Well, several folks have asked about the heart stress test so... Was definitely a drawn-out process over a few hours. Started with some radioactive dye that apparently hones in on my heart. Then lots of pictures. Then a regular ECG followed by ECG monitoring during the chemical stress test portion. Then the antidote to the heart pounder. Then they sent me to the cafeteria for a "high fat meal". Dad wheeled me down and I had the toughest piece of shoe-leather meat ever while my vegetarian Dad looked on amused, I think. Then I returned for more heart pics. Was really wonked and movement/sitting-up challenged for about 24 hours.
The chemical stress portion was really funky but only lasted for about four minutes. The pressure in my head was something along with the pressure in my legs and buzzy feet. Not sure that's the expected response. And, here's to an awesome tech and nurse. They were both bomb. Helped me physically and psychologically get through this. I also don't usually ask people doing tests about the results, however, I did get from them that at a casual glance, it looked pretty normal.
Probably won't find out anything official for a couple weeks when I see the Rheumy again. Maybe my primary will call. Dunno. Guess I'm kind of getting numb to the continual search for a solution to the ever-intensifying neurowhack. It's been over two years. And, while I have hope for a hard diagnosis soon, I just figure it's more tests ruling things out for these tough clinically-based calls. And, what does one hope for anyway? That it's my heart or that it's my autonomic nervous system misbehaving and affecting my heart (a possibility that's been raised)?
Well, while I've been writing this, my parents have cleaned the whole place including the bathrooms. They're down-right handy! (She says, trying to joke about it).
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Have been reminiscing lately. Here's a photo enroute to the top of Glacier Peak. It's a lesser-known volcanic peak in Washington state probably because the main route isn't very technical. Was a nice trip aside from being on a rope-team with guys who thought I stopped too often to pee! And, yes, I'm sporting my neck-warmer on my head. Whatever works and keeps you from gear-futzing in the pack.
Nice to have adventures like this to reminisce about!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful shot -and if you had not told I would have never figured out the neck warmer on the head thing!
ReplyDeleteautonomic nervous system misbehaving . ... now that is a mouth full - I can almost hear a song in there somewhere.
Just curious, when you look through your pics does bring back the smells etc. sometimes I smell the pine trees and mud - good for closing the eyes and for a few secs going to that happy place even if for only a few seconds.
Sometimes laughing about it is the best thing you can do. Even though it is hard not to feel guilty when you need others to help you at times.
ReplyDeletegorgeous picture and gorgeous parents. My heart goes out to all of you, though. How I wish for a resolution to your question of what is going on. But having a heart in good shape is major good news. Let's hope that is the case.
ReplyDeleteJudy
huh, ok, it sounds ok, I guess I'll do it.
ReplyDeleteZoom - Yeah it is - I'm lucky.
ReplyDeleteJan - autonomic nervous system misbehaving -- hmm, yeah, Warren is more succint about that! No, I don't usually get the smells when I look at the photos. But when I get exposed to the smells, a whole slew of memories pour forth. I think that warmed pine needles and dirt is the one of the most potent smells in the world for me. That and the musky rotten smell of the PNW and Alaska woods.
Maria - Yep, laughing helps both us and those helping us. I'm in kindergarten in regards to accepting help gracefully. But as it's not so optional any more, I gotta get this one down.
Judy - I told my parents they were gorgeous -- they liked that! Thanks for your concern. I hope things are going well with you and your guy and his heart.
Diane - The drug was rather rough but when I found out it was only four minutes and that they give an antedote, I was relieved. The woman I talked to who did the test after me said she got all the symptoms, chest pains and all. So, it can be uncomfortable but at least it's short!
OOOooooo! Gorgeous photo! =)
ReplyDeleteI have always said I would do the test if they wouldn't call it the stress test to my face LOL.
HM - Yes, the words are powerful aren't they? I had a nurse case manager wanting to educate me on the co-morbidity issues of my multiple conditions. Aack - could you use another word please?!
ReplyDeleteHi Donna,
ReplyDeleteCame by to say hello, hope the new week will be pleasant for you.
Love,
Herrad