katieahuf
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Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 19, 2014 11:45:26 GMT -5
I got really weak on my way to the bathroom today, so they're going to keep me one more night and run tests on my vitamin levels to make sure my iron, D and B vitamins aren't causing the weakness of making it worse.
They're also going to check for c diff just to be on the safe side.
Have I mentioned how much I love my PowerGlide? They've drawn labs twice off of this baby and I am ooone happy girl!
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indianamom
Full Member
Posts: 210
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: January 17, 2014
Surgeon: Dr. Vivek Prachand (Univ. of Chicago)
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Post by indianamom on Jan 19, 2014 18:27:52 GMT -5
I'm sorry for what you are going thorough. I agree with Leonie, your momma sounds like a gem! I hope you feel better and better every day. You are one tough cookie... I don't even want to imagine an IV in my foot.
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ttfulmer
Full Member
Posts: 177
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: December 2013
Surgeon: Dr. K
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Post by ttfulmer on Jan 19, 2014 18:56:34 GMT -5
Katie, I am so sorry you are having a difficult. Hang in. You will get thru this.
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katieahuf
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Adventure is out there!
Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 20, 2014 0:21:38 GMT -5
Weeelllp. I have c diff. They came in and told me at midnight and I just took my first Flagyl. Me and my mom are kind of shocked, we really didn't think I had it. I just wanted to cover all of our bases with the labs and c diff testing. At least we know, eh? Crazy stuff.
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Post by brooklyngirl on Jan 20, 2014 7:15:07 GMT -5
What? ? Damn, that sucks! Ask your mom to get you some good probiotics for when you're done with the flagyl!
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Post by aflame on Jan 20, 2014 11:25:42 GMT -5
Hi Katie
I just caught up with your thread. I am sorry you've had such a hard time lately. *hugs* I am disheartened to hear of the C. Diff, but as you said, knowing you have it will help you get the treatment you need so you don't have to deal with it anymore. The diagnosis is a step in the right direction. Your mom sounds like a wonderful lady, and I am so glad you have her by your side.
I hope you will start feeling better very soon. I think another member had a C.Diff diagnosis recently. I hope they'll chime in, as well. Wishing you a much.,.much easier recovery:).
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katieahuf
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Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 20, 2014 11:33:09 GMT -5
One of the attending physicians just came in and said I'm going to be here for 2 more days minimum and that they're probably going to send me home with a PICC line and an IV/ home health nurse to keep me hydrated so I can expel this C Diff without further dehydrating myself.
Flagyl is a bitch. Nausea, nasty abdominal/back pain and tons of bathroom time is not what I had in mind for this week. I had planned to go to VA for a horse clinic this coming weekend. Hahaha, don't think that's going to happen!
My iron is also low, so they're thinking of taking care of that via IV because I can't take iron pills with my stomach the way it is.
I'm feeling pretty torn about this news. I feel relieved about staying here so that they can switch me to IV Flagyl if I can't handle the pills and they can monitor me and give me fluids. But I feel awful because my momma keeps missing work to be here with me, she's not sleeping well, her feet are swollen and hurting and I really don't want her to lose her job. She loves her job.
She doesn't feel comfortable leaving me, much less leaving me alone. I don't feel comfortable with her leaving either.. She's caught a handful of mistakes by the lazier ones on the nursing staff that were potentially harmful and that really freaks me out! She stands up for me and helps me. I'm nervous as hell about her leaving.
The only other person who could stay with me is my gramma and she's been on antibiotics recently, so I'm not comfortable with her being around me now. The last thing she needs to pick up is C Diff.
Uugh, so stressful! I can stay alone if I have to, I'm just anxious and scared.
We're kind of joined at the hip, my mom and me. I didn't anticipate this happening.
My life since having the DS is like Gilligan's Island; we were supposed to go home after surgery on day 4 or 5, stayed 9 days. We came for a doctor's appointment on Friday, we're stuck in the hospital 'till Wednesday.
A three hour tour, a three hour tooouurr...
I've still got my sense of humor, there are some really excellent nurses here and in the grand scheme of things, it's not THAT bad. It'll all work out.
-deep breath.- Begin mantra!
"I made the right decision for me. It's not that bad, booboo." "I made the right decision for me. It's not that bad, booboo."
