Where did the summer go?

Where did the summer go?

Some new developments since my last entry.  My bladder cancer procedure has been moved up to 8/31.  And, yesterday I had my annual check-up with Dr Song at Mass Eye and Ear in Waltham.  

I've been going to Dr Song for a number of years since my chemo therapy (the gift that keeps giving) caused a cataract in my right eye.  About 5 years ago, Dr Song performed laser surgery to remove my cataract so I took that opportunity to have in-ocular lens (IOL) implanted.  After a consult it was decided that the lens would provide better distance vision.  At the time my left eye had a 'slow growing' cataract and the end result was near 20/20 vision. It's referred to as 'mono vision' the brain adjusts and corrects what it sees.

 

Over this last year, I really noticed that my left eye (cataract) was worsening. It seemed like I had vaseline smeared on my eye and my vision was obviously not clear. I don't wear glasses but noticed I needed more light when reading.  In addition I noticed that the TV didn't seem as clear to me.  Luckily my right eye was carrying the vision load and I was still able to function 'normally'.  But as of late, I found myself rubbing my left eye and it seemed to be tearing much more.  So when I had my appointment I was expecting that my next step would be cataract surgery and implanting of an IOL for reading (near sighted).  The doctor did indicate that I had an astigmatism and there might be a chance that I would need reading glasses (or cheaters).  He also indicate that I may need to hold reading material closer than I had been.  But he also said that it might be just fine.

I do recall the 'break in' period of adjustment and dealing with the halo effect that eventually cleared up.  So I'm prepared for the body's adjustment.

So, September will be a busy one health-wise.  Already four appointments booked.  I do recall that the most difficult part was the regimen of eye drops.  Small price to pay for better vision.

 

Post Script:

Had a call from Dr. Song's office.  It sounded like a review of the measurements showed that my astigmatism had changed (?).  They asked if I could come in the next day to be measured again.  I do recall that the doctor said something about a need to re-measure because my eyes were dialated.  I guess that had something to do with it.

 

I arrived a very busy waiting room.  It wasn't too long before I was called.  I sat in front of two machines and the attendant once completing the tests, said that the doctor wanted to talk to me.  Hmmm, sounded ominous.

 

I waited for Doctor Song and once he was free he discussed the new developments. Apparently, for my astigmatism, the lens we discussed would not work.  I had two options: get a lens and a have to wear prescription glasses for reading or, have a Toric lens implanted.  I had a Toric implanted on my other eye.  Unfortunately the Toric was an additional thousand dollars.  I'm worth it and vision is important so I chose to pay the additional amount.  However, the person who takes the money was not in the office.  He indicated that she would call me.  [As of this writing 8/31, I haven't had a call back.  I did call the office today but got a voice mail.  I'm sure they will find me]

More to come!

My mother used to say you have to worry 'just enough'

My mother used to say you have to worry 'just enough'

When my primary care doctor set me up for an ultrasound of my carotid arteries, I was dreading the results.  For the last 10 plus years, I've been taking good care of myself.  I've managed to lose more than 80 pounds (and keep it off); walk 3 to 5 miles a day; eat healthy; and stay clear of 'things' not good for you.  In addition, my cholesterol numbers have always been stellar and (knock on wood) I've not needed to take meds to control it.  (I really hate taking meds, but if I have to...I have to).  So the thoughts of plaque build up and subsequent prescription of a 'statin' made me worry.  My mother always said, 'You have to worry just enough'.  It seems to still hold true.

 

I went in for my ultra-sound and it was very quick.  The technician was frantically taking 'shots' and annotating the slides.  I could hear audible snippets of rushing blood (whoosh whoosh).  At the end, she said, "We are all done.  The doctor will review and send the results to your primary care doctor.  It may take a few days."  Ok then, now the waiting.

In the early afternoon, the phone rang (it's always ringing with robo callers and telemarketers).  I screen all my calls.  I did hear the voice say that it was Dr Rees's office calling.  I quickly picked it up, fearing that this speedy return call was ominous, not the 'few days' I was told.  I was elated to hear her say, "Your test results came back normal".

Hallelujah!  Some good news for a change.

More to come!

 

New Meds, a New Date and Something Else

New Meds, a New Date and Something Else

Dr Hurley prescribed Ciprofloxasin (six tablets: 2 for the day before; 2 for the day of the procedure; 2 for day after).  I hate taking medication, but I also read all the literature that comes with it.  I was shocked to hear of the possible side effects.  The most disturbing being irritated tendons, separation of tendons and neuropathy to name a few.  

