If anyone has experienced colon cancer, or knows someone that did, I have a few questions.

1. What is the survival rate of patients with colon cancer?
2. What surgeries (if any) are possible with colon cancer?
3. If you go into remission can you lead a normal life after colon cancer?

Any info at all would be helpful.

I would love to help you Alty, but this one is out of my league.

My father had a tumor in his urinary bladder. He had to have it removed, the bladder too. He lived with the "bag" for years, and was part of a group of cancer survivors. There were more colon cancer survivors than anything else. It is not a death sentence by any means. They have come a long way with surgeries, and "attachments". You would be surprised how common colon cancer is. Millions of people have been diagnosed with it.

I know this is not much help, but it's my two cents.

And my father died of a heart attack 10 years after beating cancer.

My father had a tumor in his urinary bladder. He had to have it removed, the bladder too. He lived with the "bag" for years, and was part of a group of cancer survivors. There were more colon cancer survivors than anything else. It is not a death sentence by any means. They have come a long way with surgeries, and "attachments". You would be surprised how common colon cancer is. Millions of people have been diagnosed with it.

I know this is not much help, but it's my two cents.

And my father died of a heart attack 10 years after beating cancer.

Thanks JM. That makes me feel better.

I don't know if I could live with any "attachment" though. I have kids, I want to see them grow up, but I also want to be a big part of them growing up.

Yes, I'm asking for myself. No, it's not a positive diagnosis yet, but it's a very big possibility. I'll be going for an endoscopy sometime this week and I'm crossing my fingers and toes that it's just anemia and nothing more.

I would love to help you Alty, but this one is out of my league.

I'd rather be having a baby then going through this. ;)

Thanks JM. That makes me feel better.

I don't know if I could live with any "attachment" though. I have kids, I want to see them grow up, but I also want to be a big part of them growing up.

Yes, I'm asking for myself. No, it's not a positive diagnosis yet, but it's a very big possibility. I'll be going for an endoscopy sometime this week and I'm crossing my fingers and toes that it's just anemia and nothing more.

I know that you are scared. I am praying that everything will work out for you.

May God give you strength and peace.

I know that you are scared. I am praying that everything will work out for you.

May God give you strength and peace.

Well don't make me cry! ;)

Thank you JM. I am praying too. I'm terrified, not of death, but of dying before my kids are grown. They need me. I need them. I have to be here until they're adults, there's no other option.

I'm hoping that my doctor's assumptions are wrong and that the tests will come back negative.

I am severely anemic, but that's not something I'm very worried about. It's the cause of the anemia, possible colon cancer (because of many other symptoms) that scares the crap out of me.

Well don't make me cry! ;)

Thank you JM. I am praying too. I'm terrified, not of death, but of dying before my kids are grown. They need me. I need them. I have to be here until they're adults, there's no other option.

I'm hoping that my doctor's assumptions are wrong and that the tests will come back negative.

I am severely anemic, but that's not something I'm very worried about. It's the cause of the anemia, possible colon cancer (because of many other symptoms) that scares the crap out of me.

We always assume the worst, and it usually doesn't turn out that way. Even if it is colon cancer, there are so many options. You just be strong.

The prayer here alone will get you through anything. You'll be holding your grandbabies, thinking of this worry, and what a waste of time it was.

God bless you.

Oh, Alty, I've been in the panic mode you are in right now. I know just how utterly frightening it is. Rae was only 3 when I went through it.

What are the other symptoms hun?

It's in our family. My uncle died from it and several of us have had polyps removed successfully. Many of us are on a higher rotation for colonoscopies due to family history and polyp removal. I hope that it's just a matter of tissue removal in your case. Keep us posted.

Hello Alty,

Am sad to hear that and we all will pray for you, you are a great member of this site, wish you all the best and god be with you, Thanks.

John

Hi Alty,
Colon Cancer is one of the more curable cancers, especially if caught early. My mom didn't and she died from it, but that was over 20 years ago.

Oh, Alty, I've been in the panic mode you are in right now. I know just how utterly frightening it is. Rae was only 3 when I went through it.

What are the other symptoms hun?

Rectal bleeding which I've had for a long time but it's gotten worse in the last few month. TMI? Sorry everyone.

Rectal bleeding which I've had for a long time but it's gotten worse in the last few month. TMI? Sorry everyone.
Dark or bright red? Family history?

Altenweg agrees: I'm terrified right now but I'm trying not to burn any bridges.

Sweetheart, you know where to find me if you need me. I'll be here for you no matter what. You know that.

Dark or bright red? Family history?

Bright red and plenty of it. I swear sometimes it looks like someone was murdered after I use the facilities.

There is family history of cancer, my great grandmother had and died from colon cancer, but no one else had that particular type of cancer.

I have suffered from anemia before but not to this extreme. The doctor also tested for diabetes but the nurse that called couldn't tell me those results over the phone. She only said that I'm severely anemic and the Doctor wanted to see me yesterday, in other words, come asap. She also said he'd be sending me for an endoscopy (am I spelling that right) to rule out colon cancer and that there are other test results he wants to discuss with me and other tests he wants done.

I am kicking myself right now for letting this go on as long as I did. It all started when I miscarried and it's gotten worse and worse over the years. I just hope it's something small, take a pill every day and feel better sort of thing.

I'm really scared right now.

Oh, honey, I am so sorry you are going through this. To be brutally honest, yes you should have had this checked out years ago. But hindsight is 20/20, you can't go back and change that now.

Yes, you spelled endoscopy right. I wish I could tell you more, but all I can do is support you and virtually hold your hand through all of this. If you email me your address (you already have my email address), I will send you an angel to wear on your shoulder through all of this. My angel got me through my cancer. I now collect them.

Sweetheart, you know where to find me if you need me. I'll be here for you no matter what. You know that.

Now I'm crying.

I do know that. You all have been such a support for me since I joined. You can't know how much you all mean to me. I don't know what I'd do without you, I never want to find out.

Right now I just want to be healthy. I've never been this worried in my life. Both my parents died of cancer. The C word is terrifying to me, no matter how curable everyone says it is, it's cancer. My dad had a cancer that had it been caught early would have been very treatable. He died 12 days after being diagnosed.

My mother started with breast cancer, went into remission. On her five year mark, when she should have been free and clear, she found out that the monster was back and it had spread rapidly.

I ignored my symptoms, I just hoped that everything was okay. What if I left it too long? What if my fear of hearing that it's cancer seals my fate?

This is driving me crazy. I just want to know and I want to deal with whatever it is.

I can tell you one thing, if it is cancer, I will fight with everything I have inside me. Sadly I don't have a lot right now. I'm so tired all the time, I'm in pain all the time, I have nothing left in me.

I know I'll probably die of cancer one day, just don't let it be any day soon.

I want to see my kids grow up. That's all I ask.

Oh, honey, I am so sorry you are going through this. To be brutally honest, yes you should have had this checked out years ago. But hindsight is 20/20, you can't go back and change that now.

Yes, you spelled endoscopy right. I wish I could tell you more, but all I can do is support you and virtually hold your hand through all of this. If you email me your address (you already have my email address), I will send you an angel to wear on your shoulder through all of this. My angel got me through my cancer. I now collect them.

Stop making me cry! ;)

Thank you so much J. Your virtual support means so much to me. I really hope this will all turn out to be something fixable, easily fixable. I collect angels too.

I have a little alcove in my house with my parents ashes (yes, my parents ashes are in an urn, in my house). When my mom found out she was sick I bought her an angel. Whenever she was in hospital she took it with her. She said it got her through. When my dad was diagnosed I bought him an angel too, I brought it to the hospital when he was in coma. It sat on the table next to his bed until the day he died, now it's in the alcove.

I'm hoping that my two guardian angels are watching out for me right now. They better get to work, I need some help right now. Mom, Dad, are you hearing this? If you have the ear of the big guy, talk to him! :)

Sweetie, we are all full of "what if's" There is nothing that can be done now aside from finding out the answer to the question and going from there. There have been so many advances since you lost your father, since I had my cancer.

I know you are tired, I know you are worried... DAMN the distance! I would give anything to get in my car and come to be with you through this.

I always had a fear of cancer. I got cancer. It made me a stronger person. No matter the outcome, you will get through this.

