I cannot believe how much time has gotten away from me...again. I read all your blogs daily, and have had intentions to write, but then the task just seems to daunting.
I went today for my third Acupunture treatment. While I have tried it before, I am back at trying it again. I've continued to be pretty skeptical in it's effect...up until today that is. I woke up this morning in tremendous pain. Throbbing head with sharp, shooting pains through the left side of my skull. No doubt thanks to a very strenuous day on Labor & Delivery yesterday. Todays treatment lasted almost 2 hours! Way longer than any of the other ones I have ever had. She started with me face up. I had points placed in my feet, hands and forearms, then she connected those points with a wire to aid in the flow of energy. Or some hocus pocus thing like that. After about 30 minutes, she rearranged the wires and I waited another 30 minutes or so. It's a little difficult for me to just lay still like that in a room by myself, but with the heat lamp on and the soft music playing, I began to relax. Next, I stripped off my shirt and was placed on my stomach. I had what seemed like a bazillion points placed in the base of my skull, neck and up and down my back. It was a little uncomfortable at first, but she said it's because my muscles were so tight. Eventually it eased up a bit. The best part was when she came in to take the points out. She rubbed my back with essential oil and a topical analgesic, then rolled some kind of roller thing up and down my neck and shoulders. Ahhh...it was heaven. When I got up, I felt completely drunk.
After todays treatment...I had an epiphany. It worked! I left there feeling so mellow and what was a 7 on the pain scale was down to about a 2.
I came home in awe...thinking maybe there really is something to this Eastern medicine philosophy.
I climbed into bed and slept like a baby for 2 hours.
Sad for me...I woke up back in pain. I was so bummed. So I popped a pill...or two.
So my theory is...it works...but doesn't have long lasting results. At least not yet. I plan to continue going every week.
This afternoon I also had Botox. This time I got it purely for cosmetic reasons though. After my last hospitalization, the powers that be decided that the Botox was ineffective for my Migraines and they were not going to cover the cost anymore. That being said...I became addicted. Addicted to the smooth, wrinkle free skin on my forehead. So, while I was having my pap smear last week and heard that my Gyn was now doing Botox I signed right up! One thing that was done differently was this numbing cream they put all over my forehead before they injected. My Neuro never did that and it was AMAZING! I felt not a thing, but the bestest part ever...is that my forehead is still completely numb. It feels awesome! Now if I can only get my hands on that jar of magic numbing cream, I would shave off my hair and slather it all over my head and down my neck!
So yea, today was a day filled with alotta needles!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Stream of Consciousness
I feel like I have fallen off the face of the earth.
At least the Blogoshpere.
It's been busy around these parts...and when I'm not busy...I'm too lazy to write. Like turning on the laptop and tapping out a few words on the keyword is really some physically demanding task. I just haven't felt like actually thinking though.
I am close to my 3 month evaluation at my new job. So far, it's been pretty good. There is a steep learning curve. I have found myself in some less than ideal situations...but I seem to manage to pull myself out. Even when one of those times was in a patient's house, with her husband screaming in my face, and me bursting into uncontrollable sobbing.
I have learned alot about death and dying. Maybe not something many people actually want to learn about...but we all gotta do it someday, so why not know all we can about the process? It can actually be beautiful and peaceful. When family is surrounding the bed, praying, singing, holding the hands of their loves ones as they take their last breath...it can actually be quite serene. I hope when it is my time to go...it's how I have witnessed death these past few weeks. It's beginning to bring out my spiritual side. I grew up Catholic...even went to Catholic school, but as an adult...I have lost my way to church. I think maybe, just maybe, I am finding my way back.
Before, during and after the holidays has been a bit stressful on the family front. First, as I mentioned previously, my Mom had emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction. The tumor they removed was benign, and the six inches of small intestine that was removed showed significant damage apparantly due to Crohn's Disease. She is adjusting well to her medications, and actually went back to work in the Emergency Room last night. The week before Christmas, my Mom's boyfriend of the past 10 years, had a heart attack on his way to the hospital (He is an ER physician), and ended up having open heart surgery with a 5 way bypass. He had a few set backs which landed him back in the ICU, but is now well on his way to recovery. Last but not least is my darling, Jesse. He has had a growth on the cornea of his left eye for years. Due mostly to spending alot of time out in the sun, on the boat, and being exposed to the elements. After a routine eye exam, our doctor told us it was starting to grow onto the pupil, which eventually could affect his vision. So yesterday he had surgery. What was supposed to be a 45 minute procedure turned into an hour and 45 minute procedure. During the surgery, his cornea perforated and they had to call in yet another surgeon. He had his bandages removed this morning, has lots of glue and sutures holding his eyeball together and is doing good. His eye looks gross and is seeping all kinds of goo...but he is out of the pain he was having last night, and the surgeon says he will be back to his perfect 20/20 vision in no time.
Whew...that was a mouthful!!!
As far as my health is concerned...I am status quo. Some days are good, some days suck. You know how it is. I am currently still taking Cambia, Lortab and Fioricet as needed. Not all together of course. I switch it up so I do not build up too much of a tolerance to one med. I also take "med holidays", as my Neuro and I call it to avoid rebound headaches. I am not always successful. I also take Verapamil, Flexeril, Magnesium, Riboflavin and a few other supplements for good measure. That's alot of drugs when you write it down. Don't judge!
