BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?

Subject: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 09:19 AM

Been having some crazy stuff happening lately.
Weight loss, no appetite, very low energy.

For the past two days I have not taken any blood pressure pills and it is normal. 120/74. Before I quit them it was 110/55. My glucose is normal but my pulse is a bit rapid, 107 at rest.
.My doctor just ordered blood culture work and urine analysis.
Any ideas?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Wesley S
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 09:24 AM

I'm suprised your glucose is normal. It sounds like what I had just before I found out I was diabetic.

I'm not a doctor but I played one on the stage once.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 09:52 AM

Given the events of the past few months, Captain, I would not rule out depression. You have had several bad shocks and setbacks. The symptoms fit. Are you sleeping more than normal? Lost interest in almost everything? Food taste bad or is tasteless?

If it is depression, it may pass. You can help yourself with exercise - a natural endorphine. St John's Wort may help but be careful. Clinical depression does not just go away. Talk to your own doctor.

JimmyT is the only doctor I know of on Mudcat and he supports himself with a line of thongs.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Dead Horse
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 09:57 AM

In comes I, a little doctor.
"My doctor just ordered blood culture work and urine analysis."
Sounds like he's taking the bl**dy p*ss, mate. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 10:51 AM

Thyroid maybe?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 11:03 AM

The time to see the doc is when a change happens suddenly. It may or may not signal an emergency, but sudden onset is ALWAYS something to check out ASAP because sometimes sudden onset gives an opportunity to nip a real bad thing in the bud.

It might be a natural reaction to the overwhelming stress of the last few months on top of the chronic stress of the last several years.

A wise wife's instincts should always be followed, perhaps even obeyed.


TAKE CARE,

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 11:05 AM

So first you have to find a wise sife...I know

CELLAR!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 11:14 AM

I've been depressed for years but it never knocked me down like this has.
Right now I'm looking forward to a dish of Jello. How crazy is that?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Ebbie
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 11:20 AM

Simplify, Kendall. Simplify. (You can't get much simpler than Jello!)

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 11:44 AM

Actually a food craving is a very good thing. We are usually taught to fight them, but it's better to follow it and see what your body is actually telling you it needs. If you satisfy a rational craving for something you actually need, you crave less instead of more.

Jello for instance has stuff that is good for your bones. Have some and see what flavor lingers as the best part of it. The thing you need may be that thing. Then you can find out how to get that thing without Jello, within your overall nutrition plan.

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Morticia
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:01 PM

I wonder where Marc Cohen is these days? Jimmy is a dentist isn't he?

I too suspect you have just been through more than enough and your body is having a bit of a rebel.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:05 PM

My god! He's pregnant!
Moody. Tired. Off his feed. Craving Jell-o. It all adds up.

Sorry, Kendall. Until the blood tests come back, I am sticking with depression. But have they tested you for Lyme's Disease? Jacqui had similar symptoms before she was diagnosed.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: curmudgeon
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:19 PM

Please don't tell us that you've lost your taste for Single Malts.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:35 PM

I got with the pregnancy idea. Or maybe simple hysteria. Or, God forbid!, premature single malt withdrawal.

But get checked out. You can confide in your doctor about the pregnancy, if that's what it is. And a hysterectomy is supposed to cure hysteria.

I'm not a doctor, but I do have a Master's Degree...in Science!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:53 PM

Premature single malt withdrawal-- is that how you tried to prevent pregnancy!?!?

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Bill D
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:58 PM

"... looking forward to a dish of Jello. How crazy is that?"

Jello? What flavor? If it's lime, beware!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 12:59 PM

Lay off folk music, and go to bluegrass!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Art Thieme
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 01:19 PM

Kendall,
Have an orgasm or two, amd get some sleep.

Art

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 01:32 PM

Hope the jello isn't from the pit at the Taven...ewwww...gross!

Kendall, leave off with the docs as much as possible. They will drive ya crazy and cause depression with their endless speculations about what could go wrong next. They don't know and, if they're honest, they will tell you so. Then you have to listen to your bod, darlin'...I can say this after two months of endless bullshit with docs.:-)

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 01:35 PM

Curmudgeon, I have no desire for whiskey of any kind. Maybe I should worry.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Wesley S
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 01:36 PM

Art - I'm feeling just fine but I plan to follow your orders anyway.

Thanks.

But maybe I should wait until I get home from work.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 01:39 PM

The doc is on the case. Go with the flow and TRY to be mellow.

Jello? Only if it's lobstah flavahhh.

BTW, I just ate all I could of a three pounder (I don't eat the body) and it's the first time I have ever had one that size that wasn't just right. Now, it was cooked and iced last night and I have never had one that size that wasn't still warm... what's your view on the proper size fer good tasting, tender lobster, K?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Dave Swan
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 01:43 PM

PM sent. Go look.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:24 PM

Craves Jell-O and no single malt...if this keeps up I will have to find a new friend.

