Aa
Sprung from hospital
I was there from Tuesday night till Saturday afternoon. The ER in that place is a nightmare--from average wait times of 5 hours (even more for me) to total screw-ups by staff at all levels. I don't even want to think of that part. But finally someone had the sense to consult an infectious disease specialist, and that's when things at least began to move forward.
It took a while but I was put on round-the-clock IV antibiotics for several days, super strength. I'm not well now, far from it, but I have turned a corner. The egg swelling in my jaw is almost gone, as is the abscess and pain from that. However, my face is still somewhat puffy, since the infection invaded sinuses and lymph nodes, even on the side not affected by trigeminal neuralgia. So I have a lot of pressure pain, including in my ears. Part of my lower lip is consistently numb, but that's the only thing I'm sure is nerve-related at the moment. For many days I really couldn't tell what was nerve pain and what was infection it was so overwhelming.
I was released because I was well enough to switch to an oral antibiotic, Augmentin. I hate it because it can and does cause major diarrhea, even more than most abx. I am armed with lots of Imodium and potent probiotics, but still was told to be wary of C. diff. Ugh. I was also told by the ID doctor that the infection was very bad and that I shouldn't expect to bounce back. Easy does it, and all that.
Meanwhile my neuro wants a special MRI, a MRA, and is planning to refer me to a pain clinic, as I obviously can't cope with the steroids. But one thing at a time. Again my thanks to my many friends here who have cheered me on.
ess
It took a while but I was put on round-the-clock IV antibiotics for several days, super strength. I'm not well now, far from it, but I have turned a corner. The egg swelling in my jaw is almost gone, as is the abscess and pain from that. However, my face is still somewhat puffy, since the infection invaded sinuses and lymph nodes, even on the side not affected by trigeminal neuralgia. So I have a lot of pressure pain, including in my ears. Part of my lower lip is consistently numb, but that's the only thing I'm sure is nerve-related at the moment. For many days I really couldn't tell what was nerve pain and what was infection it was so overwhelming.
I was released because I was well enough to switch to an oral antibiotic, Augmentin. I hate it because it can and does cause major diarrhea, even more than most abx. I am armed with lots of Imodium and potent probiotics, but still was told to be wary of C. diff. Ugh. I was also told by the ID doctor that the infection was very bad and that I shouldn't expect to bounce back. Easy does it, and all that.
Meanwhile my neuro wants a special MRI, a MRA, and is planning to refer me to a pain clinic, as I obviously can't cope with the steroids. But one thing at a time. Again my thanks to my many friends here who have cheered me on.
ess
Thanks, Barb.
I had my first attack of TN just a few months ago, late June/early July, at which time I was treated successfully with IVSM, despite various obstacles which I ranted about here, probably ad nauseam. I've had a lot of other MS problems through the years as well, but on the whole I'm very well off, considering everything.
I have right-sided weakness which is mostly hip flexors and glutes, not arm and hand, though my hand strength isn't great. Forget using a potato ricer--can just barely use a garlic press. Several neuros have told me I drag my right leg slightly, but it's so slight I wasn't even aware of it. My mobility is good, just have to be careful of balance, not good. I go to PT and see many people sadly crippled, and power chairs galore, yet here I am. I don't have noticeable cog problems. I'm a great example of the 'but you look so good' syndrome, but really, I AM good, or well, to be more grammatical.
Kyle often says here that if you saw him on the street you'd never guess he has MS, and that is very true for me too. Yes, trigeminal neuralgia is terrible, as are other, less dramatic aspects of my MS, but if I have to have MS, I know how exceedingly fortunate I am. I often feel guilty when I read what others go through with little complaint.
I've wandered all over the place in this comment, but what I really want to convey is how grateful I am for the support of so many here. Only those who've been there can get it, and people on this forum are so generous in reaching out to me.
ess
,
I had my first attack of TN just a few months ago, late June/early July, at which time I was treated successfully with IVSM, despite various obstacles which I ranted about here, probably ad nauseam. I've had a lot of other MS problems through the years as well, but on the whole I'm very well off, considering everything.