Sweetie, we are all full of "what if's" There is nothing that can be done now aside from finding out the answer to the question and going from there. There have been so many advances since you lost your father, since I had my cancer.

I know you are tired, I know you are worried....DAMN the distance!! I would give anything to get in my car and come to be with you through this.

I always had a fear of cancer. I got cancer. It made me a stronger person. No matter the outcome, you will get through this.

Seriously J, I'm out of tissue!

I am going to try to stay positive. I'm really trying, really I am. I keep telling myself not to worry until there's something definite to worry about, but the human mind is mean. I can't stop thinking the worst.

If you lived within driving distance we'd be going for a beer right now. I could use a distraction. Maybe the male strippers? ;)

I really want to thank all of you for the support. I also really hope that I'll be writing on this thread that I'm just anemic and nothing more.

Seriously J, I'm out of tissue!

I am going to try to stay positive. I'm really trying, really I am. I keep telling myself not to worry until there's something definite to worry about, but the human mind is mean. I can't stop thinking the worst.

If you lived within driving distance we'd be going for a beer right now. I could use a distraction. Maybe the male strippers? ;)

I really want to thank all of you for the support. I also really hope that I'll be writing on this thread that I'm just anemic and nothing more.

Girlfriend, if it makes any difference, the day I got my diagnosis I went to the doctor during lunch hour from the law office. Was given the bad news and went back to work. :eek: Talk about denial! But I knew the truth even before the biopsy.

I truly believe in intuition. Now you have to suck up your guts, face the music and make two plans. One plan for anemia, the other for cancer. If it is the latter, you have to involve your kids.

For example... I took Rae with me to every doctor's appointment, she was only 3-5 during my treatment, but now she is 16 and faithfully does monthly breast exams. If you get my point.

Girlfriend, if it makes any difference, the day I got my diagnosis I went to the doctor during lunch hour from the law office. Was given the bad news and went back to work. :eek: Talk about denial! But I knew the truth even before the biopsy.

I truly believe in intuition. Now you have to suck up your guts, face the music and make two plans. One plan for anemia, the other for cancer. If it is the latter, you have to involve your kids.

For example...I took Rae with me to each and every doctor's appointment, she was only 3-5 during my treatment, but now she is 16 and faithfully does monthly breast exams. If you get my point.

I would never hide it from the kids, I couldn't. I'm really scared for Jared if it is cancer, he remembers both my parents, he was around for a lot of the bad times. To him the word "cancer" is a death sentence. He's old enough to know what death is. Heck, he's known about death for far too long.

If it is cancer then the whole family will be involved. I'll need their support, their love, their strength. I watched two people go through treatment, go through pain, feeling sick, losing hair, losing finger nails and toe nails, losing life. I will fight it if that's what I have to do. I'm stubborn as all get out, I won't let this beat me.

Still, I'm hoping it's just anemia, or diabetes which my doctor also tested for.

How sad is it to hope for diabetes? ;)

OH Alty I hope everything works out OK! You are definitely in my thoughts! I have nevr known anyone who had colon cancer, but my aunt just had a full historectomy from ovarian cancer, and they had to remove most of her colon as well.

OH Alty I hope everything works out ok!! You are definitly in my thoughts! I have nevr known anyone who had colon cancer, but my aunt just had a full historectomy from ovarian cancer, and they had to remove most of her colon as well.

Thanks Bella.

My mom had to have a hysterectomy too. I really think that's when her troubles began. After that was when she took hormone replacement pills and her doctor is convinced that's how the breast cancer started.

Why did I just tell you that? I really don't know.

Thanks for coming to lend a shoulder. :)

Oh Gawd!

No problem! I'll lend a shouolder when ever you need it! Want to beer?

Oh Gawd!

No problem! I'll lend a shouolder when ever ya need it! Wanna beer?

You should know me well enough by now to know the answer to that. :p

OK well here's 3 then

Dang Alty , I'm lost for words :(

I really hope it all works out positively for you , sorry I can't help with any info etc. but this is really out of my league.

All I can give you is my support and love , chin up and I'll be here if you need anything at all that I can provide.

Dang Alty , I'm lost for words :(

I really hope it all works out positively for you , sorry i can't help with any info etc. but this is really outta my league.

All I can give you is my support and love , chin up and I'll be here if you need anything at all that I can provide.

You're at a loss for words? My work here is done. ;)

Thanks M. Your love and support mean more then any words. I am so happy to be a part of this online family. I can't tell you all how much you mean to me.

I could use a good joke right now, or a funny poster. Just saying. :)

THis pic makes me laugh.

THis pic makes me laugh.

I said funny, not scary! :eek:

I could use a good joke right now,

When Rae was 4 she asked me what was big, pink and on the bottom of the ocean. I told her I didn't know... She said, and I quote... "Silly Mom...It's Moby's D1ck!"

This one too

You're at a loss for words? My work here is done. ;)

Thanks M. Your love and support mean more then any words. I am so happy to be a part of this online family. I can't tell you all how much you mean to me.

I could use a good joke right now, or a funny poster. Just sayin. :)

Don't feel like funny at the moment :(

How about this... considering what's going on at PS I think it's quite appropriate :cool:















29703

When Rae was 4 she asked me what was big, pink and on the bottom of the ocean. I told her I didn't know....She said, and I quote..."Silly Mom...It's Moby's D1ck!"

LMAO! OMG! I love it.

A few years ago Sydney asked me how babies are made. I figured she was too young for the whole story so I tried to kiddify it. I told her that daddy has seeds and mommy has eggs and when they get together at the right time, they make a baby.

The next person that came to our house got the "I know how babies are made" speech. It went something like this "Daddy has seeds and mommy has a basket of cracked eggs".

I may need help with the "talk". ;)

Don't feel like funny at the moment :(

How bout this...................considering what's going on at PS I think it's quite appropriate :cool:















29703

Very appropriate. I had to spread the rep, story of my life.

PS is nuts. In light of what's going on in my life right now, I may just loose it and go full blown Alty on them. I miss full blown Alty, she's been in hiding.

OMG! Am I unstable? :confused:

LMAO! OMG! I love it.

A few years ago Sydney asked me how babies are made. I figured she was too young for the whole story so I tried to kiddify it. I told her that daddy has seeds and mommy has eggs and when they get together at the right time, they make a baby.

The next person that came to our house got the "I know how babies are made" speech. It went something like this "Daddy has seeds and mommy has a basket of cracked eggs".

I may need help with the "talk". ;)

We had that talk too. Daddy has seeds and mommy has the "dirt." We planted bean seeds to watch them grow.

We had that talk too. Daddy has seeds and mommy has the "dirt." We planted bean seeds to watch them grow.

I should have gone with dirt, that's much better then a basket of cracked eggs. ;)

My father was diagnosed with colon cancer in 1988 and 4 feet of his colon was removed. He didn't require a bag and is now in his 80's. Since 1988 he has had annual checkups with never another sign of cancer.

I met a gentleman once who successfully beat colon cancer. Here's his story History: Hallelujah Acres (http://www.hacres.com/about/history) . Stay strong and hope for the best.

Alty. You won't know until the tests are done. I need to have a colonosopy done. I haven't done it yet. However, there are some other possibilities.

Bleeding ulcers. Mom had them. They are controlled. But she was hospitalized twice. No NAISD's. No seeds, especially small ones like tomatoe. It's a combination of diverticulitus, drug side effects and seeds.

Well, your anemic because you losing too much blood and iron reserves in the process. Females in reproductive years need more iron anyway.

We have a neighbor who is going through rectal cancer right now. She also didn't heed the warning signs. It's been a grueling process for her, but things look optomistic. She underwent chemo at home and then surgery with a double colostomy bag. She is now going through radiation. The docs are optimistic. Yep, she has some extreme positive outlook because her daughter was going to have a baby and she definitely wanted to be around for that one.

Statistics say that colorectal cancer is pretty common. Liver and stomach doesn't have very good mortality. You can live without a colon. It's just majorly inconvienient.

Think "No negative waves". Hindsight is 20/20.

Besides, what would we do without you?

Like KISS said, there's too many possibilities for you to fixate on this one. You notice several people have said how common this is, so naturally the Doctor thought of testing for it.