Honest Captain. A long walk on the beach with that silly dog of yours or an hour on the exercise bike and the endorphines will kick in. Plus you'll sleep - nothing like sleep to forget about what ails you.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:26 PM

Another thought - we haven't seen sunshine in weeks. Don't underestimate the effect this crappy weather is having on your psyche.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:42 PM

I just got the results of a water test, and it said the well water failed the coliform bacteria test. That was my first suspicion.
What next?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:44 PM

Diarrhea, I think.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:48 PM

Depends on what type of coliform bacteria is found. Most are harmless but indicate possible contamination.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:53 PM

Explain to them how to tell the outhouse from the well.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Amos
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 02:54 PM

A house-water filtration system would probably be a good idea.


A

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: bobad
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 03:04 PM

Pour a bottle of bleach down the well.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Bobert
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 03:22 PM

Well, I got a sure fire cure to take all that stuff off yer mind, Cap[t'n and its easy and doesn't involve drugs of any kind... You really don't need much but you will need an anvel, a ballpeen hammer and yer private parts... If you got all this stuff and want the rest of the cure, PM me and I'll walk ya; thru it... BTW, it is guarenteed to take whateveer is bothering ya' off yer mind for a long, long time... Kinda time released cure...

But that ain't the only cure I have... Just the fastest...

Seriously, Capt'n, I ain't no doctor but seein' as if everything seems purdy normal, other than the stresses you have been under, I'd lean toward depression, also... Whoever said exercise hit the nail on the head... Exercise is the best cure out there... No, bending yer arm to get another drink of Scotch ain't exercise... I'm talkin' walkin'... Brisk as you feel comfortable... 1/2 hour of cardiovascualr does the trick... Problem is that it's gonna take a week or two of 1/2 cardio before the endorphins get buzy and make ya' feel better... Oh, BTW, when they get going, everything is gonna get going... Get my drift???

Bobert

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Amos
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 03:24 PM

I would suggest a long row on the harbor.


A

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 03:43 PM

Take some pots with ya on the row. May as well make it worthwhile.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 03:54 PM

I guess running my mouth and jumping to conclusions is not sufficient exercise?

I was on the TODAY show in 1976, and Jim Hart asked me to tell a Maine story. Of course, he had to hear it first, so I told him this one:

A farmer noticed that his well water was tasting funny, so he sent a sample of it to the lab for testing. As soon as they got the results they sent an engineer down to do a safety exam. He noticed that the well was too close to the cess pool, so he told the man that he had to either stop using the well or the cess poll.
He figured he could get by without the cess pool so they stopped using it, and 3 days later the well went dry.
No, he wouldn't let me tell that on national TV

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 04:29 PM

Well, I'm sure you heard the one about the fella who saw his friend reaching around in the outhouse, trying to bring something up from down below.

"What are you trying to do?" asked the first fella.

"Dropped my jacket down there," was the answer.

First fella said, "It was an old, torn up jacket. Why not just let it go?"

"I don't care so much for the jacket," his friend said, "but I had a good ham sandwich in the pocket."

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 04:42 PM

SIGH!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 05:45 PM

My lab tests just came back. Massive abdominal infestion. Could end up in the hospital.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 05:48 PM

More single malt! It's that damned water! Rusts yer pipes!

Remember: the power that drove our vessel was the power of Portland rum.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 05:52 PM

SHIT!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 05:56 PM

Don't go to the hospital, Kendall. They make you associate with sick people, stick you with needles, feed you bad food, withhold good drink, wake you up at ungodly hours, and then charge you a bunch for it.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: BusyBee Paul
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 06:34 PM

Get well soon, Kendall!

Deirdre

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: bobad
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 06:50 PM

Please attend to it with all due haste, it can become very, very serious very rapidly.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Dave Swan
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 07:14 PM

Forget the PM.

Sorry you're playing host.

D

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Ebbie
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 07:39 PM

What gnu said, Kendall.

You know, you're doing an awful lot of prepaying this year. After all this is sorted out you're going to have a good many problem-free years.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 08:01 PM

She told me that if I get worse in the night to go to the ER. If I don't get worse, I stay put.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Bobert
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 08:15 PM

Well, no wonder yer fellin' crappy, ahhhhhhh, lousy...

Hey, get yer ass into the hospital tomorrow... Screw the Scotch... Like you said, you ain't got no appitite fir it... Get them doctors to get you uninfested 'er I'll come up there and uninfest you myself... You tell the doctors that...

Come on, Kendall... I'm perfectly serious here... You and me ain't done yet, ya' hear???

Hang in there, my friend... This shit will pass... 'Er somethin' like that...

B~

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 08:39 PM

Does Jacqui agree to wait till the morning?

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Peace
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 08:40 PM

Go to the doctor.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 08:54 PM

Nice to know it is not "clinical depression"!

With due respect to Amos, a close friend who had a state of the art/best money could buy water filtration/purification system - still got heart fibrillation. Went to distilled water and has had no problem - over five years now. A distiller costs under $150 and ensures safe water.

Of course, this means one does not get minerals in one's water. However, I tried using the water from rinsing my still on the house plants and they turned yellow. So much for the minerals. Take supplements.

