Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Karen W. on 29/03/2007 10:52:30

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/03/2007 10:52:30
If one is born with several congenital heart problems later develops Congestive heart failure, which is being compounded by stress, insomnia etc.. What is long time prognosis of such things. These things have been worsened by excessive weight. Have had a substantial weight loss over a years time to help combat these problems, but still need to loose about 90 more pounds.Blood pressure has stablized, no dibetis. Good cholesterol and everything else.. I would like more imformation about the congestive heart failure . I am still having tons of water retention and had an infection in my heart in August which made me very sick. I have hurdled that and my doctor has a lousy bedside manner and speaks in latin so I want to know more about progression of this problem and perhaps optional treatments for said problem.. if there are any! Thanks!!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: lgic on 29/03/2007 16:22:57
It sounds to me like you need someone other than this MD to speak to. Many clinics & hospitals now are recongnizing a need for this sort of thing. Does your local medical facility have someone called a patient educator? or patient advocate?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/03/2007 17:33:21
Patient advocate..Yes They offer pretty bleak words .. I was just hoping that maybe there were alternitive solutions etc. etc. 

Thanks though!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 31/03/2007 15:03:02
If one is born with several congenital heart problems later develops Congestive heart failure, which is being compounded by stress, insomnia etc.. What is long time prognosis of such things. These things have been worsened by excessive weight. Have had a substantial weight loss over a years time to help combat these problems, but still need to loose about 90 more pounds.Blood pressure has stablized, no dibetis. Good cholesterol and everything else.. I would like more imformation about the congestive heart failure . I am still having tons of water retention and had an infection in my heart in August which made me very sick. I have hurdled that and my doctor has a lousy bedside manner and speaks in latin so I want to know more about progression of this problem and perhaps optional treatments for said problem.. if there are any! Thanks!!

Karen,

if this is not a joke, it's a too much serious problem.
You should go to a good doctor and get properly cured.
It shouldn't be solved by recommendation/suggestions from a forum...even if this one is just fantastic!  Forums have limitations -you know- and uncontrolled Google diagnoses seem to be the first cause of death on this Planet...
Do you remember when you were frantically trying to convince some guy to go and get checked 'cause he had been bitten by a silly dog and thought to get rabies? [;D]
Take care

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 31/03/2007 17:43:49
No worries Iko I have been under care all my life. Still am under doctors care. I just want to know if there are optional treatments my doctors do not know about. I live in the sticks and sometimes treatments vary if you go to the big city. My first surgeries were done in San Francisco many years ago. Successive surgeries done here locally by special surgeons flown in to do them. Certainly no Joke.
  I just want to know about all the alternitives. That is if there are any. Medications and surgeries seem to have been helpful. I feel good most of the time. I am not looking for diagnosis I have already been diagnosed. I just want to know what more to expect if these treatments have not worked. You know what I mean? Are There alternatives to surgeries and medications. I have worked hard on the weight loss and have done well. I have some more to loose, but worry that when I get it off, is that really going to make a difference. See my Doctor is very vague about that.

Without delving to deeply into my own treatments and health care, I was hoping that I could find out what the most current treatments are and compare them to what I have had and see if they are up to date and on par with the newest technology. I am the first to say I don't understand all of the defects that I was born with and have had corrective surgeries over the years to fix them. I would not have been here without them. So The new methods of treatment would be nice to hear about.

Thanks IKO, and yes I do remember trying to get him to be checked LOL.. Thanks for the reminder! I have been checked zillions of times and really don't know what if anything else can be done as my doctors seem to think that it's all been done. They should know best. You know when you don't like the results of something, you tend to try to look around to see if anyone else has had better success with alternative treatments. I have read Lots about my problem, but I guess I just don't have the greatest understanding of it.

Thanks so much..all is good IKO.. Just feel like I need to investigate alternitives more, you know. I have no intention of stoping my treatment. Most of which is finished. I just want to be more educated about my problems.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 31/03/2007 18:02:03
... I am still having tons of water retention and had an infection in my heart in August which made me very sick. I have hurdled that and my doctor has a lousy bedside manner and speaks in latin so I want to know more about progression of this problem and perhaps optional treatments for said problem.. if there are any! Thanks!!

This is what worries me: I have a fixed 'infectious' idea in my mind as all of you probably know.
'Fastidious' germs that manage to give a blood infection stick to cardiac valves and to the inner surface of the heart (endocardium).  Some don't give any fever or major symptoms but damage the heart bite by bite.  Did you get all your blood checks (cultures for bugs) and antibiotics, or you stopped because you felt just fine?   [;D]

Actually it's not my business...and I'm not your expert either!
Take care

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 31/03/2007 18:31:21
I did get all of that. And two huge rounds of antibiotics as the first round did not get it. and I started to get sick again. So I had a second go with the antibiotics. The doctor said it is clear now. So I believe  he got it. I finished all of my meds for that.

I do keep having the swelling so he put me on some sort of diaretic for it, but if I miss one or two of them I find myself in a bit of a mess as far as everything swelling up. So I have to keep on a regular cycle with those medicines.. my blood pressure has been 114 over 80 so he said that was good.

Iko I wouldn't have posted if it bothered me. I will keep some things private, but this is just ok stuff. I know, but thanks for the comments.

I had had a surgery in March or so last year, and then seemed like I became more and more tired. One morning months later in august I woke up all swollen all over and could barely walk. My toes had become lost under the swollen feet! LOL I knew then something was wrong. I had no fever or anything, just felt weak worn out and more tird then I have ever been. I drove myself to the hospital and that's when I found out about the infection. He said I was fortunante that it could have been a lot worse!

So if he has done all the treatments correctly, I should be ok. The doctors are runing regular blood tests to moitor everything! So far so good as far as the infection goes.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/05/2007 09:16:22
WELL SCIENCE AND MEDICAL FRIENDS.. I WOKE UP TODAY  WITH A STRANGE

PHENOMENON  FROM THE CENTER TO TIP OVER TO THE LEFT SIDE OF MY TONGUE

SEEMS TO BE NUMB AND FUZZY FEELING. IT IS SORE ABOUT MIDWAY DOWN TOWARDS 

TIP.I HAVE NOT BITTEN IT. I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO THREE CASES OF STREP 

THROAT THIS LAST TWO WEEKS HAVE FELT TIRED AND PHELGMY WITH COUGH ..                                           

JUST KIND A ICKY. I DON'T KNOW WHAT STREP THROAT FEELS LIKE OR IF IT

INVOLVES ONES TONGUE.... ANYONE HAVE ANY IDEAS.. lOL.. THANKS!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: moonfire on 26/05/2007 09:25:06
I hope you are going to be okay? 
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/05/2007 10:02:00
I would think so but it seems weird I have never had half of me tongue go numb before! it is as if the surface is fuzzy and numb but inside the tongue is sore,.. Very weird!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 26/05/2007 14:52:09
WELL SCIENCE AND MEDICAL FRIENDS.. I WOKE UP TODAY  WITH A STRANGE

PHENOMENON  FROM THE CENTER TO TIP OVER TO THE LEFT SIDE OF MY TONGUE

SEEMS TO BE NUMB
AND FUZZY FEELING.

Hi KarenW my frienda,

are you feeling better already?
For an almost-lethal e-diagnosis
please answer the following questions:

- Did you have your blood pressure checked recently?
- Eye pupils: same size and shape both sides?
- Are you taking any medications or 'natural' poisons?

Cheers,

ikod   [;)]
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: benep on 26/05/2007 15:24:12
you may have just eaten/ drank something your tounge didnt agree with
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/05/2007 16:58:03
WELL SCIENCE AND MEDICAL FRIENDS.. I WOKE UP TODAY  WITH A STRANGE

PHENOMENON  FROM THE CENTER TO TIP OVER TO THE LEFT SIDE OF MY TONGUE

SEEMS TO BE NUMB
AND FUZZY FEELING.

Hi KarenW my frienda, HI Iko My Friend

are you feeling better already?Well I just woke up again, and it is oh about 8:50 am.. my tongue is still numb and fuzzy and sore..


For an almost-lethal e-diagnosis LOL.. Thanks IKO
please answer the following questions: OKIe dokie!

- Did you have your blood pressure checked recently? Yepperoo..110 over 80
- Eye pupils: same size and shape both sides? YES same size and shape

- Are you taking any medications or 'natural' poisons? Medications, Yes.

Cheers, Thanks IKO.. Do me need to go back to the doc..?

ikod   [;)]  Karen
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 26/05/2007 20:39:50
Hi Karen,

Yes, it's better to see your doc
and rule out any trouble that makes
you feel dizzy and have 'paresthesias'
on one side of your tongue.
Some nerves may not work 100% and this
can be only temporarily, better check
it out anyway.
I know doctors are booooring   [;D]
Take care & let us know

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/05/2007 21:14:47
Thanks Iko .. I will go,, I just am kind  sick of going to the doctors.. HEE HEE.. But I must say waking up with what feels like half of a  fuzzy tongue is odd feeling.. Thanks will make another trip in..this week..My whole left side is feeling kinda weird even the skin on me head on the left,,kind of funky numby like when your arm goes to sleep. My shoulder is killing me about halfway down my arm ino my elbow.. LOL I thought I might have a pinched nerve but I don't know..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: JimBob on 26/05/2007 21:23:40
I DO NOT wish to diagnose this but the experience I have had with arthritis of the jaw says the trigeminal nerve on the left side is compromised in some way. Be glad it doesn't hurt. That is called trigeminal neuralgia and is nick-named the Suicide Disease it hurts so bad.

Go to the doctor to be sure.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/05/2007 22:05:18
I will go check it out this week. Thanks Jimbob!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 26/05/2007 23:44:12
Thanks Iko .. I will go,, I just am kind  sick of going to the doctors.. HEE HEE.. But I must say waking up with what feels like half of a  fuzzy tongue is odd feeling.. Thanks will make another trip in..this week..My whole left side is feeling kinda weird even the skin on me head on the left,,kind of funky numby like when your arm goes to sleep. My shoulder is killing me about halfway down my arm ino my elbow.. LOL I thought I might have a pinched nerve but I don't know..

Not this week. Now!
Tell these very symptoms to a real doctor,
not through the web to a bunch of...
Please
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/05/2007 23:59:26
ok..Thanks
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 06:07:26
Thanks Iko .. I will go,, I just am kind  sick of going to the doctors.. HEE HEE.. But I must say waking up with what feels like half of a  fuzzy tongue is odd feeling.. Thanks will make another trip in..this week..My whole left side is feeling kinda weird even the skin on me head on the left,,kind of funky numby like when your arm goes to sleep. My shoulder is killing me about halfway down my arm ino my elbow.. LOL I thought I might have a pinched nerve but I don't know..

Not this week. Now!
Tell these very symptoms to a real doctor,
not through the web to a bunch of...
Please


IN all seriousness IKO I need to thank you for sending me as I would have waited until next week.. I have been at the hospital since about 20 minutes or so after you told me to go and I saw your message at Midnight approximately so left about twenty minutes later and was there until 9:56 PM my time  6:00 am Your time..  I have had cat scans blood work exrays iv's with medication and ekg's, I had a mini stroke today and he has put me on a regime of aspirins and potassium as I was real low. I have a battery of other tests he has to do.. checked more .. and found my heart has enlarged more then the last check.. He said my blood tests were good my cat scan is really good but I have a pretty bad loss of use on my left arm.. feels very weak. face is still tingly and and weird . he wants me to stay close to the hospital till we get all the other tests done.. so i Will. He said if I had a full blown stroke time was critical to getting help!

There is nothing more I can say except thank you IKO thank you for giving me some extra time..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 13:46:28
Good show Karen!
You trusted your webfriend Ikod and went streight away to check the weekend-night
efficiency of your Health Care System! You are such a brave lady!
I wish you a quick recovery: the new magic medical tools we have these days (aspirin) make miracles in the tiny arteries of our brain.
I was worried after having posted my message to you, because you just disappeared from the NKS screen, and it was quite unusual for that hour.
I hoped you were following my suggestion, and you actually did!
I am sure you realized that it was the strangest feeling ever and could have been a more serious thing.
You took it on time for a perfect recovery.
Over 12 years ago my mum had a mini-stroke worse than yours and it never recurred: she is on low-dose daily aspirin ever since (plus 1caps. cod liver oil of course!).
Probably you have to relax and sleep more...no more NSForum intoxication!   [;D]
Take care

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: moonfire on 27/05/2007 14:44:33
Thanks Iko .. I will go,, I just am kind  sick of going to the doctors.. HEE HEE.. But I must say waking up with what feels like half of a  fuzzy tongue is odd feeling.. Thanks will make another trip in..this week..My whole left side is feeling kinda weird even the skin on me head on the left,,kind of funky numby like when your arm goes to sleep. My shoulder is killing me about halfway down my arm ino my elbow.. LOL I thought I might have a pinched nerve but I don't know..

Not this week. Now!
Tell these very symptoms to a real doctor,
not through the web to a bunch of...
Please


IN all seriousness IKO I need to thank you for sending me as I would have waited until next week.. I have been at the hospital since about 20 minutes or so after you told me to go and I saw your message at Midnight approximately so left about twenty minutes later and was there until 9:56 PM my time  6:00 am Your time..  I have had cat scans blood work exrays iv's with medication and ekg's, I had a mini stroke today and he has put me on a regime of aspirins and potassium as I was real low. I have a battery of other tests he has to do.. checked more .. and found my heart has enlarged more then the last check.. He said my blood tests were good my cat scan is really good but I have a pretty bad loss of use on my left arm.. feels very weak. face is still tingly and and weird . he wants me to stay close to the hospital till we get all the other tests done.. so i Will. He said if I had a full blown stroke time was critical to getting help!

There is nothing more I can say except thank you IKO thank you for giving me some extra time..

OMG!  Are you at home?  Is the hospital not holding you there for observation?  What caused this to happen?  The new meds that you are taking for nausea? 
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 18:06:35
I am Home. I have to go back in for a check today. He said I live close enough to get there fast if I were to have a full blown stroke.. He said That some controversial blood clot busting medication would have to be administered within 90 minutes of onset for them to be of any help. He said thousands of doctors swear by this medication.. but thousands say it is not worth the risk.. The medication is also known to kill the patient !! OH Boy..Makes me nervous..Just a bit..

I pray It doesn't happen. He said less stress no smoking drinking etc etc.. I don't do those things anyway.. Less stress and try to relax.. I am trying to relax!

He said The arteries in your neck can become lined with plaque like cholesterol build up, which blocks blood flow.. so more tests and an Ultra sound on my neck and my heart next week.
along with a myriad of other tests including a second cat scan . They did a brain scan yesterday,, but said after ex-rays he feels we need a body scan.. so OK I get to take a nap in a little tube... ... We will see how I do.. Pretty small tube they put you in.... He My cholesterol was good my bloodwork was good so far have to have some more, My blood pressure had shot out the roof with my meds.. urine was good and I do not have any form of diabetis which I already new, but my potassium was bad , he thinks because I have had such a irritable tummy lately kids have all been sick at school and I have had the problems with loose stools for several weeks.. and nausea from other meds.. He put me back on beta blocker.. and is going to try to decrease some meds to see if that will help. He said there are some combo meds that would help cut back the amount of pills I have to take..
I quite honestly feel kinda bad. My recollection of different parts of my day yesterday are kind a vague And I feel a bit confused about everything that happened.. I was already confused and things were not making a lot of sense yesterday as it was.. LOL   

Again IKo THanks  SO Very Much and you are right.. It was some odd things that I was feeling yesterday The only pain was my left arm it has hurt me before on many occasions. I did wake up with a funky headache that went away right away on both days..they went away fast, so I did not think about it further.. The fuzzy numb tongue and side of me face and head are what felt so strange...Still feel that a little on me tongue today but much better!

