Zach's in the Hospital

[thunter34]

Hey, all.

I just got off the phone with Zach a few minutes ago.  He is currently in the hospital trying to rebound from a multitude of rather serious ailments. 

The list is as follows:

CD of 9, Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, Lesion on Lung (possibly cancerous), and possible MAC.

He's getting poked and prodded and all that stuff while they try to get him in a good enough shape to go on HIV meds.  He sounded better than I expected under the circumstances, but I'm not fool enough to think that this is no big deal.

So send out your thoughts, prayers, well wishes and general good mojo because he needs it.

I'm going to try to get down to see him within the next couple of days. 

[Jeff G]

I'm so sorry he is facing this but know he is a fighter . He will be in my thoughts .

[mitch777]

Thanks Tim. He is in my thoughts as well.

Hang in there Zach. I'm at least glad you are being finally treated!!

[Ann]

I had a feeling they just might keep him in when he went for his appointment yesterday. Damn shame they couldn't have gotten him in there sooner.

Zach, hang in there. Sending plenty of healing vibes from The Rock.

Hugs,
Ann
xxx

[AusShep]

Shit.  This saddens me even more after reading all he's gone through to try and get covered.  Let him know we're thinking of him.

[skeebo1969]

  Shit that sucks.    I hope he's finally getting all the care he needs. 

[buginme2]

Shit. Shit shit

 

[Buckmark]

I know Zach is a fighter, but damn, he's got a lot of shit to deal with -- and all in the lungs.  I'm sending my prayers and healing energy to him.

[thunter34]

I know Zach is a fighter, but damn, he's got a lot of shit to deal with -- and all in the lungs.  I'm sending my prayers and healing energy to him.

Yes, and he told me the TB is definite, as is the PCP.  They are still checking on the MAC as well as trying to see if the dark lung lesion is cancerous.

[WillyWump]

Thoughts and prayers for ya Zach

-Will

[hope_for_a_cure]

Thanks for the update Tim.  I have been reading his posts and know its a rough time right now but to read this..... really hits home. 

Zach - if you read this know that I am sending you my best wishes for getting better.  Know that to be true. 

James

[bmancanfly]

It really sucks that someone needs to get to this point before help is available.  Really sad and infuriating.

Get well Zach.   Sending good thoughts your way.

[RapidRod]

Wishing you a speedy recovery Zach.

[buginme2]

It really sucks that someone needs to get to this point before help is available.

It should be criminal.  Get well Zach.

[zach]

Zachs not dead. Have tablet now, but hate typing on this. Thanks all

[Jeff G]

Zachs not dead. Have tablet now, but hate typing on this. Thanks all

This is the best update ever ! . Get well and come to bama ... I will cook you a big fat steak .

[AusShep]

Zachs not dead. Have tablet now, but hate typing on this. Thanks all

   hang in there and try to get some rest in between the poking and proding and scanning!

[zach]

This is the best update ever ! . Get well and come to bama ... I will cook you a big fat steak .

My pic is on the pinhoti

[Jeff G]

My pic is on the pinhoti

I never hiked that trail before . I prolly would camp and walk some of it these days .

[drewm]

Prayers!

[leatherman]

get well soon. I sure didn't expect to hear that you finally got help in this way; but I'm glad to hear that you've finally gotten into some healthcare. We're all thinking positive thoughts for a quick complete recovery. 

[thunter34]

Zachs not dead. Have tablet now, but hate typing on this. Thanks all

Told you you'd be glad for that tablet.

 

[zach]

Told you you'd be glad for that tablet.

 

Network here blocks porn. Wtf

[tednlou2]

Zach,

Sorry to hear you are so ill.  It is reassuring you have posted and with humor. 

I feel bad I haven't followed your situation more closely.  I remember your first post about being diagnosed with a very low CD4 and sick in the hospital, but I remember you were put on meds.  I've followed your posts about depression.  It seems apparent there was some issue with meds that caused you to go off meds, and I missed that.  I apologize for not following a fellow member's situation better. 

Wishing you all the best for a speedy recovery.  Looking forward to hearing you're out of the hospital and feeling much better.

Ted

[OneTampa]

We all know you don't build a stack against Zach 'cause he's a fighter from way back! 

Best!

[bocker3]

Zach,

Send good thoughts your way -- I'm sure you'll figure a way around the porn block!!

Hugs,
Mike

[Dan0]

Get well!! Hope you at least have a hot nurse!

[Ann]

Zachs not dead. Have tablet now, but hate typing on this. Thanks all

Nor has Zach lost his sense of humour!

I hope you're feeling that healing energy I'm sending - I think I shorted out my lights last night but they're ok today.

Hang in there Zach, I hope you're feeling better soon. Moaning about porn being blocked is a good sign that you're far from dead!

I'm glad you have your tablet with you so we can cheer you on and know you're feeling the love. Even if you can't watch any porn. Maybe Tim can bring you some mags.

Hugs,
Ann
xxx

[Theyer]

Zach , sorry to here off your situation , does the TB mean you are in specialized accommodation ? Hope the folk at the hospital are fun and human  , if there not happy to share Michael,s list off driving horrible medico,s up the wall , well it passes the time . How the heck can Porn be blocked ? and who came up with the system coz they would off had to off run plenty off testing. Add that to the list off weird jobs so called normal folk do.

All the best , when you get the energy run a thread headed say The view from Bed 21 it makes nasty people scared and they treat you better.
Michael

[zach]

Laxatives, no TP. Woke me up to stick heparin in my belly.  yeah, isolated airlocked room. Dinner was awesome 

[emeraldize]

Hope you 're sturdy soon, Zach.  Good to read they fed you a tasty dinner.  That's an art in a hospital !

[Jmarksto]

I wish you well Zack - it is good to see your spirit is up.  You'll have to watch Kahn Academy (science porn) while you are there.

JM

[absopozilutely]

Hi Zach, I've never got to chat with you, I'm a newbie but good luck, you're inspirational.

[BT65]

Goddamn it.  I hate to read this, but I'm so glad you're fighting Zach!  I know how long this struggle has been for you, please continue to fight.  We're all pulling for you, I know I will be sending tons of healing energy, and keeping you in thoughts and prayers.

Sorry about the porn being blocked.  If I had any porn pics I would ask for your cell phone number so I could text them to you.  Maybe as Ann said Tim could bring you some magazines.

I'm definitely going to be checking this thread on a regular.  Please continue fighting!

Lots of luv,
Betty

[thunter34]

How did I get known as such a purveyor of porn?  I really must protest.

[zach]

How did I get known as such a purveyor of porn?  I really must protest.

The lady doth protest too much, methinks

[intaglio]

Zach,

Sorry to hear you're dealing with all this.

I don't know your preference for porn, but you could try accessing it using a proxy site. To use one of the sites, go to its page, then while on that site, access your favorite porn site. To the site blocker, it looks like your tablet is looking at the proxy site, not the porn site. The link I listed is just for an example. I don't know if any of these would work for you.

If the hospital's IT team has blocked access to the proxy sites, then you're going to have to try other tricks. Some porn sites have a "HTTPS" version of their site that is accessible due to it tricking the net nanny into thinking it is a secured link.

Reddit has gonewild sections that have nudity, but no sex. Reddit is usually unblocked because it contains mostly non-porn-related links.

