Cathric
06-26-2003, 03:30 PM
Today I see the pulmonary doc finally, for the serious breathing problems that have continued since the surgery [ACDF C5-6,6-7 5/19/03]. Every time I move I start wheezing and try to catch my breath. Even sitting still I wheeze and need to take deep breaths. I hope these issues are just temporary so my neck can heal and I can move on.
After all my 'episodes' I'm finally feeling knocked down. I've never lost hope but admit I'm coming close. All of us know how physical issues change us. A few weeks ago I had to fill out Social Security Disability forms that required my husband to answer questions. The question was regarding how these issues had changed the person – he said that she HAD been vital and independent…I know that’s an accurate statement but it really hit me.
Time to go to doctors. Later.
1968 Chronic pain since car accident - fractured neck and back vertebrae, broken ribs, concussion
1968 ‘Bells Palsy’ - on/off for over 30 years - now considered facial nerve damage
1976 Fibromyalgia (fibrosis then) diagnosed chronic pain
1984 Back surgery – Laminectomy L4-5, 5-6
1993 Car accident 1993 Breast Cancer
1995 Breast Cancer again
1995 Car accident - rear ended neck problems increased
2000 Total Hysterectomy
2002 Stroke due to brain lesion left temporal
2002 Craniotomy - left temporal Cavernous Malformation
2003 5/19/03 Emergency Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion and Plating C5-6 and C6-7
NS said more neck surgery would be needed
After all my 'episodes' I'm finally feeling knocked down. I've never lost hope but admit I'm coming close. All of us know how physical issues change us. A few weeks ago I had to fill out Social Security Disability forms that required my husband to answer questions. The question was regarding how these issues had changed the person – he said that she HAD been vital and independent…I know that’s an accurate statement but it really hit me.
Time to go to doctors. Later.
1968 Chronic pain since car accident - fractured neck and back vertebrae, broken ribs, concussion
1968 ‘Bells Palsy’ - on/off for over 30 years - now considered facial nerve damage
1976 Fibromyalgia (fibrosis then) diagnosed chronic pain
1984 Back surgery – Laminectomy L4-5, 5-6
1993 Car accident 1993 Breast Cancer
1995 Breast Cancer again
1995 Car accident - rear ended neck problems increased
2000 Total Hysterectomy
2002 Stroke due to brain lesion left temporal
2002 Craniotomy - left temporal Cavernous Malformation
2003 5/19/03 Emergency Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion and Plating C5-6 and C6-7
NS said more neck surgery would be needed
Sponsor
firefighter_101
06-26-2003, 07:50 PM
Cathric,
I'm so sorry your having such a hard time breathing. I'm having problems also but not as bad as what you are. My surgery was May 2nd. They are going to scope me next week, ( my gastro doctor ), and I hope balloon my throat to open it up.
Please let us know what the Doctor tells you. Good luck and I'm thinking about you.
Harvey
------------------
Three Level C 4-5,5-6,6-7...Fusion, Grafts and plating.Bone Growth Stimulator worn all the time.
I'm so sorry your having such a hard time breathing. I'm having problems also but not as bad as what you are. My surgery was May 2nd. They are going to scope me next week, ( my gastro doctor ), and I hope balloon my throat to open it up.
Please let us know what the Doctor tells you. Good luck and I'm thinking about you.
Harvey
------------------
Three Level C 4-5,5-6,6-7...Fusion, Grafts and plating.Bone Growth Stimulator worn all the time.
Cathric
06-26-2003, 08:13 PM
Just got back from the pulmonary doc. He says the breathing problem isn't from surgery swelling - thinks that either the vocal cords or the air passage are damaged. He wants me to be scoped in Out Patient surgery asap. He said that if there is 'tissue mesh' in air passage he can laser. If the vocal cords are the problem he will send me to a ENT doc to fix. He said that it's also possible that nerve damage might be the problem but won't know until I'm scoped diagnosed. I'll do what ever it takes to breath easier. He asked if I would do it tomorrow but later told me there wasn't an opening. Next week they will call and schedule.
Harvey, thanks for responding. Are you having a 'broncecope' (spelling) or what? Did the doc say that your lungs look good? Mine are fine so the problem is before the lungs - thank god! Are you wheezey? coughing? Bronical tubes and upper lungs burning? Let me know. Take care of yourself!