I have right-sided weakness which is mostly hip flexors and glutes, not arm and hand, though my hand strength isn't great. Forget using a potato ricer--can just barely use a garlic press. Several neuros have told me I drag my right leg slightly, but it's so slight I wasn't even aware of it. My mobility is good, just have to be careful of balance, not good. I go to PT and see many people sadly crippled, and power chairs galore, yet here I am. I don't have noticeable cog problems. I'm a great example of the 'but you look so good' syndrome, but really, I AM good, or well, to be more grammatical.
Kyle often says here that if you saw him on the street you'd never guess he has MS, and that is very true for me too. Yes, trigeminal neuralgia is terrible, as are other, less dramatic aspects of my MS, but if I have to have MS, I know how exceedingly fortunate I am. I often feel guilty when I read what others go through with little complaint.
I've wandered all over the place in this comment, but what I really want to convey is how grateful I am for the support of so many here. Only those who've been there can get it, and people on this forum are so generous in reaching out to me.
ess
,
I have right side weakness as well and have used y left hand only. I am right handed but can't even sign my name, so I use this as a therapy of sorts to gain strength and precision in my left hand.
Eventually the plan is to be able to do all my writing with my left.
Take care ess,
Barb
Eventually the plan is to be able to do all my writing with my left.
Take care ess,
Barb
I'm glad so many of you find coloring a de-stressor. Low-tech solutions are always good. However, that just doesn't ring my chimes somehow.
So I guess it's back to the sherry. It's 5 o'clock somewhere, right? Actually, it's exactly 5 o'clock here :-)
ess
ps--no, my hearing is fine.
So I guess it's back to the sherry. It's 5 o'clock somewhere, right? Actually, it's exactly 5 o'clock here :-)
ess
ps--no, my hearing is fine.
So glad you are home and getting REST (impossible in the hospital!). I have huge sleep issues so can appreciate how good that must have felt.
I've been using an adult colouring book ... hard work because I have right hand weakness, but I'm using it as physiotherapy as well as a de-stress thing. I have to work past feeling silly .. but it's enjoyable!
I've been using an adult colouring book ... hard work because I have right hand weakness, but I'm using it as physiotherapy as well as a de-stress thing. I have to work past feeling silly .. but it's enjoyable!
Hi,
I'm so glad they've sorted out you being treated, you've definitely been through a lot, and you've escaped!! At least you can relax more at home. I'm thinking the colouring book sounds a great idea, that's just started me looking for one already! Haha. I hope you get well soon. Take care.
T
I'm so glad they've sorted out you being treated, you've definitely been through a lot, and you've escaped!! At least you can relax more at home. I'm thinking the colouring book sounds a great idea, that's just started me looking for one already! Haha. I hope you get well soon. Take care.
T
Very glad you are home and recuperating, Ess. A good night's sleep must have felt like heaven after what you've been through.
Do you take probiotics? Apparently they are a good idea after a round of antibiotics. I take them on a regular basis as I found they really improved my digestion.
Do you take probiotics? Apparently they are a good idea after a round of antibiotics. I take them on a regular basis as I found they really improved my digestion.
Well, it was peptostreptococcus. ID doctor says this occurs or originates in the gut or in the mouth. Surprise, I had a jaw abscess and my face was all swollen.
I don't think there are any missing pieces to this story.
ess
I don't think there are any missing pieces to this story.
ess
A "missing piece" to the story is the lab report exactly identifying the strain of bacteria causing the infection. Commonly broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed without knowing exactly the type of organism causing the problem.
I got into colouring about six months ago and somehOw have amassed 10+ books lol.
I use a clipboard so I don't hunch my back over and send the muscles into spasms. It works well when I remember and don't get caught up in a pic i'm doing.
Hope you are feeling better xo,
Barb
I use a clipboard so I don't hunch my back over and send the muscles into spasms. It works well when I remember and don't get caught up in a pic i'm doing.
Hope you are feeling better xo,
Barb
As kids our only goal is to stay inside the lines. As adults we can do it however we want. I just wish that applied to everything.
Poppy, does sherry even GO off? Well, best to be on the safe side, so taste, taste, taste!
I actually got a good night's sleep last night, first time in eons. My MS affects that too, and with all that Pred on top of it it was hopeless. So for the moment at least, things are looking up.
ess
Poppy, does sherry even GO off? Well, best to be on the safe side, so taste, taste, taste!