If nothing else, you may just have to have someone send you pics via email. 

[zach]

Cavitary lesion, tb nonagressive, ct mri and taking a piece of a lung Monday to test for cancerous. Decent news on the TB, means I'll be back on haart meds sooner

None of this is great, but could be far worse I think. Still very much in testing phase, nothing fully diagnosed yet, no treatment plan yet

[Ann]

Decent news on the TB, means I'll be back on haart meds sooner

That IS decent news. BTW - one of the great things about the new med Tivicay is that unlike a lot of other hiv meds, it plays well with TB meds.

Every cloud has a silver lining - I hope yours is gold-plated too.

Hugs!

[zach]

That IS decent news. BTW - one of the great things about the new med Tivicay is that unlike a lot of other hiv meds, it plays well with TB meds

Good to know, thanks for that

[Since2005]

Yes it is criminal that you have to get to be this to way before you can start treatment. It's a loss in every sense.

Zach, I did not know you very well but I was sad to hear about your news.
You have an outstanding attitude which I think will help you for a faster recovery at the end.

I hope you get well soon.

Best Wishes

[britchick]

Zach, 

Im so sorry for everything that has been happening to you and yet , so relieved that you are in hospital, and can get the treatment you need.

Sleep as much as you can, let yourself be looked after and know that everyone here is thinking about you.

Keep being the fighter that you are 

britchickxxx

[zach]

I'm so bored. I need entertainment. Can I go fuck with the Am I folks? Just for a couple days? They won't be back, promise.

Have been watching congressional hearings for the comedy. Brilliant republican has the line of the day.

We have the rhetoric of intention, that doesn't mean we'll really do anything.

I know what a Grady party is now. Everybody in Atlanta shoots each other all weekend. Helipad is right above me. In and out all day.

Seven sticks in the arm today, yay!

[Jeff G]

When I was kid and in the hospital I complained about being bored and they sent a scary ass clown in to cheer me so be very careful with bored in the hospital talk .

I do get where you are coming from though ... The pace of healing is about as exciting as a sail boat race, but as long as you get there is the point .   

[Theyer]

Bach given all that ,s going on I can see why the news about the TB has not hit home, but it is good news, with some forms off TB you can be looking at 3 to 6 months in the isolation room. So I am celebrating for you .

Totally agree with the boredom bit , any nice things on offer? My favourite was the visiting volunteer reflexologists and the cancer charity provided masseurs , I don ,t know what,s on offer for you or even where you are. But anyway you can at least ask.

Good luck with all the stuff next week, there are lots off us who will be regularly checking the board for your news , if you enjoy Nordic Crime I will post some books to you.

All the best
m

[hope_for_a_cure]

I'm so bored.

http://nicolescobie.com/?p=215

Of course this is mainly for those sitting around with the patient but see no reason why you could not get into some type of harmless shenanigans.... or at least read about them.  Hang in!

[zach]

Ct scan and mri done. Mri really sucked, three sets, 30 mins apiece, head, chest, abdomen. No real news on anything else

[Theyer]

Well they are cracking on , one and a half hours MRI is an ordeal for anyone I hope that you has a process free day soon . Now the TB result has come back is there any lessening in the restrictions on you ? You must be knacker after such a day reading it is enough to make me feel knackered.

And by know I guess you are feeling like a Pin cushion. Are the nurse,s fun ? humane? should look for retraining ? be shot at dawn?

And if the food is gruel can you ring out for deliveries , I know I would off starved had it not been for Sushi deliveries twas the only thing I could face scared the Doctors to death eating raw fish , well had to find fun where I could.
Over and out Zach.

[zach]

Theyer, I have no idea what some of what you say means, knackered is tired? Yeah, mri sucked. Halo cage with bolts keeping my head from moving, and a mask. A lot like torture. I can leave my room, even leave the floor but still have to wear the mask outside my room. Best they'll say about the TB, nonagressive. Still giving sputum samples, think they'll liked one I just coughed up. They still may knock me out tomorrow, go down my throat and take a p piece of lung. They aren't playing, I get how serious tb is

[AusShep]

They go through your nose for the bronchoscopy, not sure if that makes it better or worse though ...   

Glad to see you're able to be up and about.

[tednlou2]

Head bolted down and a mask?  That would be like torture.  You are a strong person to get through that.  I've had a few-- for back and pneumonia.  I had to take some Xanax for the back scans.  I never got the music some say they got. 

The one for the pneumonia was the worst.  I had pleuritic effusion around the lung that hurt worse than the back surgery.  It took all I had to lie still with the pain, on top of breathing issues, on top of the anxiety of being in the tube.  They did not want me to have any sedative, since I had breathing problems.  I just had to try to take my mind someplace else.  I can't imagine having my head restrained and a mask over my face.  You are one tough fighter to just get through that.

I guess the open-sided are not as effective or much more expensive, and that's why the majority are still the tube.

[zach]

Am I, with TB, seems the million dollar question. My question, based on limited internet research. How does an antisocial shut in that avoids people, acquire TB? Can it be environmental, say from house mold or something

I really wish I got a picture of that head cage. Like silence of the lambs. What a cool avatar that would have been

[phildinftlaudy]

Glad you are keeping a positive (pardon the pun) attitude and sense of humor about things Zach - that goes a long way toward a successful recovery.

Thank you for providing updates on how you are doing.

I have been keeping you in my thoughts.

So, if you dream of palm trees and sandy beaches, just know that someone in Florida is thinking about you and wishing you a speedy and full recovery.

Phil

[Ann]

How does an antisocial shut in that avoids people, acquire TB? Can it be environmental, say from house mold or something

Not environmental per se, but in the UK people have been contracting it from pets.

Cat to human TB link

I don't know if there have been any pet-to-human cases in the US.

TB does usually require close contact. "Close contact" in this case can mean close enough to inhale expelled tiny droplets of sputum when an infected person coughs - which is actually up to several feet away.

However, it can lie "dormant" for years without a person knowing they have it. That's why you have to get a TB test (here in the UK anyway) if you're going to be working with the public in any type of health or child care setting. They're looking for asymptomatic TB.

One environment-associated lung problem that you can have problems with is aspergillosis, caused by a fungus found in most homes. I had a mild case of that once (pre-meds) and mild was not nice, so I'd hate to have a bad case of it.


Have they said anything yet about when you can get back on hiv meds? Soon I hope!

Huggles....

[Theyer]

Theyer, I have no idea what some of what you say means, knackered is tired? Yeah, mri sucked. Halo cage with bolts keeping my head from moving, and a mask. A lot like torture. I can leave my room, even leave the floor but still have to wear the mask outside my room. Best they'll say about the TB, nonagressive. Still giving sputum samples, think they'll liked one I just coughed up. They still may knock me out tomorrow, go down my throat and take a p piece of lung. They aren't playing, I get how serious tb is

Welcome to my world with a portion off aidsmed. I did think about using plain old tired but then thought naw he,s bored what better time to expand knowledge off international colloquiums . Zach I am in no doubt that your understanding of TB and a whole lot more is tip top , sorry if in some way I implied it was not.

