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Medical Forum / Diseases and Disorders / Arthritis / August 2007

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She's baaack!  Well, sort of.....

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Donna G. - 24 Aug 2007 07:06 GMT
I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.  

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all.   Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention.   Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion.   They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections.   Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
Squirrely - 24 Aug 2007 08:19 GMT
Donna,

prayers are still coming that way. It sounds like you have been thru such an
ordeal. I hope you heal quickly and this time no more occurances. Love you
sweetie.

Signature

Love and Hugs to all
Jo the squirrely one


I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all. Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention. Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion. They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections. Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
DeeTee and Bob Taggart - 24 Aug 2007 10:38 GMT
Welcome home, sweetie. Now try to stay out of the hospital and still
maintain breathing. We love you!

DeeTee

I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all. Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention. Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion. They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections. Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
Harvey R. Stone - 24 Aug 2007 13:30 GMT
Hi Donna,,,   Please forgive me but I can not remember what DMARD you are
taking???   With all that is going on respowise,,, it could be over kill on
your system.   Gamaglob,,LOL,,, is hard on your kidneys or was for a good
friend of mine but when you gotta have it,,, you know.   You are loved and
missed.   Rest up now and cool showers are good for a person.
Harv

I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all. Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention. Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion. They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections. Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
Donna G. - 24 Aug 2007 15:20 GMT
Hi Harv,

I am on mtx, imuran, and rituxan.  Yes, these are hard on the immune
system, but what is necessary to control the RA, so what's a person to
do.   That is why we did the rheum consult while I was in the hospital,
to see if we could change anything, but their rheumatologists there felt
that the program I was on should not be changed in any way due to the
severity of my RA and the organs it has already attacked.  

Unfortunately, that coupled with the low immunoglobulins/gamma
globulins, that are lowering my immune system to bad levels, we need to
figure out how to deal with this all.  But, we also need to wait for the
rest of the blood work to come back to see if there are any other
auto-immune diseases going on with the RA.  They are suspecting lupus,
but I am hoping they are wrong.  You all know the drill.

In any case, far too exhausted at this point to even worry about it
much!

LOL........yep, you are right, cool showers are good and about the only
thing keeping me going at this point through all of this ungodly heat
and humidity!!!   Think I'm just going to move my pillow into the
bathtub and leave the water running on cool and sleep there!  Can we say
beached whale?  LOLOLOL!!!!

Thanks, Harv, and thanks all of you for the well wishes and prayers,
they do mean so much!!!

Hugs to all!!!
.
.
.
.

Donna
.
.
.
.
1.   ANGELS EXIST, but some times, since they don't all have wings, we
call them FRIENDS......

2.    J.K.M.A.
jofirey - 24 Aug 2007 17:07 GMT
> In any case, far too exhausted at this point to even worry about it
> much!
[quoted text clipped - 4 lines]
> bathtub and leave the water running on cool and sleep there!  Can we say
> beached whale?  LOLOLOL!!!!

Been there, done that.  Those inflatable bath pillows aren't half bad.

Sometimes at 3am when I hurt a bath is the only thing that helps.

Jo
Kelly - 24 Aug 2007 16:04 GMT
I will answer that for her Harvey.  She is taking rituxan and actually when
you figure she is 9 months or more since the last treatment it is pretty
good.  Ready for a new one though but until these infections are clear that
is toast.

Donna and I are partners in the rituxan route - having been through most of
the rest.  The joy of the med is you only need 2 infusions that last
anywhere from 6 months to a year or more once they work.  The dismay is that
the first treatment can take up to 6 months to work.  But the second
treatment kicks in right away and works for up to a year.  I am waiting for
the treatment to work and Donna is ready for the 2nd treatment.  Kind of
hard on the body because it lasts so long in the body.

Could be a cool drug.

Kelly

> Hi Donna,,,   Please forgive me but I can not remember what DMARD you are
> taking???   With all that is going on respowise,,, it could be over kill
[quoted text clipped - 108 lines]
>
> Love you all dear friends!!!
Harvey R. Stone - 25 Aug 2007 00:15 GMT
>I will answer that for her Harvey.  She is taking rituxan and actually when
>you figure she is 9 months or more since the last treatment it is pretty
[quoted text clipped - 12 lines]
>
> Kelly

Thank you Kelly,,,,,  I have some good news about myself.   The Arava has
kicked in and I can make up my own bed in the morning now and did a little
painting on my new pillars on the front porch too.   Life is good, hot,
humid, and worth living.  I have not had an Enbrel shot in a little over two
weeks.  I may take one today or tomorrow,,, don't want to push my luck.
Harv
Kelly - 25 Aug 2007 00:33 GMT
I am so glad Harvey - I remember when arava kicked in a bit for me - felt so
good.  Unfortunately it didn't work enough and I eventually had too serious
side effects.  I am so happy for you!  Don't push your luck with the enbrel
(that could be working too) and don't overdo it.  You know how that is (bg).

Glad for yu,
Kelly

>>I will answer that for her Harvey.  She is taking rituxan and actually
>>when you figure she is 9 months or more since the last treatment it is
[quoted text clipped - 20 lines]
> luck.
> Harv
Squirrely - 25 Aug 2007 01:31 GMT
Oh Harv,

I am doing the happy chair dance for you. I hope it continues to get better
and better for you.

Signature

Love and Hugs to all
Jo the squirrely one

>
> Thank you Kelly,,,,,  I have some good news about myself.   The Arava has
[quoted text clipped - 4 lines]
> luck.
> Harv
Diane - 25 Aug 2007 04:00 GMT
great to have you back, donna, and i hope this time you stay out of
the hospital and here with us. the group's not the same without you.

harv, that's wonderful news! please don't overdo it.

diane
Navy - 24 Aug 2007 15:14 GMT
We sure missed you.  I'm awfully glad you are back.  Do take care.