As I type this I realize I am sitting up in my chair and leaning to the left.. as my left arm is not working like it should..He said we will work on it!
I'll know more later this week!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: moonfire on 27/05/2007 18:18:26
Girlie get you some rest!  Good Grief!!! Take care of yourself...I still can't believe the hospital did not keep you overnight or at least 24hrs for observation...ministrokes aren't too bad, but I had a friend who had an onset of them 3 or 4 in a row in one day...just mini ones...they kept her in the hospital for 24hrs after she arrived at the hospital.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 18:40:50
Girlie get you some rest!  Good Grief!!! Take care of yourself...I still can't believe the hospital did not keep you overnight or at least 24hrs for observation...mini strokes aren't too bad, but I had a friend who had an onset of them 3 or 4 in a row in one day...just mini ones...they kept her in the hospital for 24hrs after she arrived at the hospital.

Well I don't know what to say, They sent home medicated and ready to come back in the morning. I still have an Id on my arm for 72 hours to help administer medication should I have to have an ambulance ride back in in the next couple days! I think That is weird but Oh well. I am just about 10 minutes from the hospital so he said if anything worsened or new happened to call 911.. Kids are away for Holiday, so I will keep my phone on me.. It is in my pocket right now.. No problems.. I feel real tired still a bit numb on me tongue but some better. Arm is still hurting but I have'nt taken pain med yet.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 18:52:59
Girlie get you some rest!  Good Grief!!! Take care of yourself...I still can't believe the hospital did not keep you overnight or at least 24hrs for observation...mini strokes aren't too bad, but I had a friend who had an onset of them 3 or 4 in a row in one day...just mini ones...they kept her in the hospital for 24hrs after she arrived at the hospital.

Well I don't know what to say, They sent home medicated and ready to come back in the morning. I still have an Id on my arm for 72 hours to help administer medication should I have to have an ambulance ride back in in the next couple days! I think That is weird but Oh well. I am just about 10 minutes from the hospital so he said if anything worsened or new happened to call 911.. Kids are away for Holiday, so I will keep my phone on me.. It is in my pocket right now.. No problems.. I feel real tired still a bit numb on me tongue but some better. Arm is still hurting but I have'nt taken pain med yet.

Hi Karen!

What a day you had!
If they sent you home to relax better is because you can do it safely.
Hospital stay is a major cause of stress and should be minimized.
BTW were do you live? Which Hospital is taking care of you so efficiently?
I'm interested to find this out...you never know!
I wish you a quick recovery and hope you won't overwork at least in this forum.
Hope your family is taking care of this almost-impossible-to-get RELAX and some sleep!
We'll keep you company through the net: you'll never be alone.
Cheers,

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 18:58:08
It was Mad river Community Hospital.. I am in California.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 19:02:30
Hey Iko Why would he want a ultra sound of my heart.. he said he already seen that it was slightly inlarged ..I already new that from my own doctor. I am not sure I understand what that means but anyway! Thats what he said..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 19:03:25
Wow!
My sister in law lives in Pasadena and my younger son wants to go there for good!
Is it far away from you? I'll check this out on Google Earth and spot KarenW!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 19:05:48
Wow!
My sister in law lives in Pasadena and my younger son wants to go there for good!
Is it far away from you? I'll check this out on Google Earth and spot KarenW!

You'll have to google Arcata California.. we are 600 miles away from pasadena! That is southern California!LOL
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 19:12:17
Hey Iko Why would he want a ultra sound of my heart.. he said he already seen that it was slightly inlarged ..I already new that from my own doctor. He did say that my congestive heart failure was not as progressed as I had been told by my doctor, none the less still there. I am not sure I understand what that means but anyway! Thats what he said..

I just give you some hints (I'm not your expert!)
In any mini-temporary stroke you cannot see easily what happened because tiny temporary clots could be the cause, or abnormally narrow arteries or other things. So you have to check everything to be sure.
Some little heart defects or heart enlargement plus valve problems could actually produce the tiny clots that go and bother brain arteries.
Your aspirin and the other drugs are already working fine, so calm down and relax, you'll fix this too dear Karen.
Take care

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 19:15:24
Girlie get you some rest!  Good Grief!!! Take care of yourself...I still can't believe the hospital did not keep you overnight or at least 24hrs for observation...mini strokes aren't too bad, but I had a friend who had an onset of them 3 or 4 in a row in one day...just mini ones...they kept her in the hospital for 24hrs after she arrived at the hospital.

Well I don't know what to say, They sent home medicated and ready to come back in the morning. I still have an Id on my arm for 72 hours to help administer medication should I have to have an ambulance ride back in in the next couple days! I think That is weird but Oh well. I am just about 10 minutes from the hospital so he said if anything worsened or new happened to call 911.. Kids are away for Holiday, so I will keep my phone on me.. It is in my pocket right now.. No problems.. I feel real tired still a bit numb on me tongue but some better. Arm is still hurting but I have'nt taken pain med yet.

Hi Karen!

What a day you had!
If they sent you home to relax better is because you can do it safely.
Hospital stay is a major cause of stress and should be minimized.
BTW were do you live? Which Hospital is taking care of you so efficiently?
I'm interested to find this out...you never know!
I wish you a quick recovery and hope you won't overwork at least in this forum.
Hope your family is taking care of this almost-impossible-to-get RELAX and some sleep!
We'll keep you company through the net: you'll never be alone.
Cheers,

ikod


Thank you Ikod..*tears*... That means alot more then you can possibly know...

Hugs,
Karen
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 19:20:23
Hey Iko Why would he want a ultra sound of my heart.. he said he already seen that it was slightly inlarged ..I already new that from my own doctor. He did say that my congestive heart failure was not as progressed as I had been told by my doctor, none the less still there. I am not sure I understand what that means but anyway! Thats what he said..

I just give you some hints (I'm not your expert!)
In any mini-temporary stroke you cannot see easily what happened because tiny temporary clots could be the cause, or abnormally narrow arteries or other things. So you have to check everything to be sure.
Some little heart defects or heart enlargment and valve problems could actually produce the tiny clots that go and bother brain arteries.
Your aspirin and the other drugs are already working fine, so calm down and relax, you'll fix this too dear Karen.
Take care

ikod

Thanks LOL.. Thanks for the Hints Ikod,LOL.. I was just not sure, but that makes better sense now because of my my previous heart problems.. NOw friend ..LOL why can't  doctors not explain in a way that one can understand like you do! LOL
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 19:31:47
Hey Iko Why would he want a ultra sound of my heart.. he said he already seen that it was slightly inlarged ..I already new that from my own doctor. He did say that my congestive heart failure was not as progressed as I had been told by my doctor, none the less still there. I am not sure I understand what that means but anyway! Thats what he said..

I just give you some hints (I'm not your expert!)
In any mini-temporary stroke you cannot see easily what happened because tiny temporary clots could be the cause, or abnormally narrow arteries or other things. So you have to check everything to be sure.
Some little heart defects or heart enlargment and valve problems could actually produce the tiny clots that go and bother brain arteries.
Your aspirin and the other drugs are already working fine, so calm down and relax, you'll fix this too dear Karen.
Take care

ikod

Thanks LOL.. Thanks for the Hints Ikod,LOL.. I was just not sure, but that makes better sense now because of my my previous heart problems.. NOw friend ..LOL why can't  doctors not explain in a way that one can understand like you do! LOL

Because they are more fluent in English and talk too fast!   [;D] [;D] [;D]
But they seem to be sooooo good!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 19:36:56
YES! YES! I think you are right! LOL! I must say I have never seen a doctor this young for my heart problems, is that weird? I know he was a ER doctor.. but I am getting so old.. I worry, but then I think wait young bucks have good newer medicines and better (hopefully) Technology and updated repair kits!! LOL

My Heart surgeon ( Cardiologist) Is that the right term..LOL anyway, he Comes all the way From San Francisco to see me.. we are sort of in the sticks up here! 300 miles  to travel.

It's like going into the shop! Well Lets see what you have under the hood today! LOL..

Seriously it's still scary but ..the upside is that the alternative is even more scary..(I think!)
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 20:35:55
Dear Karen,

let's have a very RELAXED chat for a change.
I remember you mentioned something like infection in the blood in a recent post of yours...
THIS could be the cause of what you had yesterday and I'm sure your doctors are working on that.
Some naughty 'fastidious' germs like to clutch at the inner layers of the heart and the valves (most of all), then detach from time to time, forming dangerous tiny-clots that are directly pumped to the brain...and create flow problems up there.
You are too young even for a mini-stroke (say thank you iko!) [:D]
so that might be the tiny clot explanation.
Fingers crossed: infection snagged, full course of antibiotics and Voilà!
A new hyper-energetic KarenW back on stage!
Wouldn't it be a great thing?
You may have a nice surprise from the blood tests they made yesterday.
Up with our new antibiotic Era!
Cheers,

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 21:13:00
Dear Karen,

let's have a very RELAXED chat for a change.
I remember you mentioned something like infection in the blood in a recent post of yours...
THIS could be the cause of what you had yesterday and I'm sure your doctors are working on that.
Some naughty 'fastidious' germs like to clutch at the inner layers of the heart and the valves (most of all), then detach from time to time, forming dangerous tiny-clots that are directly pumped to the brain...and create flow problems up there.
You are too young even for a mini-stroke (say thank you iko!) [:D]
so that might be the tiny clot explanation.
Fingers crossed: infection snagged, full course of antibiotics and VoilĂ !
A new hyper-energetic KarenW back on stage!
Wouldn't it be a great thing?
You may have a nice surprise from the blood tests they made yesterday.
Up with our new antibiotic Era!
Cheers,

ikod

Why would he tell me I had a mini stroke if I am too young for that? It would be great as I thought only old people had strokes but was changing my mind after yesterday.. Do you think this is why he has ordered so many more tests.. The blood tests from yesterday were returned normal he said..He gave me all this paper work to read and Frankly stuff I don't understand..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 21:17:37
Wouldn't it have shown in the test results from yesterday.. I know they were not my doctor but she will get all the results tuesday as this is a holiday weekend..everyone and everything is closed except the hospital.. I have been awful tired again, but he has ordered more tests Blood work included for next week also.. that is besides what he did yesterday!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: moonfire on 27/05/2007 22:36:32
Well I don't know what to say, They sent home medicated and ready to come back in the morning. I still have an Id on my arm for 72 hours to help administer medication should I have to have an ambulance ride back in in the next couple days! I think That is weird but Oh well. I am just about 10 minutes from the hospital so he said if anything worsened or new happened to call 911.. Kids are away for Holiday, so I will keep my phone on me.. It is in my pocket right now.. No problems.. I feel real tired still a bit numb on me tongue but some better. Arm is still hurting but I have'nt taken pain med yet.
[/quote]

Good Lord!  They told you that!!!!!  Is there anyone with you?  You are ten minutes from hospital???  Please get some rest!  You have us worried now!  You need one of those call buttons with a chain so it will ring back to the hospital if they are going to release you like that!!!  OMG!  Please be careful!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: moonfire on 27/05/2007 22:43:34
Dear Karen,

let's have a very RELAXED chat for a change.
I remember you mentioned something like infection in the blood in a recent post of yours...
THIS could be the cause of what you had yesterday and I'm sure your doctors are working on that.
Some naughty 'fastidious' germs like to clutch at the inner layers of the heart and the valves (most of all), then detach from time to time, forming dangerous tiny-clots that are directly pumped to the brain...and create flow problems up there.
You are too young even for a mini-stroke (say thank you iko!) [:D]
so that might be the tiny clot explanation.
Fingers crossed: infection snagged, full course of antibiotics and VoilĂ !
A new hyper-energetic KarenW back on stage!
Wouldn't it be a great thing?
You may have a nice surprise from the blood tests they made yesterday.
Up with our new antibiotic Era!
Cheers,

ikod

Why would he tell me I had a mini stroke if I am too young for that? It would be great as I thought only old people had strokes but was changing my mind after yesterday.. Do you think this is why he has ordered so many more tests.. The blood tests from yesterday were returned normal he said..He gave me all this paper work to read and Frankly stuff I don't understand..

It maybe be thought of an old person's problem, but there sure are a lot of young people who are having strokes...even more than mini ones...
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 22:47:15
He said it was ok.. he was sending me home as I was close by but if I had to come back he said I could not drive myself this time..to call for help.. I assumed like IKo said I was ok this time.. he said if it were a more serious stroke it would have been different.. I think it is ok LO... Your making me nervous...STOP....Please..LOL I am sure it will be ok.. Robert showed up awhile ago and is actually cutting the grass.. He says .. He has let it go to long thats the only reason he came.. I don't believe him.... But I don't want to go there right now.. I am grateful he is here right now I don't care why!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 22:49:56
...
Why would he tell me I had a mini stroke if I am too young for that? It would be great as I thought only old people had strokes but was changing my mind after yesterday.. Do you think this is why he has ordered so many more tests.. The blood tests from yesterday were returned normal he said..He gave me all this paper work to read and Frankly stuff I don't understand..

Sorry Karen,

I did not explain it in the enthusiasm of my 'sharp' hypothesis!
Strokes from atherosclerosis are the most common, caused by tiny clots that come from 'plaques' in the arteries due to degeneration from age, high cholesterol and so on.
Strokes from infectious tiny clots are due to bacteria (from the skin, guts, throat) that managed to reach the circulating blood and clutch to heart valves.  This kind of infection is quite insidious, difficult to diagnose and it is commonly called 'subacute endocarditis': it can happen at any age, in the young like in the elderly.
You mentioned 'blood infection' some time ago, for that I thought of this possible alternative diagnosis as more consistent than in other cases with no 'infectious' history.
I hope I explained it properly now.
They will certainly tell you what happened!
Cheers,

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 22:51:44
Dear Karen,

let's have a very RELAXED chat for a change.
I remember you mentioned something like infection in the blood in a recent post of yours...
THIS could be the cause of what you had yesterday and I'm sure your doctors are working on that.
Some naughty 'fastidious' germs like to clutch at the inner layers of the heart and the valves (most of all), then detach from time to time, forming dangerous tiny-clots that are directly pumped to the brain...and create flow problems up there.
You are too young even for a mini-stroke (say thank you iko!) [:D]
so that might be the tiny clot explanation.
Fingers crossed: infection snagged, full course of antibiotics and VoilĂ !
A new hyper-energetic KarenW back on stage!
Wouldn't it be a great thing?
You may have a nice surprise from the blood tests they made yesterday.
Up with our new antibiotic Era!
Cheers,

ikod

Why would he tell me I had a mini stroke if I am too young for that? It would be great as I thought only old people had strokes but was changing my mind after yesterday.. Do you think this is why he has ordered so many more tests.. The blood tests from yesterday were returned normal he said..He gave me all this paper work to read and Frankly stuff I don't understand..

It maybe be thought of an old person's problem, but there sure are a lot of young people who are having strokes...even more than mini ones...

Why in the world is this a changing statistic! Or is that due to drug use in those cases?? I don't do drugs so That rules me out.. I don't smoke or drink either so that isn't it! He suspected it was arteries but we won't know till later this week. he said, my cholestorol is great low actually, but he said he was still going to have them do the ultrasound on my neck to check the arteries. and another on the heart!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 22:54:09
...
Why would he tell me I had a mini stroke if I am too young for that? It would be great as I thought only old people had strokes but was changing my mind after yesterday.. Do you think this is why he has ordered so many more tests.. The blood tests from yesterday were returned normal he said..He gave me all this paper work to read and Frankly stuff I don't understand..

Sorry Karen,

I did not explain it in the enthusiasm of my 'sharp' hypothesis!
Strokes from atherosclerosis are the most common, caused by tiny clots that come from 'plaques' in the arteries due to degeneration from age, high cholesterol and so on.
Strokes from infectious tiny clots are due to bacteria (from the skin, guts, throat) that managed to reach the circulating blood and clutch to heart valves.  This kind of infection is quite insidious, difficult to diagnose and it is commonly called 'subacute endocarditis': it can happen at any age, in the young like in the elderly.
You mentioned 'blood infection' some time ago, for that I thought of this possible alternative diagnosis as more consistent than in other cases with no 'infectious' history.
I hope I explained it properly now.
They will certainly tell you what happened!
Cheers,

ikod

Thank you Iko  (DR. House LOL) Just teasing.. I thought something was missing! LOL That is a good explanation! SO it doesn't have to be from choleterol which would account for why my cholestrol is great!..It could come from the old problem still. aye aye aye! Thanks Iko..
Is it common for two rounds of antibiotics to not catch it completely.. I was treated twice.. for that?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 27/05/2007 23:02:04

Is it common for two rounds of antibiotics to not catch it completely.. I was treated twice.. for that!