Harvey, thanks for responding. Are you having a 'broncecope' (spelling) or what? Did the doc say that your lungs look good? Mine are fine so the problem is before the lungs - thank god! Are you wheezey? coughing? Bronical tubes and upper lungs burning? Let me know. Take care of yourself!
more
06-26-2003, 09:55 PM
Hopefully they will find the cause of your breathing problem. There is nothing worse than fighting for each breath you take. I never had that problem after the surgery but I have had bronchitis and pneumonia which gives you the same problem.
I will tell you though - after my surgery for about the first two months I did have a feeling in my throat like there was something pushing in from the back. The surgeon told me it was the muscles going back into place after the swelling went down. He said it could take some time to go back to normal. Hopefully that is your problem also.
Good luck with your appointment next week and if it is something other than the swelling and moving back of the muscles may it be minor.
I will tell you though - after my surgery for about the first two months I did have a feeling in my throat like there was something pushing in from the back. The surgeon told me it was the muscles going back into place after the swelling went down. He said it could take some time to go back to normal. Hopefully that is your problem also.
Good luck with your appointment next week and if it is something other than the swelling and moving back of the muscles may it be minor.
Cathric
06-27-2003, 01:58 AM
The Pulmonary doc did breathing tests that indicate some breathing obstruction since the surgery. Did anyone else have breathing tests and a bronchoscope? What did you experience?
I keep telling myself that the problem is the one the doc can fix so this won't continue. I really am praying for the 'easy answer'.
Any info from anyone would be helpful. Thanks.
I keep telling myself that the problem is the one the doc can fix so this won't continue. I really am praying for the 'easy answer'.
Any info from anyone would be helpful. Thanks.
firefighter_101
06-27-2003, 03:02 AM
Cathric,
I'm happy that the doctors are working to correct your problem. I had to ask my NS SEVERAL times to refer me to a throat Doctor. I've got a very good Gastro doc now.
I have had the Barium swallow test last week. It showed nothing upstructing my airway. That's why my doc wanted to wait a week and see if the swelling would go down anymore. This friday it will mark 8 weeks post-op for me. I'm not sure how long the swelling will stay but I think 8 weeks is plenty long enough! lol
I haven't had a breathing test at all. I'm not sure what type scope I'm having Cathric, I didn't ask. He did say that when he scopes me, if he finds an area that's not open, he can balloon the area and open it up. I do not have a problem with wheezing, coughing or lungs burning.... I just can't swallow.And for the first month, I couldn't breathe very well either.
I hope they get you in very soon so they can help you. I know what your going through and it's sssoo stressful and tiring....using all your energy just to breathe! It's very hard to keep thinking positive but I'm like you, I know it will get better...( I just wished it would hurry! ) lol
Please keep me posted on your progress.
Harvey
------------------
Three Level C 4-5,5-6,6-7...Fusion, Grafts and plating.Bone Growth Stimulator worn all the time.
I'm happy that the doctors are working to correct your problem. I had to ask my NS SEVERAL times to refer me to a throat Doctor. I've got a very good Gastro doc now.
I have had the Barium swallow test last week. It showed nothing upstructing my airway. That's why my doc wanted to wait a week and see if the swelling would go down anymore. This friday it will mark 8 weeks post-op for me. I'm not sure how long the swelling will stay but I think 8 weeks is plenty long enough! lol
I haven't had a breathing test at all. I'm not sure what type scope I'm having Cathric, I didn't ask. He did say that when he scopes me, if he finds an area that's not open, he can balloon the area and open it up. I do not have a problem with wheezing, coughing or lungs burning.... I just can't swallow.And for the first month, I couldn't breathe very well either.
I hope they get you in very soon so they can help you. I know what your going through and it's sssoo stressful and tiring....using all your energy just to breathe! It's very hard to keep thinking positive but I'm like you, I know it will get better...( I just wished it would hurry! ) lol
Please keep me posted on your progress.
Harvey
------------------
Three Level C 4-5,5-6,6-7...Fusion, Grafts and plating.Bone Growth Stimulator worn all the time.
melanie dawn
06-27-2003, 01:57 PM
Hi Cathric,
I am so sorry that your breathing problems are continuing. This must be beyond stressful for you. There is the stress of worrying and then the anxiety that accompanies breathing difficulties. Have they given you anything for anxiety? In the hospital, we often order Ativan, low dose for the patients with respiratory issues. Fighting to get your breath is physically draining and like I said causes a sense of panic.
