cellulitis, especially the following:
* High fevers or chills
* Nausea and vomiting
* Obvious enlargement or hardening of the reddened area
* Increasing pain
* Numbness of the reddened or tender area when lightly touched
* Other medical problems that may be affected by even a minor infection
Exams and Tests
Most likely the doctor will make the diagnosis from a medical history and physical examination.
* The doctor may also draw blood for testing if he or she feels the infection is severe enough to be in the bloodstream.
* The doctor also may order an x-ray of the area if there is concern that a foreign object is in the skin or that bone underneath is infected.
* The doctor may try to draw fluid from the affected area with a needle and send the fluid to the laboratory for a culture.
Cellulitis Treatment
Self-Care at Home
* Rest the area of the body involved.
* Elevate the area of the body involved. This will help decrease swelling and relieve discomfort.
* Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). This will decrease the pain as well as help keep the fever down.
Medical Treatment
* If the infection is not too severe you can be treated at home. The doctor will give you a prescription for antibiotics to take by mouth for a week to 10 days.
* The doctor may use intravenous (IV) or intramuscular antibiotics in these situations:
o If the infection is severe
o If you have other medical problems
o If you are very young or very old
o If the cellulitis involves extensive areas or areas close to important structures; for example, infection around the eye socket
o If the infection worsens after taking antibiotics for two to three days
* You may need hospitalization if the infection is well developed, extensive, or in an important area, like the face. In most of these cases, IV (intervenous) antibiotics need to be given until the infection is under good control (two to three days) and then you can be switched to oral medications to be taken at home.
Medications
Antibiotics are prescribed by mouth or by injection. Be sure to tell your doctor about any reactions you may have had in the past to antibiotics.
Surgery
* Rarely, severe infection may need surgery.
* An abscess, or collection of pus in the tissue, may need to be opened surgically to allow drainage.
* Dead tissue may need to be cut away to allow healing.
Next Steps
Follow-up
Once you leave the doctor's office, be sure to take all the antibiotics prescribed. DO NOT stop taking the antibiotics early, even if the infection seems to be gone. The doctor may want to see you in two to three days to see if the cellulitis is improving.
Prevention
* It is very important to keep your skin clean by practicing good personal hygiene.
* If you notice pain or discomfort from an area of the skin, check to see what it looks like. If it appears inflamed and progresses from one day to the next, you will most likely need treatment.
* Avoid situations that may injure your skin, especially if you have swelling from circulatory problems.
* Wear sturdy, well-fitting shoes or slippers with loose-fitting cotton socks. Avoid walking barefoot in areas where you do not have a good idea about what you are walking on, for example, in garages, on a littered beach, or in the woods.
* If you do injure your skin, wash the area with soap and water and check to make sure that the injury is getting better over the next several days.
* Certain injuries may be at greater risk for infection than others. You may need to take antibiotics to prevent infection or have other preventive care. Be sure to contact your doctor if you have injuries such as these:
o Animal or human bites
o Puncture injuries deeper than a half-inch, such as stepping on a nail
o Crushed tissue that bleeds, burns that blister, frostbite, or deep injuries with dirt in them
o Injuries in contact with sea water
* Find out if you have diabetes or other significant medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease. These conditions may be present without symptoms. Follow your doctor's instructions for management of these conditions.
* Talk to your doctor if you have swelling in your limbs that does not go away.
Outlook
Most people respond to the antibiotics in two to three days and begin to show improvement. In rare cases, the cellulitis may progress to a serious illness by spreading through the bloodstream. Some forms of severe cellulitis may require surgery and leave a person with scarring. Rarely, cellulitis can be life-threatening.
Friday, March 27, 2009
The not so angry rash
So, the rash is under control, and not so angry anymore. Benedryl has been doing wonders, believe it or not. It's still there, but not as red and inflamed as it once had been. And definitely not as itchy!!! Still keeping an eye on things and I am supposed to call if it starts rearing it's head again. Keep your fingers crossed!