I am going to pursue Acupuncture again. My Neuro recommended someone I want to try. I'll let ya all know how it goes. I was going to Myofascial Release sessions regularly before the holidays, but the therapist flaked out on me and kept cancelling. I don't have the time or patience for that nonsense...so buh bye.
I was in line at the pharmacy this evening, when the lady in front of me was crying because she could not afford her mother's Coumadin presecription. So I bought it for her. Yup...I think I sprouted wings and a halo. Seriously though...it felt good to help out. I HATE our healthcare system and it is heartbreaking when people can't take their meds because they cannot afford them.
We are getting excited about our upcoming trip to Alaska. It isn't until May...but time is flying. We booked a hotel in Seatlle for 2 days before the cruise and for 4 days after the cruise. I can't wait to eat at all the food carts!
And last but not least...I'll leave you with a couple holiday photos. We had a great time and I am so thankful for all we have!
At least the Blogoshpere.
It's been busy around these parts...and when I'm not busy...I'm too lazy to write. Like turning on the laptop and tapping out a few words on the keyword is really some physically demanding task. I just haven't felt like actually thinking though.
I am close to my 3 month evaluation at my new job. So far, it's been pretty good. There is a steep learning curve. I have found myself in some less than ideal situations...but I seem to manage to pull myself out. Even when one of those times was in a patient's house, with her husband screaming in my face, and me bursting into uncontrollable sobbing.
I have learned alot about death and dying. Maybe not something many people actually want to learn about...but we all gotta do it someday, so why not know all we can about the process? It can actually be beautiful and peaceful. When family is surrounding the bed, praying, singing, holding the hands of their loves ones as they take their last breath...it can actually be quite serene. I hope when it is my time to go...it's how I have witnessed death these past few weeks. It's beginning to bring out my spiritual side. I grew up Catholic...even went to Catholic school, but as an adult...I have lost my way to church. I think maybe, just maybe, I am finding my way back.
Before, during and after the holidays has been a bit stressful on the family front. First, as I mentioned previously, my Mom had emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction. The tumor they removed was benign, and the six inches of small intestine that was removed showed significant damage apparantly due to Crohn's Disease. She is adjusting well to her medications, and actually went back to work in the Emergency Room last night. The week before Christmas, my Mom's boyfriend of the past 10 years, had a heart attack on his way to the hospital (He is an ER physician), and ended up having open heart surgery with a 5 way bypass. He had a few set backs which landed him back in the ICU, but is now well on his way to recovery. Last but not least is my darling, Jesse. He has had a growth on the cornea of his left eye for years. Due mostly to spending alot of time out in the sun, on the boat, and being exposed to the elements. After a routine eye exam, our doctor told us it was starting to grow onto the pupil, which eventually could affect his vision. So yesterday he had surgery. What was supposed to be a 45 minute procedure turned into an hour and 45 minute procedure. During the surgery, his cornea perforated and they had to call in yet another surgeon. He had his bandages removed this morning, has lots of glue and sutures holding his eyeball together and is doing good. His eye looks gross and is seeping all kinds of goo...but he is out of the pain he was having last night, and the surgeon says he will be back to his perfect 20/20 vision in no time.
Whew...that was a mouthful!!!
As far as my health is concerned...I am status quo. Some days are good, some days suck. You know how it is. I am currently still taking Cambia, Lortab and Fioricet as needed. Not all together of course. I switch it up so I do not build up too much of a tolerance to one med. I also take "med holidays", as my Neuro and I call it to avoid rebound headaches. I am not always successful. I also take Verapamil, Flexeril, Magnesium, Riboflavin and a few other supplements for good measure. That's alot of drugs when you write it down. Don't judge!
I am going to pursue Acupuncture again. My Neuro recommended someone I want to try. I'll let ya all know how it goes. I was going to Myofascial Release sessions regularly before the holidays, but the therapist flaked out on me and kept cancelling. I don't have the time or patience for that nonsense...so buh bye.
I was in line at the pharmacy this evening, when the lady in front of me was crying because she could not afford her mother's Coumadin presecription. So I bought it for her. Yup...I think I sprouted wings and a halo. Seriously though...it felt good to help out. I HATE our healthcare system and it is heartbreaking when people can't take their meds because they cannot afford them.
We are getting excited about our upcoming trip to Alaska. It isn't until May...but time is flying. We booked a hotel in Seatlle for 2 days before the cruise and for 4 days after the cruise. I can't wait to eat at all the food carts!
And last but not least...I'll leave you with a couple holiday photos. We had a great time and I am so thankful for all we have!
 |
| Some of their loot on Christmas morning...Stereo skateboards, Playstation 3 and a Lava lamp. Yup...they actually asked for a lava lamp! |
 |
| My love and I on Christmas Eve at my Mom's house. She had a gorgeous real 10 ft. tree! |
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Emotions Running High
I don't even know where to begin explaining this past month. It's been a whirlwind. Overwhelming, frustrating, scary, exciting, emotional, stressful...
First off, I started my new job on October 31st. For 3 weeks I sat in orientation and computer classes. It is ALOT and I am in a little over my head. But everyone I've spoken to said they all felt that way in the beginning. It's just such a huge change for me.
This past weekend I got to finally see patients. It was great, but definately different. I'm still not 100% clear what my responsibilities are, but I am with a preceptor out in the field for 6 weeks.