I had an upcoming visit with my primary care doctor and I discussed my concerns.  When I told him what I received and I was concerned with side effects, he immediately named the two that were most troubling to me.  He did say that I was only prescribed 6 tablets and the chances of my experiencing those side effects in particular were rare. I mentioned that male breast cancer is also rare.

Dr. Rees did mention that there are other antibiotics that could be substituted in lieu of Ciprofloxasin.  He suggested that I contact Dr. Hurley's office and indicated that I was uncomfortable with the prescription.  He said they would probably give me something else.

During my visit with Dr. Rees, while 'checking my vitals', I could hear an audible 'hmmmm' as he was feeling my glands in my neck.  I asked if something was wrong.  The doctor indicated that he was going to schedule me for an ultra-sound of my carotid artery.  He said, my left side had a good flow, but the right side not as good.  He indicated that as we age, these arteries get a build up of plaque.  Since my cholesterol numbers have always been stellar and I don't need meds for that he just wanted to be certain there was no blockage, which could lead to a stroke.

Yikes!  I'm scheduled for an ultra sound on August 5th.  So there will more to come on that.

I received a call from Dr. Hurley's office and they moved up my procedure date to August 31st (from September 15th).  In addition, I was told that the doctor sent in a new script to replace the Ciprofloxasin. I checked my online account and saw that an order of NITROFURANTOIN MONOHYDRATE was in process.  I quickly looked at the list of side effects (again scary), but not as concerning as the other.

More to come!

P.S. To those that have subscribed to email notification of my blog update, I was informed that the notification will be discontinued in August 2021.  So if you signed up for this type of notification, you will no longer received notice when I have updates.  Until I determine a work around, you'll have to bookmark this blog and check from time to time.  Sorry!

I'm Back!

It's been awhile since I needed to post updates on my challenge.  Obviously there have been some changes in my health.  So, that being said, I'll be adding to my blog with my latest challenge: Bladder Cancer.

Something's Not Right

A few weeks a go while visiting a friend post-covid.  I had some green tea with ginger.  After a spell I had the urge to urinate so I meandered to the bathroom and went.  I noticed a tinge of redness to the color and something that looked like a scab (clot) that was passed.  I didn't think too much about it, but I was concerned.  I looked at my pee every time and the color cleared up on its own.  So I didn't give it a second thought, but I was always looking.

Tuesday morning (June 15th) I was awakened by some noise outside. I was awake enough to know that I had to pee. Figured I'd do that then go back to sleep.

With one eye open I was shocked to see blood red urine. Well I couldn't go back to sleep. Went online and did symptom checker. Could be anything from kidney stones to...even worse. I had no new pain. Drank plenty of fluids hoping to flush it out. No change. I called my primary care and they fit me right in.

At the doctor's office, he did all his questioning, feeling etc. I peed in a cup (guess he needed proof). He sent me for blood work and scheduled me for an ultra sound.

Later that day, I received a call indicating blood tests were normal and I had no infection. Kidney(s) were functioning normal.

Had an ultrasound on my kidneys and pelvic region Thursday (June 17th). Bleeding had stopped, but urine was very dark and cloudy. Got a call that evening indicating kidneys looked good, but there was a 'change' to the bladder. Said I'd get a call about info/appointment with Urologist.

Received a call with info on my appointment with Dr Liam Hurley (who has an office in Salem NH). I received an appointment for Wednesday (June 23rd). Apparently they were able to squeeze me in since they were booking for September. The nurse mentioned that I had a growth. I guess that's a change.

So bleeding had stopped. Urine is normal color. 

Urologist Appointment

Today I had my appointment with Dr. Hurley at his office at Keewadin Dr, Salem NH.  Masks were still required, but there were very few patients in the waiting room.  After an easy check in, I was told to wait until called.  It wasn't long before I heard my name being called.  A medical associate guided me to an examination room and provided me with a clip board and paperwork that needed completing (I call them SAT's).  I didn't get too far when Dr Hurley arrived with my file.  After introductions and pleasantries, he got right to business and said that I have bladder cancer.  Absolutely not what I wanted to hear.

He explained that I needed a procedure so he can 'get in there' and look around and scrape away the cancer.  He said it's done as an out patient procedure.  I would be put to sleep and he would 'go in' through the penis and see what's there and do clean up.  He did mention that I would have bleeding episodes again and once he knew for certain the extent, he would be able to provide more input for treatment.  The procedure is scheduled at the surgical unit of the site on September 15th.  I asked if I need someone to drive me/pick me up and he said no.  Oh the wonders of medicine.  He shook my hand and said 'I'll take care of you".  That actually made me feel a bit better although I think I'm still in shock.  I was told to complete my paperwork in the waiting room then drop it off at check out.