Doing pretty well pain wise. I've got myself on tylenol now. The biggest thing that bothers me is wearing pants. 3 out of 4 incisions are right on my pant waist line. I am not sure how work will work out next week. Sitting up for 8 straight hours AND wearing pants? I hope it goes well!!! Luckily I can wear scrubs, so, I went and bought 2 pairs of bottoms 1 size too big. I figured that and dresses/stretchy skirts will get me by. Any other tips?!?!?
Today's confession:
I'm watching sixteen candles for the first time ever. Hehe.
**UPDATE**
Okay, Sixteen candles was great! And, I think I counted my chickens before they hatched...angry rash apparently doesn't like clothes. And, it's either allergies or a cold, but, it better go away too! We'll see how this goes...
Doing pretty well pain wise. I've got myself on tylenol now. The biggest thing that bothers me is wearing pants. 3 out of 4 incisions are right on my pant waist line. I am not sure how work will work out next week. Sitting up for 8 straight hours AND wearing pants? I hope it goes well!!! Luckily I can wear scrubs, so, I went and bought 2 pairs of bottoms 1 size too big. I figured that and dresses/stretchy skirts will get me by. Any other tips?!?!?
Today's confession:
I'm watching sixteen candles for the first time ever. Hehe.
**UPDATE**
Okay, Sixteen candles was great! And, I think I counted my chickens before they hatched...angry rash apparently doesn't like clothes. And, it's either allergies or a cold, but, it better go away too! We'll see how this goes...
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Not for the faint of heart
So, if you are curious, this is what it has turned into so far...remember the pic from before? Ouchie!!!
How did your incisions heal?
Cause, as far as I am concerned, this is NOT normal. I have pustules (I guess that's the right terminology) all over and around my incisions. Some are from the bandages...now they *think* (even though they haven't seen it again) that maybe I'm allergic to the glue adhesive that my incisions are closed with.
Seriously, I can't even put on a shirt or gauze to cover them now because they drive me mad with itching. So, I'm sitting around my house letting them air out with my sports bra and low slacking pants; tip toeing around, trying to make sure that my stomach area stays free and clear from anything touching it. I just might go insane.
So, they called this afternoon and said to stop the slyvadine (wouldn't you know after waiting 5 hours for them to call be back I had just put some on) and try some benedryl cream. So, I'll wait until this evening and shower, AGAIN, to get this stuff off and try that. And, try to clean it out with some hydrogen peroxide (they said to try that too).
These 4 walls are slowly closing in on me. I didn't get out and about today (see above for sports bra description, lol). Keep your fingers crossed this works.
How did your incisions do?!?!
On a positive note, I am feeling pretty fabulous pain wise. :) If I could just get dressed and go out. Damn having to wear clothes!!!
So, they called this afternoon and said to stop the slyvadine (wouldn't you know after waiting 5 hours for them to call be back I had just put some on) and try some benedryl cream. So, I'll wait until this evening and shower, AGAIN, to get this stuff off and try that. And, try to clean it out with some hydrogen peroxide (they said to try that too).
These 4 walls are slowly closing in on me. I didn't get out and about today (see above for sports bra description, lol). Keep your fingers crossed this works.
How did your incisions do?!?!
On a positive note, I am feeling pretty fabulous pain wise. :) If I could just get dressed and go out. Damn having to wear clothes!!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Achy, breaky and itchy!
Just a quick update here. Beginning to be more sore than before. Now that the gas is minimal, it's left focus downward. I went to the Dr. yesterday because of a suspected UTI. All was well, but, man it stings a bit! They said with the stents placed during the procedure, it could for a while. I'm still spotty with my urine too. There was a little blood detected in the urine on my tests, but, there was no suspicion of bleeding with my blood draw (and no infection), so, they think it's just leftover from the procedure. Going to keep an eye on things and drinking TONS of cranberry juice!
My poor incisions are going to drive me mad. They cleaned them some yesterday at the office, particularly the one in my belly button. They are so gross, especially with all the irritation around them. How long do the incisions ooze? Sorry, that is such a gross word! They look so awful :( Benedryl has been my sleepy little friend the past two days!!! I've got an ointment called Sylvadine to put on the incisions, and, that helps too. I am covering them with "apron" dressings...gauze placed with adhesive at the top but not on the side and bottoms-to let them breathe. My shirt irritates them, so, I had to put something on them! I remember having a hard time with my incisions last time, and then there were only two. Double the trouble this time.