Tomorrow, I go back to babyland for the day. I have mixed feelings about it. I want to be home for the holiday with my family, and I don't really want to work a 12 hour shift...but I am looking forward to seeing my L&D girls and I'll be getting quite a nice paycheck for being there...which I need for Christmas shopping!
So, aside from my busy work schedule this month, it's been a rough couple of weeks healthwise...and not mine. Unfortunately my mom had emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction...which resulted in the removal of a tumor, 6 inches of her small intestine and a bowel resection. We are still waiting on the pathology results of the specimens, so prayers for a good outcome are appreciated. She finally got to come home on Monday after a couple of unexpected setbacks, so that is what I am thankful for this Thanksgiving.
Happy Turkey Day to you all!!!
First off, I started my new job on October 31st. For 3 weeks I sat in orientation and computer classes. It is ALOT and I am in a little over my head. But everyone I've spoken to said they all felt that way in the beginning. It's just such a huge change for me.
This past weekend I got to finally see patients. It was great, but definately different. I'm still not 100% clear what my responsibilities are, but I am with a preceptor out in the field for 6 weeks.
Tomorrow, I go back to babyland for the day. I have mixed feelings about it. I want to be home for the holiday with my family, and I don't really want to work a 12 hour shift...but I am looking forward to seeing my L&D girls and I'll be getting quite a nice paycheck for being there...which I need for Christmas shopping!
So, aside from my busy work schedule this month, it's been a rough couple of weeks healthwise...and not mine. Unfortunately my mom had emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction...which resulted in the removal of a tumor, 6 inches of her small intestine and a bowel resection. We are still waiting on the pathology results of the specimens, so prayers for a good outcome are appreciated. She finally got to come home on Monday after a couple of unexpected setbacks, so that is what I am thankful for this Thanksgiving.
Happy Turkey Day to you all!!!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Cha Cha Changes
I feel like I have been going a mile a minute lately, I have barely had time to read all your posts, let alone write one. But, hopefully, things are about to slow down.
I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. I resigned from my full time position at work. Yesterday was officially my last day as a full time employee and it was so hard. I cried off and on all day. My friends ordered take out for lunch and bought me a giant cake.
I still question whether or not I made the right choice, but until I took that leap...I'd never know. For the past 5+ years, I've been "Jessica...Labor & Delivery nurse." Delivering babies has defined me. It is my passion and probably always will be, but something had to change.
I was finding myself dreading going into work everyday. I'd literally lay in bed the day before trying to "save" my energy for the upcoming 12 hour shift. Then I'd drag myself through it...and crash afterwards. I was miserable and grumpy to be around, and the people I love the most...Jesse and my boys, suffered from it. I am no longer fun to be around. I'm not enjoying my life or anything in it. I am constantly in pain and exhausted and it's screwing with my moods.
So...after weeks of praying and crying and debating, I gave my 2 week resignation at the hospital. I will be staying on PRN, which requires me to work at least one shift a month, so I can still do what I adore, see my friends at The Family Birthplace and get my baby fix.
Now, being a PRN employee equals no benefits. So I also accepted a benefited part time position as a case manager with Hospice. What a change this is going to be! I am going from one end of life...to the other.
If you think about it...they're pretty similar depending on your beliefs. I birth babies into this world, and I will be "birthing" the terminally ill into another world. I think there is something magical about being able to witness someone's first breath, and their last breath.
I have some experience with death and dying...as I was the Perinatal and Infant Loss Coordinator for the hospital. I'm just not so sure what I will be doing as a case manager. To me, it sounds like my main role is pain management...which is also right up my alley.
What I do know about my new position is...I have total autonomy which gives me alot of flexibilty. I see my patients when I want to see them. I get to dress up...no more scrubs, which is kind of exciting for me! I will be getting paid more money...always a huge bonus! I will be getting my mileage paid for, a laptop and a cell phone...and their benefits are awesome.
So wish me luck guys...I start my orientation tomorrow...which is the downside because it's Monday through Friday 8a-5p and I have NEVER worked 5 days in a row! Yikes! If most of America can do it...I certainly can for one week!
I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. I resigned from my full time position at work. Yesterday was officially my last day as a full time employee and it was so hard. I cried off and on all day. My friends ordered take out for lunch and bought me a giant cake.
I still question whether or not I made the right choice, but until I took that leap...I'd never know. For the past 5+ years, I've been "Jessica...Labor & Delivery nurse." Delivering babies has defined me. It is my passion and probably always will be, but something had to change.
I was finding myself dreading going into work everyday. I'd literally lay in bed the day before trying to "save" my energy for the upcoming 12 hour shift. Then I'd drag myself through it...and crash afterwards. I was miserable and grumpy to be around, and the people I love the most...Jesse and my boys, suffered from it. I am no longer fun to be around. I'm not enjoying my life or anything in it. I am constantly in pain and exhausted and it's screwing with my moods.
So...after weeks of praying and crying and debating, I gave my 2 week resignation at the hospital. I will be staying on PRN, which requires me to work at least one shift a month, so I can still do what I adore, see my friends at The Family Birthplace and get my baby fix.
Now, being a PRN employee equals no benefits. So I also accepted a benefited part time position as a case manager with Hospice. What a change this is going to be! I am going from one end of life...to the other.