More to come!

2017 - Year End Update

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The years appear to fly by faster and faster with each coming new year.  It's already Winter and we've had a few storms already.  A Nor' Easter is predicted for Christmas Day.  Let's hope it's not as bad as they say....ya right.

December had three visits to doctors.  The first, with Dr. Moore coincided with my yearly mammogram at the Holy Family Breast Cancer Care Unit. Seems like just yesterday I was there, fortunately for me this time I knew what to do, and not to do, so my discomfort level was manageable.  Luckily for me the doctor arranged to be on premise for my follow-up.  The wait for the imaging wasn't too long and Dr. Moore saw me prior to the mammogram and 'copped a feel'.  After his sign of approval he said he would come in and discuss the results of the imaging.

The mammogram went quickly.  This time there was no mechanical malfunctions or computer issues.  The technician indicated that things appeared normal, but the doctor would discuss the results.  I waited for a longer period of time and watched many woman brought into the imaging room and eventually walk out.  I was concerned that I may have been forgotten.  The nurse noticed I was still waiting and I overheard her mention my name to the doctor.  He soon came in and said the results were normal and provided some paperwork for the front office to schedule next year's mammogram and follow.  I thanked him and proceeded to the front office.  Unfortunately, I was told that I had to contact Dr. Moore's office to schedule that.  Odd!

On the way out I decided to update my insurance information at the Dana Farber Unit while I was there.  I then  drove to Dr. Moore's office in North Andover and was able to make the appointment for next December.  I was also able to update my insurance information now that I'm Medicare.

The next week I had my 6 month check up with Dr. Mehta at the Dana Farber Community Cancer Care Unit at Holy Family.  As usual it was quite busy, but there wasn't a very long wait.  After having my vitals taken and recorded, the medical professional reviewed my chart for changes and updates.  After completion, she said the doctor will be with you shortly.

After about ten minutes, Dr. Mehta arrived and seemed quite pleased with my overall health.  He commented how I looked well and rested.  I asked, "Now how much money did you say you wanted to borrow?"  Then added, "retirement agrees with me and I highly recommend it."  He said that he has too many years to go before thinking about retirement.

Dr. Mehta could see that I had a mammogram the previous week.  He requested that I remove my shirt and he performed a very thorough examination of both breasts and arm pits.  I'm talking deep tissue examination. He exclaimed, "Great."  Then asked that I re-dress.  He gave me a prescription of Tamoxifen for another year and asked that I come see him in June.  I'll be back for the Summer Solstice.

Last week I had a follow-up visit with my primary care physician, Dr. Rees.  He wanted to ensure that things continue to be stable following my endo-vascular repair (EVAR) of my aneurysm as well as my general health and well-being.  While there I received my (second booster) shot for pneumonia.  He indicated that I will receive another at our next visit.  He looked at my chart and said I had a physical scheduled for January, but because Medicare doesn't cover that cost he advised that I cancel it. [Not liking Medicare.]  He said he would see me next year.

A few days later I received a written confirmation that my mammogram was normal.

I'm hopeful that there will be no more issues worth reporting so I will conclude this blog at year's end.

Thanks to all for reading and for your continued support!

Fall 2017 Update

Dealing with coffee restrictions (due to a required fast) and the residual effect of the "Fall Back' of time, I was able to make it to UMass Medical in Worcester for my follow-up with Dr. Schanzer with no issues. I had been concerned with commuting traffic, but was lucky to have not had any major delays.

Today's visit included an ultrasound and follow-up with the doctor. I was the first patient of the day and the attendant was feeling the effects of the time change too. The clock in the lab had not been changed and I was thanked for bringing it to her attention. After my lying on the table and pulling away my shirt and lowering my pants, I was happy to have 'warm' goop applied to my abdomen. I've had previous ultra sounds where I was shocked by that 'cold' feeling. Pleasantly surprised today.

While attendant did her thing, I was watching the monitor and I believe I saw the Lock Ness monster...or maybe not. I was deprived of caffeine and I was very zombie-like. But she was capturing many images and making notations on each. I was happy to hear that she said she would review the results at the conclusion.

After a spell, the continuous pressure began to bother me, but gladly she said we were finished. She wiped me up and asked that I sit up to review the pictures. I'm glad she explained things because it all looked like a mess to me. The good news is that the graft has not moved and there was no leakage. Blood was flowing normally too. [I guess despite the lack of coffee.]