Sometimes you need longer antibiotic treatment...it depends on the germs.
Endocarditis from Whipple's disease -for example- is very rare (good for Dr. House only  [;D] ) and requires a particular antibiotic (fortunately very well tolerated) for at least 1 year.
But now you have to relax, just remember that.
Echo scan of your heart will rule out endocarditis in a few minutes.
Take care

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 27/05/2007 23:40:43
OK I am relaxing.. Just hard to relax....I am a nervous wreck.... Thanks Iko.. I am supposed to call Tuesday when everything is open.. to schedule the the thing.. I am trying not to take the pain killers as I hate all the medicine! I am taking the Aspirn which is helping my arm..some.. I am not thrilled with vicodine so only gonna use it if I have to!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: kdlynn on 28/05/2007 01:30:06
karen my friend's sister had a full blown stroke when she was sixteen. she didn't do drugs. i think it just happens sometimes. i know that's not a good answer...
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: kdlynn on 28/05/2007 01:32:01
by the way she's twenty six now and very healthy
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 28/05/2007 03:28:44
Thanks Kadie.. That is good to hear.. very good.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Seany on 28/05/2007 13:37:21
*Hugs Karen*
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 28/05/2007 17:03:33
Thanks Seany, "Hugs back at you Young Man"
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/05/2007 03:06:20
How does an echocardiogram, used to record the activity of the heart, actually work?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 29/05/2007 10:11:34
Hi Karen,

No run of the mill:
echocardio is basically high tech, human-friendly,
no x-radiation, just ultrasound plus sophisticated
computer image analysis, to visualize the anatomy
of your heart in a surprisingly detailed fashion.
To check in 'real' time the pump and its valves.
You'll be fascinated by the shape and colours of
the 'virtual' image of your heart.
I saw my second son's images years ago but I was
not in the right mood to enjoy it.
You will.

ikod

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aimsedu.com%2FProgramsImages%2Fechocardio.bmp&hash=0f61032dd93741dcc870ec9cb5005fc4)
http://www.aimsedu.com/ProgramsImages/echocardio.bmp
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/05/2007 17:44:18
Thanks IKO I think as long as it's beating I will be in the right mood to enjoy it! Thank you so much Once again..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 29/05/2007 18:01:48
Thanks IKO I think as long as it's beating I will be in the right mood to enjoy it! Thank you so much Once again..

You don't have to thank me
YOU did the right thing and your docs are fixing your mysterious disease!
How are you doing with your RELAX therapy plus various drugs?
Did you mention to your 'investigators' your lack of sleep as a major problem?
Do you manage to sleep a bit more?

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/05/2007 20:48:15
I slept better last night, 6 hours, but me think it was the vicodin for my arm.. I did tell the rn who asked the questions I have trouble sleeping.. but it never came up again..

Relaxing is a hard thing to do.. in my body, but, I am doing the best I can.. I went and sat in the sun for a bit, then realized I forgot sunscreen some of my medicine is not good in the sun.

Some of the medicine is very strong, don't like the way the pain killer feels although I like that it killed off my arm pain for awhile.. it has sure been hurting  lot!..It is better today, much better the pain is way less and I only took the aspirin today with my other meds!

Thanks Iko
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/05/2007 20:49:30
Tests will begin tomorrow ! Sorry I forgot to say that..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: moonfire on 29/05/2007 21:46:04
Please take care
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 29/05/2007 22:42:13
I will and I am.. Thanks LO! Everyone else too!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/06/2007 19:19:40

Is it common for two rounds of antibiotics to not catch it completely.. I was treated twice.. for that!

Sometimes you need longer antibiotic treatment...it depends on the germs.
Endocarditis from Whipple's disease -for example- is very rare (good for Dr. House only  [;D] ) and requires a particular antibiotic (fortunately very well tolerated) for at least 1 year.
But now you have to relax, just remember that.
Echo scan of your heart will rule out endocarditis in a few minutes.
Take care

ikod
Iko what does it mean when your white blood count is very high compared to your red? There was something wrong with my blood count! she is not saying much just that it was elevated I think she said the white count! so we did another blood panel..

And by the way I misread the papers the doctor gave me  he had set up echo cardiogram and the ultra sound of neck..Carotid arteries??..Spelling sorry! I don't have to have another cat scan YAYYYYY! or ex-ray..DOUBLE YAYYYY LOL I was reading the wrong part of my paper.. LOL! I was so confused.. I had to have new blood panels  Tuesday will be the other two tests and she thinks I may have sleep apnea..! LOL Wouldn't you know it if you were woken up by not being able to breath for goodness sakes.. Anyway she wants to do tests to find out!

She said no work right now and we will see on after the tests on Tuesday.. It may be a couple days waiting to hear about that!

I keep having that funky Fluttering going up my spine and into my shoulders and neck head area.. I told her and she said the tests will help determine the problems! So we just have to wait.. She is having me fitted for some kind of pressure stockings and is making me put my feet higher then my heart.. for reducing the swelling..She said try this before she puts me on the lassix.. But she wants that to happen a lot, the feet being up! How can I do that and get my work done especially if I am on my back with my feet up! That gives me a headache to lie flat on my back! ..LOL Oh dear I am complaining...I shouldn't complain at least I am here and able to complain!  I am not a good patient..LOL
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 04/06/2007 19:13:32

Iko what does it mean when your white blood count is very high compared to your red? There was something wrong with my blood count! she is not saying much just that it was elevated I think she said the white count! so we did another blood panel..


We have to be PATIENT and wait for further results. Do not worry.

wisekod   [^]
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 05/06/2007 01:47:11
Sorry Iko I am getting impatient..LOL Or was I already!
I am way tired.. I went to put my feet up somewhere around noon and fell asleep until 4:00 pm. I slept most of the day away and several hours last night! ... Ok Ok .. waiting... blasted place...technicians are not supposed to go on vacation! LOL Tomorrow at 2:15 the tests are scheduled..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 05/06/2007 05:52:12
cardiac enzymes good

WBC 11.2
Potassium a little low at 3.2
chloride a little low at 98
I am getting copies tomorrow, that's all I can remember .. I need to have it in front of me!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 05/06/2007 09:42:03
Sorry Iko I am getting impatient..LOL Or was I already!
I am way tired.. I went to put my feet up somewhere around noon and fell asleep until 4:00 pm. I slept most of the day away and several hours last night! ... Ok Ok .. waiting... blasted place...technicians are not supposed to go on vacation! LOL Tomorrow at 2:15 the tests are scheduled..

Good show Karen!

you're managing to relax a bit.
I would not say wbc are too high...
just a bit higher than the upper limit.
Nothing to worry about, but something to
search more for occult 'fastidious' bugs.
BTW did you have Reactive C Protein tested
and/or ESR (erithrocyte sedimentation rate)?
Take care

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 05/06/2007 14:52:06
I will check it all. As today I am going to get copies of my records I hope! Then I will be able to see a bit better what they are doing! I'll get back here soon and let you know!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 10/06/2007 02:06:07
Actually Iko in March I had 2 procedures done, one of them A DNC and one of them a Hysterscopy.. they were done at the same time. I was having extremely heavy long periods, as well as very large amounts of blood clotting! Was anemic as well. The surgery seemed to have helped but now the bleeding has increased again and he said if that happened and he thought it would then he would need to schedule a Hysterectomy! So That is what is on the board but not till they figure out what all is happening with my heart problems..

The Problem with the March '06 surgery, was in recovery I had several bad episodes with stridder, and in all the fuss, I was not given my antibiotics which should have been given before and after my procedure, at least that is what the doctor said!! To prevent a heart infection because of my Heart murmur from my first open heart surgery in 1960.  Second surgery was in 1972.. if I recall right.. and it dealt more with examination and repairs...is what I was told.. LOL I was a child all I knew was they were knocking me out and I was scared!..LOL..
I don't know how to merge the two topics..LOL I will see what I can do!

I have had other procedures checking heart stuff but quite honestly it is hard to keep track anymore..I have some sort of valve problem I am not sure as to the degree of the problem .. that is supposed to be checked again with the latest tests. we are still waiting for results! As of now still no news!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: kdlynn on 10/06/2007 03:49:15
karen as you know, i'm no expert on anything, but i think a lot of women have heart valve problems. i know 3 people my age... and i'm one of them. it's very minor, but one of my heart valves doesn't close. i spotted it on the heart thing they did. it was like a 3d ultrasound. i named mine floppy.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 10/06/2007 18:21:38
Thanks Kadie..I know about those kind of problems..Thanks. Have you had yours since birth? the Echo Cardiogram was ok but uncomfortable as he was pushing so hard for so long that it made me sore. I had a lot of scar tissue and he said it made it difficult to see certain angles especially on the left ventricle where they were trying to get  a good shot! Your valves sure make lots of noise! LOL
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: kdlynn on 10/06/2007 18:24:27
yes they do make a lot of noise!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 10/06/2007 18:58:39
LOL!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 13/06/2007 18:24:25
 I got some results back yesterday traded one problem up for another of equal or worse trouble..I'm not sure yet.. I have to see another Cardiologist as my aorta valve is all messed up. I knew I had valve problems but apparently it is doing something worse then it used to do!

I am really nervous cause this valve disease would require a surgery that is not very optimistic.. .. I have excessive inflammation of the heart which we knew but even after sending tests away to professionals, they cannot tell me why....so more tests! LOL

They say they think they misdiagnosed me with congestive heart failure, but they are not sure yet.. when it was this inflammation and valve problem masking itself as the other.

I don't get it! They are going to send me to a new Cardiologist with even more experience.. I have some extra scaring which is making it difficult for them to read the test results.

They have found a thyroid Goiter which will be most likely treated with radiation pills or something like that.. they haven't decided how yet! My thyroid is very low again so they are upping that medication. I hope that is why I am feeling so bloody tired..

 The aorta valve is thickened and hardening as what one would see in a 70 year old, but because I am 46 I will assume it is from congenital heart problems I don't know she gave me no reason...She said i have a bad case of Aorta Sclerosis.

The valve seems to be regurgitating or working backwards or backwards or something like that..I think she said something about a possible tear in the valve.. which is also a iffy procedure, this they couldn't tell because of scar tissue as to weather it was small tear or large or any tear at all! LOL..Any way the new specialist will tell me.

 They are consulting today to set me up with a new person so I am not sure yet what the whole story is....They cannot figure out the reason for the heart inflammation so Today I am going for more blood work! she wants me in in an hour or so..

 I am overwhelmed right now and don't know if I am mixing up my information but as I understand it that's what seems
to be happening so far... Oh Yeah My Carotid arteries are very good, she said they had very little in them and they were in great shape so that is good right! Cholesterol was great.. nothing to worry about also.
She said that something was excessive elevated something referring to the inflammation in the heart! That was with new blood work etc.

I will post anything new later.. I slept all night last.. LOL no sleep night before and 3HS night before that and A 4 HOUR nap that afternoon..

OOPS they have me scheduled for a sleep study on the 13th of July, sooner if they get a cancellation as she thinks I may have sleep apnea.. we will see..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 13/06/2007 22:52:04
Hi Karen,

We'll wait for the results of your
inflammation tests, i.e. ESR and
C Reactive Protein...
BTW, are you allergic to SULPHA drugs?
Take care

ikod
 
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/06/2007 00:27:25
Pennicilian  and codeine  mild rash with the codeine and cramping, but penicillian made me wheezy had hard time with that and a rash..the rash was first then the wheezing but it has been years since, so, I do not know what the reactions would be as a adult. I was a child last time I had it. as far as I can remember.. I don't think i want to know..LOL

I am NOT allergic to sulfa drugs.. my son John and my husband are though..On the Saturday I went to the hospital, I was talking to the doctor and he said some things about medicines and I wasn't feeling to good and I think I forgot to tell him about the codiene allergy, made me sick like severe cramping with a rash..

Do you think the blood work they did today will be the ones you just mentioned..that's funny as the tests they had to run today the young girl in the lab had never done and she had to look up codes and things in a manual before she could draw my blood. She did a very good job got it on the first try!

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/06/2007 00:33:44
Pennicilian  and codeine  mild rash with the codeine and cramping, but penicillian made me wheezy had hard time with that and a rash..the rash was first then the wheezing but it has been years since, so, I do not know what the reactions would be as a adult. I was a child last time I had it. as far as I can remember.. I don't think i want to know..LOL

I am NOT allergic to sulfa drugs.. my son John and my husband are though..On the Saturday I went to the hospital, I was talking to the doctor and he said some things about medicines and I wasn't feeling to good and I think I forgot to tell him about the codiene allergy, made me sick like severe cramping with a rash..

Do you think the blood work they did today will be the ones you just mentioned..that's funny as the tests they had to run today the young girl in the lab had never done and she had to look up codes and things in a manual before she could draw my blood. She did a very good job got it on the first try!

My back is better today and my shoulder is still killing me sometimes I barely move and it sends sharp pans through it!


Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 14/06/2007 08:25:42
Do you think the blood work they did today will be the ones you just mentioned..that's funny as the tests they had to run today the young girl in the lab had never done and she had to look up codes and things in a manual before she could draw my blood. She did a very good job got it on the first try!

My back is better today and my shoulder is still killing me sometimes I barely move and it sends sharp pans through it!


You should ask what is going on!  [;D]
I think those blood samples could be for special bacterial cultures: for certain germs it might take 2-3 weeks to grow in special bottles...so we have to wait and be PATIENT one more time.
Take care

ikod



(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medscape.com%2Fcontent%2F1999%2F00%2F41%2F75%2F417500%2Fart-m6006.sand.fig2.jpg&hash=63b305b33aba4c521c2ada2d4997dcd9)
http://www.medscape.com/content/1999/00/41/75/417500/art-m6006.sand.fig2.jpg
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/06/2007 08:45:22
OK what is going on??? LOL I guess I could have asked more specifically in the lab.. she made me come in today said immediately.. so I did..I should have asked.. I have not felt good for months literally months...

Okie dokie.. is this germ going to keep growing while i am waiting..she did not think it was an infection ..she said she did not know what it was..yet..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 14/06/2007 15:20:10
Yes Karen,

They are probably closer than we think in solving the most difficult and intriguing clinical case of the week, month...may be year!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drgreghouse.com%2Fimg%2Fphotos%2Fshowinfo.jpg&hash=9260ef62552ee848119d28788bb0e439)
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Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/06/2007 18:16:30
OK Iko, I called the lab.. these are the tests they ran yesterday

First one for thyroid I think! Second line I could not tell if it was part of the 1rst test or a seperate test on its own.. LOL!   2 or 3 tests..?

1= Thyroid Peroxidase (spelling)

2?=   Antinuclear Antibodies Direct (spelling) LOL

3= Sentimentation rate (Westergreen)is this the method
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 14/06/2007 18:28:47
OK Iko, I called the lab.. these are the tests they ran yesterday

First one for thyroid I think! Second line I could not tell if it was part of the 1rst test or a seperate test on its own.. LOL!   2 or 3 tests..?

1= Thyroid Peroxidase (spelling)

2?=   Antinuclear Antibodies Direct (spelling) LOL

3= Sentimentation rate (Westergreen)is this the method

3 = Sedimentation rate: the speed (mm/hour) of erythrocytes in anticoagulated blood (liquid, no clots) under gravity force.  Very old and aspecific test for inflammation/infection, still valid to suspect 'subacute endocarditis' and other ailments.

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pjms.com.pk%2Fissues%2Faprjun06%2Ffig_tab%2Fesr_bottle.gif&hash=ce2e090fa6db5809c2248256dcc590eb)
http://www.pjms.com.pk/issues/aprjun06/fig_tab/esr_bottle.gif

Red cells run down faster in those tubes if inflammation proteins and other factors in the liquid fraction of blood (plasma) make them stick together by tiny  electrical charges.
Normal speed should be less than 20mm/hour.
In this picture, samples 5-8-9 from left seem to be normal (after 1 hour)
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/06/2007 18:34:46
ok
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 14/06/2007 21:21:35
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), also called a sedimentation rate, sed rate or 'Biernacki Reaction', is a non-specific measure of inflammation that is commonly used as a medical screening test.