Gas has finally lifted most of it's misery. It's still a LITTLE in my shoulders, but, nothing unbearable. My right side is terribly sore-in the area of that ovary they worked so hard on. The bruising has started to surface on all but one of the incision areas. I look like I got in a fight! :)
So, slowly on the mend. I thought about going to work at the end of this week, but, I am thinking more on the side of not doing that and just laying low the rest of the week. I've been getting up and doing small things like walking around the grocery store and wally world. I just don't want to push myself. I am going to try again cutting back to 1/2 the pain pills. I hate having to take them...but, won't cut them out completely.
Back to chilling with the family. :)
My poor incisions are going to drive me mad. They cleaned them some yesterday at the office, particularly the one in my belly button. They are so gross, especially with all the irritation around them. How long do the incisions ooze? Sorry, that is such a gross word! They look so awful :( Benedryl has been my sleepy little friend the past two days!!! I've got an ointment called Sylvadine to put on the incisions, and, that helps too. I am covering them with "apron" dressings...gauze placed with adhesive at the top but not on the side and bottoms-to let them breathe. My shirt irritates them, so, I had to put something on them! I remember having a hard time with my incisions last time, and then there were only two. Double the trouble this time.
Gas has finally lifted most of it's misery. It's still a LITTLE in my shoulders, but, nothing unbearable. My right side is terribly sore-in the area of that ovary they worked so hard on. The bruising has started to surface on all but one of the incision areas. I look like I got in a fight! :)
So, slowly on the mend. I thought about going to work at the end of this week, but, I am thinking more on the side of not doing that and just laying low the rest of the week. I've been getting up and doing small things like walking around the grocery store and wally world. I just don't want to push myself. I am going to try again cutting back to 1/2 the pain pills. I hate having to take them...but, won't cut them out completely.
Back to chilling with the family. :)
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Seriously?!?!
So, the gas. Did it ever settle right into your chest? This is quite unbearable at times...I'd rather it be stabbing my shoulder. I feel like someone is sitting right on top of my sternum. OUT...OFF...OUT!!!!! Last time it only lasted a day.
Oh, another fun tidbit-I was allergic to the bandages used; and the bandaids we used at home (apparently I need to add latex to my allergy list). Let me tell you, paper tape doesn't do crap at holding up gauze! Trying to keep the incisions all covered up has become a rather difficult task. I got some prescription ointment for the itching...
I thought I was feeling good and cut my pain meds to 1/2, but, I think that was a little premature. Maybe I'll try again tomorrow.
Oh, another fun tidbit-I was allergic to the bandages used; and the bandaids we used at home (apparently I need to add latex to my allergy list). Let me tell you, paper tape doesn't do crap at holding up gauze! Trying to keep the incisions all covered up has become a rather difficult task. I got some prescription ointment for the itching...
I thought I was feeling good and cut my pain meds to 1/2, but, I think that was a little premature. Maybe I'll try again tomorrow.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Battle wounds
Feeling like someone has beaten from the inside out today (I guess they kinda did). The left side where they cleared the colon adhesions is particularly sore and bruised. I'm trying to move around a good bit to get that gas out. Daym that stuff hurts!!!The worst part of the prep the other day were the antibiotics....they were just awful. The Miralax was a breeze though. I'd recommend that to anyone that they suggest it for!!! I'm so thankful they gave me that as an alternative....after the antibiotics made me so sick, there was no way I was going to get the go-lytely down!
I'm very happy about the results (here's to hoping the results last a bit longer this time) and looking forward to meeting with the Dr. in a few weeks. For now, I'm taking it easy and resting and being pampered-and keeping up on my pain meds! Thank you all for your prayers and support!!! Going back to nap now!!!
Friday, March 20, 2009
An update...
Just a quick note from Allison's husband:
The surgery seems to have gone well! They didn't end up having to resection-they were able to remove the endometrioma and building adhesions without anything major. They said they were able to get a good amount of the colon adhesions off since the GI surgeon was there. Her tubes are open but very inflamed. And, they put something on/around/near (this detail is fuzzy) the ovary to prevent future adhesions. She has 4 holes this time instead of 2, and, facing urinary burning (in addition to the pain) because of the stints that were put in the ureters during surgery. Her stomach is pretty bruised and hard right now. But, healing time has begun and we are hopeful! Seems that we'll be starting IVF towards the end of April!