If you find that your anxiety level is too high, consider asking the doc for a MILD anti anxiety med.(like ativan /lorazepam) With just having surgery, and all of the stress that comes with it, and now this, you may need to have some treatment for the stress. Only because when there are multiple issues like this ongoing, the stress starts to physically and emotionally effect you and drain your energies.All of this can certainly effect your immune system. Stress is a natural thing, and we are meant to have a certain amount, the problem is when it goes on for too long, it starts to have a negative effect on our body chemistry. It even effects the abillity to rest properly and everything sort of snowballs.
I hope you are soon feeling better, and that they get to the bottom of this quickly.Have they provided you with an inhaler ? Or such to help open up the bronchioles? Another thing is, with the summer here, the humidity can make your breathing more difficult, I hope you have air conditioning, and that you use it. Just getting some of the moisture out of the air can help with the breathing.
Please keep in touch, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Mel
------------------
Congenital Cervical Stenosis,complicated by:
Paracentral Disc herniations ,bone spurs C4/5,C5/6,C6/7
loss of lordotic curve
Advanced myelopathy inc. walking difficulty, loss of gag reflex with swallowing problems, neurogenic bladder, occipital neuralgia, spacticity
I am so sorry that your breathing problems are continuing. This must be beyond stressful for you. There is the stress of worrying and then the anxiety that accompanies breathing difficulties. Have they given you anything for anxiety? In the hospital, we often order Ativan, low dose for the patients with respiratory issues. Fighting to get your breath is physically draining and like I said causes a sense of panic.
If you find that your anxiety level is too high, consider asking the doc for a MILD anti anxiety med.(like ativan /lorazepam) With just having surgery, and all of the stress that comes with it, and now this, you may need to have some treatment for the stress. Only because when there are multiple issues like this ongoing, the stress starts to physically and emotionally effect you and drain your energies.All of this can certainly effect your immune system. Stress is a natural thing, and we are meant to have a certain amount, the problem is when it goes on for too long, it starts to have a negative effect on our body chemistry. It even effects the abillity to rest properly and everything sort of snowballs.
I hope you are soon feeling better, and that they get to the bottom of this quickly.Have they provided you with an inhaler ? Or such to help open up the bronchioles? Another thing is, with the summer here, the humidity can make your breathing more difficult, I hope you have air conditioning, and that you use it. Just getting some of the moisture out of the air can help with the breathing.
Please keep in touch, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Mel
------------------
Congenital Cervical Stenosis,complicated by:
Paracentral Disc herniations ,bone spurs C4/5,C5/6,C6/7
loss of lordotic curve
Advanced myelopathy inc. walking difficulty, loss of gag reflex with swallowing problems, neurogenic bladder, occipital neuralgia, spacticity
Cathric
06-27-2003, 04:16 PM
More, Harvey and Mel,
I just got scheduled for the bronchoscope on Monday 6/30 at 7:30AM. YEAH! I’m anxious to get closer to a resolution. Thanks so much for your responses. This means so much to me – without your involvement I would be dealing with this solo – so much easier with friends! Thanks again.
More, thanks for your info and wishing me luck. I’m so happy that the doctor was great and wants to react quickly – he’s not like most of them I’ve had. His name is Dr. Wright – aptly named!
Harvey, great you have found a good doc also. So you got past the breathing problem but are left with the swallowing issue – very annoying when we need to concentrate our healing on our necks only! When is your scope? I’ll let you know what happens with mine.
Mel, thanks for the suggestion regarding the anxiety. You are certainly correct regarding the added stress. The only positive aspect is that concentrating on breathing has kept my mind off my neck pain! I always think I can handle anything but admit that this is wearing me out. Sleep has been affected by the neck pain and brace alone but I sleep with the light on because of the breathing. I’ll call my doctor today and ask for something to make this easier. I do have an inhaler but it seems to aggravate the breathing. I’ve been using a steam breather that a friend had that has really helped. Humidity is a concern – not in Phoenix but I’m going to be in Orlando in two weeks for my Moms birthday. I’m very concerned because I’ve always had allergies there. Once the bronchoscope is done I’m going to try some allergy meds to prep for Florida.
Once again – thank you for responding! Take care of yourself.
I just got scheduled for the bronchoscope on Monday 6/30 at 7:30AM. YEAH! I’m anxious to get closer to a resolution. Thanks so much for your responses. This means so much to me – without your involvement I would be dealing with this solo – so much easier with friends! Thanks again.