We're all here for you, regardless. You've got emails and phone #s and all our psychic powers to help you through this.

Big Bear Hugs Alty

I'm so sorry that I can't be more helpful or be there to give you a hug in person

I really hope that its not as bad as it sounds,
You know you can email me if or whenever you want, for whatever reason :)

I am sorry I missed this last night, but I'm here for you now!

You,of all the people on this site,will have SOOOOO much support from sooo many people, you have always been the good sign on AMHD.

I am hoping this is something more simple and treatable than any cancer.

Maybe going back to better times might help, this is from November 2008. https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/other-member-discussions/can-worms-260700.html

To look back and remember the times we all had with little to worry about(at that time anyway)

Alty,I am praying for you dear.

I lost my brother to colon cancer.

He was misdiagnosed for a rather lengthy period as having internal hemorrhoids.

His colon was eventually removed ,he had chemo and he lived for two years with a colostomy bag(he was very active as a teacher and a hockey coach) and it did not adversely affect his level of participation in life.

His cancer returned and he had chemo for over a year to no avail.However,that is only one story and there are many more that don't end that way.

I am hyperthyroid and I always have a low blood count as a result of my thyroid.
I think its important to get an endocrinologist involved in your care for that reason.

The C word is NOT the death sentence it was even 10 years ago.The strides that are being made are amazing.

Arm yourself with knowledge and above all,keep the faith.
Sending lots of healing energy your way!

Alty,
Be strong & keep faith.
Until you get the tests and results you won't really know for sure,then you can start making plans for what to do next.

Big hugs!

.

I followed the link you posted in the Café Alty. I'm very sorry to hear that, but I'll keep hoping that it's not a cancer. It would be really hard for me to hear that another person I know, a friend of mine, has got cancer.

I really hope it's rather a diabetes, or anaemia, or even stress which causes haemorrhoids. Try having a general blood test, if it's not already done. For the time being, try having food that will go on smooth with your colon, food rich in fibre (veggies, cereals, fruits, etc).

And yes, the colon cancer doesn't have a high mortality rate like the others said. In most of the cases, you can remove the part affected and get a shorter colon, without it really affecting your body. This will require some time to heal, along with chemo to make sure no cancer cells spread in the mean time.

I don't want to be pessimist, but if it really is a cancer, it would be curable (that is you can remove the cancer and be fine) but make regular check ups. Being aware that your parent both had cancer, you should be careful. You should not be afraid of it, but it should be your aim to prevent it from happening. This is how I see it.

You will have my full support. I have been with someone with a case very similar, my dad, except that he had liver cancer and was really too late. I don't want it to happen to you too :( Be strong, you are in my prayers. God is not deaf and will hear our prayers.

Hugs to you Alty. :)

Alty, many friends have given you their prayers, experiences and good wishes I want to add mine too. I know that you are scared but you know also that you have more strength than you think presently. I understand your fears and worries anyone would have them.

As I have mentioned before when my son was in his early 20's he developed testicular cancer which is very dangerous and he is fine now after over 15 years. He gets a checkup once per year.

We have been friends beyond AMHD and we will always be so. If you would like to call me I am here always. I may not always have the words to say what is in my heart (like most guys) but you know that I care.

God bless you and I will pray that your test results come back negative to cancer. And should it, I pray that it is early and can be irradiated completely.

Hugs help I know you'll get tons of them. {{{{ HUGS}}}}

Stringer

For now, I would do some eating changes, if applicable, and they are: remove small seeds like grapes, tomatoes and cucumbers from your diet and avoid things like hot peppers. Avoid aspirin which will make you bleed easier.

Cheers.

Oh, KISS' post reminded me of something I forgot to say. I have a file on my computer about 'Medicial Chemistry of Anticancer Drugs'.

An edited quote from the book (I don't want to scare you with the scientific terms and I've italized the 'not necessary parts')
:

Several compounds with radical scavenging properties are being studied for cancer chemoprevention. However, it must be noted that, although many patients being treated for cancer use antioxidants in the hope of reducing the toxicity of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, mechanistic considerations suggest that antioxidants might reduce the effects of conventional cytotoxic therapies and a limited number of clinical studies have not found any benefit in these associations. The main antioxidants that are claimed to behave as chemoprotective agents are found in foodstuffs, especially of a vegetal origin, and are ascorbic acid, ergothioneine, green tea polyphenols, and lycopene.

Ergothioneine (not much info on here)
Ergothioneine is a component of white button mushrooms that is considered as an antioxidant with cancer chemopreventive properties.

Ascorbic acid
The antioxidant properties of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) are related to its ability to generate a stabilized radical at its C-3 position because of the operation of the captodative effect. This allows ascorbic acid to react with harmful, more reactive species and prevent their interaction with biomolecules. Ascorbic acid has been recommended for many years to prevent the appearance of gastrointestinal cancers, although a recent statistical study including more than 170,000 patients in risk of this type of cancer showed no evidence of benefit.

Green tea polyphenols
Green tea polyphenols are potent radical scavengers that are being extensively studied as chemopreventive agents. A Phase II clinical assay studied the modulation by these substances of the urinary excretion of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), an oxidative DNA damage biomarker. The results obtained suggest that chemoprevention with green tea polyphenols is effective in diminishing oxidative DNA damage.

Lycopene
Lycopene is an open-chain carotenoid found in several fruits, especially in tomatoes, which is accumulated in high concentrations in several tissues.It reacts with hydroxyl radicals giving a stabilized, highly delocalized species. Chemoprevention with lycopene has shown definite results in prostate cancer.

While scientists don't have concrete proofs that antioxidants really prevent, reduce or cure cancer, they have been widely used for those purposes. Sometimes, they worked, at other times, they didn't. Anyway, they never caused harm, so why not give them a try?

I just got back from my doctors appointment, I've never seen him this worried and he's been my doctor for 12 years. He's extremely concerned, apparently I'm critically anemic, had I left this even a few more days it could have been really bad.

Now he needs to find out why I'm anemic, he's sending me to specialists, he'll be calling me this afternoon, he's going to pull strings to get me in asap. He's talking about sending me to the hospital, he's making those calls too. He's put my on iron pills for now but wants to get to the bottom of this yesterday.

I don't know how much I'll be around here on AMHD. If I end up in the hospital I have no way to get on to AMHD. We don't have a laptop and can't afford one right now.

I'm still crossing my fingers that it's not cancer but my doctor is really concerned that it is. He's also concerned that I left this too long.

My body is falling apart. Why didn't I buy the extended warranty?

Thank you everyone for your well wishes.

Alty I hope everything works out okay for you!

I posted a really funny pic of a kid doing a face plant in the humor and comedy section It's titles Akward family photos, you kind of have to scroll down to see the pics!

You are in my thoughts and prayers .
Stay strong my friend and know that you have people all over the world praying for you and that is some powerful love working there!

Hmm, you could try getting some iron from your side too. Some green vegetables and lentils are the food I know are rich in iron.

Hang on Alty! :(

Thanks everyone. The doctor did recommend that on top of the iron supplement I eat iron rich foods. I'll get R to go shopping when he gets home.

I took a supplement already.

If I do end up going to the hospital then all the tests my doctor wants done will be done there. I just want to know what I'm dealing with here so I can fight it. :(

Hun, I am here for you. If you have to go in, make sure R keeps in touch with me through FB. I just wish we were closer.

Hun, I am here for you. If you have to go in, make sure R keeps in touch with me through FB. I just wish we were closer.

I'll tell R. :)

He's going to have his hands full. If I have to go in I have no idea what we're going to do about the kids. We can't afford for R to miss work and the kids have to go to school. I take care of all that. Heck, I take care of everything. I don't know how he'll handle it.

I guess I can ask my neighbors and friends for help. I'm hoping that if I have to go in I won't be in long. Crossing my fingers.

Doctor hasn't called yet, I know he's busy making arrangements for me.

The only time I've been to the hospital for something serious was when I miscarried. Even then, they did the D&C and I was out that same day.

I'm really scared everyone. I'm trying to stay positive but the look of worry on my doctors face, the fact that he kept saying that he's really worried about me, that scares me. He never worries!