If you think about it...they're pretty similar depending on your beliefs. I birth babies into this world, and I will be "birthing" the terminally ill into another world. I think there is something magical about being able to witness someone's first breath, and their last breath.
I have some experience with death and dying...as I was the Perinatal and Infant Loss Coordinator for the hospital. I'm just not so sure what I will be doing as a case manager. To me, it sounds like my main role is pain management...which is also right up my alley.
What I do know about my new position is...I have total autonomy which gives me alot of flexibilty. I see my patients when I want to see them. I get to dress up...no more scrubs, which is kind of exciting for me! I will be getting paid more money...always a huge bonus! I will be getting my mileage paid for, a laptop and a cell phone...and their benefits are awesome.
So wish me luck guys...I start my orientation tomorrow...which is the downside because it's Monday through Friday 8a-5p and I have NEVER worked 5 days in a row! Yikes! If most of America can do it...I certainly can for one week!
Friday, September 23, 2011
Decisions...Decisions
Good morning everyone! I say that because it's 730am and I have been up for about 2 hours now! Which is very unusual when I am not working...which I have yet to do in over a month. I continue to be on my leave of absence for the rest of this week and the beginning of next week. I follow up with my Neurologist next week to plan my next step. Right now...it's totally stressing me out as I have had quite some time to think about my current work situation and I have had some opportunities arise...so I have decisions to make, that only I can decide. I honestly DO NOT know what to do! I'd love the Man upstairs to just tap me on the shoulder and whisper into my ear and tell me what to do. My decision could either turn out to be great for me or terrible for me...but I will never know if I do not take that leap of faith. However...it involves my livelihood and the wrong choice could be detrimental...or a blessing.
How does one choose?!?
On a different note, Wednesday I had my EMG and nerve conduction study. To say I was nervous is an understatement. I tend to have severe anticipatory anxiety...and in reality it wasn't that bad. The electric "shocks" throughout my left leg were a little uncomfortable...but I tolerated it quite well. I barely felt the zaps to my arm...and the needle portion of the test didn't phase me a bit. Sad to say...I am used to lots of needle pokes and have almost become immune to them.
The reason being that I hardly felt any of the currents going through my left arm is because I do in fact have neuropathy in that arm. Really still not quite sure why, but it explains the aching, numbness, tingling and weakness.
As far as my legs, all came out all clear. The Neuro that performed these tests concluded that the problem with my legs going numb is most likely stemming from a problem in my spinal cord and not my peripheral nerves. So that remains a mystery.
He prescribed an elbow brace, which I have yet to find one that I'd be willing to wear, to keep me from bending my arm and causing further nerve damage.
I tried on several at the store. One was this hideous long, bulky black thing and I could still bend my arm, so I figured that is defeating the purpose. I then tried wrapping an ace bandage around my elbow, which he suggested as an alternative...but after 5 minutes, my arm was blue and obviously cutting off circulation. So I took it off and haven't tried it since. Obviously I just need to wrap it looser...but I am being stubborn. I can't function with my arm being straight all the time! I am left handed for goodness sake!
What I am wondering, and will have to ask my doctor next week...is the neuropathy and nerve damage permanent? I can't remember that from nursing school...I suppose I could Web MD it.
As I mentioned previously, I was given prescriptions for Amitriptyline and Verapamil to control my head. After several weeks of the Amitriptyline and titrating up and weaning down on it to find the right dosage for me...I have come to the conclusion it has proven to be ineffective. Not only has it done nothing to improve my chronic headaches, it is also not controlling my anxiety issues as the SSRI's did, and the side effects are so tough to take. So my doctor told me if I felt that it wasn't working, I could stop it. It's been 3 days now without it.
That's what I really like about her...if a med isn't working, she is quick to say get rid of it as opposed to keeping me full of drugs just for the hell of it. My goal is to take as little as possible. Previous physicians have had me on a bazillion pills that were not even doing a damn thing!
I am continuing with the Verapamil ER 120 mg every night before bed. I have tolerated it well with no side effects. The only issue is I have been very tachycardic with my heartrate consistently between 100-150 bpm. I am thinking the calcium channel blocker is not controlling my blood pressure and pulse quite as well as the beta-blockers did, but it could also be the rise in anxiety.
For the anxiety I have been taking Xanax as needed. I used to take it almost every night as it helped me sleep, but over the past 2 months or so, I stopped that habit because I was building a high tolerance to it. However, over the past week or two, I notice I am needing to take it during the day sometimes to calm me down and hopefully lower my heart rate. I am pretty sure I will need to go back on an SSRI next week. Which I am content in doing. I've been taking them since my twenties when I was experiencing panic attacks and agoraphobia. If only one also worked as a Migraine preventative. As far as I know, none of them do...but does anyone have any information on that?
So my current treatment plan has really dwindled on the pill popping front...and I am excited about that!
I am taking:
-Verapamil ER 120 mg QH
-Magnesium 400 mg daily
-Xanax 0.25-1mg as needed
-Baclofen 10mg as needed
-Norco 5/325mg as needed
-Phenergan 25mg as needed
Notice: only ONE daily med!!! Whoo hoo! The Mag I do take daily...but supplements don't count to me! I actually started the Mag again to help counteract the inability to go to the bathroom due to the the other meds...plus it is supposed to be good for me.