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Post by Leonie on Jan 20, 2014 22:54:41 GMT -5
One of the attending physicians just came in and said I'm going to be here for 2 more days minimum and that they're probably going to send me home with a PICC line and an IV/ home health nurse to keep me hydrated so I can expel this C Diff. I'm feeling pretty torn about this news. I feel relieved about staying here so that they can switch me to IV Flagyl if I can't handle the pills and they can monitor me and give me fluids. But I feel awful because my momma keeps missing work to be here with me, she's not sleeping well, her feet are swollen and hurting and I really don't want her to lose her job. She loves her job. She doesn't feel comfortable leaving me, much less leaving me alone. I don't feel comfortable with her leaving either.. She's caught a handful of mistakes by the lazier ones on the nursing staff that were potentially harmful and that really freaks me out! She stands up for me and helps me. I'm nervous as hell about her leaving. The only other person who could stay with me is my gramma and she's been on antibiotics recently, so I'm not comfortable with her being around me now. The last thing she needs to pick up is C Diff. Uugh, so stressful! I can stay alone if I have to, I'm just anxious and scared. We're kind of joined at the hip, my mom and me. I didn't anticipate this happening. My life since having the DS is like Gilligan's Island; we were supposed to go home after surgery on day 4 or 5, stayed 9 days. We came for a doctor's appointment on Friday, we're stuck in the hospital 'till Wednesday. A three hour tour, a three hour tooouurr... I've still got my sense of humor, there are some really excellent nurses here and in the grand scheme of things, it's not THAT bad. It'll all work out. -deep breath.- Begin mantra! "I made the right decision for me. It's not that bad, booboo." "I made the right decision for me. It's not that bad, booboo." Big hugs! Soon you will be feeling well enough to send your Mom home. As you get stronger, you will also be able to advocate for yourself. Anyway, your Mom is amazing. "Hi Mom!" Flagyl is the best and the worst. Every time I have antibiotics I take extra probiotics. Yet I invariably get bacterial overgrowth. So I get Flagyl for that. THEN i get thrush and/ or a UTI. Vicious circle. So now I have those super strong probiotics. They really seem to work. But then, I have been in excellent health for a very long time now. The convoluted point is that you are now trapped in a vicious circle, but it WILL get better. Very soon you will be living all the rewards.
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katieahuf
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Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 21, 2014 6:55:47 GMT -5
Leonie,
My mom says hi and thank you for your kind words!
It's pretty ironic that you mentioned the 'vicious cycle' because my UTI has returned and they've added Cipro to my routine.
We have also added Carafate and are doing Flagyl via IV because it felt like I had swallowed a bleach tablet when I tried to take that pill. My stomach took about ten steps backwards and feels like it did five days after surgery: raw and sore and nauseated. So, I'm back to a diet of saltines and ice. Last night's attending told me I'd have to take the pills and I told her to shove it. Not really, but I wanted to. There is no way in hell I'm trying that again. That was way worse than my gallbladder pain.
I had my iron infusion yesterday, so that's some good news.
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Post by bagaof4 on Jan 21, 2014 8:57:34 GMT -5
Oh, Katie! I am so sorry to hear of you recent troubles! You are so fortunate to have your mom at your side to advocate for you, and hopefully you will soon be able to send her back to work. Sending you (((healing energy))) and best wishes to break out of the vicious cycle! Thanks for updating.
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Post by aflame on Jan 21, 2014 9:16:59 GMT -5
Hi Katie *hugs* I wish I were more experienced so I could comment on the health specifics. But, I will say that you are in my prayers. You would be understandably torn about the C. diff diagnosis. It's no walk in the park. I also understand your concerns about your mom. I hope she will not have any issues at her job because she's here with you. Some of the things we worry about, even if the worries are rational, never do come to pass. I am glad she is by your side, and you have every right to vent about your fears and frustrations with the process. And as Leonie said, as you get stronger, you will become more comfortable advocating for yourself. We are here to support and encourage you, and the more we know about how you really are feeling, the better we can help, even if from a distance. I know it's so hard to be vulnerable. Talking about our fears and problems makes us very raw, at times. I appreciate you sharing, even more because of this. You are a strong woman, and you have a great attitude. What you are dealing with is a real pain in the ass, I can tell. Unpredictability sucks. Once you're recovered, you'll realize even more, like others before us, that it was worth it. So, keep meditating on that mantra you shared whenever you need to. Again, wishing you a much easier recovery! Keep us posted.
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katieahuf
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Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 21, 2014 15:58:39 GMT -5
Just finished my second iron infusion and I'm feeling quite a bit stronger, energetic and more like my 'old' self. My stomach has also improved and I was able to eat a little bit off of my trays today without too much nausea.