Alty honey, no matter what happens it will all work out one way or another. I am a firm believer that things happen to us for a reason. Why don't you ship the kids to me for a while? Ya know, if they weren't in school I'd be happy to take them for the summer.

Alty honey, no matter what happens it will all work out one way or another. I am a firm believer that things happen to us for a reason. Why don't you ship the kids to me for a while? Ya know, if they weren't in school I'd be happy to take them for the summer.

I would ship them, they'd love it.

I'll figure something out, one thing I do have is great friends. It's going to be a bit of a shock for them because I haven't told anyone but my AMHD family about what's going on. I know that I just have to make a few phone calls and R will have pots of food brought over while I'm gone, the kids will be taken everywhere, go for sleep overs, they'll be taken care of.

I have no idea how long I'll be at the hospital if I have to go. I just hope I get to leave.

Alty honey, let's take it one step at a time okay? You haven't been given a diagnosis yet, so don't put the cart before the horse.

Alty honey, let's take it one step at a time okay? You haven't been given a diagnosis yet, so don't put the cart before the horse.

It's in my nature to worry. I a worrier. Until I know what it is I'm assuming the worst. I'm really trying not to but it's hard.

Actually, I hope he does send me to the hospital, all the tests can be done there and hopefully I'll get an answer. If I have to wait for appointments with specialists it could take months. :(

And thankfully you live in Canada!

And thankfully you live in Canada!

LOL! Yes, the medical care is free but if I have to see specialist it could take months to get in, unless I'm willing (in this case able) to dish out $5000 to push ahead in line. I don't have $5000.

They won't let you fade away! :) My daughter had to see a specialist and there was a 6 month waiting list, unless I wanted to fork out all kinds of cash that I just don't have. I was considering selling my car. Luckily, (?? ) it got to a point where she was being hospitalized and there was nothing any of the local doctors could do, next thing you know I had an appointment 2 days later!

You are in my thoughts Alty, I pray for your speedy recovery healthy return!

I'm just now coming onto this thread, Alty.

Are you okay for now?

Thanks!

I'm just now coming onto this thread, Alty.

Are you okay for now?

Thanks!

Hi Clough.

Actually, no, I'm not okay. I'm very weak right now, due to my hemoglobin being so low. I'm also very worried and scared, that's not helping.

Right now I'm just waiting for instructions on when to go in for testing, where to go etc. I'm also hoping the iron pills work soon (I only started taking them so I'm expecting a lot from these little pills ;))

I'm trying to stay positive and not cross any bridges until I know for sure what's going on but it's always on my mind.

Thanks for checking in. :)

Hello Alty:

I just want you to know that you're very loved, and by a lotta people.

excon

Hello Alty:

I just want you to know that you're very loved, and by a lotta people.

excon

You know I could make this into something naughty, don't you? :p

I'd even wear a cat suit to whip you into shape, You should have been in the hospital yesterday. You've been naughty and deserve to be punished. Oh, I forgot, not being punished would be punishment.:D

"No negative waves"!

My doctor and I talked and he agreed to let me stay home, wait to see if the iron pills help. I'm under his watch, he's right on top of things. If my hemoglobin doesn't go up in a few days then I won't have a choice, I'll have to go to the hospital.

I have to say that I really don't look good in a hospital gown. Also, why the heck is the back open like that? Does everyone really need to see my a$$? Is it just for a cheap thrill or is there really a purpose for those gowns?

Hi Clough.

Actually, no, I'm not okay. I'm very weak right now, due to my hemoglobin being so low. I'm also very worried and scared, that's not helping.

Right now I'm just waiting for instructions on when to go in for testing, where to go etc. I'm also hoping the iron pills work soon (I only started taking them so I'm expecting a lot from these little pills ;))

I'm trying to stay positive and not cross any bridges until I know for sure what's going on but it's always on my mind.

Thanks for checking in. :)

Alty you may experience some nausea with you iron intake.

My doctor and I talked and he agreed to let me stay home, wait to see if the iron pills help. I'm under his watch, he's right on top of things. If my hemoglobin doesn't go up in a few days then I won't have a choice, I'll have to go to the hospital.

I have to say that I really don't look good in a hospital gown. Also, why the heck is the back open like that? Does everyone really need to see my a$$? Is it just for a cheap thrill or is there really a purpose for those gowns?

:):D:rolleyes:

I'm really concerned about you Alty. You know that hemoglobin is the oxygen carrying portion of the blood? Your hemoglobin is at a critical low. Your organs aren't getting the oxygen they need. I know you need to stay home, and sometimes staying home is better than being in the hospital. But this time... well... never mind.

I'm really concerned about you Alty. You know that hemoglobin is the oxygen carrying portion of the blood? Your hemoglobin is at a critical low. Your organs aren't getting the oxygen they need. I know you need to stay home, and sometimes staying home is better than being in the hospital. But this time... well... never mind.

I'm being watched very carefully J, really, my doctor is great. He won't let things slide, if my hemoglobin doesn't go up then he won't hesitate to drive me to the hospital himself. That's how he is.

He's the doctor that came to my moms house when she was too sick to come into his office. Unless the patient goes to the doctors office, the doctor doesn't get paid. So he drove to my moms house to check on her. She had only seen him once before that. That's the kind of doctor he is.

He's already called me today to see how I'm feeling. He said he'd call again at noon then at 4 then right after dinner and before bed.

I'm being watched very carefully J, really, my doctor is great. He won't let things slide, if my hemoglobin doesn't go up then he won't hesitate to drive me to the hospital himself. That's how he is.

He's the doctor that came to my moms house when she was too sick to come into his office. Unless the patient goes to the doctors office, the doctor doesn't get paid. So he drove to my moms house to check on her. She had only seen him once before that. That's the kind of doctor he is.

He's already called me today to see how I'm feeling. He said he'd call again at noon then at 4 then right after dinner and before bed.

Wow. This is a great Doc. Does he have Paypal? I can spare a couple of bucks US for gas.

Change is coming. Here is just one link for a modest hospital gown: EverythingHealth: Modest Hospital Gowns (http://healthwise-everythinghealth.blogspot.com/2010/02/modest-hospital-gowns.html)

Maybe that's next, the hospital nic knack store to have a "hospital fashions" department complete with fitting rooms.

Cats, his office isn't very far from my house, it's right by the kids school. He is great.

It took me most of my life to find such a great doctor. I've been with him for 12 years now. Sadly he's been talking about retiring. He's well past the age of retirement and actually made plans 3 years ago to give up his practice, he just couldn't do it.

I don't know what I'll do when he retires. I dread it.

Okay, I feel better now. Thanks for sharing your story about your doctor.

I just become very protective about people I care about.

Okay, I feel better now. Thanks for sharing your story about your doctor.

I just become very protective about people I care about.

I appreciate it J. I like that you're protective of me, makes me feel pretty good that you care that much. I hope you know that I feel the same way about you.

Okay, mushy moments not good today! I cannot cry right now, I don't have the energy. :o

I do have to run, have to get another blood test done. I find that odd. I have low hemoglobin, so don't I need all my blood right now, yet they take out 6 vials of it when they do their tests. :rolleyes:

I'll be back later. Thanks everyone for the support, it means more then I can say.

Just tell them to put the blood back when they are done using it.

Much love to you alty...

Only advice I can give medically is do your best to focus on what answers you can get... not what is possible... I know that's damn near impossible to do... not start working through the what if's...

I'm not close to anybody who has gone through this process of discovery concerning your specific situation...

I do have two people close to me who battled and beat back different cancers... one with a 6% SR and another with a less than 20% SR... even scary numbers can be beat... and its premature to even talk about SR's...

Thanks for being here KP. It means a lot to me. I promise to take one day at a time and try not to worry about tomorrow. Right now I just have to get my hemoglobin up and right quick.

Stupid question and remember that my mind is not functioning as well as usual so this may be obvious to everyone else but right now it's over my head. My medication says "Do not take with antacids, eggs, cereals, whole grain breads, dairy products, coffee or tea".

Do they mean that I shouldn't take the medication with these products or that I shouldn't consume these products at all the entire time I'm on the medication?