To perform the test, anticoagulated blood is placed in an upright tube, known as a Wintrobe tube and the rate at which the red blood cells fall is measured and reported in mm/h.

When an inflammatory process is present, the high proportion of fibrinogen in the blood causes red blood cells to stick to each other. The red cells form stacks called 'rouleaux' which settle faster. Rouleau formation can also occur in association with some lymphoproliferative disorders in which one or more immunoglobulins are secreted in high amounts. Rouleau formation is however a physiological finding in some equidae and can be as such in felidae and suidae species, namely the horse, cat and pig respectively.

The ESR is increased by any cause or focus of inflammation. The basal ESR is slightly higher in females.

History
This test was invented in 1897 by the Polish doctor Edmund Biernacki.[citation needed] In 1918 the Swedish pathologist Robin Fåhræus declared the same. Fåhræus is still known as the inventor of ESR in the Western world although Fåhræus accepted that he wasn't the first[citation needed].

Uses
Although it is frequently ordered, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is not a useful screening test. It is only useful for diagnosing three diseases: myeloma, temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica (in which it may exceed 100 mm/hour).

It is commonly used for a differential diagnosis for Kawasaki's Disease and it may be increased in some chronic infective conditions like tuberculosis and infective endocarditis. It is a component of the PDCAI, an index for assessment of severity of inflammatory bowel disease in children.

The clinical usefulness of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is limited to monitoring the response to therapy in certain inflammatory diseases such as temporal arteritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be used as a crude measure of response in Hodgkin's disease.

The use of the ESR as a screening test in asymptomatic persons is limited by its low sensitivity and specificity. When there is a moderate suspicion of disease, the ESR may have some value as a "sickness index."

An elevated ESR in the absence of other findings should NOT trigger an extensive laboratory or radiographic evaluation.

Normal Values
Note: mm/hr. = millimeters per hour.

Adults (Westergren method):

Men under 50 years old: less than 15 mm/hr.
Men over 50 years old: less than 20 mm/hr.
Women under 50 years old: less than 20 mm/hr.
Women over 50 years old: less than 30 mm/hr.
It is increased in states of anemia.
Children (Westergren method):

Newborn: 0 to 2 mm/hr.
Neonatal to puberty: 3 to 13 mm/hr.

more from:   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythrocyte_sedimentation_rate

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/06/2007 21:54:09
Hey Iko something I was noticing that occurred to me when she was drawing my blood..LOL this sounds silly but why has my blood changed colors lately? It has gone from being a nice red to being this very dark almost brown looking color.. The lab women says she doesn't know why, but she notices that very active patients have redder blood draws, and inactive patients have darker blood... does it have to do with oxygenation?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 15/06/2007 21:29:35
Hi Karen,

blood drawn from arteries is bright red because of oxygen,
while venous blood is dark red for less oxygen.
Sometimes it's darker 'cause venous blood flow has been
reduced too much and for too long by the elastic strap searchin'
for the "invisible tiny little vein"...in this case even
your arm becomes bluish (cianotic)!
I'm not aware of any disease diagnosed by the colour of blood.
I feel sooooo ignorant.
And overdose of cod liver oil doesn't help much!
Cheers,

ikod   [;)]
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 15/06/2007 21:54:42
I was just curious.. not because of a disease..LOL Only that often it is a different color she did say it was a small vein but it was working fine so she did not want to poke me again. LOL I appreciate that! There was big ones but this one popped up better. That makes much more since about which vein the blood came from.. The last draw had been a big vein.  Thanks Iko..LOL
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/06/2007 08:21:37
OK..Doctor said my thyroid was down significantly lower so she has upped my Levoxyl from 0.125MG to 0.15MG.. I took the first one of those today. I have to go back wed. to discuss the thyroid goiter they found and seeing yet another cardiologist..someone new.. there are two here! She is consulting with Them again.. so I don't know what's next.. Thursday I am going to see the physical therapist to be fitted with some nasty tight leggings that are going to squeeze the water out of me...LOL For reducing swelling ..

Iko.. is there a difference in hypothyroidism and graves disease...I know my thyroid doesn't produce a certain hormone or something.. might be that TSH or TH something.. I am not sure.. I have always let the Doctors handle the Doctoring but now I am concerned.. they did not have records of some of the meds I was taking which The Doctor prescribed over the last 8 months.. Then she up and left the clinic..good thing I had my prescription information..LOL She did not write things in the files apparently, at least not where we can find them.. LOL...New Doctor seems to be more thorough! I like that.. she seems to be listening.. LOL.. We will see.

One more thing what the heck is a goiter??? Is it a tumor or something on my thyroid.. I do not understand it..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 17/06/2007 11:29:43
Hi Karen,

hypothyroidism is the opposite of HYPERthyroidism (Graves' disease).

In HYPOthyroidism the gland produces little or no hormones for various reasons and your whole metabolisrm is heavily affected. Fortunately it's enough you take some pill of hormone every day to fix it.

HYPERthyroidism is more dangerous. I cut&paste a recent 'masterpiece' by Chris, you may have read it.

This is thyrotoxicosis, an excess of circulating thyroid hormone (thyroxine). In this case the cause is Graves Disease, which is associated with the production of an antibody that triggers the thyroid to over-produce thyroxine.

Thyroxine determines metabolic rate and potentiates the action of adrenaline and adrenaline-like chemicals. Excess thyroxine causes tachycardia (fast heart rate) and arrhythmias (irregular heart rate), high blood pressure, intolerance of heat, increased appetite, weight loss, and proximal muscle wasting.

The secretion of thyroxine is under the control of the brain's pituitary gland, which releases a chemical called TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). This is part of a negative feedback loop: TSH stimulates the thyroid to release thyroxine, which then shuts off the supply of TSH from the brain.

Occasionally, and more often in women, the body produces an auto-antibody that can bind to and activate the TSH receptor on cells in the thyroid. This bypasses the usual TSH control of thyroxine production and results in very low or undetectable TSH levels, because the excessive thyroxine in the blood stream shuts off TSH secretion. This is an important test to do because it rules out a problem with the pituitary (such as a tumour) producing too much TSH as the cause of the hyperthyroidism.

There are several ways to manage Graves Disease. The favoured option is known as block and replace. Patients are given an anti-thyroid drug known as carbimazole (or an alternative thyro-static called propylthiouracil), which suppress thyroxine production. This is continued for 6-9 months (with monitoring of thyroxine and supplementation where required).

The suppression is then withdrawn; in a number of patients the condition seems to abate. If several rounds of suppressive therapy fail then radio-iodine is given to ablate the thyroid, and the patient is given exogenenous thyroxine to take by mouth to maintain correct levels (using the TSH level to check whether they are being adequately medicated).

Chris
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/06/2007 13:10:02
Thanks Iko.. I thought it was different then mine.. Thanks and that's a great piece BTW!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 17/06/2007 13:37:31
Thanks Iko.. I thought it was different then mine.. Thanks and that's a great piece BTW!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.fotolia.com%2Fphotos_mini%2F2006-32%2F110_F_1049437_AQaPV7IXQjYNyROzozIPV69SQNyRlZ.jpg&hash=da26f3386715e9fa0be5f64cd253d06c)
http://static.fotolia.com/photos_mini/2006-32/110_F_1049437_AQaPV7IXQjYNyROzozIPV69SQNyRlZ.jpg

It would be nice to know from your doctors if your past mini-stroke had been caused by aortic valve infection, subacute endocarditis or what...
Did you get any information, I mean, more consistent and specific about it?
I know that for certain type of germs blood cultures take 2-3 weeks, but still...
Take care,

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/06/2007 15:04:23
the two or three last blood tests were just done that I listed above last week.so this is one week.. she is not talking to me much about tests yet.. being all hush hush and saying we don't know whats causing the enlarged heart.. she did say she did not think it was a infection, but we would have to wait for the other tests.. and she wants me to see the other doctor first. She also said she doesn't want to put me on any more meds for the swelling in my feet and in my hands my knees and legs and tummybasicly evreywhere! LOL Lower extremities are worse..

She said, aortic sclerosis..thickening and hardening of the Aortic valve.. I tried to read some about it.. there are lots of sites with basic information.. she said they were surprised to see it because it is something generally seen in a seventy year old not a 46 year old.. so I am not sure what that means.. She is talking more then my other doctor did but still evasive at this point!

Nothing yet. Although she did say My carotid ultra sound was good.. deja vu I already told you that huh??? Sorry I seem to repeat myself a lot lately..No clogged or blocked Arteries.. :) Wednesday is my appointment at 2:00 she said we would discus further the blood tests as well as the two cardiologists, and then Thursday Physical therapy!  I will let you know Iko...Thank you so very much.. you have helped me deal with this better then I was.. LOL I must say.. I am pretty damn scared... ..I don't guess things could get much worse then what they are..well maybe they can.. but I hope not.. I can't hardly sleep anymore.. Just to nervous,, keep wondering if I am going to open my eyes and see the morning... .. I am not sure how I am feeling about that..I guess it is all part of not knowing eh??  7:00 am and I am still awake..

 Looks like a pretty day... Happy Fathers day Iko.. That is if you celebrate it!.. Have a good day anyway!.....Talk soon..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 17/06/2007 15:26:59
Hey Karen,

we said you needed to RELAX, didn't we?
And here you overwork, plus the other 4life forum, plus who knows what...
I never asked you when you started having insomnia, lack of sleep.
I cannot put together the history of your left arm/shoulder ache.
Did you have various pains in your joints in the recent past, problems of
uhm...diarrhea from time to time?
Ops! this will keep you awake for another couple of days!
Sorry, but I have my colleague Gregory on the phone and...
he'd like to know these details, don't know why.

ikod  [;D]
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/06/2007 20:33:27
Hey Karen,

we said you needed to RELAX, didn't we?
And here you overwork, plus the other 4life forum, plus who knows what...
I never asked you when you started having insomnia, lack of sleep.
I cannot put together the history of your left arm/shoulder ache.
Did you have various pains in your joints in the recent past, problems of
uhm...diarrhea from time to time?
Ops! this will keep you awake for another couple of days!
Sorry, but I have my colleague Gregory on the phone and...
he'd like to know these details, don't know why.

ikod  [;D]






Well Pain in arm has been off and on for several years, just got very intense on that Friday and Saturday.. was so weird.. I had had that butterfly creepy feeling spread up the back of my spine into my shoulders, then my arm just ached like crazy... then it would subside.. until I moved it a certain way. then boom all over again.. If I bend down and come up after having walked or climbed the stairs that feeling starts at the base of my spine and moves up into my neck and across my shoulder blades.
It's funny I have mostly had constipation for a long time years, but now not so much but do have kind of an irritable tummy sometimes upset or stress seem to give me  diarrhea not always but sometimes..

Iko The pain in my arm is also started by lifting quite light items, or no items at all just lifting the arm.. can't raise it much above my shoulder.. in 1997 I thought I jammed it and went to the doctor I had taken a regular Garden hoe, and hammered it flat as I was ripping out old linoleum by myself.. and had know way to get it off the floor it was glued down. so with the hoe flat I was able to use it as a scrapping tool, a few times I hit a nail really hard and hurt my shoulder over about two days, then my arm acted up in a huge way.. same pain same place I went to the doctor he gave me an sheet of paper to exercise  to strengthen it.. over several month it got some better but then began hurting again I had gained a lot of weight. I then started working on my weight... after about 6o lbs off the arm stopped hurting YAYYYYYYYY.. It was January or so it hit again like a brick.. very painful.. I was dealing with a lot of stress and not feeling good from all of this crud the swelling was worse everywhere and the pain in my arm also..I also have a right hip problem it always aches like it is out of joint not always but it comes and goes also!..
Anyway the arm is really bad when I move it out from my side out away from my body to the side not forward I can swing it forward and backwards while walking, but not out to the side or up over my head to take my clothes off. cant unzip my side zipper on my dress on the left side.. it hurts too much. when I try It snaps and makes a snapping nose followed by excruciating pain.. I can't explain.. it is not the join of my elbow or my shoulder joint popping. it is in between the shoulder and the space at my elbow. so mid way in my arm..4 inches down approximately from my shoulder joint  I don't know if that helps or not! about three inches up from the elbow joint.. I must say for the first time that Friday and Saturday it had gotten worse and the pain traveled down into my elbow and actually felt as if it jumped through a nerve into my upper left leg momentarily then that part went away..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/06/2007 20:49:12
Hey Karen,

we said you needed to RELAX, didn't we?
And here you overwork, plus the other 4life forum, plus who knows what...
I never asked you when you started having insomnia, lack of sleep.
I cannot put together the history of your left arm/shoulder ache.
Did you have various pains in your joints in the recent past, problems of
uhm...diarrhea from time to time?
Ops! this will keep you awake for another couple of days!
Sorry, but I have my colleague Gregory on the phone and...
he'd like to know these details, don't know why.

ikod  [;D]



I have had some trouble with sleep since I was a kid.. not near as badly as now.. Its the getting to sleep first then once I am I wake up like within 2 to 4and 1/2 hours.. LOL.. Sometimes I have that antsy leg problem when "your feet just can't keep still...." I believe its restless leg..but not positive.. doctor and I discussed several years ago and then no more.. LOL..feels like the blood is racing in my legs and nothing helps but some exercise of the muscles and then I can usually go back and finally get to sleep.. this however is rare and not a all the time thing! It comes and goes.. Some medicines seem to do it.. set it off, but it has been years I can't remember which med it was that made me feel like that in my legs.. it went away when I didn't take the meds... It was something they had given me in the Hospital.. I can't remember what.. too long ago..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 22/06/2007 05:25:34
Still not sure what they are going to do.. changed my medicines again upped them to 9 again 1 should be just temporary.. YAYYYYY! A new Betta Blocker I haven't taken she said it will regulate the heart beat.. something like that! Pain meds etc.. so that's good which means they may make all the ouchies go away pain wise and that in and of itself will be really good! Turns out they have been treating my thyroid for several years only to find out they never tested to see why I had hypothyroidism and they ran new tests and found I tested positive for Hashimoto's Disease..So they want more tests there also, as I have the goiter, and have had some difficulty swallowing plain water and liquid LUFF as Neil would put it! LOL GOOD NEWS IS NO RADIATION for the Goiter at this junction so that is good..Have to go have a MRI For my left shoulder and arm.. to look further into that to see if it is stroke related or something wrong in the arm! I tried to get it looked at a couple years ago the first time I had that kind of pain there as I thought I may have hurt it.. the doctor wouldn't look further then his eyes and gave me the standard hand and arm exercise to build the muscle and strengthen it around where it hurt.. LOL nothing to address the cause of the hurt just treat the symptom!..I feel better I was positive and assertive and when she said we will wait until everything else is done! I said I want you to look at it now! Cause if it is hurt or damaged I want it fixed not just covering the symptoms.. she said ok.. this is what we can do..LOL  So MRI right away.. If they can clear that up too then I is going to be much happier without that pain in my arm..LOL Makes it hard to be cheery when you feel like crud! well I guess I have POSTED!!!! LOL Sorry everyone...but MY MOUTH DOTH RUNNETH OVER ONCE AGAIN! Goodnight all!

I will start a new antidepressant in two weeks and we will see if it works to control my YOYO emotions... I sure hope so!! "CRY ME A RIVER, CRY ME A RIVER, AND I'LL CRY A RIVER OVER YOU!!" That SONG was written for ME. YOU know! LOL

I reposted this here cause I am so tired..

Went t the physical therapist and she is doing some sort of pressure wrap on my legs tomorrow noon. They will be for the weekend and I will not be able to remove them till Monday! I cannot wear shoes right now because of the swelling. I tried like a crazy women to get them on and to no avail.. so on with my sandals! She thinks my aorta problems are coming from Hashimotos .. we will see. She said nothing about my blood tests although she did change meds.. so I ordered copies of my records.. so I can scan my blood results and let you see..How's that sound!