In regards to the Baclofen and Norco, my Neuro would like me to stop taking them as the Baclofen hasn't done much for me and the Norco causes rebound HA...but out of desperation I take them as rescue meds until my current prescriptions run out.
That is one topic I plan on bringing up next week...rescue meds! Essentially...I have none that she has prescribed for me...and I believe rescue medications are just as important as preventative medications when dealing with the unpredictableness (is that a word?) of Migraine and chronic headaches.
I just have no idea which ones I could take. Not only did I not tolerate Ergots and Triptans...this Neuro won't give them to me anyway because of the Basilar Migraine issue...they're contraindicted...but opiates sometimes make it worse, although if I take enough they just knock me out. I have never tried Tramadol, which I have heard some of you take...wonder if that would help, or maybe go back to Fioricet? Who knows! Now I do know those can also cause rebound HA, but I am VERY careful about that.
Any suggestions would be awesome....I love to hear what other people are taking to try and control their symptoms!
How does one choose?!?
On a different note, Wednesday I had my EMG and nerve conduction study. To say I was nervous is an understatement. I tend to have severe anticipatory anxiety...and in reality it wasn't that bad. The electric "shocks" throughout my left leg were a little uncomfortable...but I tolerated it quite well. I barely felt the zaps to my arm...and the needle portion of the test didn't phase me a bit. Sad to say...I am used to lots of needle pokes and have almost become immune to them.
The reason being that I hardly felt any of the currents going through my left arm is because I do in fact have neuropathy in that arm. Really still not quite sure why, but it explains the aching, numbness, tingling and weakness.
As far as my legs, all came out all clear. The Neuro that performed these tests concluded that the problem with my legs going numb is most likely stemming from a problem in my spinal cord and not my peripheral nerves. So that remains a mystery.
He prescribed an elbow brace, which I have yet to find one that I'd be willing to wear, to keep me from bending my arm and causing further nerve damage.
I tried on several at the store. One was this hideous long, bulky black thing and I could still bend my arm, so I figured that is defeating the purpose. I then tried wrapping an ace bandage around my elbow, which he suggested as an alternative...but after 5 minutes, my arm was blue and obviously cutting off circulation. So I took it off and haven't tried it since. Obviously I just need to wrap it looser...but I am being stubborn. I can't function with my arm being straight all the time! I am left handed for goodness sake!
What I am wondering, and will have to ask my doctor next week...is the neuropathy and nerve damage permanent? I can't remember that from nursing school...I suppose I could Web MD it.
As I mentioned previously, I was given prescriptions for Amitriptyline and Verapamil to control my head. After several weeks of the Amitriptyline and titrating up and weaning down on it to find the right dosage for me...I have come to the conclusion it has proven to be ineffective. Not only has it done nothing to improve my chronic headaches, it is also not controlling my anxiety issues as the SSRI's did, and the side effects are so tough to take. So my doctor told me if I felt that it wasn't working, I could stop it. It's been 3 days now without it.
That's what I really like about her...if a med isn't working, she is quick to say get rid of it as opposed to keeping me full of drugs just for the hell of it. My goal is to take as little as possible. Previous physicians have had me on a bazillion pills that were not even doing a damn thing!
I am continuing with the Verapamil ER 120 mg every night before bed. I have tolerated it well with no side effects. The only issue is I have been very tachycardic with my heartrate consistently between 100-150 bpm. I am thinking the calcium channel blocker is not controlling my blood pressure and pulse quite as well as the beta-blockers did, but it could also be the rise in anxiety.
For the anxiety I have been taking Xanax as needed. I used to take it almost every night as it helped me sleep, but over the past 2 months or so, I stopped that habit because I was building a high tolerance to it. However, over the past week or two, I notice I am needing to take it during the day sometimes to calm me down and hopefully lower my heart rate. I am pretty sure I will need to go back on an SSRI next week. Which I am content in doing. I've been taking them since my twenties when I was experiencing panic attacks and agoraphobia. If only one also worked as a Migraine preventative. As far as I know, none of them do...but does anyone have any information on that?
So my current treatment plan has really dwindled on the pill popping front...and I am excited about that!
I am taking:
-Verapamil ER 120 mg QH
-Magnesium 400 mg daily
-Xanax 0.25-1mg as needed
-Baclofen 10mg as needed
-Norco 5/325mg as needed
-Phenergan 25mg as needed
Notice: only ONE daily med!!! Whoo hoo! The Mag I do take daily...but supplements don't count to me! I actually started the Mag again to help counteract the inability to go to the bathroom due to the the other meds...plus it is supposed to be good for me.
In regards to the Baclofen and Norco, my Neuro would like me to stop taking them as the Baclofen hasn't done much for me and the Norco causes rebound HA...but out of desperation I take them as rescue meds until my current prescriptions run out.
That is one topic I plan on bringing up next week...rescue meds! Essentially...I have none that she has prescribed for me...and I believe rescue medications are just as important as preventative medications when dealing with the unpredictableness (is that a word?) of Migraine and chronic headaches.
I just have no idea which ones I could take. Not only did I not tolerate Ergots and Triptans...this Neuro won't give them to me anyway because of the Basilar Migraine issue...they're contraindicted...but opiates sometimes make it worse, although if I take enough they just knock me out. I have never tried Tramadol, which I have heard some of you take...wonder if that would help, or maybe go back to Fioricet? Who knows! Now I do know those can also cause rebound HA, but I am VERY careful about that.