I'm telling you right now, if I have to give up my coffee I'm not going to be pleasant. ;)

Alty I am just coming here and reading this over. I am sorry for your situation and your scare. You're an amazing person and you will be fine. Whatever the doctor finds you will have support from all around the world. You will have our love and prayers. Just keep that chin up and your pretty smile as much as you can.

Okay, I am having a laugh about this.

I have a thyroid condition for which I take medication every day. The medication must be taken on an empty stomach, so three hours after the last meal and then you can't eat for another hour after that. So I take it in the morning, it's the best time. Well, the iron meds also have to be taken on an empty stomach but they can't be taken at the same time as the synthroid, I have to wait at least 2 hours after taking the synthroid to take the iron and then I can't eat for another hour after the iron pill. Here's the funny part, I'm supposed to be eating 3 meals a day high in iron. When? ;)

They just can't make it easy, can they?

:eek: :eek: :eek:

That doesn't evenmake sense! You would have to be all day to take your pills, but then stay up all night to eat 3 meals! :confused:

Have you heard back from the Doctor today?

Looks like your eating all three meals for dinner.
Seriously that's to crazy. That's one question for the doctor for sure.

Three meals all in one? Eeek!

I'm not that hungry. ;)

I had a blood test this morning, no change yet but I've only had two pills since yesterday so it could just be to soon.

Apparently I'm on a very high dose of iron so I should see some changes soon. :)

Oh, the iron pills can also cause nausea which I am feeling a bit of. So, eat while you're nauseous but don't eat with the pill and don't take the pill with this pill and wait a specified time but eat 3 meals with lots of iron without puking it up.

Did you get all that? ;)

I may cry.

I'm going to go lay down for a bit, my brain hurts.

Did the doctor advise you to take the medication before or after meals? :confused:

Have a good nap! <3

Did the doctor advise you to take the medication before or after meals? :confused:

Before which wouldn't be a problem if I was only on the iron pills but I also need to take my thyroid pills which is where the problem lies. Right now I can't eat all morning because of these two pills. I'm hungry! ;)

Okay, really, going to go lay down, feeling a bit yucky.

Talk to you all later.

Glad that you realise the importance of breakfasts now :)

Hm... you should ask your doctor for advise on your pills then.

Cya later! :)

Rest well Alty.

Easy answer Alty. Get the iron in injection form. IRON DEXTRAN - INJECTION (Dexferrum, Infed) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions. (http://www.medicinenet.com/iron_dextran-injection/article.htm)

When taking meds that don't like to be taken with dairy products and antacids, there is usually a window that's disallowed. Generally the calcium decrease absorption which is the case for some antibiotics.

Originally Posted by Clough
I'm just now coming onto this thread, Alty.

Are you okay for now?

Thanks!


Hi Clough.

Actually, no, I'm not okay. I'm very weak right now, due to my hemoglobin being so low. I'm also very worried and scared, that's not helping.

Right now I'm just waiting for instructions on when to go in for testing, where to go etc. I'm also hoping the iron pills work soon (I only started taking them so I'm expecting a lot from these little pills ;))

I'm trying to stay positive and not cross any bridges until I know for sure what's going on but it's always on my mind.

Thanks for checking in. :)

Thanks for letting me know, Alty! I'll be more than just "checking in".

You're in my thoughts as well as prayers!

It's always on your mind... I know all about that.

I'll be back later. You have lots of support here!

Love,

Clough

Alty, if the iron pills are making your tummy yucky you should be taking them at bedtime so that you can sleep through the side effects.

Alty, if the iron pills are making your tummy yucky you should be taking them at bedtime so that you can sleep through the side effects.

I would but I have to take two a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. I have to space them out.

The pharmacist said that I could eat a little something with the pill if I find that it's causing too much nausea, I'm going to give it a while before I resort to that, see if my body can get used to it.

I slept all afternoon, woke up and dragged my arse out of bed to pick up the kids. One of Sydney's friends came up to me while I was waiting and said "You should put on some makeup, you're really white". Wow! I didn't realize I was that pale. :(

Alty, can you take the thyroid medicine at night, so you take IT out of the dose/meal equation?


Over time, you'll get used to the iron.


You just behave and do what the doctor orders. Try these sites:Iron Rich Foods - List of Foods High in Iron (http://www.buzzle.com/articles/iron-rich-foods-list-of-foods-high-in-iron.html)
Anemia: When Low Iron Is the Cause -- familydoctor.org (http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/blood/009.html)
Foods High in Iron (http://www.oodora.com/health-and-food/nutrition/foods-high-in-iron.html)
High Iron Diet for Iron Deficiency Anemia (http://www.healthcastle.com/high-iron-diet.shtml)
Iron rich foods a list of foods high in iron content (http://www.weightlossforall.com/iron-rich-food.htm)
Iron Rich Foods,Foods High in Iron List (http://www.fatfreekitchen.com/nutrition/iron.html)
Foods Highest in Iron | High Iron Foods (http://www.myfit.ca/foods_highest_iron.asp)
Foods High in Iron (http://foodshighiniron.com/)

We're praying for you down here.

Thanks for the links JM.

I can't take the thyroid pill at night because I also have to take another iron pill at night. Also, with the thyroid pill I have to have an empty stomach. I can't eat for 3 hours before the pill or for 1 hour after.

I've figured it out. If I get up at 5am and take my thyroid pill then I can take my iron pill at 7am and eat by 9am. The only bad thing, I can't drink coffee 2 hours before or after the iron pill.

I may be a bit grumpy for a while. ;)

A nice long rest, hope you enjoyed it :)

Kids these days :D, hope it didn't get too you too much

a nice long rest, hope you enjoyed it :)

kids these days :D, hope it didnt get too you too much

It was actually an eye opener. I hadn't noticed. When I went home I took a good look in the mirror, I am pale. Very pale. The kid was right.

Rest is the one thing I'm doing a lot of. I could sleep all day, I'm so tired, drained, no energy right now. They say that sleep is the best medicine, I hope they're right. ;)

I hope so too :)

Although having the tablets there as back up isn't a bad thing :)

Alty:

Hope you sleep well.

Here is a link whch basically says bleeding is a symptom. There are a number of possibilities: Bleeding in the Digestive Tract (http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/bleeding/)

The only thing you know is you have bleeding and lost blood means less iron. From the above link, it also means:

Sudden, severe bleeding is called acute bleeding. If acute bleeding occurs, symptoms may include

* weakness
* dizziness or faintness
* shortness of breath
* crampy abdominal pain
* diarrhea
* paleness

Which are not good. Take care. Virtual hugs and kisses.

KISS

It was actually an eye opener. I hadn't noticed. When I went home I took a good look in the mirror, I am pale. Very pale. The kid was right.


At least she didn't ask why you don't sparkle. ;)

Alty, I hope they can quickly find the cause of the bleeding. What ever that cause is.

Keep your angels, a duck and a green apple candle handy and I know you will make it through this. You have a very large support system. Use us as needed.

You're in my thoughts and prayers. :)

I have you on my mind and hope all is well today!

Thinking of you today Alty.
Hope your resting well.

Well, another day another dose of iron. My tummy hates me right now.

I'm very tired, so much so that I didn't wake up today when my alarm went off. Hubby ended up waking me up, asked if I was okay. I really don't remember the alarm going off or hitting the snooze button. WTH?

In a half hour I can eat something and have a cup of coffee. I'm giddy. :)

Your tummy might hate you, but it'll thank you later ;)

Your tummy might hate you, but it'll thank you later ;)

True. I hope.

I plan on having a huge lunch. I'm actually hungry. I haven't really been hungry in a long time so this is good. :)

I agree with unky, at least you can look forward to that cup of coffee :)

i agree with unky, at least you can look forward to that cup of coffee :)

I'm seriously counting down the seconds.

I may have an addiction. ;)

So what's on the menu a sandwich or something special :)

so whats on the menu a sandwhich or something special :)

A spinach salad and tuna fish sandwich. Iron, iron, iron. :)

I hate iron! ;)

Oh, and coffee! Lots of coffee! :)

Iron iron iron :)
Good to hear your getting as much as possible.
Really worried about you :)

iron iron iron :)
good to hear your getting as much as possible.
really worried about you :)

Truth told, I'm worried about me too. Mostly because my doctor is worried about me and he doesn't worry.