Signature

Navy
Take out the FISH to email me.


I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all. Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention. Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion. They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections. Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
johnie - 24 Aug 2007 19:48 GMT
> I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
> exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
> of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
> doing nothing!

That is the new motto for a few of us and we have to take it
seriously.
"Log Bumps United" Sorry you have had such a miserable month. This one
will be better cause we are going to lay around and rest up.

your desert bud,
johnie
d'huit - 25 Aug 2007 19:06 GMT
seeing "she's baaaack!" was like reading a delightful poem for me.  i'm
soooo glad to see you back, sweetie!  i'm also glad your doctors stay on top
of this stuff for you.  it's been such a rough road for you and i'm sooo
wanting it to smooth out for you, like yesterday.  you just keep being that
proverbial bump on a log, until you feel much better, sweetie.  in the
meantime, know that you are loved, cared about and prayed for.
(((((((((((((((((very gentle hugs)))))))))))))))

kate

I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all. Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention. Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion. They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections. Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
Carole - 25 Aug 2007 21:14 GMT
Glad to see you back too! I'm sure the cough syrup with codeine will
help you sleep. I know it knocked me out, LOL!! Take care of yourself!

BIG HUGS,
Carole
Cindy - 25 Aug 2007 21:59 GMT
Donna, I am glad that you are home...and I pray that  your lung doctor will
be able to keep up with the infections...You are between the proverbial rock
and hard place...Bless your heart...
Lots of hugs and prayers..
Cindy

I'm home. Actually, been home since later tuesday evening, but am so
exhausted and still coughing so much that I'm not getting a great amount
of sleep. So, am just like a big ole bump on a log and sitting around
doing nothing!

Bout all I have the energy for right now---lololol!

My lung doc is going to call in some cough syrup w/codiene for me so I
can at least get some sleep at night.

I am sooooooo glad to finally be home and in my own bed, I can't even
begin to tell you! LOL.....I know I don't have to tell you, as I know
you all totally understand.

This hospital stay was the result of 3-4 weeks of fighting ear and sinus
infections.
Was on my 4th round of antibiotics and then got super congested in my
chest and head, probably viral on top of all else that was going on, but
just couldn't breathe at all. Also started retaining a ton of fluids
and my legs swelled up like big balloons.
Got admitted for some IV steroids, IV antibiotics (zosyn - never heard
of this antibiotic before!), IV lasix to draw off some of the fluid.

Was feeling much better within 48 hours, but then my lung doctor decided
while I was there, to look into a few other things.

We did a number of heart tests to see if my heart was still functioning
ok or whether I was developing major pulmonary hypertension. Don't have
those results back yet, but hopefully things will be ok there.

We also did sinus and chest CT scan to see if there was anything that
warranted further intervention. Sinus CT showed right side of
sinuses completely blocked by mucous retention cyst. Will have to see
what ENT guy thinks about that. Chest CT showed no major changes, thank
goodness!!!

Also did a rheumatology consult to see if there was anything we could
tweak with the rheumatoid arthritis meds since they are so
immunosuppressive. The rheum consult that they wanted, turned out to be
a waste of time as far as I am concerned, although it will make my lung
doctor feel better that we at least got the second opinion. They
just said I was a very complicated case and they wouldn't change
anything about my regimen at all. They said the lung doctor is just
going to have to deal with the side effects of the immunosuppression and
the low gamma globulin levels, which of course are the constant
infections. Will have to be diligent about the infections when they
hit and try to get on top of them as soon as possible. Although, I try
to already do that now!

They drew tons and tons of bloodwork and found that my gamma globulin
levels are quite low, which would explain why I get so many infections
so easily and why they have become more and more difficult to clear up.
My IGg and IGm levels ( I think those are the right two) were much lower
than they should be. One of the levels should be over 60 and it was 32,
the other level should be around 700-800, and mine was like 340. They
also drew a number of labs that are looking to see if I might have lupus
or some other auto-immune type stuff going on as they thought some of my
symptoms seemed to indicate that. Will have to talk this all over with
the lung doctor when I follow up with him to see what we need to do
about this all, if there is anything that can be done!

Right now, just trying to clear a UTI and the resultant yeast infection,
from all of the antibiotics.

Hoping too, that this cough will go away soon as I am so sore from
coughing so much.

I know, whine, whine, whine!!!

I don't do well when sleep deprived and so the last several days have
been a real roller coaster emotionally. Just call me grumpy!!!  LOL!!!
Well, I think the chief resident that I kicked out of my room would
probably call me something else, but oh well.  Don't mess with me when I
am wired up on steroids and then sleep deprived for 4-5 days!!!
LOL....will share more on that later!

It is soooooo humid and hot here, I think I'm going to go get a cool
shower and then lay back down for a bit. This humidity really is killing
me! Uggggh, the cooler, less humid weather can't get here soon enough
for me!

We are in the midst of some major storms right now, so guess I will sign
off and catch up sometime later with all of you!!!

Hope everyone else is doing ok and staying safe with all of this nasty
weather sweeping through so many parts of the country!!!

Hugs & God bless!!!

Donna G
.
.
.
PS.......Oh, and Kate, I think you need to sever them ties with your ole
friend, Gladys the flying goodfairy!!!   You're getting way way too
familiar with those flying injuries ya know!!!   Hope your leg heals
quickly and that the pain is tolerable!

Johnie, my friend, what can I even say?  Enough already!!!  Your story
sounds horrible and I just cringe every time I think about it!  Please
take it easy and give that poor ole bod of yours time to heal up well!!!
Glad you're in your new home and have such wonderful scenery to gaze at
whilst recovering!!!

Love you all dear friends!!!
 
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