It has been an expensive last couple of months. But, I have good news.
The colonoscopy and endoscopy went well. The pre-procedure diet made me feel worse than doing the fasting and colon cleanse prep. I have a couple of polyps in my stomach and I had (past tense) a small one in my colon. All biopsies were negative. The stomach polyp is from the GERD medication.
Stomach empty test was interesting. It made me ill because I had to go an extra 9 hours without my medication. Good news is that my stomach empties normally.
Esophagram second time around had do with a pill test. That came out normal also.
Echocardiogram was normal and my pulmonary function test had me returning to the functioning I had last fall. Very good news. Failure to recover some function would have meant a major medicine change.
Labs have been great since I changed up my vitamins once again. Although, Endocrinologist suggested upping my iron intake a little bit more. I have felt even better since I have. (I take Vitamin Code Raw Iron- no constipation.)
I still have the motility test for my esophagus. That is forth coming in the near future.
With everything done, I have almost met my $4,000 out of pocket insurance limit. This has been an expensive year. Thankfully I do not need to repeat for quite a while on the digestive tests unless there is a problem to address. 10 years for the colonoscopy.
As for my regurgitation when I cough a lot….That has gotten better since the acid re-flux medication was adjusted. I have also adjusted how much I eat, when I eat and when I take my medication. Quite the balancing act to keep me going.
I have been continuing my morning yoga and twice a week work outs in the Wellness center at work.
Let me encourage you to continue on….
- Daily meditation on God’s words
- Daily exercise (at least 4 times a week at 20+ minutes, break a mild sweat)
- Daily mindful mediation. Be aware of yourself, your surroundings, those around you.
- Daily vitamins to supplement what you can not eat due to your conditions
- Enjoy time with your friends
- Ask questions, do your research on your conditions
- Remember that it is okay to cry and to laugh about your situation.
Some days I cough more reminding me how precious every breath of air is. Some days I am in pain more reminding how precious every move I make is. My goal is to make a lasting impression on those I touch in my circles of influence of strength. It is also my goal to understand when I need to ask for help when my strength is just not enough.
I hope you have rejoiced with me in this round of good news. May you have a wonderful day.
I don’t know about you, but I am looking forward to this holiday season.