I'm doing everything I can to get better. I'm also doing everything I can to find out what's going on, why this is happening.

Whatever it is, I'm a fighter and I'll fight it.

So, for now, iron, iron, iron and very thankful for all the support I have here. You all mean the world to me and the fact that you're all here to lend an ear, offer a shoulder, give a hug, that means more then I can say.

Eight minutes to coffee. :)

Well I hope you enjoyt hat cup of coffee! You deserve it! Are you feeling any better? Aside from being tired?

I know you're a fighter :) I'm routing for you :D

5 minutes, have you checked the kettle made sure its got enough water in :D

Hey, girl! How are you getting away with only taking iron tablets? When I was severely anemic last September, I ended up having a colonoscopy. Has your doctor mentioned that you should have one? You'll be able to see on a monitor a tiny camera zooming down your colon -- like a luge at the Olympics.

The coffee is brewing, the whole house smells like heaven.

Is it bad that I'm watching the coffee brew, eagerly awaiting it to be done? I need my coffee!

Bella, I'm not really feeling all that different but I'm okay. I have tummy problems from the iron intake but I'm living with it.

The coffee will help. :)

Hey, girl! How are you getting away with only taking iron tablets? When I was severely anemic last September, I ended up having a colonoscopy. Has your doctor mentioned that you should have one?

The tests are being booked as we speak. My doctor is pulling some strings, trying to get me in asap. The bad thing is, in Canada, getting an appointment with a specialist (which is the only way to get a colonoscopy) can take months, unless you're able to pay and get in right away. I can't afford to pay $5000 to get in right away, if I could, I would.

My doctor knows a lot of specialist, he'll pull strings if he can. I know he's doing his best to get me in right away.

I also need an endoscopy done, an ultrasound, a CT scan and he's talking about an MRI.

Lots of test coming up. Yippee! ;)

Altenweg agrees : It's being booked as we speak WG. It's not as easy as just walking into a clinic, you have to see a specialist and it can take a while to get in.
I too had to see a specialist first -- I didn't just walk into a clinic. I ended up in the hospital for it. We can compare notes later on the prep mixture you will drink before the procedure can be done.

Coffee? You're drinking coffee? Isn't that a no-no right now until they know what's going on?

I too had to see a specialist first -- I didn't just walk into a clinic. I ended up in the hospital for it. We can compare notes later on the prep mixture you will drink before the procedure can be done.

Going to the hospital is still an option. Actually, that's what my doctor really wants but I talked him into letting me stay home, for now anyway.

I'm getting blood work done twice a week. He's keeping a close eye on things. I do already notice that the joint pain I was experiencing isn't as bad today. I hope that means that the iron pills are working.

I've never had a colonoscopy before, not looking forward to it, but we have to find out what's causing the bleeding. Just crossing my fingers that it's something that can easily be taken care of.

Coffee? You're drinking coffee? Isn't that a no-no right now until they know what's going on?

It's a no-no when I take the iron pill and for 2 hours after. I'm still allowed to have some, maybe because I threatened to kill people if I couldn't. ;)

I have to cut down, only one cup a day, but going cold turkey is actually worse right now.

WG, I just threw up a little in my mouth. BLECH just thinking of that concotion you had to drink before hand. Uggg...

The colonoscopy is almost fun, painless. It's the liquid laxative that you take the evening before that keeps you at home and near the bathroom. No pain, but boooooring. The liquid stuff they gave me tasted like ten-year-old Gaterade. No bad, a little salty. Golytely (Go lightly), it was called. You're supposed to drink a gallon in about three hours. No other food or drink before or during or after. I preferred it straight, not on the rocks.

WG, I just threw up a little in my mouth. BLECH just thinking of that concotion you had to drink before hand. Uggg....

It better not be a drink filled with iron. That's all I'm saying. ;)

Lol, no if I remember correctly, it's a tar like substance. Delicious!

The colonoscopy is almost fun, painless. It's the liquid laxative that you take the evening before that keeps you at home and near the bathroom. No pain, but boooooring.

Fun? I don't know if I'll feel that way. I'm actually really worried about that test. I don't like the whole idea of it. Painless is good. I can do painless.

Liquid laxative? This is funny. So I'm on iron pills which make you constipated and then they're going to give me a liquid laxative? This should be interesting. ;)

lol, no if I remember correctly, it's a tar like substance. Delicious!

Is it sad that I'm not worried about the liquid? I just want to know what's going on. I'd drink dog pee at this point if it would help them find out.

Okay, now I just threw up a bit in my mouth. :(

Bad memories, about the stuff they give you, mixed it with orange juice to give it a bit of flavour, still absolutely horrible. :(

Okay guys, can we stop talking about the yucky liquid? I'm about to eat lunch. ;)

I mostly LIKED the liquid!!

Oh WG, that's just gross! What about the stuff they make you drink when you are pregnant and they are testing for gestational dibabetes? That orange liquid sugar concotion?

Oh WG, that's just gross!! What about the stuff they make you drink when you are pregnant and they are testing for gestational dibabetes? That orange liquid sugar concotion??
I missed out on that -- never had to drink something to be tested for that. My babies were born in 1970 and 1975, back in the dark ages before gestational diabetes testing.

Oh well lucky you (? ). Maybe J_9 can send you some? Lol.
It wasn't as bad as the tar like substance, but yours sounded different then mine. Mine was dark brown/green/black/blueish, and it almost had a chalky texture. I don't know, I've had to drink so many hospital concoctions, I get them mixed up :s

I hope they have Golytely in Canada. Alty would really like it, I bet.

Golytely?

It wasn't as bad as the tar like substance, but yours sounded different then mine.
My gastroenterologist is a nice Indian man who has been in practice for 40 years. He told me from the get-go that he does good work, and painless too. He was right! I sent him a Valentine.

Golytely?
Yup. Clear. Pronounced Go Lightly. Cute, huh?

That is cute. *sigh* lucky.
The procedure didn't hurt as bad as you would think. I know I was so stressed they offered to give me a muscle relaxer, or a seditive of some sort. I can't remember what the procedure is called but when they x-ray your stomach... it was the same liquid as that.

Colonoscopy? I watched a monitor near my head as a tiny camera zoomed down a pretty, pink tunnel (my colon).

I had a esophagogastroduodenoscopy too, before the colonoscopy.

Isn't this what old people do? Sit around and exchange stories about their various surgeries and medical procedures? Oooops, I'm an old person. Hmmmm, and true to form, seems like.

When asked weather id like to be put to sleep or watch : today on 'up your Arse' , I went with the 'please knock me out I do not want to remember this' option

Which end did they enter for the Colonoscopy? Sorry, wait that may be TMI!! But I had a few ENVASIVE procedures. I am pretty sure esophagogastroduodenoscopy was the one I was looking for. I am young in body, but old in soul.

bad memories, about the stuff they give you, mixed it with orange juice to give it a bit of flavour, still absolutely horrible. :(

I absolutely agree Bear, it tasted kind of oily to me and they wanted me to drink the whole gallon at one sitting... uggggh!

when asked weather id like to be put to sleep or watch : today on 'up your Arse' , i went with the 'please knock me out i do not want to remember this' option


Haha I watched them all. The only one I was nervous about was my ultra sound to be honest! All the other ones were very interesting!

Haha I watched them all. The only one I was nervous about was my ultra sound to be honest! All the other ones were very interesting!

When I broke my neck and had to have an ultrasound they had to do it three times. I kept swallowing and that caused movement... It's hard not to swallow when you are told not to... :(

Which end did they enter for the Colonoscopy? Sorry, wait that may be TMI!!! But I had a few ENVASIVE procedures. I am pretty sure esophagogastroduodenoscopy was the one I was looking for. I am young in body, but old in soul.
Both are "invasive." Colonoscopy is going inside from the bottom end, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy is going into the esophagus and stomach ("gastro") and duodenum from the mouth. For the esophagogastroduodenoscopy, the doctor sprayed something into my mouth and throat. Instant numbness!! (Don't tell the terrorists about this stuff!) and then I was knocked out before the cable with the camera was stuffed down my throat.

I think I will send a yummy sample of Golytely to all my friends here on AMHD -- maybe for Christmas?