Thank you for all the support and prayers. Keep 'em coming!
The surgery seems to have gone well! They didn't end up having to resection-they were able to remove the endometrioma and building adhesions without anything major. They said they were able to get a good amount of the colon adhesions off since the GI surgeon was there. Her tubes are open but very inflamed. And, they put something on/around/near (this detail is fuzzy) the ovary to prevent future adhesions. She has 4 holes this time instead of 2, and, facing urinary burning (in addition to the pain) because of the stints that were put in the ureters during surgery. Her stomach is pretty bruised and hard right now. But, healing time has begun and we are hopeful! Seems that we'll be starting IVF towards the end of April!
Thank you for all the support and prayers. Keep 'em coming!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Thanks Wes...
My husband has been playing with the new camera today ;)
The prep wasn't so bad with the miralax/dulcolax (tasted way better than the phospho-fleet). But, the antibiotics have been brutal!!! I could only take 1/2 the 2nd round. I'm going to try for the full dose this evening...Thank you EVERYONE for your support and prayers for tomorrow!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Pre-op stuff from yesterday
Whew. I'm ready for Friday afternoon-for the healing to begin and for us to move forward with whatever steps are next. We covered a LOT yesterday in the pre-op. It was good though, and, I am all about them being so prepared!!!! We talked about if she got in there and things were so bad off they needed to be removed (tubes, ovaries, colon parts etc) and the scenario's in which she would do so. They are also doing something different this time with my ureters (the things that connect your kidneys and bladder)-I am having a urologist come in and place some stints on my ureters to basically light them up during surgery. That way, if adhesions are thick and difficult to navigate, they'll be able to keep things simplistic and to avoid injuring those. So, that
takes about 45 minutes at the beginning of the procedure. She said her and the GI's part should take about 2 hours. So, a total of a 3 hour surgery. Icky. It'll all start around 8:30 AM; we have to be there at 6:30 to get the IV fluids, antibiotics and versed going (hoooray for versed!!!). Healing time and hospital stay is all dependent on what they do when they get in there. Best case scenario and the goal of the surgery is to simply remove the endometrioma, endometriosis and check my tubes. Please keep your prayers up that things stay nice and simple! :)
I also had to get blood drawn yesterday to get my type, just in case they needed to do any transfusions. Very rare, but, again, proactive! I've got this fashionable little bracelet on now that I can't remove so they know how to match me. Craziness.
And thank you all for your suggestions on questions to ask. They were quite helpful!
takes about 45 minutes at the beginning of the procedure. She said her and the GI's part should take about 2 hours. So, a total of a 3 hour surgery. Icky. It'll all start around 8:30 AM; we have to be there at 6:30 to get the IV fluids, antibiotics and versed going (hoooray for versed!!!). Healing time and hospital stay is all dependent on what they do when they get in there. Best case scenario and the goal of the surgery is to simply remove the endometrioma, endometriosis and check my tubes. Please keep your prayers up that things stay nice and simple! :)
I also had to get blood drawn yesterday to get my type, just in case they needed to do any transfusions. Very rare, but, again, proactive! I've got this fashionable little bracelet on now that I can't remove so they know how to match me. Craziness.
If everything goes nice and simple, we are looking at starting fertility drugs for IVF towards the end of April, with egg retrieval sometime in May. I'm going to be on something called Aygestin (which, I am not sure so that isn't what gives me the weird migraines, but, we'll try it) until then to help stave off the endo.
Oh, my prep for tomorrow has been amended. I'm now taking a miralax prep (someone asked me how much miralax-238 g-a whole bottle!)-mix with gatorade instead of the go-lytley. It should taste WAY better...which is good for me and my gag reflex. And, I don't start that regimen until around 4 (which, could be good or bad, lol...depending on how fast it all works). Still on with the antibiotics regimen. The Dr. yesterday said to do the best I could with those and that she'd be starting an antibiotic right away when I got my IV the next day, so...just to try but not to make myself too sick.