As to how a shut in gets it well I have heard the same story twice while in Hospital , all I know is that there is a significant % off folk with low T cell HIV who develop symptoms and that TB generally is making a steady rise up the charts again. Often from what I have read the environmental aspect off TB is down to factors such as density off population numbers , therefore greater numbers per 100000 in Urban areas than rural . And from what I understand the reason the numbers are higher for Urban poor is because there health is generally lower and that's what TB likes to have to go from inactive to active , physical density greater so transmission is easier. the pet human transmission route is a new one to me . Though as I live for part off the year surrounded by cows , and that is a exact description , Bovine TB is dreaded by the Farmers and there herds are regularly checked for it , I have not heard that cow to human is a route.

Anyway that's more than enough TB for one Post, especially when there are folk waiting with baited breath wondering is Zach getting his Porn yet ? did Intaglio rerouting instructions work ?   

I am just gob - smacked daft that you have enough energy to  think off Porn ,

All the very best to you Zach
Michael

[zach]

Well, MRI pics are fascinating. Brain has a shadow spot I can sort of see. No theories on what type ofk infection. Something on spine,  signed lumbar puncture consent. Had to do something fun today, why not a spinal tap. Lung did not look good at all. Whatever it is, won't be good. One freakishly large cavity, a few smaller ones. Broncoscope moved to in the morning. Lung Dr will be talking to me today.

So, maybe eight or more weeks of treatment. Maybe survivability %s. Maybe maybe, maybe sometime this week they'll move from tests and theories to diagnose and treat.

They were surprised I led a house build two weeks ago. Didn't believe I was up and active

Youtube softporn booty shaking vids. Brilliant! Trazadone gives you wood, who knew. Bwahahaha

[zach]

Ladies and gentlemen, and every tranny I've ever loved.

THIS IS SPINAL TAP!!!

Dr is gonna trip when she hears the soundtrack for this procedure.

[mitch777]

Ladies and gentlemen, and every tranny I've ever loved.

THIS IS SPINAL TAP!!!

Dr is gonna trip when she hears the soundtrack for this procedure.

too funny. 

[Jeff G]

Ladies and gentlemen, and every tranny I've ever loved.

THIS IS SPINAL TAP!!!

Dr is gonna trip when she hears the soundtrack for this procedure.

Don't forget the zucchini when they scan you again . 

[Buckmark]

When I go for my spinal taps lumbar punctures for chemo, the tech always asks me if I want to listen to any music from her iPod.  She listened to alt-metal typically -- not the most soothing     I always wanted to ask her if she had any show tunes.      But she already has my number:  at my last LP, she proudly announced she had been to her first gay bar, had a great time, and if there were any others I'd recommend.  This from a married woman with *5* children.   

Anyways, don't fret the LP -- it just sounds way worse than it is.  But do make it a point to rest in bed (horizontal) to avoid any post-LP headache.

[zach]

Five attempts, not as bad as my back tattoos. But no joy for fluid. So, tomorrow, trying again with some sort of imaging procedure at the same time

Dr says she'll hook me up with good pain meds in a minute. I guess I was very patient, maybe they say that to all the girls

When my first son was three days old, I held him, his body taped to a board while they did this. He looked me in the eyes, screaming murder. He made it, I'll make it again

[zach]

And buck, women love gay bars, universal truth

. My exwife and I used to go. She was REALLY into it

[zach]

They went ahead and did it again. Success. Fluid was clear, that's good at least. Hope labs on it are good news too. Should have asked what the record number of tries is. I'm going for excellence here. And the nice nurse shot me with morphine, twice, I love her

Feels like it's all starting to happen now. Good or bad, let's get it on

[buginme2]

You either have the patience of a saint or they are giving you some good drugs.  Six attempts at a lumbar and your still in good spirits. 

Hang in there

[BT65]

You're amazing Zach!  You're continuing on in my daily anxieties. 

Betty

[mitch777]

Funny, I just called my doc this morning to find out when my appointment is for my LP. 6 tries? hmmm...

Sleep tight Zach and keep on the good side of that nurse.

[Buckmark]

Zach,

It took them 6 attempts for your LP?  Amateurs!  They should have a fluoroscopy machine available in the room so they can get a precise picture of needle placement -- shouldn't need to poke you more than once.  They had trouble getting spinal fluid out of me a couple of times, so the doc had me roll over from my stomach to my side *while* the needle was in me.  Doh!   Not painful, just anxiety-inducing.

I'm glad they got your fluid, and that it is clear, and that you received some great pain meds.

Henry

[zach]

Is that what that was called. Learned a lot today. Weird thing is, she said they were running into scar tissue, she popped through that under the flower scope. That delt likek the best back crack of my life. Asked when I'd broke my back? Never as far as I know

[Jeff G]

Is that what that was called. Learned a lot today. Weird thing is, she said they were running into scar tissue, she popped through that under the flower scope. That delt likek the best back crack of my life. Asked when I'd broke my back? Never as far as I know

You are far to young to be made of gristle  .

[Theyer]

Is that what that was called. Learned a lot today. Weird thing is, she said they were running into scar tissue, she popped through that under the flower scope. That delt likek the best back crack of my life. Asked when I'd broke my back? Never as far as I know

I am pretty sure you would remember breaking your back but I am beginning to wonder if you have ever felt physical pain Zach . You continue to amaze . Clear fluid very good news . Henry,s LP device sounds very high tech .My Ist LP was at a week-end newly qualified Doctor it was traumatic for both off us ,by the end he was covered in a sweat. Decent bloke though as he came to check on me next day. Keep on keeping on .

[Jeff G]

I had a LP when I was about 6 and all the adults were so freaked out they had me terrified . They also had me convinced that if my head left the pillow my head would explode .

It took me about 45 minutes after the procedure to realize I could have any thing in the world I wanted that could be dragged into a hospital bed and I went for it with gusto .

Zach ... Thanks for all the progress reports, you are really handling whats before you in such a way its inspiring .   

[zach]

All the good drugs wore off last night. Nurse woke me at fkn 3am to change out my IV. Back soreness came flooding in. No food or drink today, Broncos thing later

I'm on like the 12th floor, have an awesome view of east Atlanta, the old mill, and cabbagetown. Two red tailed hawks gotta be nested just above, been watching them fly all morning

The updates are as much for me as you guys. Gives my sanity something to do. And when I get out, I can put it all back together. I figured out SSs game, I'll kill them with paperwork

[zach]

And hey. I'd be a remiss asshole if I didn't say this.

Thank you Tim.

I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him. All my hassles with IDP, went away with one well placed phone call. And even getting such a great Dr over there, I think had Tim's finger in it.

His family is facing their own issues right now, but he still took the time to make it happen for me

I owe you a hug man

[zach]

Bronchoscopy was nothing. Await test results from that

In good news, negative for cryptococcus or any other meningitis.

I keep waiting for the axe to fall with bad news. I'm sure that's the last step

[Jeff G]

That's a good report so lets go with it ! .

[Theyer]

All the good drugs wore off last night. Nurse woke me at fkn 3am to change out my IV. Back soreness came flooding in. No food or drink today, Broncos thing later

I'm on like the 12th floor, have an awesome view of east Atlanta, the old mill, and cabbagetown. Two red tailed hawks gotta be nested just above, been watching them fly all morning

The updates are as much for me as you guys. Gives my sanity something to do. And when I get out, I can put it all back together. I figured out SSs game, I'll kill them with paperwork

The updates are important, Zach , pre Combo drug regime too many people knew what it was like to be ill or have loved ones ill post combo drug regime,s not enough people know what it,s like....IMO. Hospital time does blur into a wedge if you don,t keep a record , ill time out off hospital too, for me keeping my record in LTS is also so I can post the good things , grab all chances to celebrate say I.