Any suggestions would be awesome....I love to hear what other people are taking to try and control their symptoms!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
What A Weekend
This weekend was spent babysitting my three nieces while my sister was on a mini-vaca in Puerto Rico. My friend, Kelly came along with her gang of four. That left two adults with nine children!
It worked out quite well. Kelly took care of the seven bigger kids the majority of the time, while I laid around and was on baby duty. I am used to juggling the care of multiple newborns at once...so it was a piece of cake with two. I have a routine at work with my babies. Change diapers, vital signs and meds, feed and back to sleep for 3 hours. I tried to get Kathryn and Sydney on that schedule and for the majority of the time it worked, except the sleeping part. They wanted to "play".
We took the whole group to the park down the street, watched the older ones kayak at the beach in Jen's backyard, set up sprinklers for the younger ones to run through and baked a ton of cupcakes.
I ate more this past weekend than I have in quite awhile. We ordered pizzas, sandwiches and made homeade macaroni and cheese with hotdogs. When I say we...of course I mean Kelly!
It was nice to get away and feel like I was living a little outside of the four walls of my bedroom. But...by the end of the 3 days...I was ready to go back to my little hole. I now remember what it was like to get up every couple of hours in the middle of the night for feeds...and didn't miss it.
I have to say though...since being home...I am missing those sweet faces, baby toes, ruffled little butts and their yummy smells. I could snuggle all day long with a baby sleeping soundly on my chest, burying their little faces in the crook of my neck. I am definately in my element that way.
On to some updates about my ever puzzling health. I continue to be on a leave of absence from work. While my employers and co-workers are nothing more than supportive, I have this tremendous amount of guilt and anxiety about not being there and letting everyone down. So I am a little stressed about that.
I went and saw yet another Neurologist yesterday...and loved her! Let's see if we can make it past the honeymoon phase and last long term.
She...and I kinda like the fact that she is a she...took the standard medical history and did the usual neuro exams. She said my symptoms reek of something neurological but it could be difficult to pinpoint the cause. She informed me that sometimes people have symptoms and never find out what is causing them, in which case we just treat the symptoms. That is kind of difficult for me to accept as I want an answer to this mystery. I had more labs drawn and next week I am having an EMG and nerve conduction test.
When I was discharged from the hospital a couple weeks ago, I was put on Amitriptyline. I had worked my doasge up to 50 mgs every night before bed, but I am not tolerating the side effects very well, so she decreased it to 25 mgs every night. I still woke up groggy this morning and feel like it is sucking the moisture out of every cell in my body. Hopefully it'll get better.
She is switching my beta-blocker to a calcium channel blocker. While this will not help with my daily chronic headaches or my numbness and tingling she is hoping it will keep my basilar migraine attacks at bay...keeping me from any more admissions to the hospital.
I explained to her what happened with the Botox and how Aetna has now denied coverage because of my hospitalization due to migraine and them assuming it is not effective. She offered to write a letter to Aetna explaining that I was not actually hospitalized for migraine but for other neurological symptoms. See why I loved her?!?
It also didn't hurt the fact that she called my previous doctor "sloppy" and was disappointed in the fact that he was prescribing medications specifically contraindicted in basilar migraine. I got some satisfaction out of her basically calling the guy an idiot.
What I liked the most about her was that she listened. She listened and believed every word I said. Rather than just put my symptoms in this neat little box of complications from basilar migraine she is investigating further causes. Migraine doesn't cause your legs to be numb, blue and cold. They look like they belong on a corpse.
For the next 2 days I am off to be pampered. My dear friends are cutting and coloring my hair and giving me a massage and pedicure to help me feel better. I love having close friends in the spa industry!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Basilar Migraine or Not?
Not sure where to begin with my latest update...or lack there of because I still have no answers.
Surprise...surprise.
On my birthday, July 27th, I noticed strange sensations in my left leg and foot. I shook it off and thought it was because I sat on my ass in a 10 hour computer class all day. It was numb and tingling...a "pins & needles" feeling.
Over the next week or so, I noticed it getting worse...and it was not going away. While it is very annoying...it was also beginning to be painful.
Eventually I started feeling the same sensations in my left arm and hand.
On August 17th, I had my second 10 hour computer class. I realized throughout the class that I could also not hold up my left arm or write. I am left handed, so not so good.
It just so happens that sitting next to me was my Neurologist's wife, our hospital Stroke Coordinator. While we chit chatted about our common history of Migraine, I told her the other symptoms I started experiencing. She sent her hubby a text, and he called me with an appointment for the following morning.
He was of the opinion that my left sided deficits were due to Basilar Migraine. While yes, my head hurt as it does every single day, I did not feel like it was Migraine. Although he explained it was still probably symptoms of one even though I didn't have any aura as I usually do. That kinda made sense so we came up with a plan.
He gave me 2 IM injections right then and there. One was DHE, the other, Reglan. I was to come back to his office every 8 hours for the next 2 days to have the injections. So...I did and I wanted to jump out the window. I felt like I was crawling out of my skin. I felt so jacked up and anxious. I now realize it was from the Reglan and I will never consent to getting that medication again! For a week I had full blown panic attacks.
Anyways...he also sent me for yet another brain MRI...which was normal as always.