Oh, and I am on my period and cramping. She wrote a prescricption for narcotics if I need them pre surgery since I can't take ibuprofen. I'm SOOOOO ready for this to be past me!!! She also wrote a prescription for post surgery stuff and I have that at home ready and waiting!
And thank you all for your suggestions on questions to ask. They were quite helpful!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Prep options?
More on my pre-op later...
Has anyone done the Miralax/dulcolax colon prep versus the go-lytely? I was presented that option today, and, with my gag reflux and potential ills with the antibiotic, I'm seriously considering the miralax route.
What do you know/think? I just want to make sure it works as well.
THANK YOU!!!!
Has anyone done the Miralax/dulcolax colon prep versus the go-lytely? I was presented that option today, and, with my gag reflux and potential ills with the antibiotic, I'm seriously considering the miralax route.
What do you know/think? I just want to make sure it works as well.
THANK YOU!!!!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Pre-op?
So, I'm wondering, what happens at a pre-op for a laparoscopy? I didn't have one last time (since it was a last minute thing).
Any questions that I should ask the Dr? I've already started my list!
Thanks everyone!
Any questions that I should ask the Dr? I've already started my list!
Thanks everyone!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Nevermind...
Yeah, never mind that last post. I would delete but someone had already commented. So, from the looks of things, I should start tomorrow, and hopefully go through my pains before Thursday. This is going to be such a joyous week. That was why I was a ballistic hormonal mess this evening...
Where is my period?
So, there is no miraculous BFP (believe me, I've peed on two so far!). Where in the hay is my period? I only took BC for three days, but, I am sure that is what is throwing off my cycle. I have felt like it's going to start for over a week now though. And NOTHING. Normally I would be excited about this; this time it's just kinda stressing me out a little!
First of all, can they do the surgery while you are on your period? Second, if they can, I'm not sure I'll make it past Thursday! How could I possibly be on my period and go through the prepping hell?!? I wouldn't even be able to take my ibuprofen!
So, here I am, wondering if/when I am going to start;and wondering if this is going to affect my surgery date...
If there is not a baby in there to make itself known in the next few days, I hope it starts tomorrow so I can be past the worst of it!!!
First of all, can they do the surgery while you are on your period? Second, if they can, I'm not sure I'll make it past Thursday! How could I possibly be on my period and go through the prepping hell?!? I wouldn't even be able to take my ibuprofen!
So, here I am, wondering if/when I am going to start;and wondering if this is going to affect my surgery date...
If there is not a baby in there to make itself known in the next few days, I hope it starts tomorrow so I can be past the worst of it!!!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
We interrupt this blog for something non-endo related...
My new Nikon D60!!! I am too excited!
Thank you, that is all ;)
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Take One
That appointment made me a nervous wreck. It took forever. I must admit we were warned by the office, and, I get that since it's a surgery center. So, we were a bit prepared for that. Then they didn't have the information from my RE about WHY he was going into surgery with her (he just didn't have the whole story). GREAT!!!! Seriously? So, the GI called upstairs and got them and reviewed them with me. He went over all the just in case scenarios (resection, colostomy, etc) and the risks. But he did say that in the past two years, he's only had to re-sect one or two patients with endo (he's done endo surgeries, but, that's all he's had to re-sect). And, he reiterated his role as being there just in case the need were to arise.
I have to start my colon prep at 10 AM the day before surgery (Go-lytely)...and I have to take hard core antibiotics with the prep to kill what bacteria is left. I have to take these pills 3 times that day (4 pills at a time I believe)! He said to take as much as I could and warned that I could get sick to my stomach because of the addition of the antibiotics. I asked them how sick is too sick, and when do I know when to stop?!?! There really wasn't an answer to that...I guess we'll just have to call during the day if it gets too bad. This is all prep for IF they have to go in and do anything to the colon-help prevent infection, etc. I understand the rationale behind it, but, it is going to SUCK...hands down. Obviously I can't have anything solid that day-all clear liquids until midnight. I'll be BEGGING for the IV by the next morning!!!! I'm so thankful that I am scheduled first that day!