It is very ,cant find word,wonderful that the forum resulted in Tim,s intervention.

Its useful to have a picture off where you are and a pair off Red Tail Hawks , maybe at this time off year doing mating flight must be a  beautiful sight. Big improvement on battle scarred London Pigeons huddling near warm air ducts.

[zach]

The updates are important, Zach , pre Combo drug regime too many people knew what it was like to be ill or have loved ones ill post combo drug regime,s not enough people know what it,s like....IMO.

I'm ok with being a cautionary tale. Take your meds kids. Do whatever it takes to get and keep medical care. ASO bureaucracy is extremely slow, start the process and follow through. Diagnosis is a mind fuck, it got me, and it got me here

Nothing about this ride is easy or fun. The choice is, live, or die sick

[Theyer]

And cover that cock...have your own works.

Its not the cautionary tale angle that motivated me , more the need for the complet picture please.  it was the fact that when I looked through the various HIV publications and saw the Drug company adverts it appeared to be that to have HIV and being on meds lead to parachute jumps, Rock climbing, loving partnerships, buff bodies , fantastic family relationships and very cool apartments.

Plus it had come at a time when it would also seem that everyone with insulin dependant diabetes was just gagging to swap it for HIV.

As at the time I weighed so little you could trace the outlines off my internal organs and was living in a Hospice I felt that there might be a need for a tinsy winsey bit off the fact that the wards I had been on where still always full.

[zach]

Agree 100% Theyer

In news, on all the antieverything meds again. Zithro, bactrim, Levaquin, mepron. Hopefully that clears up PvP at least

Back is feeling miles better. Sleep is easy and restful on trazadone.

Worst thing I've had to deal with. My father. He can't cope. Every time I'm in hospital he loses his grip. Discloses, and updates people that I would have died and burned before I told. Has completely invaded my privacy everytime. Two bedrooms of the old  house we live in are mine. He literally did a full inventory last time of everything I own. Creepy. Goes into my email, and Facebook. He has always had severe anxiety problems, and is powerless to his compulsion s. Addicted to lottery for the past 20 years has financially broken him. I'm really not sure what to do. I want to move back to ellijay. Something prehistoric has him terrified of ever going back to where we're from. I've thought for years he did something that ruined his name there. This whole thing weighs heavy on my mind. In a way and time I just don't need.

[Theyer]

Having a close family member with little or no boundaries is the last thing you need at the moment.Its hard enough managing ones dear ones with all the emotion hot and heavy, as off course it must be at such a time as this.

Sounds like Dad has some active compulsion problems , to say the least, are you in effect his carer? Any brothers and sister,s around , anybody at all who can manage him to allow you the space you need.

Family mysteries, how old where you when you left Ellijay ? Can you do any internet sleuthing to put your mind at rest, ask other family members. I know that in some situations anything straight forward is out off the question.

Presumably with your Father worried about you his other behaviours will or potentially will be increased . Does he have any insight? I am guessing little .

You really only need your self to look after at the moment , that,s a tough one .You could off course lie, seen it done on the ward one guy,s hysterical Mother was told by all that her Son had to have special visiting hours as strict rest was vital , that took the ward to agree .If you where in the UK i would advise you to speak to the Social Work dept about your Dad but I am un clear about appropriate help routes if they are out there use them coz you have to be NO1 at the moment.

Till the next missive Zach,
The very best of the best to you
Theyer

Glad your sleep is good you need it at a time like this.

[zach]

Ah the clergy. Gotta love em. The Chaplin from IDP just dropped in. We had a very nice discussion on my spirituality, and why I left the Catholic church. I told him the story of genesis by drawing sacred geometries flower of life.

[wolfter]

So sorry I'm late to replying.  After reading through the thread, I'm "awed" at your attitude.  Absolutely am sending the best positive energy I can muster and spare at the moment.   

Oh the clergy in the hospital thingy.  In the early 90's, I was deadly sick in the hospital.  Pretty much, every organ had shut down and I was a beautiful shade of orange.  I could hear the staff discussing with Bill that it was time to call in any family who wanted to visit before my passing.

For several days, I was in and out of counsiousness and at one point I awoke to some dude real close to my face make weird gestures and talking gibberish.  I later learned it was a priest giving me last rites.  And I'm not catholic!!!!   

Take care of yourself and stay positive.

best wishes
greg

[rjoh]

They go through your nose for the bronchoscopy, not sure if that makes it better or worse though ...   

Eeeek....the Egyptians go through the nose when they mummify....correlation?

Anyway, get better soon, Zach.....

[zach]

Things are cracking on now ;-) New meds. 11of them, personal best. Food continues to amaze. Grady gets a bad rap in a lot of ways.

Neurologists visited, hit me with hammers and tuning forks. Long talk about the mri vids, glad I got to watch those yesterday, I was able to be active in the conversation.

Pip pip cheerio, is that a real one?

[zach]

Wolf, I had last rites when I was first in the hospital. There is a nice monastery outside Atlanta my gran used to drag my heathen ass to. They sent one of th  younger, not yet fully jumped into the gang monks. He was Spanish, ironic because I always liked Spanish Mass and my best friend, a Peruvian, has a bathtub Mary in his yard. I love that thing

So... Viao con Dios

[zach]

Drum roll..... Proposed regimen, truvada/prezista/norvil and isentress twice daily. Plus prophylaxis for awhile. No word on when this will begin. Sometime after treatment for TB.

Thoughts? Anyone on this combo? Horrible side effects to watch for?

Pleased that I have something to research now

[Miss Philicia]

Thoughts? Anyone on this combo? Horrible side effects to watch for?

I'm on the exact same combo and have been seven years. Side effects are possible with any regimen, obviously, but IMO the numbers of people that have them on these meds are very minimal.

They are putting you on a standard regimen plus one extra retroviral either because of what they see in your geno/phenotype resistance results or because you numbers are so low they want some extra "umph" at the beginning and might subtract a med down the road once you are better. I suppose you could ask them about that.

[nixsmail]

am on the truvada/norvir/prezista and have been since starting meds. other than an occasional bought with diarrhea (and that's probably my fault with my diet) i have had absolutely no problems. also have had TB with MAC and am still on two of those meds for prophylaxis, but can't drink alcohol with one of them i forget which one.
i have gained cd4's and viral load is undetectable, took a while to get there but seems to be maintaining. and all in all once a day dosing. it does sound like you're getting better and they apparently think so to since they're going about the what after scenario. so hope you keep getting better!