Iko THanks so much.. You have been wonderful..I have been reading up on all this stuff, but I must say I don't understand all of it,, there are a lot of things to take in. seems they are still not sure about diagnosis!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 24/06/2007 07:13:48
Hi IKo this is what we did at physical therapy Thursday and Friday.. my legs are still extremely swollen as are my ankles I can barely see my kneecaps lately and my ankles are darn near the same size.. she wants to try this weird wrap for 4 days to reduce the swelling and then she has had special compression stockings made for me as my legs are not your typical twiggy legs.. LOL  I am on my back feet up above my heart most all day except going somewhere.. I am walking in between and exercising the ankle and foot every hour on the hour while I am awake.. Have you ever seen this done.. She said she would like to try this before she puts me on more diuretics.. as so far they are not working! She wants to try wholistic first...The thing is I cannot spend as many hours in this position as she wants me to do! I am taking 4 days to do it and am on leave of absence for at least 12 weeks.. so sept 1.. I hope to heck they can figure out what the heck is wrong with me.. here is the picture with my new moon boots as I can no longer wear my shoes.. None of them! Sorry bout the ugly legs guys!..
* I have now removed my terribly swollen legs from Public view..* LOL Only here for a short visit! I will replace it with a smile instead!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FPicture20july2007.jpg&hash=96df4875baa275dfe06b9d356d450e07)

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 24/06/2007 08:27:55
Hi Karen,

I am sorry that you have to go through all these troubles.
Legs can swell in hours, but it takes a long time to get rid of extra fluids!
You certainly are behaving like a good patient and following all the instructions...you should move your legs too, as much as you can, to let some circulation work and avoid fluids and blood retention.  A couple of enjoyable books and a wise 'switch off' for your PC would help, in my personal opinion.  Healing takes time.
I cannot say anything about your diagnosis, I am not an experienced clinician, and data seem to be uncomplete so far.  I'm getting confused: we started with 'blood infection' and ended up with thyroid inflammation and malfunction.
It's a common problem though ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hashimoto's_thyroiditis )
and so you have plenty of knowledge available for this and remedies ready to use.
Unfortunately, like in many other medical conditions, we don't know the cause.
You probably  had your thyroid hormones tested and you are taking the right pills.
My only suggestion is to stop any other type of integrators-supplement-herbal who knows what 'innocent' and 'natural' stuff, to let treatments work fine without mysterious surprises or side effects. Standard treatments work in standard conditions.
Only cod liver oil (but you don't need it!) and Vitamins (especially B1) are allowed!
We'll keep in touch. Take care.

ikod

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 24/06/2007 08:45:28
Hi Karen,

I am sorry that you have to go through all these troubles.
Legs can swell in hours, but it takes a long time to get rid of extra fluids!
You certainly are behaving like a good patient and following all the instructions...you should move your legs too, as much as you can, to let some circulation work and avoid fluids and blood retention.  A couple of enjoyable books and a wise 'switch off' for your PC would help, in my personal opinion.  Healing takes time.
I cannot say anything about your diagnosis, I am not an experienced clinician, and data seem to be incomplete so far.  I'm getting cofused: we started with 'blood infection' and ended up with thyroid inflammation and malfunction.
It's a common problem though ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hashimoto's_thyroiditis )
and so you have plenty of knowledge available for this and remedies ready to use.
Unfortunately, like in many other medical conditions, we don't know the cause.
You probably  had your thyroid hormones tested and you are taking the right pills.
My only suggestion is to stop any other type of integrators-supplement-herbal who knows what 'innocent' and 'natural' stuff, to let treatments work fine without mysterious surprises or side effects. Standard treatments work in standard conditions.
Only cod liver oil (but you don't need it!) and Vitamins (especially B1) are allowed!
We'll keep in touch. Take care.

ikod



I did everything I was supposed to today and have had my feet up LOts and I went to town again even after being accosted there yesterday by some nut case tweeker strung out on drugs! Well I went to the bay today and took pictures, went to the river and tried to walk down a rather trecherous embankment to take more pictures, but could not scale the rocks it was too steep and slippery dirt rocks etc.. so I took pictures of the flowers bushes a vulture in  a tree that I accidently frightened when I came upon him feasting from the remains of something amongst the trees at the river.. I climbed a retaining wall to no avail, trying to find a less steep access.. ..took a couple pictures of a house in blue lake I love.. bought a book to read a new phone yesterday so I could read the site while lying down..Humm had a big hamburger I shouldn't have eaten and now I can't sleep!...I am taking more pictures tomorrow! did a lot of walking today as well as laying down..

Thanks Iko .. You have helped me be more calm... and some less nervous..They are confusing me too. so I am just listening and trying to take some notes and writing questions down..I will go read that article before I try to sleep again!

Have a good Day Iko! I love all those clowns you have been posting and different faces very cool! Kitties too.. I think I might go adopt a new kitty! I miss my old cat a lot!

No worries I am not taking any other suppliments including my old zeta caps haven't for quite a while.. I was thinking about it but not right now with all the meds ..I have enough to swallow!..LOL And It hurts to swallow anyway!~ LOL The doctor did put me on omega 3 fish oil caps is that anything close to cod liver oil?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 24/06/2007 09:29:24
Yap!

Fish oil is rich of nice omega-3 fatty acids
so good for a lot of things...not too much of
vitamin A and D that could accumulate and be
toxic in the long run.
Our brain and little vessels seem to enjoy omega-3!
Cheers

ikod

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pennhealth.com%2Fency%2Fimages%2Fency%2Ffullsize%2F19302.jpg&hash=f0f0d0018bfa15ea2e9716b432337947)  (https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi143.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr133%2Flindsayjemerson%2Fpingouin.gif&hash=07319bd4bc956ed1bd0b885ae4602584)
http://www.pennhealth.com/ency/images/ency/fullsize/19302.jpg
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Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 25/06/2007 06:58:53
Thank you Iko! LOL.. Where's LO I bet she will like your penguin catching the fishie for dinner! LOL!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 13/07/2007 01:08:06
OK IKO, My MRI is scheduled for tomorrow at 12:45 PM. My sleep study for 6:00 PM tomorrow night! I will let you know when I find out more!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 13/07/2007 15:20:51
OK IKO, My MRI is scheduled for tomorrow at 12:45 PM. My sleep study for 6:00 PM tomorrow night! I will let you know when I find out more!

Good luck!
Please let us know asap(good news!)

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 13/07/2007 23:11:16
Iko.. I just finished with the Mri and had to come home to get things ready for the sleep study!

After the MRI the tech said he was able to get some really great images.. I asked him, "did you find anything that would be causing me such greif?" He replied, "yes I did!" I said, "what..?" he said, "I cannot say, "but, I will send these to your doctor she will have them by Tuesday!" I said, "Then this pain and trouble I have been having is not all in me head?" He said, definitely NOT!" So I am not going to know until probably Friday next week unless I can con her into telling me Tuesday when she gets the tests back! My next appointment is Friday! I will let you know!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 13/07/2007 23:19:05
Hi Karen,

of course you get insomnia and hyperstress anxiety!
They promise you a new explanation every time in any
test you take...and afterwards they vanish in a tiny
cloud of dust!
Anyway: MRI is done and maybe "informative"
Fingers crossed and let's jump to next week.
Take care

ikod



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http://tvcocktail.ivillage.com/entertainment/house_315-sc7_2202_f.jpg
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 13/07/2007 23:49:01
 Thanks Iko.. Will be glad to find out something definitive...

hugs...
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 14/07/2007 19:05:42
Thanks Iko.. Will be glad to find out something definitive...

hugs...

Not toooo much "definitive" would be better! [;D]
maybe you'll fix it in the meantime...

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 15/07/2007 21:43:42
LOL Oh.. How am I going to fix it! LOL.. I think I will wait and make them tell me whats wrong.. Just wish they would hurry up!!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 15/07/2007 22:42:26
(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kleptography.com%2Fimages-fauna%2Fsnail1.jpg&hash=6a7e01920a5414d76df80ec22dca4385)
http://www.kleptography.com/images-fauna/snail1.jpg

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http://www.fiendish-thingy.com/images/House_Bike.jpg


Wish you had a faster Doc!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 16/07/2007 01:33:55
Nice pic's IKO.. Love the snail TOO! I agree I wish my doc was faster too!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 25/07/2007 14:23:26
Sleep study results came in and I seem to have what they call CPAP I think that is how she pronounced it! I have to be sedated and do yet another sleep study this time with a machine which will push air through the sinuses an keep my airway open. Apparently the machine does not require an oxygen tank as it just uses air from the room but uses a force that pushes the air through and keeps things clear!

This study will have to be for figuring out how much air must be used or something like that!

Out of six or so people I was the only one who couldn't sleep and not for not trying..

I am also to go see an orthopedic surgeon for my shoulder and arm. I am supposed to have another MRI with some kind of injection to illuminate more of the problem area!That will come after I see this Dr.Lyell.(the surgeon) Well thats whats new I also had to have more lab work done at my appointment.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 10/10/2007 03:50:25
Hey Dr House, LOL Just kidding IKO!! HEE HEE HEE! Here are  the days replay results pending in 7 to 10 days~!  Todays chemical stress test part 1..LOL
I went early this morning for my chemical stress test!
they decided they would inject me and allow me to walk the treadmill if I wanted. I did, They started the iv, I was less about 1 minute into the 4 minute test when my heart decided it did not like the test or the work out or whatever..My ekg readout went crazy and I tried to keep walking but someone shoved a chair up underneath me after asking are you alright??? It is really hard to say i need to sit down when your heart is doing flip flops in your chest and your so dizzy you can't tell if you landed in the chair or on the floor. I do not know what happened much after that Iwas really nauseated afterwards and had dry heaves and couldn't quit shaking.. Then i realized that I was back on the table and the cardiologist said your test just went crazy its ok.. your gonna be ok..  I was given a snack fig newton as per test instructions and they monitored my blood pressure as it was almost non existent! Then he said .. Has anyone ever told you you have a bad heart and low blood pressure !!! YUCK YUCK YUCK YUCK YUCK..Some sense of humor he had. LOL..

He then said low blood pressure is normally not a bad thing, but young lady when you normally have high blood pressure and yours drops so low this is dangerous!   It was way too low he said. Then he said now we have a better idea and in a few days we will have pictures back and maybe figure out whats happening here, in the mean time no more mountain climbing! LOL We had discussed crater lake! LOL..

When the nurse came I asked what happened exactly and she said that my heart does not function well under stress. She said that when I went down They administered something else into the iv.. I forget what she said it was. But she said it was to calm the heart down.. whatever that means.. I don't think I had a heart attack but the way they talked I was fixing to. He said that is why they have everything there in place to see to it that I was OK!

So The only instructions today was to be back there at 8:30 AM tomorrow morning and they are going to do another iv and a test of the heart at rest.. The took a ton of pictures with a machine that came up around me.
She said the hard part was over and tomorrow should be a breeze..LOL we will see. today I was scared to death.. So maybe tomorrow I will leave laughing.. I still feel crudy and after the test today while I was waiting for the second half I was totally overcome with fatigue as if I had just ran a marathon.. I fell asleep in their waiting room.. I felt silly! She had to wake me up to hook me up again and do part two with the fancy camera and dye thing! I have been asleep most all day.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 10/10/2007 13:11:10
What about those famous 'infectious' results still pending?

ikod   [???]


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Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 10/10/2007 14:15:17
She still has not run any further tests she said and I quote" You have had this infection for some time now so I don't think it will hurt to wait until after the Cardiologists report!"  After todays test I am supposed to call her about an appointment.

Yesterday I was not feeling to hot before my stress test and still tired today. I haven't taken my blood pressure yet so I don't know where it is.

I am assuming now that I tested positive for a chronic infection again that they will have to determine exactly what disorder is causing it? Is that how these things normally work? I am assuming so based on her nonchalant attitude about treating this quicker!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 10/10/2007 22:24:21
Is this your new test for occult chronic infections?


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http://www.happydays-petcare.co.uk/imagelib%5Chamster%20wheel.jpg
http://kilby.stanford.edu/~rvg/fotos/BurningMan/wheel6.jpg

ikod    [:D]
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 10/10/2007 23:05:10
WOW! that is how I feel like a hamster running around in circles and not getting anywhere!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 11/10/2007 18:29:47
 Well house I passed my halter test last week but yesterdays stress test result says I failed it big time I am going into the hospital on the October 24th, for a catherdization, (sorry bout the spelling.) He said they have to insert a camera and possibly put a stint in the heart . He said they have been unsuccessful trying to figure out why it is doing what it is. So Now I am really nervous. He said I have to be partially awake for this proceedure..

I don't like that at all!  Every time they say surgery I panic... 
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Carol-A on 12/10/2007 10:57:59
Hi Karen, I had this proceedure last week..... and a stent inserted. If you want some first hand feedback, I'm happy to talk about it.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 12/10/2007 11:08:45
I would like to know more about it. He still does not know whats wrong and needs to put a camera in to look!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 12/10/2007 11:09:50
My arteries are clear but I am having some kind of other problems in the left side!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 15/10/2007 07:33:14
OK Iko I have to go back to cardiologist as I have asked for a consultation before I allow them to just operate without telling me more about what happened during my stress test, I am going in Tuesday  day after tomorrow.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 19/10/2007 07:01:57
Well he said upon exertion or stress that my blood flow basically stopped flowing in the top part of the heart and also in the bottom. he said he has commonly seen it in the top but not so much in the bottom! He is sending me a copy of this result.he said he does not know what they will find when they go in because all the other tests have been of no help and the problem seems to be hiding... He said arteries visually are clear with all the other tests he thinks it may be the repair job is giving out from childhood or it could be a blockage inside and they can't see it.. he is hoping it is something in one artery if it is one a stint and medication if it is 1 completely blocked along with a couple more then he will have to do a bypass.. He said he just doesn't know. they are just going in prepared for anything . he said if it is bad he is just going to knock me the rest of the way out and do what he has to do. He assures me we now have a facility set up to deal with it although I have heard terrible things about its inexperienced staff and under equipted facility.. He said that was before and they are set up now to handle what may come..So Monday tests more EKGs x-rays blood work etc etc etc.Then on Wednesday I check in at 11:00AM and surgery will be at 1:00.. He said there is a lot of prep. They will be using femoral artery....going through groin. he said there are less complications possible then through the wrist!

I will see you and let you know more when I do..keep your fingers crossed for me.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 19/10/2007 22:05:10
I will see you and let you know more when I do..keep your fingers crossed for me.

Of course we'll do it and you'll keep us informed asap.

ikod
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 19/10/2007 22:38:55
Thanks Iko, I will!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 00:59:59
Well my new bloodwork has come in. I was scheduled tomorrow for a iodine ct scan etc for my aorta valve .. but blood work is holding us up. Seems my Creatinine levels came back pretty high and that my GFR came back very low..
She said we can now add decreased kidney function to the list .. I still need the other test so they are going to put me on some kind of pills to rehydrate me and keep my kidney working right because she said it would shut down without this medicine given the potency of the iodine. She said it is hard on the kidneys!..So I will pick up a prescription from the pharmacy for these pills which she said I will take every two hours, I think she said! Then we can do the test!, as the pills will have been getting me plenty hydrated..  So that is on the schedule for Tuesday morning 8:30 am.. test at 10:00am. She said short stay so thats good.. I get to go home again... YAYYYYY! I will post again when I know more!

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 08:41:58
Some hours later.. She called back to talk about medications and said we will have to address this Kidney problem? She said They are not working properly and there is some kind of damage.. She said we must address it right away.  She tried to explain more about what was wrong...she said it may be the reason my blood pressure has soared and the swelling is worse again and the diuretics are not working to clear the fluid neither are the stockings or the feet up possession!...

I know what she said is not good... but I am having a hard time trying to swallow it...I don't feel like there is anything wrong with my kidneys but she insists there is...

She said we will talk again on Tuesday....
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 02/11/2007 09:32:01
Karen

Before you go any further. Please, pretty please with knobs on, give IBT a try.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 16:10:33
OK Today it is... eastern king size bed.. how high off the floor on the head?? We would have to look up the size wait I will try to measure it!