I just want this done and on the road to recovery!!! I was hoping that this appointment would help to settle my nerves, but, I am not quite sure that was accomplished. I am so thankful that there will be someone on hand if needed, don't get me wrong. But, just thinking about what is to come next Thursday is not pleasant. But, I just need to let it roll and enjoy the next week and gain my composure to focus on healing after the surgery. I am TRYING really hard to stay in that mindset.
Thank you all for your kind words on my previous post!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
I have to start my colon prep at 10 AM the day before surgery (Go-lytely)...and I have to take hard core antibiotics with the prep to kill what bacteria is left. I have to take these pills 3 times that day (4 pills at a time I believe)! He said to take as much as I could and warned that I could get sick to my stomach because of the addition of the antibiotics. I asked them how sick is too sick, and when do I know when to stop?!?! There really wasn't an answer to that...I guess we'll just have to call during the day if it gets too bad. This is all prep for IF they have to go in and do anything to the colon-help prevent infection, etc. I understand the rationale behind it, but, it is going to SUCK...hands down. Obviously I can't have anything solid that day-all clear liquids until midnight. I'll be BEGGING for the IV by the next morning!!!! I'm so thankful that I am scheduled first that day!
I just want this done and on the road to recovery!!! I was hoping that this appointment would help to settle my nerves, but, I am not quite sure that was accomplished. I am so thankful that there will be someone on hand if needed, don't get me wrong. But, just thinking about what is to come next Thursday is not pleasant. But, I just need to let it roll and enjoy the next week and gain my composure to focus on healing after the surgery. I am TRYING really hard to stay in that mindset.
Thank you all for your kind words on my previous post!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
Monday, March 9, 2009
First pre-op tomorrow
We are meeting with the GI surgeon tomorrow morning for pre-op one out of two. My other one will be next Tuesday...just a few days before surgery. I am starting to get a little anxious. I am pretty anxious about my appointment tomorrow too...I'm not sure why. Maybe because I am not quite sure what to expect. Probably just going to be sitting down with the Dr., going over my background and the "game plan"; I guess?
Anyway, just a little over a week away now. I know the anxieties will begin building and building (cause, that's just me). I'm just ready to be awake after surgery, and, ready to move on with this next phase of healing!!!
Sorry I've been so MIA. I've pretty much been OOT for about 2 weeks now. Back for a while now though. it'll be nice to chill at home the next few weeks! I need to catch up on my blogging friends! I hope you all are well!!!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
Anyway, just a little over a week away now. I know the anxieties will begin building and building (cause, that's just me). I'm just ready to be awake after surgery, and, ready to move on with this next phase of healing!!!
Sorry I've been so MIA. I've pretty much been OOT for about 2 weeks now. Back for a while now though. it'll be nice to chill at home the next few weeks! I need to catch up on my blogging friends! I hope you all are well!!!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
Thursday, March 5, 2009
My girls for Endo Awareness
These are two of my beautiful nieces-wearing yellow for endo awareness! Thanks girls, I love you!!!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
Monday, March 2, 2009
Quick update
Hello! I'm still here. It's been really busy around here. I was in Houston last week for work and this week we are going to Baltimore to visit some friends. Not much time for blogging (although I've been trying to keep up with everyone on my blackberry).
Pain is still there in my chest. I think some stress in my shoulders is exacerbating the pain too. I'll definitely be asking my Dr. about it; I don't know if that is something they can check with my surgery or not. Other than that, it's been okay. Bloated and icky as usual. Yesterday I had a random pain in my thigh-at first it was so bad I couldn't put any weight on it (not sciatica). But, it seemed to settle down after a while. I'm not really sure what that was all about.
I wore my yellow today!!!!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
Pain is still there in my chest. I think some stress in my shoulders is exacerbating the pain too. I'll definitely be asking my Dr. about it; I don't know if that is something they can check with my surgery or not. Other than that, it's been okay. Bloated and icky as usual. Yesterday I had a random pain in my thigh-at first it was so bad I couldn't put any weight on it (not sciatica). But, it seemed to settle down after a while. I'm not really sure what that was all about.
I wore my yellow today!!!!
MARCH BLOGGING MADNESS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
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