More, thanks for your info and wishing me luck. I’m so happy that the doctor was great and wants to react quickly – he’s not like most of them I’ve had. His name is Dr. Wright – aptly named!
Harvey, great you have found a good doc also. So you got past the breathing problem but are left with the swallowing issue – very annoying when we need to concentrate our healing on our necks only! When is your scope? I’ll let you know what happens with mine.
Mel, thanks for the suggestion regarding the anxiety. You are certainly correct regarding the added stress. The only positive aspect is that concentrating on breathing has kept my mind off my neck pain! I always think I can handle anything but admit that this is wearing me out. Sleep has been affected by the neck pain and brace alone but I sleep with the light on because of the breathing. I’ll call my doctor today and ask for something to make this easier. I do have an inhaler but it seems to aggravate the breathing. I’ve been using a steam breather that a friend had that has really helped. Humidity is a concern – not in Phoenix but I’m going to be in Orlando in two weeks for my Moms birthday. I’m very concerned because I’ve always had allergies there. Once the bronchoscope is done I’m going to try some allergy meds to prep for Florida.
Once again – thank you for responding! Take care of yourself.
melanie dawn
06-27-2003, 04:38 PM
Hi Cathric,
I am so glad that you are calling the doctor. Try for some Ativan? lorazapam. These are mild , short acting. The anxiety is partly worrying about the breathing. But when you cant get enough oxygen, and if your oxygen counts are low in the blood this causes anxiety from a chemical standpoint.
I am so glad that you are adressing this issue. And talk to the doc. about your trip to Florida, and that you have increased allergies when you are there. That combined with the humidity can cause further resp. problems. So while you have the Doc. on the hook, please review this with him.
Take care of yourself, I'll be thinking of you
Mel
------------------
Congenital Cervical Stenosis,complicated by:
Paracentral Disc herniations ,bone spurs C4/5,C5/6,C6/7
loss of lordotic curve
Advanced myelopathy inc. walking difficulty, loss of gag reflex with swallowing problems, neurogenic bladder, occipital neuralgia, spacticity
I am so glad that you are calling the doctor. Try for some Ativan? lorazapam. These are mild , short acting. The anxiety is partly worrying about the breathing. But when you cant get enough oxygen, and if your oxygen counts are low in the blood this causes anxiety from a chemical standpoint.
I am so glad that you are adressing this issue. And talk to the doc. about your trip to Florida, and that you have increased allergies when you are there. That combined with the humidity can cause further resp. problems. So while you have the Doc. on the hook, please review this with him.
Take care of yourself, I'll be thinking of you
Mel
------------------
Congenital Cervical Stenosis,complicated by:
Paracentral Disc herniations ,bone spurs C4/5,C5/6,C6/7
loss of lordotic curve
Advanced myelopathy inc. walking difficulty, loss of gag reflex with swallowing problems, neurogenic bladder, occipital neuralgia, spacticity
Catherine with a C
06-27-2003, 05:57 PM
Cathric,
I am so sorry to hear about your continued breathing situation. I will admit to being somewhat worried for you~~~I will not suggest a slice of cheesecake though!
You have let us know by your signature what a strong woman you are~~~~~~so, try to look at this as a little blip! You shall overcome! I do so hope that you have some help!
Please continue to keep us updated!
When do you head to Florida?~~~~I do so hope that this latest concern will have been alleviated by then!
with a hug,
Your friend to the North,
Catherine
I am so sorry to hear about your continued breathing situation. I will admit to being somewhat worried for you~~~I will not suggest a slice of cheesecake though!
You have let us know by your signature what a strong woman you are~~~~~~so, try to look at this as a little blip! You shall overcome! I do so hope that you have some help!
Please continue to keep us updated!
When do you head to Florida?~~~~I do so hope that this latest concern will have been alleviated by then!
with a hug,
Your friend to the North,
Catherine
Cathric
06-28-2003, 02:08 PM
Mel and Catherine,
Thanks for your responses. I can't wait for the bronchoscope on Monday. Everything is easier to handle once there is a diagnosis so steps can be taken - can't wait to resolve this.