Ok....84 inches long by 72 inches wide or 218 and 3/4 centimeters long by 182 and 1/2 centimeters wide!APPROXIATELY!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 16:16:49
I have 2 inch high square cement blocks and help this morning to carry them , so are sturdy, how many two inch 12x12 inch blocks do I need? on each foot at the head of the bed?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 02/11/2007 18:02:15
Begin with 3 blocks giving you six inch incline under head end of the bed, wrap blocks in plastic bag to hide what they are and look for some wooden blocks later as they will be easy to move around.

After 4 weeks add the extra 2 inches with another concrete block or by now you may have obtained some off-cuts from a local saw mill or timber yard.

From the first night you will notices some significant differences, however this is usually more effective over a long period helping you to breath better, lowering your heart rate, improving your blood pressure, breathing more deeply and less frequently even after the first night is not uncommon.

When you feel that you are able to do more exercise, please remember to take it easy to begin with.

As you have an edema problem already, there might be an initial shift of fluids towards the ankles. This usually resolves within 4 weeks. You should find sleeping a bit easier also within the first few days, though it may feel a little weird at first. Take an old duvet or bed quilt or eiderdown depending on what you guys call it and wrap it around the mattress, tucking it under the mattress, the idea is that this will add additional friction and comfort preventing you from sliding down the bed.

We use a memory foam mattress now and find this is much better. But you need to become confident that this is the way forward before investing a single cent in a new mattress and probably may find the one you use is just fine.

To speed up the loss of water retention via urine output, a of glass water with freshly squeezed lemon juice during the day and a few cups of stinging nettle tea will have you visiting the bathroom more frequently and aid the return of slender looking ankles.

I enjoy your posts Karen and think your bubbly personality does our forum a great service and want to make sure you continue to enjoy the NS forum for many years to come.

Andrew
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 18:15:41
Thanks Andrew.. and I will get the bed up today!
My ankles are incredibly swollen Little footballs with the tiniest stubs showing at the end! LOL...

I hope they don't swell anymore cause they are already hurting from the skin being so swollen!



Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 02/11/2007 18:23:22
Can you take some pictures of your hands and toes and post them for us so we can witness any changes as they happen, also take some measurements around your ankles and wrists etc and make a note of them for comparison in 6 weeks time.

Thanks Andrew.. and I will get the bed up today!
My ankles are incredibly swollen Little footballs with the tiniest stubs showing at the end! LOL...

I hope they don't swell anymore cause they are already hurting from the skin being so swollen!




Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 18:53:14
my hands are good, a bit puffy, my face and anlkes knees and feet are worse..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Alandriel on 02/11/2007 22:05:13
(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fhome.hccnet.nl%2FFrank.van.Lindert%2FJoren%2FIPB%2520emoticons%2Fhug.gif&hash=25fab81ea8c61608f9df29ecb5be4144) and another (https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fhome.hccnet.nl%2FFrank.van.Lindert%2FJoren%2FIPB%2520emoticons%2Fhug.gif&hash=25fab81ea8c61608f9df29ecb5be4144)


I just read up this whole thread........









"What the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve."


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Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 22:33:26
  BOY oh Boy... LOL You did a lot of reading!! Thanks Alandriel I sure hope thats true!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: iko on 02/11/2007 22:57:55
You know what House would say?  LOL.. does anyone actually watch House.. well he would suggest Lupus because he always suggests Lupus.  Of course for him it never actually is although Lupus does in fact cause swollen fingers in the morning although they are usually stiff and slightly painful at the same time.


...we DO need some Dr. House right now!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 23:18:31
Yes that would be nice... I had my feet up quite a lot today.. I have the swelling down some but not much.. I can at least see toes now... but they have already begun to swell again.. I have my Sis coming today and I really want to go see her.. so I am trying to keep my feet up and swelling down so I can walk better , with shoes on!! Here are the piccy's I just took, vast improvement from earlier but still quite swollen!



It would do to see house right now!!


After compression stocking is removed, Still swollen and more painful!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2Fbleedingfoot001-1.jpg&hash=c2492a4472c668a4cf1eb3bc093d408e)

Swelling at my kneecaps.. barely see I have a kneecap at all!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2Fcompressionstocking1.jpg&hash=1825a534e19f5cf3553794078ae34976)

Both legs, calves and ankle after stocking removed.. still swollen and circulation awful from stockings!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2Fcompressionstocking4.jpg&hash=fc1c37052bbab3d00402710ee506bff4)

Right leg and foot 5 minutes ago..

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FSwollenfeetOct2nd2007006.jpg&hash=fbac4fc50ff448ee10da563a62ee1485)
Left Leg 10 minutes ago..

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FSwollenfeetOct2nd2007004.jpg&hash=de3fa60ab7d79e80a1cba8c77451cdf1)

Side view of the left leg! Note huge protrusions at ankles..


My hands are not bad so I will not post unless you think it is helpful.. I have had puffy face lately...
(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FSwollenfeetOct2nd2007001.jpg&hash=6b2dae71c61d72f838d967f7a8e22d54)
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/11/2007 23:48:16
2 days blood pressure while taking my METOPROLOL SUC ER 100 MG ER ALONG WITH
TRIAMTERINE/HCTZ 37.5/25 CAPS FOR SWELLING ETC..NOV.1

YESTERDAY!

177/105 PULSE 79 MORNING UPON WAKING 4:30 AM

198/109 PULSE 82 11:00AM 4 HOURS AFTER MY MEDS AT 7:00 AM

158/120 PULSE 89 AT ABOUT 4:00 PM

215/140 PULSE 85 8:30 PM

99/46 PULSE 38 I FELT CRUDY! 11:00PM

0CT. 31, 2007

202/128 PULSE 76   5:00 AM

202/134 PULSE 72   7:00 AM  RIGHT AFTER MEDS

178/128 PULSE 76  11:00 AM

172/115 PULSE 61   4:00 PM

135/83 PULSE 76    8:30 PM

130/78 PULSE 71   11:OO PM


I TRY TO MONITOR AT ABOUT THE SAME TIME EACH DAY!


Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 03/11/2007 08:20:16
I forgot to measure my ankles this morning but will measure them now!

14 inches left ankle or 36 centimeters [10 and 1/4 inches top right foot or 26 centimeters]
13 and 1/4 inches right ankle or 34 centimeters  [Left top foot below toe 11 inches or 28 centimeters]

14 and 1/2 inches 2 inches above right ankle =37 and 3/4 centimeters approxinmitely
25 and 1/4 inches above right knee = 64 centimeters

15 inches 2 inches above left ankle
23 inches around top of left knee= 58 and 1/2 centimeters


OK, Bed is raised slightly more then 6 inches, 7 and 1/2 inches as I was off on block measurement.. Bob left the rollers on. Surely I will ask him tomorrow to come take off casters.. doesn't seem safe up there on casters.

BOY it is tall! LOL It is 1:26 am and I am going to make a stab at it tonight! I will let you know!

Night All Iko, Andrew,..and friends of swollen foot girl of misery! LOL.. Hopefully not for long! Hugs you all sleep well to you out there!

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 03/11/2007 08:51:03
While using a compression stocking reduces the swelling by increasing the tissue fluid pressure higher than the pressure inside the veins so that fluid is forced both into the veins and to other areas of the body, it does not address why the pressure inside the vein increased to a higher level than the surrounding tissue in the first place and therefore at best will serve to visibly reduce the fluid in the tissue during and shortly after use.

But there is a trade off for this and you may be able to record it with your BP machine. I suspect that increasing the pressure of the tissue surrounding the veins that are currently leeching out fluids due to increased internal pressure may increase your blood pressure, and this could be contributing to your recent renal problems.

However, as Inclined Bed Therapy (IBT) has been shown to reduce the pressure inside the veins, evident by improvements in varicosity over 4 weeks using IBT, using a pressure stocking in conjunction with IBT, again use your BP machine to check this out, may not increase your overall blood pressure by the same degree as a flat bed will do.

Flicking back through the thread, I have observed a pattern and suspect if you reflect on it more and elaborate you may relate that many of your problems have been during the night while sleeping or simply resting on a flat bed, and you mention waking up often somewhat worse for flat bed rest a number of times.

My research over many years has confirmed this pattern fits with many medical conditions, some very serious.

If you re-read what I posted about my Father’s demise in hospital you will see what happened when the hospital put his bed flat and more to the point what happened when we forced them to tilt his bed.

You have done a great job with the pictures and the readings, thank you Karen.

Now we need to hear how your first night sleeping inclined was.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 03/11/2007 14:20:58
Ok.. Goodmorning... Well the first thing I noticed was I slept from 1:00 til 6:47AM which for me even with my cpap is good. 5 hours 29 minutes give or take a few moments!

I did wake up because my cpap was soaking my face and making my nose cold and I was stuffed up,  and if you don't know it is almost impossible to use the cpap when you are totally blocked as you cannot breath well through your mouth... Fortunately I had some air movement last night so I just felt stuffy!
 
Second thing I noticed, I woke up yawning, which for me is unusual as I yawn very little. and when I sat up in bed, I was not light headed as I am usually in the morning..

I dangled my feet glanced down and the swelling was still there but I had less discomfot in the tops of my feet then I usually have in the morning.

I stood up without having to hold on to my big shoe organiser! LOL.. I had to go to the loo. of course.. This was way different. I struggled to urinate this morning.. My bladder was full and hurt, but usually you sit and boom you urinate this was difficult this morning and I wonder if it has to do with my kidneys not working right or the incline.. I had to physically strain to urinate and it would not come out in a full shot It was as if I had to strain  release strain release again and again in order to empty my bladder. This has happened before a very long time agao as I recall, I was sick with and infection at that time.. (kidneys or bladder) I can't remember... Well when I was done there was not that usual sigh of relief after wards.. I felt I still needed to go.. Still do, but can't! LOL

I then came in here I feel pretty good seeing that I am just now taking my meds! And my first reading of the day!


 Here it is! \

WOW!!

7:08 am  120/79 pulse 58  YAYYYYYYYYYY! That is actually way good for the norm at this time of the morning!

That is a nice pressure although the doc would like to see the bottom number a tad lower.*smiles*
Anyway so far so good and I am still yawning and thirsty! LOL.. I will see how it goes again.. later. I have been napping on and off since my cpap machine so I will be in bed several times.. during the day. sometimes 20 or 30 minutes sometimes longer... depends on my brain .. dosing off has become normal, especially when my blood pressure shoots up and really bad when it drops really low like around 100/50  or so.. Then it worries me cause I get to feeling really bad and it doesn't feel like sleep but more like passing out!

See you later today... So far ok.. feel good.. urinating thing was odd, but perhaps part of the kidney problem that I have not been able to see until now.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 03/11/2007 19:01:51
Just in case anyone thinks this change in blood pressure is luck and merely a chance event. I have included one previous case history from a man paralysed in 1977 with a comple cord injury.

Inclined bed results...so far
 
I have been using Andrew K. Fletcher's theory of the inclined bed for a week now and we are still encouraged by what we are seeing. My skin tone continues to look good and my blood pressure fluctuations are not as severe. These fluctuations ranged from as high as 232 to a low of 39 systolic and as high as 124 to a low of 26 diastolic prior to the study.

There has been little or no swelling in my legs or feet. Two sores on my right foot, that have been there approximately a month, are healing up nicely.

It hasn't been easy. I have had a few rough times but overall, so far, we have had positive and encouraging results.

I will continue to post more results as they happen.

John

I have been using the inclined bed for 8 weeks now. I have had no swelling in my arms or legs. My skin tone remains very good. Have had noticeable muscle tone in my legs. I am unable to get out of bed because of 2 dislocated hips and have experienced increased pain over the period of this study. I do not have surface sensitivity but I have had an increased sensation in my internal abdominal area. As I mentioned before, my blood pressure was very erratic but since starting the study it has begun to stabilize. Here is a sample of my blood pressures from the week of 7/8 to 7/14. These are daily averages compiled from all BPs recorded that week:7/8

 82/55 Week 7/9 98/66 Week 7/10 98/60 Week 7/11 96/61 Week 7/12 103/67 Week 7/13 94/61 Week 7/14 101/64 Although my diastolic still does, at times, dip into the high 30s and low 40s. This is a dramatic and a much welcomed improvement. I had intended to post more recent updates but was discouraged by all of the negative response and scepticism. I am a C3-C4 quad since 1977 and if there is anyone that should be sceptical about this theory, it should be me. All of Andrew's critics want scientific proof of one thing or another. Not all medications and/or therapies work for all people. If that were not so, then no one would suffer. John

It's been 10 weeks on the incline now and we are beginning to see more changes.I am experiencing greater sensitivity in my biceps. I previously had slight sensation in my left bicep and none in my right bicep. After a few tests, I was able to feel the cold of an ice cube for the first time since the accident in 1977 (although, I was unable to detect heat). Also, tested with dull and sharp objects and was able to distinguish between the two. I am sleeping much better and longer at night. Blood pressures are remaining much more stable. Pain levels have increased but with pain medication, they are tolerable.
 John
       

Posts: 9    Well it's been 3 months since starting this study and we are very encouraged. We are seeing even more changes. I can now feel from my shoulders to my biceps. Although, it is not a full, normal sensation. The surface sensitivity is about 75% now. My sensitivity has moved from 3 inches above the nipple line to just below the nipples. There is a small area in the middle of my back that I can feel pressure when pressed upon.We have also noticed an increase in body hair. My pain level has remained the same. Most days I can get away with taking minimal pain medication. John

Date of injury May 22, 1977 Level of injury C3-C4
http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?p=89748#post89748
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 04/11/2007 10:27:12
It was a huge day today and I was wiped out when I got home.

At 11:00 am blood pressure was 163/108 pulse 60. At 4:00 I was a t a family gathering so I did not check it..When I got home I waited til 8:30 and then it was 161/103 pulse 54.

11;00pm it was 169/115 pulse 61. I am about to take it again as I am heading to bed it is 2:22 AM  pressure is: 144/100 pulse 60.. It was a big day and I am having a doozie of a time trying to relax enough to sleep. I have been drinking plenty of fluids and still having lots of unproductive trips to the loo! We will see what the morrow brings!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 05/11/2007 14:24:05
Good morning.. I slept rotten just antsy all night but I did sleep, ..Then I realized part of the reason was I forgot my cpap mask! LOL No wonder.. Tonight will be better.
Also I was up and down 5 times to use the loo. My urination has increased again and I am going often. It is still strong but last night the color was better and closer to normal color Just like a strong yellow no red or darker brown.. but still darker and kinda cloudy looking.I go in to get more meds today and will speak to Dr. about the whole test and the kidneys again.

My blood pressure is great this morning ...120/64 pulse 61. I feel pretty good. I had bob wrap my legs last night. he got my right leg wrapped too tight and I had to take the bandage off. Otherwise my swelling is down a tiny bit but still swollen!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 05/11/2007 17:24:01
Thanks for the update. Glad your water works are recovering again. 5 times to the loo with a full bladder? If so this indicates that you are drawing fluids from your swollen limbs and if this is the case, as I suspect it may be, then you should be able to use the measurements you took to determine this. IBT brings about a detox effect, drawing out excess salts for the tissue fluids and from the blood by improving renal function. I suspect that bathroom visits are going to become more frequent until your edema has cleared up.

Great news that you forgot the cpap, Ill bet you would have remembered it laying flat.

The change in urine output was somewhat disconcerting, and it indicated some sort of blockage or constriction.

Hope you recorded your weight also as this can be a great tool to see how much fluid you are losing over the next month.

Andrew




Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 05/11/2007 17:48:04
Thanks for the update. Glad your water works are recovering again. 5 times to the loo with a full bladder? If so this indicates that you are drawing fluids from your swollen limbs and if this is the case, as I suspect it may be, then you should be able to use the measurements you took to determine this. IBT brings about a detox effect, drawing out excess salts for the tissue fluids and from the blood by improving renal function. I suspect that bathroom visits are going to become more frequent until your edema has cleared up.

Great news that you forgot the cpap, Ill bet you would have remembered it laying flat.

The change in urine output was somewhat disconcerting, and it indicated some sort of blockage or constriction.

Hope you recorded your weight also as this can be a great tool to see how much fluid you are losing over the next month.