Over the weekend he sent me home with a "rescue cocktail" of Lortab 10/500 mg and Ativan 2 mg to take every 8 hours.
They did nothing for my symtoms, as I knew they wouldn't.
On Monday the 22nd, he called me and asked if my arm and leg were magically cured...of course, they were not.
So...he had me direct admitted to the hospital for "Status Migrainosus". Which I still did not believe I was experiencing...but really, who am I?
So I VERY reluctantly went. All the while continuing to have severe panic attacks from the Reglan. I was quite literally a basket case!
I was given cocktails of IV Depakote, DHE, Phenergan and Benedryl for 3 days.
It sucked. The DHE made me so sick. But if there is any bonus...it was I couldn't eat or keep anything in my stomach and I lost 5 pounds! Gotta keep looking at the bright side, right!?!
I also had an MRA/MRV the 2nd day I was there. The results came back with a possible blockage in my left transverse sinus (back of brain). So the Neuro (oh and not mine because he failed to come see me at all while I was in the hospital, even though he admitted me) explained that I would need a CT Venogram to confirm and if there was a blockage, I would need a shunt placed.
I had the CT Venogram on my 3rd day there. The report came back as asymmetrical transverse sinus, probably congenital. I was told that could be normal and that a shunt was now not necessary.
I had had days of medications that were not helping my symptoms and my diagnostic tests appeared to be normal, so I requested to be discharged on Wednesday.
I continue to have left sided weakness and numbness and tingling. I continue to have my usual daily headaches and all the other wonderful accompanying symptoms I have been experiencing for years.
I have yet to have a follow up with my Neuro, and I have been calling everyday for a week, with no return phone calls.
I went and picked up all my medical records, discs of MRI's and reports of all my testing and sent it off to a specialist up north...so hopefully I will hear something next week!
I got a kick out of reading the progress notes written by the neuro who saw me in the hospital. He made numerous mention of decreased strength and sensation on my left side...yet no one seems to think it is abnormal for a 34 year old female to be experienceing this, nor is anyone coming up with a plan of care. Again it was said to be a characteristic of Basilar Migraine. Really? Since July 27th? Doubtful.
I went and saw my Rheumatologist so I could feel like I was being somewhat proactive. He, of course, said he believes it all to be neurological, however ran a bazillion labs, which I hopefully will get the results on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, I have been off work since August 9th and have no clue what I am supposed to do now.
Surprise...surprise.
On my birthday, July 27th, I noticed strange sensations in my left leg and foot. I shook it off and thought it was because I sat on my ass in a 10 hour computer class all day. It was numb and tingling...a "pins & needles" feeling.
Over the next week or so, I noticed it getting worse...and it was not going away. While it is very annoying...it was also beginning to be painful.
Eventually I started feeling the same sensations in my left arm and hand.
On August 17th, I had my second 10 hour computer class. I realized throughout the class that I could also not hold up my left arm or write. I am left handed, so not so good.
It just so happens that sitting next to me was my Neurologist's wife, our hospital Stroke Coordinator. While we chit chatted about our common history of Migraine, I told her the other symptoms I started experiencing. She sent her hubby a text, and he called me with an appointment for the following morning.
He was of the opinion that my left sided deficits were due to Basilar Migraine. While yes, my head hurt as it does every single day, I did not feel like it was Migraine. Although he explained it was still probably symptoms of one even though I didn't have any aura as I usually do. That kinda made sense so we came up with a plan.
He gave me 2 IM injections right then and there. One was DHE, the other, Reglan. I was to come back to his office every 8 hours for the next 2 days to have the injections. So...I did and I wanted to jump out the window. I felt like I was crawling out of my skin. I felt so jacked up and anxious. I now realize it was from the Reglan and I will never consent to getting that medication again! For a week I had full blown panic attacks.
Anyways...he also sent me for yet another brain MRI...which was normal as always.
Over the weekend he sent me home with a "rescue cocktail" of Lortab 10/500 mg and Ativan 2 mg to take every 8 hours.
They did nothing for my symtoms, as I knew they wouldn't.
On Monday the 22nd, he called me and asked if my arm and leg were magically cured...of course, they were not.
So...he had me direct admitted to the hospital for "Status Migrainosus". Which I still did not believe I was experiencing...but really, who am I?
So I VERY reluctantly went. All the while continuing to have severe panic attacks from the Reglan. I was quite literally a basket case!
I was given cocktails of IV Depakote, DHE, Phenergan and Benedryl for 3 days.
It sucked. The DHE made me so sick. But if there is any bonus...it was I couldn't eat or keep anything in my stomach and I lost 5 pounds! Gotta keep looking at the bright side, right!?!
I also had an MRA/MRV the 2nd day I was there. The results came back with a possible blockage in my left transverse sinus (back of brain). So the Neuro (oh and not mine because he failed to come see me at all while I was in the hospital, even though he admitted me) explained that I would need a CT Venogram to confirm and if there was a blockage, I would need a shunt placed.
I had the CT Venogram on my 3rd day there. The report came back as asymmetrical transverse sinus, probably congenital. I was told that could be normal and that a shunt was now not necessary.
I had had days of medications that were not helping my symptoms and my diagnostic tests appeared to be normal, so I requested to be discharged on Wednesday.