Mel, next week is the bronchoscope, toe surgery, neck x-ray AND seeing my primary doc for allergy meds. I plan on bringing to Orlando inhalers, steam breather and allergy meds to offset their humidity. I'm really prepping for humidity since I'm not used to it at all! Oh, I called the doc regarding Ativan - she refused! I did have a few valiums from previous surgery - took one and really slept last night! Wow, I felt much better. Thanks for your info.
Catherine, don't worry - I'll stay away from the cheesecake! Thanks for your concern - I'm very resilient and get through everything but was down from the breathing problem. It was bad but made worse because none of the docs seemed interested. I forced action and am pleased that Monday some diagnosis will be available. In the next few weeks I plan on haveing this problem resolved as I'll be leaving for Florida 7/14. I so excited to see my big family!
Take care.
Thanks for your responses. I can't wait for the bronchoscope on Monday. Everything is easier to handle once there is a diagnosis so steps can be taken - can't wait to resolve this.
Mel, next week is the bronchoscope, toe surgery, neck x-ray AND seeing my primary doc for allergy meds. I plan on bringing to Orlando inhalers, steam breather and allergy meds to offset their humidity. I'm really prepping for humidity since I'm not used to it at all! Oh, I called the doc regarding Ativan - she refused! I did have a few valiums from previous surgery - took one and really slept last night! Wow, I felt much better. Thanks for your info.
Catherine, don't worry - I'll stay away from the cheesecake! Thanks for your concern - I'm very resilient and get through everything but was down from the breathing problem. It was bad but made worse because none of the docs seemed interested. I forced action and am pleased that Monday some diagnosis will be available. In the next few weeks I plan on haveing this problem resolved as I'll be leaving for Florida 7/14. I so excited to see my big family!
Take care.
PsychLea
06-29-2003, 04:28 PM
Cathric,
I have had a bronchoscopy before. They will sedate you before the procedure and then do xrays afterward and observe you for several hours afterward. Expect to run a fever for about 48 hours, due to the invasiveness of the procedure. I hope they can find out what the problem is.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
C4-5 noncompressive disc displacement
C5-6 compressive disc displacement
C6-7 broad based disc protrusion encroaching on the anterioposterior aspect of the spinal canal.
DDD
ACDF C6-7 5/13/03 with titanium plate,4 screws, and no collar postop.
I have had a bronchoscopy before. They will sedate you before the procedure and then do xrays afterward and observe you for several hours afterward. Expect to run a fever for about 48 hours, due to the invasiveness of the procedure. I hope they can find out what the problem is.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
C4-5 noncompressive disc displacement
C5-6 compressive disc displacement
C6-7 broad based disc protrusion encroaching on the anterioposterior aspect of the spinal canal.
DDD
ACDF C6-7 5/13/03 with titanium plate,4 screws, and no collar postop.
Cathric
07-01-2003, 09:09 PM
Hi all!
Yesterday I had the bronchoscope. It wasn't bad at all, as I don't remember a thing! We came back home in the early afternoon and I got settled in the recliner. When my husband returned from work 5 hours later I hadn't moved! I even slept the entire evening -amazing for a person that rarely sleeps well.
I didn't receive any results from the doc after the procedure, as he and my husband didn't connect. I called his office this AM and they said he had planned on calling me that afternoon. I was hoping the doc would say that he just had to remove some scar tissue or some other easy thing. Previously he said that worse case scenario would be vocal cord nerve damage that an ENT doc would be needed for. WELL.... it’s nerve damage on my right vocal cord. He said that when breathing, the right side was staying closed on inhale which was greatly affecting my breathing. He said that its not paralyzed but closes when it should open. This doctor is the best I've ever had – spent time explaining the issue, showing concern, and saying that he would contact the ENT himself so this would move along. He was very sympathetic saying that 'you've had to work so hard to get your breath instead of concentrating on healing your neck'. WOW - a doc with feelings. I'm impressed.
I’m telling myself that this will be resolved before the Flordia trip. I have breathing problems there when both of my vocal cords open on inhale! My hope is that I get in to see this ENT so he can provide allergy meds for Florida and resolve this problem.
Take care everyone.
Yesterday I had the bronchoscope. It wasn't bad at all, as I don't remember a thing! We came back home in the early afternoon and I got settled in the recliner. When my husband returned from work 5 hours later I hadn't moved! I even slept the entire evening -amazing for a person that rarely sleeps well.