[guitargal]

wow, everyone is so concerned and thoughtful and informative for you.!
get well soon ok?
I was in isolation 2 times.. at least a private room! and can't believe the LP thing.. had it last year, they missed, 2 x and my back really hurt for a few days..what a trooper with 6!  now i feel like a sissy.. some of the tests are really strange.  once they strapped me to a slab and ran nukes in me and then something to make my gallbladder spasm so they could take pictures.. hurt like hell. when the spasm would happen... 45 minutes i layer there.. ugh.. can;t think of the name of the test right now.. everything was negative.. probably didn't need it!

i wonder about the TB and the basically shut in type of person..
they never check me for TB..

i once had 13 t cells.. back in like 1995 or so..prior to protease with pneumonia.. then DDI pancreatitis in '98 and 30 days in the hospital got the protease and bounced back..
still here!

you are getting all the tests and care now and hope your dx and treatment plan gets up home soon!

best to you!
D

[Ann]

Drum roll..... Proposed regimen, truvada/prezista/norvil and isentress twice daily. Plus prophylaxis for awhile. No word on when this will begin. Sometime after treatment for TB.

Thoughts? Anyone on this combo? Horrible side effects to watch for?

I'm on Truvada, Prezista and Norvir (no Isentress) and I like it. No major side effects, just **Truvada farts^TM and occasional worse-than-usual diarrhea. But I've had hiv-related diarrhea dire-rear for years anyway, so no biggie really. I'm used to it and know how to deal with it.

**My ex unexpectedly walked into my house a week or so ago (via the front door), just after I'd let rip with an almighty Truvada fart^TM, paused and sniffed the air, then asked me if someone nearby was burning tires. I shooed him out the back door to look for black smoke while I opened a window and started trying to fan the fug away with a folded newspaper.

Unless I've missed something, this is the first mention of TB treatment. What are they putting you on for that? (I know you mentioned TB earlier, but I don't remember mention of treatment.) Did they say how long you'll have to treat?

I'm really happy to hear that the food is good where you're at. When you mentioned it before, I thought you were being sarcastic! It's rare that hospital food is good. The food at the Royal in Liverpool sucks big time.

Keeping you in my daily anxieties...

[mecch]

Hi Zach
When I took Prezista i did have a yellow tint, and it did stick around. Other people don't get that. Evenually, I was allergic.
As for Isentress, been on it a few years and no effects.
As for the renowned Truvada farts, I don't get them. Or don't notice them as truvada farts. 

Im sorry you have to be going through this. I was reading back in your history to understand the situation.  Is this somewhat correct: you were having family and financial strains multiplied by mood swings (bipolar?) so you went off your treatment?  Seems to me you had eventually climbed above 200, and then it went to hell again after you stopped?

[zach]

Mecca, you've got half the story nailed, I'll post a full explanation when I have a keyboard. I accept my part in it all, but other factors also at play

Ann,

To save me typing on this thing. Google RIPE Therapy, that's four for TB, no word on exactly how long, a haul though. With B6
And
Mepron for PCP
Azithromycine for MAC

And HIV Myelopathy in my spine will be untreated, relying on ARVs and time

[mecch]

Maybe the forum can help you figure out a solution to stick to the treatment going forward. All the best. I don't like being in hospitals but one good part is being around nurses who are almost always great people.

[Ann]

When I took Prezista i did have a yellow tint, and it did stick around. Other people don't get that. Evenually, I was allergic.

Are you sure that wasn't Reyataz? Prezista isn't known for raising bilirubin levels (bilirubin is what makes you yellow), but Reyataz is. They're both PIs, but Reyataz is the only one I've ever heard of making people yellow.

Thanks for the info, Zack. I'll go google "RIPE" in a bit.

I hope they can start you on ARVs sooner rather than later. Did your doctor know about Tivicay (dolutegravir) playing nice with TB meds?

[thunter34]

Had to be away from here for a couple of days because my Dad, who we all thought was about to die, has rebounded and is on his way home this very minute, but anyway....


I am on the same combo (minus the Isent.) and I have LOVED it. It has kept my numbers UD and virtually zero sides (although I have just learned that I am going to have to restart cholesterol and triglyceride meds because of issues with that).

It's multi-pill, but still essentially a once-a-day combo for me. 

Hope you are doing well.  Tried to call you again the other day, but got no answer.
Will try to visit you very soon, but have to get Pops squared away here first.

[mecch]

Are you sure that wasn't Reyataz? Prezista isn't known for raising bilirubin levels (bilirubin is what makes you yellow), but Reyataz is. They're both PIs, but Reyataz is the only one I've ever heard of making people yellow.

Yes thanks for the correction it was indeed Reyataz not Prezista.

[thunter34]

I'm ok with being a cautionary tale. Take your meds kids. Do whatever it takes to get and keep medical care. ASO bureaucracy is extremely slow, start the process and follow through. Diagnosis is a mind fuck, it got me, and it got me here

Nothing about this ride is easy or fun. The choice is, live, or die sick

There.  Love. 

[Theyer]

Morning Zach,

All this re starting off the drugs is good news , we share Isentress 400 x 2 , Neviraine 400 1 s/r Ritonovir 100 x 2 Atazanavir 400 x 2  That little bundle was salvage therapy 10 plus years ago now after I threw an almighty strop and came off  Sustavia which we found out later had reduced my REM sleep to almost nil and hence the almighty strop.

I hope the ride is settling down a wee bit now without so many sudden jolts , though hospital life can be boring a wee bit off boredom is required for maximun healing.
Hope the Hawks continue to entertain all the best for now.
Theyer

[J.R.E.]

Wishing you the best Zach, Every time I do a search involving HIV and TB I ultimately am directed back to this link from the CDC :

I am not sure if this link needs to be updated, but there's quite a bit of info here.

http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/guidelines/tb_hiv_drugs/recommendations02.htm


In the above article:

"Therefore, because of its potency, simplicity, and proven clinical efficacy, use of efavirenz 600mg with 2 NRTIs, along with rifampin-based tuberculosis treatment is the preferred strategy for co-treatment of HIV and tuberculosis (Table 1a).



Hang in there Zach !  You are on the road to recovery, and you are in good hands. Things take time. Back in 2003, I went through a rough 18 months, but it paid off.

You do what the doctors say, and make sure to take all medications when you are supposed to. I also know that at times this can be tough, but there's no other choice.


Take care---Ray

[zach]

Damn Theyer, just read your current issues in LTS. Was going to post there just to mess with Ann. Thanks for your support and humor. I had no idea you were dealing with your own problems

Colonoscopy Monday, joy joy. Some kind of med to make me piss. They want me to cathederize myself 3 times a day at home. I'm not sure about all that.

I really want to thank everyone. Feeling so much support during this has made it more tolerable

[zach]

Jre, two meds I will never again put in my body. Ambian, and Sustiva. Just not gonna happen man.

[zach]

In my family, the last generation pretty much fell apart. Me, and a number of my cousins were raised by our granny. Meds always had to be the worst tasting shit. She'd hold our nose and mouth shrieking, take your medicine, swallow it SWALLOW IT. Oh man, is it mythyolate? Worse than betadine and iodine. She'd grab us with her claws. Amazingly strong for 70 some. Start dabbling fire on us while we danced in a circle screaming murder. The rest of us watching in horror of being next. We'd hide our cuts, walk around oozing infected pus rather than face her.

This place is club med compared to her

[Jeff G]

My mom decided to wash my mouth out with soap once for calling a neighbor a sunny beach, I was far to young to properly cuss people out at that time .

I puked right down her cleavage and she did the same in the toilet within seconds and she never did it again... plus my dad got pissed saying she could have poisoned me . 

[zach]

Granny had the mouth of a sailor. Never had mine washed out. She did switch me once though, still ashamed of that. She cried.