I saw Dr. Sudan today and he added in a liquid oral antibiotic (vancomycin [sp]) to help the IV flagyl do it's job and it will be the one I take at home.
My nurse made an oopsie last night by giving me that Cipro, it wasn't documented at all and nobody was able to explain where it actually came from... There is another isolated patient next door and my mom was worried that she might have mixed us up because she didn't scan my bracelet when she gave it to me. Which they usually do here... Who knows. She was correct about my UTI being back, though. But the doctor said we caught it early enough that a separate antibiotic isn't needed for it, the vanco should take care of it just fine.
The only issues today have been a brief bought of nausea which zofran and carafate took care of and some back and bladder area pain, which tylenol is taking care of, so I consider this a great day!
Final bits of good news, momma isn't in any trouble with her work, they were fantastic about it and told her not to even worry, to do what she had to do. It's a great company, seriously good people. And I'm probably going home tomorrow!
Yaaaaay!
Thank you so much for your prayers, good energy, advice and kind words. You guys rock!
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Post by deedee484 on Jan 21, 2014 16:13:17 GMT -5
Awww YAY!! Hope you do get to go home!! Your healing will go better and faster after you return home! Sounds like your Dr has a good handle on things and hopefully you will improve really soon!! Also glad your mama's work is so understanding. That's an additional worry you don't need right now! Well just wanted to send you {{{HUGS}}} and tell ya I'm rooting for ya girl!!!
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indianamom
Full Member
Posts: 210
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: January 17, 2014
Surgeon: Dr. Vivek Prachand (Univ. of Chicago)
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Post by indianamom on Jan 21, 2014 18:06:26 GMT -5
Glad to hear things are in the upswing for you! I'm also happy to hear about you momma's work. Being a mom myself, your mom is so much more concerned about you than anything else. However, it's nice that she does not have to deal with work problems too. Keep up your good progress!
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Post by Taterweight on Jan 21, 2014 18:52:54 GMT -5
Katie, SO happy to see you in good spirits - especially with that whole rogue nurse thing - WTH was that!? I love that you're posting all the time, you are in my prayers! Hope the iron and the antibiotics kick that stuff to the curb for ya!
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TLady
Junior Member
Posts: 89
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: Original DS: 1/07/09 // Revised to Hess Method DS: 1/29/14
Surgeon: Dr. Steven Simper & Dr. Ara Keshishian
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Post by TLady on Jan 22, 2014 0:28:43 GMT -5
Hey Katie, I live in Southeast Alaska, on the coast. Come on up for some salmon fishing! I'd even talk you into halibut fishing, crabbing (dungies are the best in my opinion) and pulling up shrimp pots! You got this girl, and I love that you are keeping your eye on the prize!!
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katieahuf
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Adventure is out there!
Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 22, 2014 9:21:02 GMT -5
I was told by one doctor that I should be going home this afternoon on the Vanc and that would knock out my UTI and my C Diff and that my labs were 'almost normal' and everything was hunky dory
And theeen, one of the doctors I really like came in and said that he didn't feel right about sending me home on just the Vanco when I've had bactrim and leviquin (sp) and yet my UTI has made a re-appearance.
So, I'm getting a visit from the infectious disease doctors today. Feeling a little freaked out, but they are the experts when it comes to antibiotic resistant bacteria, which the doctor I really like is worried about.
I want to go home, but I want to knock this mess out, and I know the longer I stay in the hospital, the greater the risk for more infections.
I just don't know, but I feel pretty good today. So there's a plus!
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katieahuf
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Adventure is out there!
Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 22, 2014 9:24:13 GMT -5
Hey Katie, I live in Southeast Alaska, on the coast. Come on up for some salmon fishing! I'd even talk you into halibut fishing, crabbing (dungies are the best in my opinion) and pulling up shrimp pots! You got this girl, and I love that you are keeping your eye on the prize!! Ooooh, lady don't tease me! That sounds like an absolute blast. I'm going to have to take you up on that one day. Thanks for the encouragement!
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Post by Girlrocker on Jan 22, 2014 9:30:19 GMT -5
Oh Katie, {{{hugs}}} cyber and all kind. Cdiff sucks, I'm so sorry. I didn't have that, but had an infection from hell after my RNY in 2002. What an ordeal for you I'm relieved for the positives, like early detection, mom getting the ok from work. You are handling this like an absolute star, strength, vigilance, kick-a$$ attitude. We are here for you, every step of the way.
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katieahuf
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Adventure is out there!
Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 23, 2014 9:10:33 GMT -5
The doctors are all happy with me going home on an upped dose of vanco to take care of the UTI and C Diff, my tummy is happy with the vanco, and my mommy and I are happy to be going home today! They're taking my powerglide out as well, which is awesoome because my skin is cracking open around it and I can't bend my dominant arm. So yay! I think I might just be having ovarian cyst issues, because they said my UTI wasn't bad enough to be causing the lower abdominal pain/ back pain. Idk, hopefully it'll go away on it's own. My stomach is better today as well! My appetite is coming back and I have less nausea when I eat. Overall, more good news today!
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katieahuf
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Posts: 173
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 23, 2014 9:15:01 GMT -5
And guess what.
I missed my one month surgiversary on the 20th! I made it through one month of mostly crappy stuff, last time I weighed I was 338 lbs, down from 364 and I'm feeling better! Yay!
I'm going to celebrate with meat today.
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Post by Taterweight on Jan 23, 2014 15:36:01 GMT -5
Awwww so happy to hear you are on the mend and eating some MEAT! Yay meat! Enjoy your first day of freedom!
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Post by tina9999 on Jan 23, 2014 16:17:19 GMT -5
Glad to hear you're headed home.
Hey Tlady - a DSers retreat sounds good!
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Post by fullhousemom on Jan 23, 2014 16:19:20 GMT -5
Glad you are going home!
I don't want to dismiss the importance of your back pain/lower abdominal pain, but I have those pains whaen I have gas. It surprises me how much it effects my back, and not just my gut. Also, sleeping in a hospital bed doesn't help anyone's back. I hope the pain you are experiencing is nothing serious! I guess they'll do a vaginal ultrasound to check? If you've never had one before, try not to feel violated! It sucks to be a girl sometimes.
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katieahuf
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 23, 2014 16:35:59 GMT -5
Oooh, giirlll!
I had hibachi steak with zucchini, mushrooms and onions. And sweet carrots and fried rice. I looove the place I get it from. Not greasy tasting, super easy to digest. Especially with the ginger sauce! I had a perfect little portion and it was faaabulous!
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indianamom
Full Member
Posts: 210
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: January 17, 2014
Surgeon: Dr. Vivek Prachand (Univ. of Chicago)
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Post by indianamom on Jan 23, 2014 20:04:05 GMT -5
Congratulations! Way to go. Your dinner sounds yummmmmmeeeeee!
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Post by deedee484 on Jan 23, 2014 22:40:15 GMT -5
Sounds delish Katie! So glad you are home, feeling better..and eating!
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Post by aflame on Jan 24, 2014 11:26:05 GMT -5
Yay! Glad you're feeling better. And dayum, that sounds delicious! :333
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katieahuf
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Post by katieahuf on Jan 27, 2014 16:07:11 GMT -5
I'm doing pretty great! Antibiotics are working well, food is good and liquids are good. I still hate chicken, but I've found that morningstar's chik'n nuggets taste EXACTLY like chicken used to taste to me, so I am loving those. 15g of protein per 4 nuggets, but I can only eat 3 at a time. Still a really nice thing for when I miss chicken.
I'm fighting the vitamin battle now. I need to get a new multi AGAIN, these are just yuck. I might try my chewables again since my tummy is better. At least they were only twice a day.
I'm still pretty weak, and my hormones are kicking my butt! Talk about mood swings and the blues and anxiety, whew!
Other than that, feeling close to normal and I'm incredibly thankful for that.
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Post by PrettyGirlBounce on Jan 27, 2014 16:24:27 GMT -5
I'm doing pretty great! Antibiotics are working well, food is good and liquids are good. I still hate chicken, but I've found that morningstar's chik'n nuggets taste EXACTLY like chicken used to taste to me, so I am loving those. 15g of protein per 4 nuggets, but I can only eat 3 at a time. Still a really nice thing for when I miss chicken. I'm fighting the vitamin battle now. I need to get a new multi AGAIN, these are just yuck. I might try my chewables again since my tummy is better. At least they were only twice a day. I'm still pretty weak, and my hormones are kicking my butt! Talk about mood swings and the blues and anxiety, whew! Other than that, feeling close to normal and I'm incredibly thankful for that. YAY! Glad you are feeling better and found some foods that work. Sharyl told me about the "chik'n" nuggets, patties, etc., by Morningstar and I always have some in the fridge. If they sit well in your tummy with the breading and all, you might also be able to tolerate fish sticks (if you like them). Of course, they are higher in carbs like the chik'n nuggets/patties due to the breading so keep that in the forefront of your mind.
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