I didn't receive any results from the doc after the procedure, as he and my husband didn't connect. I called his office this AM and they said he had planned on calling me that afternoon. I was hoping the doc would say that he just had to remove some scar tissue or some other easy thing. Previously he said that worse case scenario would be vocal cord nerve damage that an ENT doc would be needed for. WELL.... it’s nerve damage on my right vocal cord. He said that when breathing, the right side was staying closed on inhale which was greatly affecting my breathing. He said that its not paralyzed but closes when it should open. This doctor is the best I've ever had – spent time explaining the issue, showing concern, and saying that he would contact the ENT himself so this would move along. He was very sympathetic saying that 'you've had to work so hard to get your breath instead of concentrating on healing your neck'. WOW - a doc with feelings. I'm impressed.
I’m telling myself that this will be resolved before the Flordia trip. I have breathing problems there when both of my vocal cords open on inhale! My hope is that I get in to see this ENT so he can provide allergy meds for Florida and resolve this problem.
Take care everyone.
firefighter_101
07-01-2003, 10:56 PM
Hello Cathric,
I very happy you've found what the problem was. That's got to be a big relief. If your like me, I can deal with almost anything but I have to know what I'm facing first. I'm hoping you get an appointment with your ENT soon. You deserve your Florida vacation and hopefully nothing will postpone it.
Harvey
I very happy you've found what the problem was. That's got to be a big relief. If your like me, I can deal with almost anything but I have to know what I'm facing first. I'm hoping you get an appointment with your ENT soon. You deserve your Florida vacation and hopefully nothing will postpone it.
Harvey
Cathric
07-01-2003, 11:28 PM
Harvey,
Thanks for your reply. Are you having your procedure tomorrow? If its like mine, enjoy the snooze!
Yes, you are right - I feel that I can handle anything as long as it has a name and a treatment path. That's how I handled the breast cancer. In some ways it was easier than the neck issue because the path is so laid out and established for cancer. I choose to think that this is another temporary problem that will be resolved.
Good luck with all your problems - I'll be thinking of you. Thanks.
Thanks for your reply. Are you having your procedure tomorrow? If its like mine, enjoy the snooze!
Yes, you are right - I feel that I can handle anything as long as it has a name and a treatment path. That's how I handled the breast cancer. In some ways it was easier than the neck issue because the path is so laid out and established for cancer. I choose to think that this is another temporary problem that will be resolved.
Good luck with all your problems - I'll be thinking of you. Thanks.
Cathric
07-05-2003, 03:10 PM
In the past week I've seen the Pulmonary Specialists, scheduled with the hospital for the bronchoscope, had the bronchoscope and received the diagnosis of a damaged right vocal cord that is causing the breathing problems. The Pulmonary doc can’t fix this so he wanted me to see an ENT doc for help. Next week is my last week home before I go to Florida for my family reunion/ Mother’s birthday so I didn’t think I would be able to get an appointment. I called the ENT’s office and my insurance and begged to get in next week. YEAH -- I’m scheduled for Wednesday afternoon! The Pulmonary doc said that I would require ‘treatments’ from the ENT to fix the vocal cord if it can be fixed. I’m not expecting one visit to do the trick but at least I can ask questions and bring up my concern about increased breathing problems in Florida. I’ll feel better discussing the breathing concern with a specialists that knows my problem rather than picking up some over the counter allergy meds that might complicate my breathing.
When I was first planning the Florida trip I didn’t know about the neck surgery. So in these few weeks before the trip I’ve had neck surgery, breathing issues, Pulmonary doc, enlarged heart diagnosed, ENT doc involved, had some teeth fixed that were chipped during surgery and oh yeah, had a toenail removed that was broken! (Which by the way, hurts more than my neck!)Isn’t preparing for a trip usually just involved with shopping, packing and stopping the paper? Life is full of weird turns!
When I was first planning the Florida trip I didn’t know about the neck surgery. So in these few weeks before the trip I’ve had neck surgery, breathing issues, Pulmonary doc, enlarged heart diagnosed, ENT doc involved, had some teeth fixed that were chipped during surgery and oh yeah, had a toenail removed that was broken! (Which by the way, hurts more than my neck!)Isn’t preparing for a trip usually just involved with shopping, packing and stopping the paper? Life is full of weird turns!
winged phantom
07-05-2003, 03:54 PM
Cathric,
I haven't really been up on your problems, but I've just done more reading around. You've really had a rough time, haven't you? And these are just some of the reasons people should not be too hasty to jump into surgery unless it's necessary; there are so many "little" things the surgeons sort of gloss over in telling you of the side effects/dangers of the procedure.