[Jeff G]

Granny had the mouth of a sailor. Never had mine washed out. She did switch me once though, still ashamed of that. She cried.

My granny only cussed on Friday afternoon watching wrastlen on tv ... spelled like she said it .   

[Miss Philicia]

I think I only heard Gran Gran cuss one time, when she pulled a lemon meringue pie out of the oven and it flipped over onto the floor. She was a good Christian lady.

[Theyer]

Never ever heard either my Father or Gran swear . My Father also never laid as much off a finger on me.

Now Mummy dearest had somewhat differant parenting techniques , rarely physically violent off herself but one learned to watch out for low flying objects and in a certain mood having one,s hair brushed resulted in mild to moderate concussion .

 All illness would be gone by lunchtime , temperatures where the result off not sitting still or would go after a good stiff walk, ditto headaches , swellings showed the body was working and looking after the bones where the swelling was . I miss them all to the point off physical pain at times.

[J.R.E.]

  Meds always had to be the worst tasting shit. She'd hold our nose and mouth shrieking, take your medicine, swallow it SWALLOW IT.

   When I was about 10 years of age ( Or 52 years ago )  The ritual in our house, was the three times a week of having to swallow a tablespoon of Casor oil . My father would line all five of us kids up and give us our tablespoon of castor oil. UUgghhhh,..! 

Come to think of it,  we always had a lot of gas ! 


Then my father got into the vitamin kick, ( selling and distributing) with a product that I remember being called " Nutri- Bio" This was some sort of vitamin packs that he would once again line us up to take once a twice a week, also when I was about 9 - 11 years of age .


Ray

[Theyer]

Jre, two meds I will never again put in my body. Ambian, and Sustiva. Just not gonna happen man.

Sustavia ---the Devil little Joke .

[zach]

I want a beer, a joint, a couple codone pills, and a burning hot bath

[Jeff G]

I want a beer, a joint, a couple codone pills, and a burning hot bath

They wont give you something for pain ?

[zach]

Oh I'm talking purely recreational relaxation at home where I can sleep it off in peace and bliss

[Jeff G]

I disapprove of using opiates for relaxation unless you are willing to share .     

[Theyer]

Oh I'm talking purely recreational relaxation at home where I can sleep it off in peace and bliss

With a bit off planning all off that can be achieved during a Hospital stay , cut out the beer and that s more or less describes 75% off my time in hos .  Being on lock down in isolation ward does not help , though that will not be forever and those ugly giant drinking cups office workers glue there hands to can hide a cold beer , the dobey can be enjoyed during your night time walk which you have to do because
a ] its Part off your preventing constipation routine ,walking.
b ] if you have osteophorsis you need to walk as much as pos. the research states.
c ] You cannot balance in a shower
d ] You follow a strict meditation routine to aid sleep and a hot bath is crucial.

[zach]

Weird thing a bout this floor. Keep in mind it's all respiratory isolation. There is an enclosed balcony, for patients only. For smoking. Stunning view to the north though, all the city and stone mountain on the horizon

[zach]

Test today was a pituitary hormone stress response test.

[Ann]

Was going to post there just to mess with Ann.

You'll have to try much harder than that, mister, to win a coveted spanking off me!

I disapprove of using opiates for relaxation unless you are willing to share .     

I second that emotion!

Test today was a pituitary hormone stress response test.

On first reading I was sure you had a poultry hormone stress test! Finger lickin' good! Joking aside, what's that supposed to reveal? ... never mind, I just remembered you're currently keyboard-challenged. I'll go fetch google.......

Do all the patients on your floor have a Friday night disco party on that private balcony of yours?

[zach]

You'll have to try much harder than that, mister, to win a coveted spanking off me!

I'll show you! I couldn't feel it anyway, have lost most sensation from t7 down.  That won't do at all, still miles of trail to walk

Colonoscopy Monday, can't wait, never had a camera up unrest.

[buginme2]

It really sounds like the hospital you are in is quite thorough.  Glad to hear your doing better and a plan seems to be coming together. 

I'll smoke a J in your honor tonight

[tednlou2]

Weird thing a bout this floor. Keep in mind it's all respiratory isolation. There is an enclosed balcony, for patients only. For smoking. Stunning view to the north though, all the city and stone mountain on the horizon

They still have smoking places for patients?  I thought those were long gone.  I've climbed Stone Mountain a few times-- never took the tram.  I'm sure I would be huffin' and puffin' and throwing up today. 

[zach]

They still have smoking places for patients?  I thought those were long gone.  I've climbed Stone Mountain a few times-- never took the tram.  I'm sure I would be huffin' and puffin' and throwing up today.

Yeah, there's a guy that is dying, sits out there smoking one after another. Gotta feel bad for that level of addiction

[Piscean]

They want me to cathederize myself 3 times a day at home. I'm not sure about all that.

I would insist on a having a studly visting nurse stop by to handle that task 

Seriously, I have been following this thread and am impressed and inspired by the candor, humor and grace you have shared in dealing with your current health challenges. Please keep fighting the good fight.

[ds4146]

Be well and know that many of us view and don't post often, bad I know but so it goes! I do look for your upbeat progression daily and send best thoughts always!

[zach]

As of this morning, I am on ARVs

[Ann]

As of this morning, I am on ARVs

Great news Zach! I'm really happy for you. Which ones?

[zach]

Tru, prez, nor, and isen

[Ann]

Tru, prez, nor, and isen

LOL yes of course you told us that already. Please pardon my brainfart.

[skeebo1969]

   Glad to hear they have you on ARV's now Zach.  I hope this is a start to a full recovery.

[bocker3]

As of this morning, I am on ARVs

Woo Hoo.....  great news indeed!!

Mike

Please pardon my brainfart.

That damned Truvada............   

[Theyer]

That is very good news indeed.
Had my first gym outing yesterday , Zach, in 10 years at least. Finally got dressed at 6pm this evening , I am pleased that they have started the meds.

[eric48]

Tru, prez, nor, and isen

Good Luck ! Eric

[J.R.E.]

As of this morning, I am on ARVs

I am so glad to hear this !   Great news !


Ray

[Ann]

That damned Truvada............   

Thankfully my brainfarts don't smell like burning tires.



'cuz burning brain cells smell like cotton-candy.

[intaglio]

Tru, prez, nor, and isen

Oh, goody, I get to be the 'Debby Downer' here. 

I started out on Truvada, Prezista and Norvir. They worked great.

The Truvada eventually drove my creatinine levels too high and I had to be switched to Epzicom.

Truvada gave me loose stools 3-4 times a week. I combated it by taking probiotics. Once I switched to Epzicom, the problem went away.

I had pcp pneumonia when I was diagnosed. I was given Bactrim. It drove my metal salt levels downward to a dangerous level. It took three weeks to do this, though.

More good news: Truvada, Norvir and Prezista all have copay assistance programs. So if you have to pay out-of-pocket for any of these, get yourself registered with them. Using copay assistance saves me about $250/mo. on my scripts.

As for your dad, I wonder if he's suffering some sort of PTSD due to events in his past. Due to your description of the disposition of your relatives, I have to wonder if he's just wanting to avoid them. Only your dad knows for sure.

Maybe when you get home, you could invest in a couple deadbolts for your rooms. Just sayin'.

[mikeyb39]

Zack, we are taking the same drugs.  I think you will be happy with them.  I haven't had any substantial side effects thus far.