I actually got a good night's sleep last night, first time in eons. My MS affects that too, and with all that Pred on top of it it was hopeless. So for the moment at least, things are looking up.
ess
Big, big hugs ess. So glad you're back home and that the pros have a plan in place. Hope you weren't stingy with that sherry!
LOL. I made GF chocolate mud muffins today and they called for some whisky, which I didn't have so added sherry, but had to make sure it hadn't gone off before I used it !!
Adult colouring is also becoming popular in NZ. When I was pregnant with my first child 17 years ago I was totally stressed out about my job so pulled out an old colouring book. I remember feeling really embarrassed when a neighbour from down the road called in, but it was seriously good for my stress at the time.
Thinking of you Ess and hoping you regain your health as quick as possible. This disease is a dog!!
Best wishes
Poppy
Adult colouring is also becoming popular in NZ. When I was pregnant with my first child 17 years ago I was totally stressed out about my job so pulled out an old colouring book. I remember feeling really embarrassed when a neighbour from down the road called in, but it was seriously good for my stress at the time.
Thinking of you Ess and hoping you regain your health as quick as possible. This disease is a dog!!
Best wishes
Poppy
COMMUNITY LEADER
I'm so glad you are out, sounds like what you've had going on was even worse than i thought..........HUGS!
I probably don't have to remind you but still, please be proactive and keep on top of your nutrition and hydration, last thing you need is to be back in hospital with something else to be battling.
lol adult colouring is getting popular over here too, even my better homes and garden mag had a free adult colouring lift out lol not being able to colour between the 3D lines would frustrate the heck out of me and totally de-fete it's purpose of de-stressing :D
Take care of your self.........JJ
I probably don't have to remind you but still, please be proactive and keep on top of your nutrition and hydration, last thing you need is to be back in hospital with something else to be battling.
lol adult colouring is getting popular over here too, even my better homes and garden mag had a free adult colouring lift out lol not being able to colour between the 3D lines would frustrate the heck out of me and totally de-fete it's purpose of de-stressing :D
Take care of your self.........JJ
Forgot to add that although I've done virtually nothing else today, I decided to cook myself a decent dinner after the horror hospital food. My acorn squash concoction calls for some sherry, so while I was at it I took a cue from Julia Child and poured a little sherry into the cook.
ess
ess
Hah, CR! I've heard of that fad. Wouldn't it be great if all the stresses of the world could be soothed away by adult coloring (American spelling)?
I'm not big on Tequila specifically but heartily endorse the general idea :-)
ess
I'm not big on Tequila specifically but heartily endorse the general idea :-)
ess
How horrible still though :,-(
Apparently the latest 'thing' to help you de stress/take your mind of stuff is adult colouring! Okaaaay, I find a couple of tequila shots works wonders too.
Nx
Apparently the latest 'thing' to help you de stress/take your mind of stuff is adult colouring! Okaaaay, I find a couple of tequila shots works wonders too.
Nx
1 Comments
Agreed :)
I am so happy to hear that you get to go home! You truly have been in my thoughts, and am hoping you continue your climb up:)
All the best and lots of hugs,
Barb
All the best and lots of hugs,
Barb
So glad to hear that you are "well" enough to recover in the comforts of your own home. I hope you have friends and family nearby to help get you back on your feet and to take care of you while you work your way back to "normal".
Good on the Neuro for doing further testing to help get to the bottom of how this got so out of control, I pray it's a "one and done" deal and you never have to go thru that again.
Rest easy, thinking of you!
Karen
Good on the Neuro for doing further testing to help get to the bottom of how this got so out of control, I pray it's a "one and done" deal and you never have to go thru that again.
Rest easy, thinking of you!
Karen
I am so relieved to hear that someone there finally did something right. The MRA sounds encouraging as does the referral to the pain clinic. Better late than never I guess.
Take it easy and I hope those probiotics help that monster antibiotic and it's side effects.
More hugs coming your way,
Corrie
Take it easy and I hope those probiotics help that monster antibiotic and it's side effects.
More hugs coming your way,
Corrie
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