Sorry I spelled that wrong! I am a terrible speller, and I am probably going to make you short circuit soon :D

I was not knocked out for the colonoscopy, but I was very heavily sedated. I had an ectopic pregnancy 3 years ago, and the first procedure was making a small incision in my belly button, and they put a camera in there. I was out for that one. I wish I could have seen it though. I do have a very cool looking scar from that one. It's a perfect X inside my belly button.

Alty I am sorry. I have been talking about me! This is your thread :(

You guys are making me laugh, I need it, so keep it coming.

I have an appointment, April 6 at the University hospital, Diagnostic Imaging. I know you probably all think that's a long way off but considering that most people have to wait up to 6 months to get into a specialist, my doctor did good. :)

So, step one, April 6, then go from there.

My husband is making jokes about the colonoscopy, little funnies like "When you said I'd feel pressure you didn't say it would be on the roof of my mouth, pull back!" or "I taste metal, I think that thing is in too far" and my favorite "Doctor, you know that in Arkansas we're now legally married". :p

circuit
You mean circuit? (hee hee)

I do have a very cool looking scar from that one. It's a perfect X inside my belly button.
Oh, man! Some people have all the luck! Could you post a pic of it?

You guys are making me laugh, I need it, so keep it coming.

I have an appointment, April 6 at the University hospital, Diagnostic Imaging. I know you probably all think that's a long way off but considering that most people have to wait up to 6 months to get into a specialist, my doctor did good. :)

So, step one, April 6, then go from there.

My husband is making jokes about the colonoscopy, little funnies like "When you said I'd feel pressure you didn't say it would be on the roof of my mouth, pull back!" or "I taste metal, I think that thing is in too far" and my favorite "Doctor, you know that in Arkansas we're now legally married". :p

Hubby is hilarious! :) Those were funneeeee !

If I get a picture of my colon I am definitely posting it here.

Just saying. :)

You mean circuit? (hee hee)

Oh, man! Some people have all the luck! Could you post a pic of it?


Oh dear Lord that would mean I would have to take a pic of my stomach! Ok maybe tonight after Ihave a few glasses of wine, and find a flattering position!

I am typing all of my responses in my email and doing the spell check there. I'm trying! :o

That would be the best pic ever Alty!

Please warn us before hand so those that want to can vacate the premesis, yep your husbands poking fun, that's good :D

My gastroenterologist's name sounds like Satan, so I have to tell you I was a bit scared at first, but he turned out to be a big sweetie. And I never had a bit of pain before, during, or after. His first words to me when we met were "I do painless work" -- and he does. His office manager (Barb) is a hoot! If you ever need a gastroenterology joke or a esophagogastroduodenoscopy one, she's your girl.

Before what, Alty's colon or my belly button?

That would be the best pic ever Alty!!

I'd put it in my photo album, next to the ultrasound pictures of my kids. ;)

please warn us before hand so those that want to can vacate the premesis, yep your husbands poking fun, thats good :D

No way, I'm sending it to you via email. You're not getting off that easy. ;)

Before what, Alty's colon or my belly button??
OMG! I never thought I'd have a choice! Your belly button first. After April 6, Alty can supply us with HER photos.

LOL. I'll see what I can do.

LOL. I'll see what I can do.

Me too. ;)

I've been reading up on the procedure, sounds like being knocked out is the way to go. I'm in.

LOL. I'll see what I can do.
Not to be sacrilegious or anything (and I'm a preacher's kid), that photo would fit right in with Lent.

Just to keep the mood light;

All the organs of the body were having a meeting, trying to decide who was the one in charge.

"I should be in charge," said the brain, "Because I run all the body's systems, so without me nothing would happen."

"I should be in charge," said the blood , "because I circulate oxygen all over so without me you'd all waste away."

"I should be in charge," said the stomach , "because I process food and give all of you energy."

"I should be in charge," said the legs, "because I carry the body wherever it needs to go."

"I should be in charge," said the eyes, "Because I allow the body to see where it goes."

"I should be in charge," said the rectum , "Because I'm responsible for waste removal."

All the other body parts laughed at the rectum and insulted him, so in a huff, he shut down tight.

Within a few days, the brain had a terrible headache, the stomach was bloated, the legs got wobbly, the eyes got watery, and the blood was toxic. They all decided that the rectum should be the boss .

The Moral of the story?
The a$$ hole is usually in charge!

No way, I'm sending it to you via email. You're not getting off that easy. ;)

Great now I'm going to be paranoid about getting pictures of Alty's Arse... and not the good kind :(

A very tired nurse walks into a bank,
Totally exhausted after an 18-hour shift.
Preparing to write a check,
She pulls a rectal thermometer out of her purse
And tries to write with it.
When she realizes her mistake,
She looks at the flabbergasted teller
And without missing a beat, she says:
"This isn't good, where did I leave my pen? '

great now im going to be paranoid about getting pictures of Alty's Arse...................and not the good kind :(

I'm going to start sending you tons of emails. You'll never know which one it will be until you open it.

Muwahahahahahahahaha! :p

:D how very evil of you

Now I'm going to be really paranoid :(

:D how very evil of you

now im going to be really paranoid :(

That would be the plan Bear. ;)

Okay, I'm going to go lay down for a bit. I'm exhausted.

Later all. Thanks for making me laugh. :)

Later Alty, have a good rest :)

Is the picture to the right of my original post freaking anyone else out?

Looks like you have a swollen jaw Alty.

Am I the only one who can't see the picture?

Looks like you have a swollen jaw Alty.

Is that what that is? I thought it was a picture of a colon, seeing as my post is about colon cancer.

Weird.

Am I the only one who can't see the picture?

To the right of my original post. Go to the top of the page. It's an x-ray of God knows what.

Can you see it?

No, I don't see it. Maybe I'm using the wrong skin.

I don't see it either... It says something about a smokers help line...

Oh and dream line shower doors.

Weird that I'm the only one that sees it. Let me see if I can copy it and post it here.

Okay, let's see if this works.

Here's the picture I see on this thread.

29746

weird it looks like a brain. Or an x ray of the back of the neck and head.

Am I the only one who can't see the picture?

I can't see it either, were probably using a different skin as J said :)

That makes sense. I don't know about this skin stuff. I just go with the flow and hope for the best. Kind of just smile and nod.

Okay, let's see if this works.

Here's the picture I see on this thread.

29746

You posting your rectum photo's already Alty :D

I've using the lightv2 (I think that's what it's called) skin.

That picture is only on the first page, or so it seems.

You posting your rectum photo's already Alty :D

Hahahaha, that was quick M :D

Looks like ovaries and fallopian tubes.

J will know.

Looks like ovaries and fallopian tubes.

J will know.

I can't see anything WG! Nothing, no pics, just words.

I can't see anything WG! Nothing, no pics, just words.
Not even the pic in Alty's post a bit above this post?

k, an off topic question, but how many greenies do you need before you get a second box?

k, an off topic question, but how many greenies do you need before you get a second box?

100

Then you get another one for each hundred after that , then once you've got your first light green box it's 200 greenies for each light green box after that.

Clear as mud really ;)

Awww yess only 9 more to go!! :D

You posting your rectum photo's already Alty :D

It looks like an alien to me. :eek:

If that's a good colon then I hope mine looks exactly like it. :)

Awww yess only 9 more to go!!! :D

You're at 911 posts. Is there an emergency? ;)

Lol... umm no.

lol... umm no.

Whew. You're at 914 now. Emergency over. ;)

Crisis averted. Whew. Thanks for bringing that to my attention. :p :D

crisis averted. whew. Thanks for bringing that to my attention. :p :D

That's what I'm here for, crisis prevention. ;)

Lol, well thank gawd someone is!

Ah while we are at it. The camera may have went in the nose not the mouth. Very strange feeling when the doc does that. My guess is you don't gag that way.

Anyway, this blond had surgery and she asked if she could resume a normal sex life. The doc said "sure" but was very confused because he never had that question asked after a tonsilectomy.

Ah while we are at it. The camera may have went in the nose not the mouth. Very strange feeling when the doc does that. My guess is you don't gag that way.
I had it done twice, in September and in December. In Chicago, the tube and camera go in via the mouth.