Glad to hear you do finally have a handle on what it is and that you really like the doc who is handling this. That in itself is a miracle; to find someone who cares and seems to fit the picture together in incredible!
And I read you are coming to MY neck of the woods? For two weeks??? Wow, aren't you lucky to be able to experience the heat, humidity, and bugs for that long! Oh, wait... you already know about the heat and humidity (in the latter part of the summer); yup, and you have bugs, too! Oh, well! It'll be a snap for you! It has been a bit of an adjustment for me getting back from such great temps... what a treat that was to have it in the 50's every night!
wr :wave:
I haven't really been up on your problems, but I've just done more reading around. You've really had a rough time, haven't you? And these are just some of the reasons people should not be too hasty to jump into surgery unless it's necessary; there are so many "little" things the surgeons sort of gloss over in telling you of the side effects/dangers of the procedure.
Glad to hear you do finally have a handle on what it is and that you really like the doc who is handling this. That in itself is a miracle; to find someone who cares and seems to fit the picture together in incredible!
And I read you are coming to MY neck of the woods? For two weeks??? Wow, aren't you lucky to be able to experience the heat, humidity, and bugs for that long! Oh, wait... you already know about the heat and humidity (in the latter part of the summer); yup, and you have bugs, too! Oh, well! It'll be a snap for you! It has been a bit of an adjustment for me getting back from such great temps... what a treat that was to have it in the 50's every night!
wr :wave:
Cathric
07-06-2003, 07:44 PM
My dear Winged one,
Good to hear from you – glad you’re back even though I envied your excursions! So true about the weird things that can happen with any procedure. I’ve had lots of surgery but this one wins the award for weirdness – the neck pain took second place to the breathing issues. I’m so glad to get into the ENT’s office on Wednesday. Any help to prep me for the Florida humidity! I’m sure you enjoyed the 50 degree reprieve! Take care of yourself and prepare Florida for me, OK?
Cathric
Good to hear from you – glad you’re back even though I envied your excursions! So true about the weird things that can happen with any procedure. I’ve had lots of surgery but this one wins the award for weirdness – the neck pain took second place to the breathing issues. I’m so glad to get into the ENT’s office on Wednesday. Any help to prep me for the Florida humidity! I’m sure you enjoyed the 50 degree reprieve! Take care of yourself and prepare Florida for me, OK?
Cathric
mel333
07-07-2003, 11:53 AM
Hi Cathric,
I have been reading your posts and I just wanted to say you have a great attitude! It is amazing the complications that can arise from surgery. I am sorry this happened to you and I hope now with the diagnosis things can be corrected. It must be extremely difficult having breathing problems along with all the rest of the things you have been through. Take care,
Mel
I have been reading your posts and I just wanted to say you have a great attitude! It is amazing the complications that can arise from surgery. I am sorry this happened to you and I hope now with the diagnosis things can be corrected. It must be extremely difficult having breathing problems along with all the rest of the things you have been through. Take care,
Mel
winged phantom
07-07-2003, 03:05 PM
Uhhhhh...... any considerations about comparing scars? lol
wr :wave:
wr :wave:
Cathric
07-10-2003, 02:31 AM
Today I went to the ENT doc that the pulmonary doc (my special Doc Wright!) sent me to see. He had the pictures from the bronchoscope Dr. Wright had done but he needed to run his rotor-rooter hose down my nose to check the vocal cords out. Gee I hate that.... he did numb it up so it wasn't so gaggy.
He feels that the vocal cord nerve was stretched during the surgery causing the problem. He thinks the vocal cord is somewhat more reactive than it was during the bronchoscope. He could see that when I spoke the cord moved a little. He thinks that we just 'wait this out and let it heal as most of these do'. I'm happy to hear this but admit that the 'wait and see' is in its 8th week so I'm getting impatient. When he said that he would see me again in 6 weeks I disagreed! We agreed on 2-3 weeks or earlier if it worsened. He offered to send me to a Speech Therapists to strengthen my voice. I'll check this out when I get back - it would seem that if my voice were strengthened my breathing would improve also. He said it 'might'. Hm-m-m we'll see.