Andrew






5 times to the loo and I would say twice there was good elimination and three times felt like woooo hooo I have to go bad but then just a few dribbles..But over all much better then before.
I have forgot my cpap many times as It is pretty new and I am not used to it. But it certainly would have helped me to have slept some longer if I had remembered as well as slept more comfortably.

As far as my weight goes I had gained 22 lbs back over the last few weeks. I had two monthly cycles in October so twice faced swelling and bloating from my monthly. I have lost 8 lbs of that 22 lbs again. I am not dieting just still trying to be careful and drinking more fluids!.. I have not written my weight down as I check it daily and wish to continue so as I do not wish to let it get away from me...

I will post more later..


OK AT 11:00 AM  bLOOD PRESSURE IS 133/80 PULSE 58.

OK THEY ARE DOING THE CT SCAN ANYWAY BUT ALSO ADDING SOMETHING CALLED MUCOMYST IN LIQUID DOSES . 4 DOSES

ONE AT 10:OOPM TONIGHT AN ONE DOSE AT 6:00 AM AND AFTER THE PROCEDURE Tomorrow AT 2:00PM AND AGAIN AT 10PM TOMORROW NIGHT. They said it will protect the kidneys and will be perfectly safe. So he wants to do The test anyway! I am a bit nervous.. But will do what I am asked..

check in 8:30 prep for test pre register for shortstay then ct scan at 1:00 pm..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 07/11/2007 20:15:28
New pictures Less swelling space between my toes! YAYYYYYYYYYYY! !rst piccy's Nov. 2nd ! These are 5 days later on Nov. 7th 2007.
(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FNovember7th2007001.jpg&hash=0e3d3715164151f6cb33aa608ce5655c)
(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FNovember7th19.jpg&hash=f7b586f7c8e25ecfa27cee2a4ea5dba5)
(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FNovember7th2.jpg&hash=5f85451830d119bee3a570ca8164347d)
There is still swelling in my left leg but it has gone way down. not near as stiff!

Even the color is getting better. The left foot is way less uncomforable..

Check back later!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 12/11/2007 07:51:24
 Is there a way to build up blood veins for Iv's and blood draws?

The reason I ask is that I have been in and out of the hospital for the last two weeks on and off Iv's getting blood draws and having fluids and things put in and fluids and things taken..LOL Basically an oil change.. Heres my question as I have progressed and the blood draws have increased along with multiple iv's I and the hospital staff have decided that my veins are deciding to hide whenever a nurse or phlebotomist comes near! LOL.. It is becoming increasingly hard and extremely more painful to draw blood or even find the vein with each visit.

Now years ago my mom was dying of cancer and this happened to her, they said her veins were collapsing.. I think I recall an oncology nurse telling her to start squeezing a tennis ball or Cush ball several sessions a day to build muscle and pump  up veins to make them more accessible. Is this true will it help to avoid this kind of thing. I have severe ones on the inside of my thigh upper arms near elbow joints etc etc. I am bruising like crazy...These are very mild compared with some other ones I have had lately..


Here are the piccy's.. any suggestions would be most welcome right now as my hands are really sore when I rub them against things.. feels as if the iv is still in there but more sore now then the actual event!

(https://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi17.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb73%2Fkarenw44%2FbruisingfromblooddrawsandIvs001.jpg&hash=864a1905cfa39bc2f2001f441deeded9)







Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 12/11/2007 13:56:12
Thanks for adding this post here. IBT causes varicose veins to get smaller markedly over a 4 week period, because it increases the negative tension in the veins and pulls them in, first observed with varicose veins in my wife, mother and father and 2 nurses in Torbay. I did predict this would happen if you recall. Any photographs of your veins from over 2 weeks ago prior to tilting your bed?

veins showing signs of reduced pressure is not necesarily a negative result and may be a really good sign that fluid is now flowing from the surrounding tissue into the venous return instead of flowing out as before because the pressure inside the veins was too high.

Another explanation is observed when people have too many injections in a vein, this can indeed cause the veins to be reduced in size, put the two together and we have an answer.

One suggestion is to ask if these constant blood samples are in any way going to improve your level of care. Ask if any medication they are giving you is going to cause additional damage to your kidneys. Check out know side effects for all your medication and see if there are any adverse interactions with other drugs you are taking.

Karen, take control of your own health, please ask questions before adding more and more medication, try asking if it is possible to go in the other direction and reduce some of your mediaction. Begin by asking yourself if you feel your edema is getting worse or better since you tilted the bed. Has your weight changed over the last week? How is your urine colour now?

Andrew
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 12/11/2007 18:04:44
I question every drug they give me.. Last week was no exception and it was either take it or get worse I took it!.. I was to the point the swelling was down in the mornings and back in evening worse..I was having trouble walking!

The right leg is way down today I felt terrific yesterday so far today also. My left leg and foot are still way swollen cannot wear my shoes or slippers.. I have two pair of accommodating socks that are trying to keep me feet warm.. LOL

My Neighbor died whilst I was in the hospital a few days ago so funeral is today. I need to be there I have known him and his wife and son since sons birth and known his DAD since I was 7 years old.. Knew his mom since they met when he was a older 28 or 29 year old.. they met late in his life.. but have never parted..

Anyway I am trying to rest more even though I hate being in bed but that was the order passed down.. Bed rest.. I was on too long yesterday.. and will do better today....

Thanks Andrew! I will and have been very proactive in trying to research all of my problems.. and meds!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 13/11/2007 08:42:11
Peter Lewis a vascular surgeon formerly from Torbay Hospital confirmed the efficacy of IBT theory when he encountered a women with acute oedema that did not respond to normal bed rest, raising her legs, or a barrage of drugs, in fact she was worsening. She eventually avoided a flat bed in favour of an inclined posture and her oedema resolved over a few weeks. Peter now believes this theory is correct and is not alone among the medical profession who are beginning to realise that the current literature might be in need of an overhaul.

It is very interesting, "or should be very interesting" to people working in the health industry that your swelling in your legs and feet and hands now goes down over night. Especially since your bed is now on an incline with the head end of the bed higher than the feet. Oedema is currently thought to be because the legs are lower than the heart, this is clearly not the case here. Bring this to the attention of your doctor Karen.

Rather than having more bedrest it would be better to analyse how you are sitting during the day. Sitting posture reduces venous return and therefore increases pressure in the veins due to restrictions cause through compression on the skin. Sitting with the upper part of the body elevated, while in bed as in the hospitals, compresses the spine causing backache and other complications over time. It also compresses the muscle and fatty tissue in the buttocks, which restricts the vessels and increases blood pressure. This prolonged sitting posture is not natural to physiology, and I believe is responsible for many pressure sores in hospitals, whereas the inclined posture distributes the weight differently, noticeable by the bed feeling somewhat softer. It was argued a while back that sheer forces on the skin caused by the incline might cause bed sores. However this has not been proven. In fact bed sores have healed on the inclined bed whereas they break down on a flat bed. Granted, if a more acute angle than 6 degrees is used them there might be significant sheer forces involved. Which is why the 5 – 6 degree angle has been adopted.

Andrew
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 13/11/2007 09:02:11
Thanks for this new information. I am happy to try new things in search of a more effective way to combat this swelling. Thank you Andrew!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: kdlynn on 15/11/2007 00:13:03
karen my cousin has cystic fibrosis and after her third hospital visit in a month they had to put in a permanent port iv thing. they could no longer use her arms because the veins were weakened to a dangerous point. so... i don't think they would have put that in an eighteen year old if there was a way to just strengthen the veins. but i could be wrong
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 15/11/2007 06:01:31
Thanks Kadie.. I know when mom did her kemo they had her squeeze a ball in each hand.. in hopes that it would help but I can't remember if it did I wa in auto pilotback then.. It wa a really bad time... I was in crisis she was in crisis and I don't remember things like I should have..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 15/11/2007 06:12:44
OK something that is happening the last few days and wonder if it could be kidney relate.. I generally have clear skin... you all have seen my face.. the this last week I have broken out with a couple big spots on my face area...not pretty bigger then your average pimple..LOL I am cleansing them thoroughly but have noticed they seem to have more fluid like substance under them..I scratched one the other day and I lightly squeezed it out and it seems better. You know like if you get a small shard of glass in your foot it gets fluid around it then hurts. It was large and taught so when I squeezed it came out as a whitish looking core.. now it is healing but.. very weird as I am usually pretty clear.. an occasional zit, but not often. It was itching but it felt like it had festered and was sore with a large core.. feels better tonight!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 15/11/2007 07:32:55
Todays Blood pressure:
November 14, 2007

135/80 70 pulse  6:00 AM

136/81 PULSE 72   7:00 AM 

141/88 PULSE 72  11:00 AM

136/84 PULSE 73   4:00 PM

135/83 PULSE 76    8:30 PM

132/83 PULSE 76   11:OO PM
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 16/11/2007 18:40:52
Karen the change in your blood pressure is quite remarkable and appears to be stabilising now.

How is the oedema shaping up? Urine colour? Output volume? Comments from doctors or nurses?

Could we have some more measurements on your swollen limbs for comparison?

Andrew
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 22/11/2007 04:33:00
Blood pressure has been up for a couple days again.. Doctor has added lasix to my meds because of the pooling but my feet have not gone down yet although my sleep has been off.  I have had more non sleep nights then sleep.
I am having trouble with my gums bleeding like crazy during brushing and a I have never had that problem before. This is not little it is pretty heavy..We think it may be the aspirin therapy thining the blood! I was at the doctor Friday and back in today.. She will be on call for the weekend and  says they are completely baffled with my illness!!  I know she is trying hard.. Because I see the worry on her own face and not just on mine.. I think she is really tired and worn out! Me too!

Any way.. One blood pressure today was out the roof the other was very good, 116 over something! Very good. Any way I have developed a lump but after being checked today we were pretty certain it is a swollen gland. I might actually be getting sick! Like a cold .... LOL... She just wants to watch it! It developed right upside my thyroid to my right! No worries..YAyyyyyy! Kidney tests last week look good meds worked and they seem to be doing their job again.. she things it was a infection.. but we are also going to continue to monitor that!

My legs have become kinda redish from the knees down and the swelling causes deep denting and pitting with simply crossing my ankles for three minutes. It took an hour to take the dip out of my leg after that! I am also bruising really easily which is worring me.. I am thinking about a problem in the pancreas..  but I could be wrong.. might just be the aspirin again!
Have to go.. Goodnight all!.

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 22/11/2007 08:55:31
Hi Karen

Thanks for the update.

When you first tilted your bed, your legs were swollen and the skin was shiny and taught, indicating that the fluid pressure inside the skin was much higher than that of normal skin. This was exactly the same as dad’s skin on his legs. After his bed was inclined, the pressure of the fluids inside the skin was dramatically reduced and the skin could be pushed in to form a dent with light pressure indicating that the problem that was causing the oedema had been addressed. Following this his legs returned to normal size over a few weeks.

After oedema there is often some tissue damage and this can show as bruising or indeed the skin can become more easily bruised.

Normal, (undamaged with good circulation) skin can easily be depressed with light pressure and springs back to normal colour and shape, whereas oedema damaged skin does not readily return to normal shape and colour. If you have ever sprained or broken a limb then you have probably experienced this before like many other people have done from time to time. I can relate exactly to what you are describing having sprained an ankle or wrist on numerous occasions.

The dimpled skin also is indicative of reduced pressure.

Crossing your ankles for 3 minutes? You should never do this as it is dangerous and known to compromise the circulation especially when resting with the legs elevated. We all do it from time to time but getting out of the habit will definitely help you. Something as simple as crossing your legs or sitting for longer periods can dramatically elevate your blood pressure. I suspect that you did sit for too long prior to obtaining the higher blood pressure reading?

Again the reddening skin might also be indicative of improvements rather than deterioration.

If your oedema is worsening or resolving it can easily be determined by before and after weight checks. You should see a difference between the two weight measurements and if you could supply the difference in weights I.E. + or – pounds and ounces or kilos and grams we can determine which way the oedema is going.

Great news on the kidney function BTW.

Makes a nice change having someone testing IBT with an inquisitive scientific approach.



Andrew
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 02/12/2007 16:53:21
Just got this message on youtube about IBT which again shows how effective this simple therapy is.

oldsharkie (13 hours ago) )
My wife and I have been sleeping on an inclined bed (8 inches)about 22 months. During this time my blood pressure has dropped from 160/90 to 130/65 (Ave) with the same dose of 50 mg Atenolol. I no longer snore nor have sleep apnea attacks. After many years of taking Flonase for sinusitis I discontinued the medication 6 months ago with little or no sinus problems now. Night time urination has decreased from half dozen times to once a night. I am 82.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 14/04/2008 05:44:01

ok..all a new prblem added to this mess, which may account for more then one of my problems. my Doctor infoms me that Chronic fatigue syndrome is responsible for some of tgis or + may have it backwards that it may stem from all the illness. I know very little about this so will add a new thread to find out more.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 15/04/2008 09:26:20
Hi Karen, just a note to ask whether your bed is still tilted. Whether tilted or not could you give us an update on your blood pressure, edema, And if you put the bed flat again the same stats could prove very interesting?

Kind regards

Andrew
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Bizzy on 16/04/2008 13:33:30
Hi Karen

Ive just read through your entire blog. Have you ever considered the possibility that your heart inflammation might not be due to an infection but rather an autoimmune response ?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/04/2008 04:42:40
I am not a doctor.. so i am not in the guessing market.. as that just makes me a nervous wreck.. but this CFS autoimmune  is interesting.... I dont know what it is quite yet... read some but will talk to the doctor.....on the 22nd and have somemore blood
tests in the morning tomorrow as something is wrong so she wants tests first thing in the morning....have been awful for a couple days... my pills are not digesting and my pain level is out of control....and my blood pressure is going bup and down... will update later!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Bizzy on 17/04/2008 15:29:03
Let me put it another way. Have your doctors ever talked about autoimmune disease as being the cause of your heart problems ?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 17/04/2008 22:46:32
Let me put it another way. Have your doctors ever talked about autoimmune disease as being the cause of your heart problems ?

 no she has not.. neither has the cardioogist. She has just said at the last appointment that it was playing a part in me being so sick!  but not the reason fo the heart problem.. but probably not helping it. I have another oppointment next week... we will talk then about it.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Bizzy on 18/04/2008 01:46:47
I think your heart inflammation problems might have been caused by an autoimmune attack rather than infection. It is easy for people and doctors to think infection. Infection tends to be the cause for many illnesses.
Also if doctors think infection then they have an easy tool they can employ, antibiotics. This provides satisfaction to both the doctor and the patient that something is being done. If they think autoimmunity then things start to get very tricky. Autoimmunity is very difficult to test for and address.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 23/04/2008 19:42:21
new iodined cat scan done last week or the week before in the emergecy room says that I am in heart failure.   My liver is not able to proceess things kidneys are.still not stable.she put me back on the potassium....because I am low...

what does end stage mean? Is it what I think?
They said they were wrong the first year.. then I thought... well maybe thats good and there might be something else more treatable and now more tests prove they were right the first time...but now it has progressed a lot farther...
so ....even if I qualify for the transplant.. they only do a few a year because.. heart donors are hard to come by...of course ....I have to go.....will post again soon when my head is clear.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: neilep on 23/04/2008 22:38:10
If they got it wrong for a whole year then they owe you big time to fix you NOW !

Please ring them, call them, write them, harass them till you get some appropriate responses as to what they are going to do next !.....this they owe you if they have messed up !!

I think it's safe to say that we are all thinking of you...............
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Carolyn on 23/04/2008 23:35:26
Karen - I'm at a loss for what to say.  This is maddening!  I cannot imagine what you're going through.

I'm with Neil.  Do whatever you have to do.....be a thorn in their side, a pain in their rearends...whatever it takes for them to take action to effectively help you!

You are in my prayers and my thoughts. 
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: that mad man on 24/04/2008 00:14:04
I can only echo the sentiments above and I hope you rest well.