Anyway, this blond had surgery and she asked if she could resume a normal sex life. The doc said "sure" but was very confused because he never had that question asked after a tonsilectomy.
Ha, ha! Before my lumpectomy, I asked my doctor if I would be able to do back-flips after surgery and healing. He said yes. I said, "Wow! Cool! I can't now."

:D that was brilliant WG :D

Ha, ha! Before my lumpectomy, I asked my doctor if i would be able to do back-flips after surgery and healing. He said yes. I said, "Wow! Cool! I can't now."

Fantabulous! I LURVE it!

Love the joke. Can't spread the rep.

I did have a doc put a scope down my nose and look down my throat totally awake. Odd feeling.

I did have a doc put a scope down my nose and look down my throat totally awake. Odd feeling.
Hmmm, after thinking about it, I vaguely remember that being done to me in the ER, without anesthesia. Can't remember why, but it wasn't an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Yes, it was painless but a weird feeling.

There are some very brave people here! I think they would have to strap me to the gurney to do any sort of invasive type of examination!

Thanks!

There are some very brave people here! I think they would have to strap me to the gurney to do any sort of invasive type of examination!
Why does the "weaker sex'' handle these things so much better than you hunter-killer types?

Knock me out and you can do anything you want. That's my motto. ;)

Why does the "weaker sex'' handle these things so much better than you hunter-killer types?

Weaker, schmeaker. We have ways to alleviate pain, USE Them! The only time you shouldn't is when you can't get to the hospital. The stoics normally make themselves worse.

Weaker, schmeaker. We have ways to alleviate pain, USE Them! The only time you shouldn't is when you can't get to the hospital. The stoics normally make themselves worse.

Ill second this :)

ill second this :)

Third. :)

Third. :)

How you feelin', Hon?

How ya feelin', Hon?

Still pretty weak and tired but the doctor said it could take a few weeks for the iron pills to make a difference.

How are you sweetie? :)

Alty, did you read your FB? I had a dream about you.

Still pretty weak and tired but the doctor said it could take a few weeks for the iron pills to make a difference.

How are you sweetie? :)

Did you figure out a feeding schedule yet?

Alty, did you read your FB? I had a dream about you.

You did?

No, I haven't been on FB today. I'll go check it out in a bit.

Did you figure out a feeding schedule yet?

Yes, I wake up every 3 hours crying, I crave milk and have to use the bathroom.

Wait... no... that's a baby.:o

I have it under control... ish. ;)

Hey Alty. I'm overdue for a colonoscopy. Can I volunteer to be your roomie. We can have one together.

Hey Alty. I'm overdue for a colonoscopy. Can I volunteer to be your roomie. We can have one together.

Um, no offense KISS but I don't think having another person in the room will help. I don't even want the doctor in the room. :eek:

Hey, I agree with you. Just wanted to give you some encouragement. Failed. Oh well.

Hey, I agree with you. Just wanted to give you some encouragement. Failed. Oh well.

No worries. ;)

My husband asked if I wanted him to come along, my response "Remember what happened in the delivery room when Jared was being born? Do you remember almost passing out? Well I do. You're sitting in the waiting room buddy".

I'm an experienced colonoscopy victim, ooops, I mean patient. I could help you with details and answer questions you may have.

I'm an experienced colonoscopy victim, ooops, I mean patient. I could help you with details and answer questions you may have.

Yup, I've been there done that too!

Yup, I've been there done that too!!
We could start a club!

I like your choice of words: Victim

I believe the prep is worse than the procedure.

We could start a club!

You know in one hospital, I think it's in Texas, they have a party twice a year. People all come in to get their colonoscopies, then have treats afterward. It's really catching on in some areas.

I'm an experienced colonoscopy victim, ooops, I mean patient. I could help you with details and answer questions you may have.

I want the details, Wondergirl! Just the details! :D

Thanks!

I want the details, Wondergirl! Just the details!
I'd really have to call you. There are little songs and sound effects that go along with the details. I couldn't do them justice in a post or PM.

Originally Posted by Clough
I want the details, Wondergirl! Just the details!


I'd really have to call you. There are little songs and sound effects that go along with the details. I couldn't do them justice in a post or PM.

What are the little songs, please? I could probably get the jist of them if links or words to them were posted on this thread.

Thanks!

So?? Any news from my friend today?Iron pills doing any good?

Its kind of like this clough
YouTube - Evolution Best Part with BG Subs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMfkEa9TUHA)

How you feeling today Alty? Any news from the doctors?

its kinda like this clough
YouTube - Evolution Best Part with BG Subs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMfkEa9TUHA)

I'll have a listen to that, once I'm on a high speed computer.

Things are soooo slowwww hereeee...

What are the little songs, please? I could probably get the jist of them if links or words to them were posted on this thread.

Oh, no, Clough! These are very special little songs, and not in the public domain.

So??,Any news from my friend today?Iron pills doing any good?

I'm also wondering if there is a particular diet that you need to be on, Alty.

Like foods that you need to be eating?

I had a blood test today. My hemoglobin has gone up a teensie little bit but the doctor did say that it could take weeks before there's a significant change so he's not too worried.

I go back on March 30 for a complete physical and more blood work etc. then the big testing on April 6.

I'm still really run down but that's understandable. I've been taking it easy, taking my pills, eating a lot of iron rich foods and being a good girl. ;)

Thanks everyone for asking. :)

I'm still very worried about you Alty. Your blood is so low that you should have had a transfusion by now.

And we want to find out the source of the bleeding. All the iron in the world won't make that better.

I'm still very worried about you Alty. Your blood is so low that you should have had a transfusion by now.

That's still a possibility but the doctor is a bit worried that a blood transfusion could cause more complications, especially since we don't know why I'm so anemic.

And we want to find out the source of the bleeding. All the iron in the world won't make that better.

Exactly. Right now he's more concerned about getting my hemoglobin up and finding out why I'm bleeding.

The iron is just a temporary fix, he's hoping to get to the source.

With you hemoglobin being so low, you are not getting enough oxygen to your vital organs. This results in hypoxia and can result in a high level of carbon dioxide in your body. I don't know your doctor, and I know you trust him, but if it were me I would want to know WHY he's not being more aggressive with the treatment.

You are tired, pale, and probably cold a lot of the time. This is because you don't have enough OXYGEN in your body.

Has anyone done pulse oximitry? It's just a sensor that sits on your finger and measures oxygen levels,

See: Pulse oximetry - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulse_oximetry)

It probably is worthwhile doing.

I'm still concerned that you haven't had an emergency colonosopy.

With you hemoglobin being so low, you are not getting enough oxygen to your vital organs. This results in hypoxia and can result in a high level of carbon dioxide in your body. I don't know your doctor, and I know you trust him, but if it were me I would want to know WHY he's not being more aggressive with the treatment.

You are tired, pale, and probably cold a lot of the time. This is because you don't have enough OXYGEN in your body.
Been there, done that last September when I clocked in at 5.8 (higher than Alty is now) and almost immediately got three units of blood. Seems like a transfusion and a colonoscopy are needed, and this is an emergency situation.

Has anyone done pulse oximitry? It's just a sensor that sits on your finger and measures oxygen levels,.

See: Pulse oximetry - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulse_oximetry)

It probably is worthwhile doing.

I'm still concerned that you haven't had an emergency colonosopy.

I do it every night at work KISS. This doesn't have anything to do with iron levels in the blood. If a person is breathing right and the lungs are working properly, the O2 levels on a pulse ox will look high.

With you hemoglobin being so low, you are not getting enough oxygen to your vital organs. This results in hypoxia and can result in a high level of carbon dioxide in your body. I don't know your doctor, and I know you trust him, but if it were me I would want to know WHY he's not being more aggressive with the treatment.

You are tired, pale, and probably cold a lot of the time. This is because you don't have enough OXYGEN in your body.

I have asked why he's not sending me to get a transfusion, his worry is that with my hemoglobin as low as it is, I could have problems with the transfusion.

He explained why but I couldn't tell you exactly what he said, it's over my head and on the wall behind me.

At least all the blood you are losing will be very rich.

Can you ask him again why no transfusion yet? Are you scheduled to get another blood test soon to determine if your hemoglobin level has gone up?