I continue to have left sided weakness and numbness and tingling. I continue to have my usual daily headaches and all the other wonderful accompanying symptoms I have been experiencing for years.
I have yet to have a follow up with my Neuro, and I have been calling everyday for a week, with no return phone calls.
I went and picked up all my medical records, discs of MRI's and reports of all my testing and sent it off to a specialist up north...so hopefully I will hear something next week!
I got a kick out of reading the progress notes written by the neuro who saw me in the hospital. He made numerous mention of decreased strength and sensation on my left side...yet no one seems to think it is abnormal for a 34 year old female to be experienceing this, nor is anyone coming up with a plan of care. Again it was said to be a characteristic of Basilar Migraine. Really? Since July 27th? Doubtful.
I went and saw my Rheumatologist so I could feel like I was being somewhat proactive. He, of course, said he believes it all to be neurological, however ran a bazillion labs, which I hopefully will get the results on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, I have been off work since August 9th and have no clue what I am supposed to do now.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Me from A to Z
A- Age: 34
B- Bed size: Queen
C- Chore you hate: Vacuuming
D- Dogs: Two Maltese, Milo & Maisy
E- Essential start to your day: Coffee and Meds
F- Favorite color: Pink
G- Gold or silver: Silver
H- Height: 5' 9.5"
I- Instruments I play: None, although I wish I knew how to play piano.
.
J- Job Title: Registered Nurse
K- Kids: Two awesome boys, Brendan (12) and Zachary (8).
L- Live: In Florida
M- Maiden name: Salley
N- Nicknames: Jess, Jessie
O- Overnight hospital stays: Yes...many, unfortunately.
P- Pet peeve: Nail biting...Zachary and Jesse both bite their nails and it drives me nuts!
Q- Quote: "One day at a time". Not exactly insightful but it's how I live my life. That and "Medicated and Motivated!"
R- Righty or lefty: Lefty
S- Siblings: Two sisters, Jen and Jackie, and one brother, Tim.
U- University or college attended: Florida College of Natural Health (Esthetician) and South College of Florida (Registered Nurse).
V- Vegetables you dislike: Cucumbers
W- What makes you run late: Oversleeping and Kids
X- X-rays you’ve had: Too many to count, but lots.
Y- Yummy food: Sushi and Italian
Z- Zoo animal favorite: Monkeys
*************
I got this idea over at The Sassy Lime ...I would love for others to play along, so if you do, make sure to leave me a comment with a link to your blog so I can read your answers!!!
Hope you are all having a fantastic weekend. Mine's been rough and I have alot to tell, but cannot muster the strength to do so today! Fill ya all in later!
Love, Jess
P.S....See that message on my shirt..."Hot Mess"...Yup...that's me!
B- Bed size: Queen
C- Chore you hate: Vacuuming
D- Dogs: Two Maltese, Milo & Maisy
E- Essential start to your day: Coffee and Meds
F- Favorite color: Pink
G- Gold or silver: Silver
H- Height: 5' 9.5"
I- Instruments I play: None, although I wish I knew how to play piano.
.
J- Job Title: Registered Nurse
K- Kids: Two awesome boys, Brendan (12) and Zachary (8).
L- Live: In Florida
M- Maiden name: Salley
N- Nicknames: Jess, Jessie
O- Overnight hospital stays: Yes...many, unfortunately.
P- Pet peeve: Nail biting...Zachary and Jesse both bite their nails and it drives me nuts!
Q- Quote: "One day at a time". Not exactly insightful but it's how I live my life. That and "Medicated and Motivated!"
R- Righty or lefty: Lefty
S- Siblings: Two sisters, Jen and Jackie, and one brother, Tim.
U- University or college attended: Florida College of Natural Health (Esthetician) and South College of Florida (Registered Nurse).
V- Vegetables you dislike: Cucumbers
W- What makes you run late: Oversleeping and Kids
X- X-rays you’ve had: Too many to count, but lots.
Y- Yummy food: Sushi and Italian
Z- Zoo animal favorite: Monkeys
*************
I got this idea over at The Sassy Lime ...I would love for others to play along, so if you do, make sure to leave me a comment with a link to your blog so I can read your answers!!!
Hope you are all having a fantastic weekend. Mine's been rough and I have alot to tell, but cannot muster the strength to do so today! Fill ya all in later!
Love, Jess
P.S....See that message on my shirt..."Hot Mess"...Yup...that's me!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Perfect Babies
One of my oldest and closest friends, Kelly, moved back home this week with her precious, newest additions. This is Kathryn and Sydney. I was dying to get my hands on them and take some pictures. Being babies, they did not cooperate as well as I would of liked, but I still got some great shots.
There is nothing I love more than tiny, yummy newborn babies. They are so soft and smell so sweet. Technically, Kathryn and Sydney are not newborn though. They were born premature, weighing 4 lbs each. Now they are about 7 weeks old, weighing 7 lbs each.
Perfect itty, bitty baby toes are my absolute favorite. That, and teeny tiny baby butts! Nothing cuter! I am so greatful to have my friend and her family home. Kelly is my friend I wrote about in a previous post about my panic attacks and agoraphobia. She isn't my friend, she is another sister.
I also took some amazing photos of her two little boys as well...which I will post later. They are so handsome and just as sweet.
On a different note...I go for my MRI in an hour and a half. Which really means I should be in the shower, but I just had to post some of my new pictures!
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