It's been a while since I posted; I've been waiting on some positive developments to take place. Over the holiday weekend I finally passed some more gas and had other movement in the bowel. The doctors were awaiting this as if it were a fulfillment of a prophecy. However, my stomach is still retaining quite a lot of digestive fluid. As long as this fluid isn't moving out into the intestine I won't be given food by mouth.
This morning, day 18, I got some more good news. Dr. Farnell, who returned to Mayo from a week away, suggested that there might be a narrowing of the connection between the stomach and the intestine, preventing the fluid from moving. He had me undergo a barium moving x-ray. This test revealed that the opening was of generous width, not blocking the fluid's movement. So, while this doesn't get me to eating right away, it does eliminate one more possible complication.
Right now the NG tube is clamped for as long as I can stand it, to encourage the stomach to move. If I start getting nauseated, though, I'm starting the pump again.
My cousin Dr. John Johnson, and his wife Joyce, are visiting me for the week from Greeneville, TN. It is nice to have family around.
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"The doctors were awaiting this as if it were a fulfillment of a prophecy." This line made me smile and hear the recit "Then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written..." We are all praying for you!
ReplyDeleteDear Ed,
ReplyDeleteThis is Sarah Tannehill, Eric's ex. I came across this blog when I was reading Karen's Italy blog. I always think about you and the great times we had at your house!
I didn't know you were ill and I am so sad and sorry that you are going through this. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will be checking this blog from time to time to see how you are doing.
Take good care of yourself.
Love, Sarah