From my online chart:
"Duplex ultrasonography of the patient's endovascular aneurysm repair was performed in our vascular laboratory today. They were unable to visualize the proximal fixation zone, however the aneurysm continued to measure 5.6 cm in diameter with no residual flow seen in the aneurysm sac and no obvious evidence of endoleak. These images were personally reviewed."

When I met with Dr. Schanzer he reiterated the fact that the graft was stable with no leakage. He did say that the aneurysm (sac size) has not grown and is not being supplied with blood (thus no leakage). I asked how long it would take for the sack to get smaller. He said, 'Everyone is different. Some have the sac retract over time, others have scar tissue that keeps the sac the same size. But your sac has not grown and there is no supply of blood. The repair was a success and the threat of 'burst' has been eliminated. However, it is something you will need to have monitored for the rest of your life. I'll have you scheduled for a follow-up in March, then each year after.'

I did have a question about one of the findings listed from my CT Scan. The report indicated that I had a Hiatus Hernia. He indicated that this is not within the expertise of a vascular surgeon, but if I had not symptoms: pain; heartburn; back pain; and/or vomiting, then I shouldn't be concerned. This basically what Dr. Rees said. I'll let sleeping dogs lie.

Continuing Side Effects

I'm still learning to deal with the long term effects of chemotherapy. Sometimes I'm unsure if it's that or my aging...or both. But I continue to soldier on despite this.

• Neuropathy - Luckily I'm still able to walk daily. It doesn't appear that this condition has worsened, but I must be extremely careful of my footing and must ensure that I have protection for my feet. I had a blister develop on my big toe, but I never felt it. I was wearing 'the wrong kind of socks' that day and the weave caused too much friction. Just another thing to be mindful of. I can still stand on my toes and heals. [The Page family will understand this.] I'm still having that weird issue with my thumb and forefinger. I try the best I can to work around this. Sometimes, just changing to another guitar helps. Other times, I just need a break. Like I said - odd.
• Light-headed-ness - Between the hypertension meds and the Tamoxifen I have to be extremely careful standing up after sitting for an extended period. Although I've had a few close calls, I haven't 'blacked-out', but I have seen stars. Just another thing to be aware of.
• Raspy/Hoarse throat - Although I've stopped Atorvastatin because of this unwelcome side effect, Tamoxifen also has this listed as a possible side effect. There are certain notes in my range that I have to approach differently for the correct pitch to come out. This does keep me playing the piano and doing vocal exercises. So there's an up side.
• Charlie Horse - I guess it's the new normal. I have them just about every night. The good news is I can tell when it's beginning so I can move my legs into a position which prevents or lessens the spasm. I'm becoming an expert. I rarely have to jump out of bed and stand. I'm able to maneuver to a position while being horizontal. Still not fun.
• Hot Flashes - Ya, they are still here, but not as numerous.

More to come!

Summer's Almost Gone

I guess it's a good sign that I haven't had to provide updates to my blog.  Summer has come and is now on the way out - unfortunately.  But we knew that would happen.

Since my last update, I had a follow-up with my primary care provider, Dr. Rees.  All systems are normal and nothing out of the ordinary to report.  Yay!

Since I had my follow-up CT scan after my EVR (aneurysm repair), I did receive notification through my portal that the results indicated a hiatus hernia and a dissented gall bladder with no stones. I've been concerned as to what that really meant and if I needed to do anything (or not do anything) proactively. 

When asked of Dr. Rees, he smiled and said, "When I do tests and results come back, I will indicate the seriousness of the findings.  You don't need to be concerned with the findings unless you are having symptoms".  I asked what symptoms I should be aware of.  He said, "Both conditions if symptomatic, would result in chest pain or discomfort.  Have you experienced that"? I said, no.  He said, "Then don't worry." 

I expressed concern over re-starting my daily exercises (sit-ups, stretching and bends).  When allowed to resume in April, I experienced a painful abdomen. So I stopped.  Dr. Rees said, " It's OK to resume, but take it slowly.  It's possible that your pain was caused by the normal course of exercising a muscle.  Nothing to be concerned with and no correlation to those two conditions."

So I'm resuming my exercises in addition to my continuance of my daily walks averaging about 30 miles a week.

Continued side effects

• Charlie horse - unfortunately these continue but mostly when I'm sleeping.  A very rude awakening (literally) when I have to address these.
• Hot Flashes - although they have abated, I still get them from time to time.
• Neuropathy - conditions haven't worsened for my feet, but I do have spells where my feet feel like they are burning, especially after a very long walk.  I'm still experiencing numbness in my finger and thumb, but there is still no rhyme or reason how and when this happens.

More to come!