If this was affecting my voice only I still would be getting edgy but the affect on the breathing is altering my life much more. My voice is very breathy and scratchy still. Granted there is some improvement but I had hoped all would be well for Florida. I asked about meds that would help the breathing more and he told me to stay on Singular as it would shrink swelling and would help with allergies.
I left the doctors feeling a little flat. I had to go through so many tricks to get this appointment that I expected more. The Pulmonary doc spoke of ‘treatments’ from the ENT but there was no mention. At this point though, I am happy that I’ve had some improvement and hope for more.
My plan of action after vacation is doing PT, inquiring about Speech Therapy, making an appointment with a Cardiologist and seeing the ENT doc again.
I still will have a great trip, lazy vocal cord or not!
He feels that the vocal cord nerve was stretched during the surgery causing the problem. He thinks the vocal cord is somewhat more reactive than it was during the bronchoscope. He could see that when I spoke the cord moved a little. He thinks that we just 'wait this out and let it heal as most of these do'. I'm happy to hear this but admit that the 'wait and see' is in its 8th week so I'm getting impatient. When he said that he would see me again in 6 weeks I disagreed! We agreed on 2-3 weeks or earlier if it worsened. He offered to send me to a Speech Therapists to strengthen my voice. I'll check this out when I get back - it would seem that if my voice were strengthened my breathing would improve also. He said it 'might'. Hm-m-m we'll see.
If this was affecting my voice only I still would be getting edgy but the affect on the breathing is altering my life much more. My voice is very breathy and scratchy still. Granted there is some improvement but I had hoped all would be well for Florida. I asked about meds that would help the breathing more and he told me to stay on Singular as it would shrink swelling and would help with allergies.
I left the doctors feeling a little flat. I had to go through so many tricks to get this appointment that I expected more. The Pulmonary doc spoke of ‘treatments’ from the ENT but there was no mention. At this point though, I am happy that I’ve had some improvement and hope for more.
My plan of action after vacation is doing PT, inquiring about Speech Therapy, making an appointment with a Cardiologist and seeing the ENT doc again.
I still will have a great trip, lazy vocal cord or not!
Cathric
07-11-2003, 09:50 PM
Mel, Winged and all,
Thanks for the replies - breathing is improving some so I'll take it! Today I got my 'fusion check' x-ray but of course won't hear anything until later.
On my way home I was so happy to be breathing, driving, and singing away when suddenly my car went to a crawl. Unfortunately, I was making a left turn on a very busy street...EEK! ALERT - WOMAN WITH NECK BRACE IS IN FRONT OF YOUR CAR!!! Happily all were able to stop. I had some manly men push my car off the road. I went into a restaurant and started making towing and repair calls. A nice woman next to me asked about my neck so we spoke. GET THIS - she had had a 5 level ACDF last year at age 74. She demonstrated her movement capability by moving her head everywhere - I was amazed! That certainly will give us all hope!
Take care.
Thanks for the replies - breathing is improving some so I'll take it! Today I got my 'fusion check' x-ray but of course won't hear anything until later.
On my way home I was so happy to be breathing, driving, and singing away when suddenly my car went to a crawl. Unfortunately, I was making a left turn on a very busy street...EEK! ALERT - WOMAN WITH NECK BRACE IS IN FRONT OF YOUR CAR!!! Happily all were able to stop. I had some manly men push my car off the road. I went into a restaurant and started making towing and repair calls. A nice woman next to me asked about my neck so we spoke. GET THIS - she had had a 5 level ACDF last year at age 74. She demonstrated her movement capability by moving her head everywhere - I was amazed! That certainly will give us all hope!
Take care.
melanie dawn
07-12-2003, 01:03 PM
Hi,
I am so glad that your breathing is improving. I think the ent was on the right track, you certainly dont want more invasive treatment if at all possible. Speech therapy is a really good idea. How is your swallowing?
Wow, a 5 level? Most docs cut off doing ACDF at three levels. that is amazing.
Well i just wanted to say how happy i was to read your post, singing , breathing , driving, sounds wonderful to me.
Enjoy your upcoming trip to Fla.
Mel
I am so glad that your breathing is improving. I think the ent was on the right track, you certainly dont want more invasive treatment if at all possible. Speech therapy is a really good idea. How is your swallowing?
Wow, a 5 level? Most docs cut off doing ACDF at three levels. that is amazing.
Well i just wanted to say how happy i was to read your post, singing , breathing , driving, sounds wonderful to me.
Enjoy your upcoming trip to Fla.
Mel