[mecch]

Yeah, there's a guy that is dying, sits out there smoking one after another. Gotta feel bad for that level of addiction

Getting lung cancer from an addiction is a feel bad situation. But I don't feel bad when people who are gonna die, keep on doing whats killing them. I mean whats the point of stopping at that point?
Smoking is terrible for the health but I am in the minority opinion that its also a pleasure psychologically and probably chemically. 
Cornell Professor Richard Klein wrote a great book about it years ago:  Cigarettes are Sublime and he quit smoking while writing it...
http://www.amazon.com/Cigarettes-Are-Sublime-Richard-Klein/dp/0822316412


“Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know because I've done it thousands of times.”
― Mark Twain

[mecch]

Do you know how long your stay in hospital will last?

[zach]

Soft exit date, Tuesday, waiting on one last test result, if good I fly

Colonoscopy Monday, I have  to drink an actual gallon of some vile concoction.

21 pills this morning, by far a personal best

[Miss Philicia]

I have  to drink an actual gallon of some vile concoction.

It makes you shit your brains out for 18 hours. Enjoy!

[zach]

Oh that's lovely

[mitch777]

Oh that's lovely

The good news is that that is the worst part about the whole thing. I'm due for another one myself. 

Glad to read you finally are on meds! Hope Tuesday is brings you a ticket home.

[Theyer]

Soft exit date, Tuesday, waiting on one last test result, if good I fly

Colonoscopy Monday, I have  to drink an actual gallon of some vile concoction.

21 pills this morning, by far a personal best

I imagine your going to need recovery time from the colonoscopy, Tuesday sounds very sudden , though can fully understand your want to be free off Hospital living . And according to Miss P you will need time to locate your brain , I hope you can remember what I often forgot Zach , rest is important .

So how many Pills can you take in one go?
Hard core ill talk.
Wishing you the best off everything
t

[zach]

I'm about half a step away from open rebellion here

[britchick]

Zach,

Great to hear that you are on ARV's.Good luck with the coloscopy and yep, Im hoping you get the go ahead to go home soon, when you are ready.

Its fantastic news!

britchickxx

[buginme2]

Do you have your follow up care set up?  Did that ever get squared away?

[Theyer]

I'm about half a step away from open rebellion here

Time to be home,
Good luck holding it in.
My Doctor reckons anybody with shall we say an independent spirit is driven mad by hospital . at least that's what he told me after I confessed to some incredibly over the top bad behaviour that I felt at the time totally justified in. Cannot even remember what it was now , still live and learn .

[zach]

They seriously want me to drink a gallon of this sea water. And that's exactly what the fuck it tastes like

I just gave the poor Dr girl that's on duty a major earful

[Theyer]

IT happen,s if you have the ability to say sorry in my experience it goes a long way and trust me I have had some sorry,s to say . Take care Zach you will soon be home
All the best
m

[wolfter]

Can't they perform that test as an outpatient?  I'm almost certain that I've gone home immediately after each of mine. 

Also, I hope Ann chimes in soon to correct my next comment as I can't recall the exact answer.  One of your meds (unless it was Isentress I'm thinking of) has a potential reaction with Versed which is a very typical drug that is used for sedation.
On my way home after the procedure, I suddenly had horrid pain.  I only learned about the interaction after the fact.

You also can't trust the professionals will automatically recognize the potential interaction.  I now insist that the drug not be used.

best of luck
greg

[thunter34]

My mother just had that done as an outpatient, the sea water and the whole bit.  You shit your guts out the day before.  It leaves you looped after the colonoscopy, and they insist that you have someone stay there with you during the procedure and to drive you home.

They would not accept a taxi as a viable means of departure transportation.

I imagine that having a lack of proper transport plays into doing it as inpatient.

Well...that and the fact that mom wasn't playing Lazarus.

[mitch777]

Let's see hear....

Zach has had a taste of the juice by the sounds of it. I'm thinking it will be difficult for him to communicate for awhile.

This is where the word "indisposed" comes to mind.

[mecch]

Everybody has their individual ability to deal with a colonoscopy. If you're in good shape its not such a big deal but lots of people find it completely disagreeable and destabilizing.
I rode my bike to my two procedures, took no sedatives, and got back on my bike and rode away. The second one was uncomfortable, though. Watch the live video for a few moments, til it gets repetitive and its kinda queasy.
I dunno -- in my kinky and ghettoized world view - I do think its easier for people with a lot of butt experiences...  not to mention familiarity with colon cleanses...

Im glad you are getting thoroughly analysed (pun intended) during your stay -- its better to really know everything and take it from there.

[J.R.E.]

I don't remember anything. I drank the Gatorade solution mix. can't remember if it was 6 or 8 ounces every 15 minutes during the cleanse.

The procedure itself was non eventful.  I was told to lay on my left side, an IV inserted, and I was out before I knew it, Unaware of anything, until the nurse was started talking to me. I woke up feeling very relaxed and calm.

When I woke up,  I remember how hungry I was, and had a good lunch.

Hang in there Zach, the prep can seem a little tough to swallow, but they want you cleaned out, so they can see if there are any cobwebs up there !


Ray

[zach]

On my fifth cup, easier to handle now. Still sucks make no mistake

[zach]

I could poor half this down the drain, haven't moved my bowels yet. Feel bloated

[zach]

Grrrr, after drinking all that, shitting all night, this morning Dr says white blood count to low for procedure

[Ann]

That sucks, dude. Big time. Didn't they have a clue yesterday before they made you go through all that for nothing?


((((((Zach))))))

[zach]

Fuq if I know, they've been drawing vials of blood twice a day everyday, I don't get it

[Miss Philicia]

Try being more assertive with the doctor when he comes in asking if the white blood count suddenly dipped or if it was too low to begin with, and if the latter demand to know why they made you go through pre-colonoscopy procedure.

Why exactly are they insisting on doing a colonoscopy right now when you are weak instead of in six months? Are they seeing something indicating that they need this to rule out something else or what?

[zach]

Ms P

One of my recent issues has been constipation, and blood when I do have a bowel movement.

[zach]

Far as being assertive, they got it full bore this morning, it's known I'm not happy.

[Theyer]

If your white cells did a sudden dip o.k. very very bad luck. If they where two low when you started this ---cock up . The info is there and it is not rocket science . I have had some violent procedures to cure constipation but not on the scale off having to drink a gallon off salt water. Blood from the anus due to constipation happened regularly , fresh and old blood .

Are you at least feeling any benefits from not being constipated ?

I am also wondering if your platlets are low .

[mitch777]

Grrrr, after drinking all that, shitting all night, this morning Dr says white blood count to low for procedure

Well that bites! 

Still wondering if you have some sort of care lined up upon your release. ASO, meds, docs, etc. It took so long for you to get this amount of needed attention and I'm hoping they have set up some sort of plan going forward.

[zach]

Mitch, yes to all three

[mitch777]

Mitch, yes to all three

[zach]

White compression hose to my knees, my legs look SO sexy, need some red high heels

[edfu]

One of your meds (unless it was Isentress I'm thinking of) has a potential reaction with Versed which is a very typical drug that is used for sedation.
On my way home after the procedure, I suddenly had horrid pain.  I only learned about the interaction after the fact.