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 25/04/2008 03:14:19
Thank you all... I appreciate all your support. I am making every effort to make sure they check and recheck everything.. I am not sure what I am supposed to to next.. She did not say a whole lot more.. but then again, I don't think I could handle any more anyway.. They did some more tests today and blood work again and she wants to do more tests before she settles .. she said she doesn't like all of the different verdicts coming in from Cardiologist and discrepancies at hospital so she is going for more testing as well she says she is sending my cardiologist guy  a courtesy letter to do something or we go to the city probably Stanford for more opinions.
In the mean time.. we are decreasing water to 2 quarts or under to stop the fluid overload .. I already do the under two grams salt thing... They have had me drinking tons of liquids to flush kidneys when they should have decreased it according to the hospital.. but she said my liver and kidneys are not ridding themselves properly of toxins such as the ibuprofen which had built up in the liver..so they switched pain meds.. to a norco, cut my meds back to 12..

DOXYCYCLINE 100MG( ANTIBIOTIC) 1 CAPSULE TWICE DAILY

1/2 TEASPOON OF YEAST DISSOLVED IN 1/4 CUP WATER OR JUICE.. TWICE DAILY

KLOR-CON 8 MEQ (POTASSIUM) TAKE TWO TABLETS DAILY

HYDROCODONE/APAP 5/500 1 OR 2 AT BEDTIME

HYDROCODONE/ APAP 10MG/325MG (MALLINKRODT) [GENERIC NORCO] TAKE 1 PILL EVERY SIX HOURS AS NEEDED FOR PAIN

ASPIRIN 81MG 1 DAILY

METOPROLOL 100MG ER 1 DAILY

LISINOPRIL 10MG

TRIAMETERINE/HCTZ 37.5/25 CAPS 1 DAILY

FUROSEMIDE 40MG TAB ONE A DAY

LEVOXYL TAB 150MCG RXPAK 10# ONE DAILY

CITALOPRAM 2OMG  ONE DAILY

OMEGA-3 ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS ( FISH OIL 1000MG)4 DAILY

THAT IS DOWN FROM BEFORE I HAVE DISCONTINUED SEVERAL MEDICINES OVER THE LAST MONTH.... REVISITING  MORE OR LESS SHE DOESN'T KNOW YET..
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: another_someone on 25/04/2008 03:19:00
Thank you for the update - at least we still know there is hope (both that you have not given up, and that your doctors have not given up - so hope remains).  As long as you keep posting, we will know you are still fighting.

Have they thought of dialysis to help the kidneys for the time being?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 25/04/2008 03:45:47
Thanks George... I am not sure what I am doing right now.. but posting sounds good. I went to the bird santuary today after the hospital and sat there a while.. and watched all the people walking their dogs and themselves.. the sun finally came out and it was warm with a breeze... Rob took the dog for a big walk and gave me some space.. I laid way back in the seat and just played on my phone,I cracked the window to feel the breeze... and the warm sun on my skin... it felt nice.. I have been so bloody cold lately.... I must say... I am awful worried about Nathan.. but more worried about weather I will get to see him again.. He won't be home till September.. Thats along time away.. the way I have been feeling...  You know George, she can't even tell me how long?? You would think for as long as it has been around she could guess.. Early stage  they said  sometimes about 6 years if the patient does well with treatments .. she said everyone is different and it depends on where you are and what kind of damage is already done.. There are many variables.. so she would not be able to say... It seems I have a second aneurysm located now on the descending side which since december has grown from 2.0 to 3.6 in 4 months.. the ascending one is still about the same, 4.5.. so I don't know.. they have noted more chages in the electro cardiogram as well.. more left ventricle trouble.. meaning it has gotten worse and now there is a problem with some kind of right ventricle problems as well..

 a few tests were abnormally high.. she said something about lesions.. but I don't remember where as I was too dumbfounded..

Will see next time.. going to see a second surgeon about the left arm on the 1rst.. Second opinion.. then if its the same a new Neurologist to work with my insurance!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 25/04/2008 03:49:51
No dialysis as of yet.. she has been managing it with meds and wholisticly first is that the proper term... trying different things.. to try to keep it in range

It has not quit yet and she is hope ful that we can manage it.. or at least that is the impression she gave me.. so I am hoping the same...
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Bizzy on 26/04/2008 00:56:41
I think you are taking an awful lot of medicines and wonder how you can be sure that they are all having a positive effect. Citalopram raises blood serotonin levels which can be dangerous for your heart valves. Omega 3 supplementation is suppose to be good for the heart but I was getting heart symptoms on very large doses. So I think high dose omega 3 might be a double edge sword and might not be good for pre-existing heart conditions.
I recommend that you try and trim off even more drugs and stay on only the most essential, working with your doctor.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 26/04/2008 02:30:07
Those are the most essential! There were many more before.. we have weeded many down due to reactions and side effects etc.... let me tell ya.. the results of not taking them are really unpleasant to say the least.. it only takes me a few days of missed meds to land my butt back in the hospital again in worse condition.. I am working with several Doctors..... Looks like one will either be revisited or another opinion will be had in southern California!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 30/05/2008 08:42:22
Ok.. I need some advice from any of you Doctor friends..? My cough is really bad which is normal for my condition.. My doctor has said taking my meds is the best way to keep fluid away out of my lungs.. we are trying very short walks and tons of rest.. But regaurdless of the diuretics ace inhibitors beta blockers etc.. My lungs seem to be saturated with fluid. I am sleeping rather sitting up in a chair to breath better at night. I know this is normal for my condition.. my question is .. are their other methods to help relieve this cough and ease it so I can sleep?  The doctors have only sat me up to rest, I am not to lie flat.. But at this point even sitting up I still feel like I am drowning, coughing up and gurgling out frothy clearish white fluid all night long and during most of the day! Is there another position or option to help this.. It is scaring me and also my children..Not to mention the Dog.. who feels a need to be right up in my face every time I cough whining and licking me upside of my head!!!

Any suggestions would be greatly tried and appreciated...Thank you...

OH yeah am Having horrific heartburn but cannot take an antacid with my pills.. any suggestions there?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Andrew K Fletcher on 31/05/2008 09:36:26
Karen, Purchase a dehumidifier and leave it running at night while you are on the inclined bed. The dry air in your room will remove all of the fluid from the lungs providing you close all of the windows and vents.

Andrew

Ok.. I need some advice from any of you Doctor friends..? My cough is really bad which is normal for my condition.. My doctor has said taking my meds is the best way to keep fluid away out of my lungs.. we are trying very short walks and tons of rest.. But regaurdless of the diuretics ace inhibitors beta blockers etc.. My lungs seem to be saturated with fluid. I am sleeping rather sitting up in a chair to breath better at night. I know this is normal for my condition.. my question is .. are their other methods to help relieve this cough and ease it so I can sleep?  The doctors have only sat me up to rest, I am not to lie flat.. But at this point even sitting up I still feel like I am drowning, coughing up and gurgling out frothy clearish white fluid all night long and during most of the day! Is there another position or option to help this.. It is scaring me and also my children..Not to mention the Dog.. who feels a need to be right up in my face every time I cough whining and licking me upside of my head!!!

Any suggestions would be greatly tried and appreciated...Thank you...

OH yeah am Having horrific heartburn but cannot take an antacid with my pills.. any suggestions there?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 31/05/2008 17:10:38
Thanks Andrew! I will try that! I am getting no benifit from my apnea machine because I cannot use it cause I cannot breath normally with all the fluid... The machine seems to make it worse to boot.. the fluid that is. It has a humidifier that blows straight into my nostrils...
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 25/06/2008 19:53:29
OK I have just talked with Stanford University where I am going for the quadrillionth second opinion etc.. She says their will be a Doctor for the heart aneurysms, and also doctors who specialize in congenital heart problems as well as heart failure and aorta regurgitation etc.. etc...I will know more in an hour.. she had to round up all the doctors to make the appointments with.. She said they will work as a team also if The surgeries can be risked.... Likely they will repair all at once if possible to repair any!
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/07/2008 04:22:36
Iko and all.. I finally have a date with Stanford.. everything was set today. I will leave on the morning of the 6th and of august and stay in a motel.. my appointment is for 1:00Pm on the 7th of august! The woman who called coerdinates everything and was very up beat and had a real good attitude made me feel much better about what is happening. She sounded so nice and hopeful and said I will be in the best hands in good care. She said that by the time They were done with me that I was going to know more about my body and the things that are happening then I ever thought was possible. She was very optimistic and said they are highly skilled specialized doctors in Marfan Syndrome and aneurysms .. tells me it is genetic and we will get this all fixed and be better able to get to the bottom with a more conclusive diagnosis and some fixes for the problems..

I am very excited and nervous.. but glad to finally feel like maybe this is a step into the right direction! YAYYYYYYYYYY!

I watched a surgery performed to day to repair a problem like mine it took a long time.. but they say if they can fix this it will make my future outcome better.. of course no guarantees but very hopeful.. Thats what I need for sure...

Can any one tell me some more about this Marfan syndrome.. a connective tissue disorder that is genetic.. what are the odds that I have passed this on to my children without knowing it?

I guess they will also be fixing valves that are more then just a little leaky.. they are bad..

could you tell me about the mechanical valve verses reusing my own.. that is if it is not too far damaged..? I know I have read about it but my head was swiming still is.. what are the options again..?
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 02/07/2008 04:29:58
OH yeah I will be seeing Dr. Joshua M. Spin, M.D., Ph.D.. At Stanford Marfan Center in California.
Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 16/09/2008 06:45:05
Well Here is my latest labs from Stanford.. Still testing... what do you think?

 
   

Ref. Range
   

9/4/2008 5:23:00 PM

WBC
   

Latest Range: 4.0-11.0 K/uL
   

12.1 (H)

Hemoglobin
   

Latest Range: 11.7-15.7 g/dL
   

13.6

Hematocrit
   

Latest Range: 35.0-47.0 %
   

39.7

Platelet count
   

Latest Range: 150-400 K/uL
   

310

MCV
   

Latest Range: 82.0-98.0 fL
   

88.0

RDW
   

Latest Range: 11.5-14.5 %
   

15.3 (H)

RBC
   

Latest Range: 3.80-5.20 MIL/uL
   

4.52

MCH
   

Latest Range: 27.0-34.0 pg
   

30.0

MCHC
   

Latest Range: 32.0-36.0 g/dL
   

34.1

NEUT, %
   

No range found
   

76.8

LYM, %
   

No range found
   

16.2

MONO, %
   

No range found
   

4.3

EOS, %
   

No range found
   

2.3

BASO, %
   

No range found
   

0.4

NEUT, ABS
   

Latest Range: 1.7-6.70 K/uL
   

9.28 (H)

LYM, ABS
   

Latest Range: 1.00-3.00 K/uL
   

1.96

MONO, ABS
   

Latest Range: 0.3-0.95 K/uL
   

0.52

EOS, ABS
   

Latest Range: 0.05-0.55 K/uL
   

0.28

BASO, ABS
   

Latest Range: 0-0.25 K/uL
   

0.05

ESR, (manual)
   

Latest Range: 0-20 mm/hr
   

40 (H)

IgG Antibodies
   

Latest Range: 0-23 GPL
   

4

IgM Antibodies
   

Latest Range: 0-11 MPL
   

1

Fibrinogen
   

Latest Range: 206-426 mg/dL
   

550 (H)

Prothrombin Time
   

Latest Range: 11.6-14.2 sec
   

13.2

INR
   

Latest Range: 0.9-1.1 INR
   

1.0

Part. Thromboplastin Time
   

Latest Range: 24.4-35.5 sec
   

28.6

DRVV screen
   

Latest Range: 31-44 sec
   

39.9

DRVV Confirmation
   

Latest Range: 30-38 sec
   

N/A

LA Ratio
   

Latest Range: <1.25
   

N/A

DRVV Interpretation
   

No range found
   

SEE NOTE...

Interpretation
   

No range found
   

No PTT inhibitor demonstrated using lupus sensitive reagent.

Interpreted by
   

No range found
   

J. Zehnder, MD...

C-Reactive Protein
   

Latest Range: <0.9 mg/dL
   

3.2 (H)

Complement C3, Serum
   

Latest Range: 86-184 mg/dL
   

174

Autoantibodies to U1RNP
   

No range found
   

<0.2...

ANA Result
   

Latest Range: Negative
   

Negative

Ana Interpretation
   

No range found
   

Screening for ant...

Result
   

Latest Range: Negative
   

Negative

Interpretation
   

No range found
   

Screening for ant...

Scl 70 Ab, IgG, Serum
   

No range found
   

<0.2

SS-A/Ro Ab, IgG, Serum
   

No range found
   

<0.2

SS-B/La Ab, IgG, Serum
   

No range found
   

<0.2

Autoantibodies to SM
   

No range found
   

<0.2...

Autoantibodies to Jo 1
   

No range found
   

<0.2

Title: Tell me about Congestive heart failure/complications from stress and insomnia ?
Post by: Karen W. on 16/09/2008 07:33:10
Well, By the way, I do not have Marfan syndrome, I do not fit their guidelines..

These tests were from cardiology as well as immunology dept. They checked for lupus for the umteenth time and they checked for Leukemia etc... These tests were done again on the 4th of December.. Have a battery of tests left to do in November.. three months from these last tests.. Liver tests etc. Had more done last week also.

Because of the Aortic aneurysms, other heart problems, and my ill health as far as weight infection etc, etc,& undiagnosed whatever.. I am in a rather high risk area for having my aorta replaced safely and coming through the surgery OK. So They have proposed that I undergo a Gastric bypass that will be monitored closely by Heart surgeon to keep my Blood pressure stable within a certain range so that the aneurysm's will not rupture.. or become a problem... They are in hopes that getting the weight down fast will aid the blood pressure and hopefully my weight won't be against me when the aneurysms hit 5 and I need the aorta and new valves.. He said it will way increase my chances of survival as well as be beneficial for all the other problems that are happening...
In my current health I am very restricted to the amount of exercise I can safely do so no matter what I do, I am struggling to loose any more weight.. Having lost the 116 lbs previously then getting sick..This last year has found me very incapacitated and stuck mostly inside and without energy, strength, or ability to move around much..

I have been on Doxycycline now coming up on about 9 months treating Respiratory problems I will stop treatment this October and hopefully enjoy some time feeling better.. I do feel some better a bit more energy but still have to pace myself..

Hopefully this will help.

I am nervous but have agreed and now need to take some pre-operative weight off again.. to allow for my insurance to cover everything!

I have avoided this surgery three years ago to do it myself and started by using the Zeta cap as a tool which helped me a lot until I was able to better judge my portion size and it helped me not feel so hungry all the time.
Then for over a year I was able to hold my own and just keep my weight down without help.. It felt wonderful.. then I had my Mini Stroke which set me back, then I got really sick during that period and went down hill from there.. I have since gained back about half of my weight..... I am disgusted and angry about that!

I feel like I failed and I did. I do know that, when I am well, I can maintain my weight.. and lose it..and keep it off!  The problem being that I started too late three years ago and now I am riddled with health problems that are being exasperated by my excess weight! The problem now is that I am very sick and getting the weight off with only being able to do very little physical exercise. It is extremely frustrating and very hard.. I can't work or be around the children without getting sick and am unable physically to do the job anymore. So Now I have agreed that this is an emergency to see if I can get the weight off before the aneurysms need more attention or dissect.(Rupture)

So I am starting over with the hope that I will win this time and do better. I am scared but At least finding out some of the underlying problems and working on the ones I can work on will at least keep me busy and hopefully alive for a lot longer Then I have even dreamed of.. So As much as I HATE HATE HATE surgery especially this one I really don't have a choice anymore...I could take my chances and say no surgery and draw a straw before the surgery for the aorta... but at least if I take this choice at least its a choice.. do I want to take a chance a draw of the straw or do I want to really give myself a fighting chance!

I am going to take the choice and try the bypass.. Hell I always wanted to be thinner and pretty!  It will take a miracle but I think I am due one eh?

 I will put some posts in the Zeta thread soon but not for the Zeta you know it is for other weight loss methods! So I think its time for a new one eh?

I have been looking at the starvation diet that the Bariatric surgery will require and Yikes it looks really depressing for a while! LOL Not to mention
undernourished as far as being able to get the proper nutrition in that tiny newly partitioned stomach...vitamins vitamins vitamins.. and balance....

Will post soon with updates!