You also can't trust the professionals will automatically recognize the potential interaction.  I now insist that the drug not be used.

Versed is contra-indicated both with Norvir (ritonavir) and with Sustiva (efavirenz).  As wolfter advises, you must tell them.  On two separate occasions, with two different anesthesiologists, in two different cities, the anesthesiologist didn't know until I pointed it out to them.   

[Theyer]

White compression hose to my knees, my legs look SO sexy, need some red high heels

McQueen will be doing them in a range off colors Donna V and Karl L both said zee no deal with illniss it iss nos beautiful .  Benetton have blood splatter limitted editions from that well known Medical  supply outlet MOMA.

Karl L over sized Dark glasses actually play an imagine he finds ceeivilised as soon as his brain waves are disturbed by zee uglines in zis vorld.

Donna employs 3 people full time staffing 24 hours just to have a lighted ciggie ready when she says NOW! that is there sole task and there reason for living .

[Theyer]

Mitch, yes to all three

Glad to read it.

How are things today oh white legged one , good tight ski socks can also help but do not carry the insurance promise, and sadly are not cheap.

[zach]

this thread is killed with prejudice, zach is home

[Jeff G]

this thread is killed with prejudice, zach is home

Good for you ! . We need a Zach is home thread now .

[Theyer]

TTGFT

[mitch777]

Yay!

[tednlou2]

I bet you did a flip, when you got to go home.  Glad to hear!

[bocker3]

this thread is killed with prejudice, zach is home

So happy to hear......   Now you can access that porn...............   

Mike

[zach]

just wouldn't be a good stay at hospital without one final fuck up. yesterday, dr had said meds would be delivered from IDP over to big grady... this morning, change of plans, we needed to go get them

reality, half the meds were are idp, but the arvs had indeed been delivered to big grady.... so i'll trey up there in the morning to pick them up, then out to the county board of health to get TB meds, for a TB I don't have, and take TB meds for six weeks for a condition i don't have

[Ann]

Great news, Zach. Make sure you look after yourself so you don't have to go back in.

[zach]

"Try being more assertive with the doctor when he comes in asking if the white blood count suddenly dipped or if it was too low to begin with, and if the latter demand to know why they made you go through pre-colonoscopy procedure.

Why exactly are they insisting on doing a colonoscopy right now when you are weak instead of in six months? Are they seeing something indicating that they need this to rule out something else or what?"

Hey Ms P, oh I asserted myself, maybe too much. Think I scared them. They were really pushing hard to get the colonoscopy done while the getting was good. Because I was admitted to the hospital (Big Grady) through the clinic (Grady Clinic) the way it breaks down, everything on that stay was paid for. I won't be able to pay for it again until medica(I always confuse re and id) kicks in to do it as outpatient. Personally, I think the little bit of bleeding from the rectum I was experiencing is from OIC, hydrocondone drying my stools into gravel that was tearing me up when I'd pass them. Occams razor logic, not medical, I know. Still, think I'm right.

My bowels are still loose from drinking that swill the other night. I literally shit myself on the ride home. There is no way in hell, in my weakened state, I could have done that again the very next night.

Annnnnnnddddd, the pharmacy at the AIDS clinic gave me all my meds, well, except for my ARVs. So either I get back to Atlanta today to get them, or skip a dose on my 3rd or 4th day of taking. So I'm waiting right now for my son to ride me back across town. Then across town in the other direction for TB meds, that the health department had said they would home deliver by hand, but now says I need to come in. For TB meds, which I have tested negative for in 3 sputum samples, they merely want me on them as prophylaxis until my broncoscopy lab results confirm no growth in 6 weeks.

Its good to be home though.

[Theyer]

RE, Occums Razor, that does happen if the blood is slight fresh red then than would argue for it being so.
Glad that you have scooped up all the meds,at least I think you have, and are now getting ready for some actice rest , sounds a paradox tis not just means you don,t get sucked up into anything thats not restful.

[BT65]

So glad you're out of the hospital!  Now take care of yourself!

[mecch]

Don't skip a day of your meds.    Figure out how to avoid this in the future.  Practice makes perfect.  And doing whats necessary.

[britchick]

 Zach,

Im so pleased that you are home
Hope you get the other meds and can concentrate on getting better now.

britchickxx

[drewm]

Congrats on being home!

[zach]

so i made it six months, got nostalgic, went and spent an awesome day back at the hospital 

have been moving alot better in recent weeks, and probably got way too physical this weekend, blame the weather and the dog

dehydrated, vitamin deficient, and electrolytes tanked. body just sort of started shutting down and locking up. woke up not able to lift my right leg without feeling like i was ripping my diaphraghm. i'll leave out the gross stuff that came next. thats when i went to the er.

bag of fluid in one arm, a banana bag of electrolytes in the other, shot of b12. felt better. 6mg morphine push and a couple bentyls, i felt great!

while there a man had a heart attack and passed away beside me. auto difib started firing back to back and the whole team swarmed him. i think i was the last person to speak to him. can't remember what his last words were

mri shows the lesion on my spine still there

moving forward, the smooth muscle relaxant, drink water!, up dosage of salt pill and b12

neuro appt in nov

[buginme2]

MF

Are you still in our you home?

Did they say what caused this?  Or did you just over do it.

Get better!

[wolfter]

Electrolyte inbalances are understated and can be dangerous.  I've consistently had issues with this and have only recently got them under control.  I make a mixture of water, sea salt, sugar and lemon.  There are also products you can purchase ready made. 

Most people keep them in balance with proper diet and nutrition.  Are you eating correctly?

Take care and wishing you well.

[zach]

yeah, discharged late yesterday

wolf, overall i have been eating well. i did have some great burritos sat and a few (more) beers

like you i've had some electrolyte issues for awhile. after the first couple times i got seriously dehydrated, since then it's been easier to tip the balance the wrong way. yeah, its a really looped out feeling

[Irish Eyes]

yeah, discharged late yesterday

i did have some great burritos sat and a few (more) beers

No doubt the burritos on Saturday probably put you over the edge.
I get my electrolytes from my beer too. Weird.

[wolfter]

Glad you're home.  You could also add limes to your beer. 

[mitch777]

Ugh. Hope you feel better soon Zach! Glad it was only a day night stay anyway. Sorry you had to experience the death of your room mate. 

[Almost2late]

Sorry to hear of your return to the hospital but thankful they straightened you out so quickly ... I've been gatorating myself constantly bc I work outside and actually cycle to work most days except when we get those downpours  .. Also I invest in alot of fruits.. Take good care of yourself Zachary 

[Jeff G]

Im glad to hear you are home Zack ... your body has been through a lot so take it nice and easy with your recovery .

[Tonny2]

   ojo  hoping you are feeling better...    ojo

[britchick]

Zach,

I'm glad that you are home.Take care.......and rest......nothing wrong with a wee beer or two......purely for medicinal purposes!

britchickxx

[Theyer]

Idiot.
Seeing this thread was not welcome Glad it was the result off your go go attitude
love
m

[Jody]

Rest up and feel better Zach and a speedy recovery to you.  I will think of you at the Phil Lesh show tomorrow here in Forest Hills, NY.  Hugs.

Jody

[zach]

 

i want a picture @ least.... i really wanted to, but knew i shouldn't. if warren is there, he might still be playing the wolf