I have other ideas but you are a mainstream medicine person. I am not. So just make sure they take good care of you. Jacqui will!!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: maeve
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 09:57 PM

I'm home from chorus and waiting for an update, Kendall. I'll check this thread again in the morning.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Jun 09 - 10:07 PM

Get thee to a hospitalry!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 12:09 AM

Don't mess around with this one, Kendall. It's something they can take care of have it all come out all right, so to speak, but it's best not to delay, imo. Oh hell, yer probably asleep, so just gets lots of rest, okay and see the doc tomorrow!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Mrrzy
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:45 AM

My first thought was Lyme disease too... good luck and good health!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: jacqui.c
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:58 AM

Kendall started on antibiotics last evening and has to go for a CAT scan of his abdomen this afternoon at two o'clock. I don't know how long it will take to get the results of that but we will need to find out exactly what this infection is and whether it has anything to do with the well water. We've got a guy coming round to give an idea pf what needs to be done to clean out the well - Kendall is not in a fit condition to do that himself. We're also looking at the possibility of having town water piped in, although that is likely to be quite an expensive proposition.

I think that Kendall's constitution has been weakened over the past few weeks by surgery and stress and left him wide open for anything that might attack him. We'll hear what the doctors have to say and act accordingly.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 12:33 PM

diverticulitis?
The Captain suffers from that occasionally.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Tinker
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 12:51 PM

Lifting you guys up ..... figure if we all pitch in this ridiculously heavy load might just get to the doable stage....

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 01:06 PM

Diverticulitis could certainly be complicated by an over-abundance of E Coli, but it sounds unlikely that diverticulitis alone (lacking E Coli complication) would explain what Kendall described.

As I expected, it sounds to me like Jacqui has it all well in hand.

In our community, when E Coli in wells gets out of hand (some is usually safely present), we just dump bleach in it to knock it down. (The carrying capacity vs. sparse population here is such that bleach does not affect the total groundwater supply, and what we send downstream is fine.) In a more densely populated or more rapidly-vertical runoff topography, that would neither do the trick nor be safe for downstreamers.

The other factor they will be looking at is probably whether the E Coli found in the labwork is the same safe type most well water contains.

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 01:14 PM

Someone please remove the spam.

Thanks.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 01:15 PM

How about all of us with free phone service call Ali and tell him to stay off Mudcat? That is a Texas number. How many calls will it take to screw up his phone line?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 01:37 PM

What a bummer. Kendall and Jacqui need a vakay. They really need get away from home and all the problems and reminders of sad and worrisome stuff for a while.

So sorry you are suffering like this. Just is not fair.

tam

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: open mike
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 01:46 PM

yes the post from 1:04 p.m. has to go...

but meanwhile here is what I have to offer..
my business (shameless promotion....) is
selling water filters...i have had one in
my house for 30 years and have been drinking
water direct from the stream....I totally
believe in my product and would love to
offer a mudcat discount to anyone who is
interested in having one...

This is a solid carbon block "point of use"
system...meaning it is installed right at
the place you use the water...with it's
own spigot. guaranteed to remove E. coli,
giardia cysts , heavy metals, chlorine
and other contaminants..as small as .5 microns
Multi Pure filters can be used for all drinking
water, and there are units for filtering shower
water too. I got one for my daughter for the
water for the tub she gave birth in...and
the kid came out just fine!!

Seriously, though, for anyone who is unsure
of the quality of their water, and especially
if they have water that is contaminated , or
if they use bottled water, these filters will
be a great addition to your life.

Contact me at veraloe (at) gotsky (dot) com
if you are interested in more info....Laurel

ps if interested, please get it directly from me
i have been a distributor for many years. thanks

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 01:48 PM

Ya know... the well water could very well be slightly "contaminated" as of late with all the warm weather followed by the heavy rain.

May I suggest boiling the well water? You can always use bottled water for drinking for a while.

Of course, jello is good (no red couloured stuff), as are clear fluids, no dairy, etc, etc... the regular advice to help clear up a bad case of the trots. And, after it settles, some "pro-biotic" yoghurt to get the good beasties going again.

In any case, I hope the doc stays on top of the situation and things work out well in the end. Yeah, I know... >:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: bobad
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 02:10 PM

If I understood correctly Kendall was told he had a massive ABDOMINAL infection. In medical lingo that is usually distinct from an INTESTINAL infection.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 02:19 PM

Oh. Fuck the jello.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Jeri
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 02:27 PM

Gnu: kinky. Got a special Jello mold?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 03:10 PM

Mold? Yer sick!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 03:37 PM

Moldy jello? Hmmmmmm.... Could be a new flavor and color.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: maeve
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 04:07 PM

Thanks, Jacqui. I'll check back later.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 04:20 PM

Yum! Jello!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 06:19 PM

Just waiting to hear.................

Friend of mine in college had a step-Dad who would have said, "Boy, all you need is a good physic." Ironically, he died fairly young of stomach cancer. So much for the "good physic."

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: maeve
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 07:01 PM

It's later, and I suspect you won't know anything definitive tonight.

Back much later anyway,

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: jacqui.c
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 07:34 PM

We had to wait around after Kendall's scan as the doctor had requested immediate results. After about 15 minutes we were told that the results had been seen, that we could go home and that we would be contacted later in the day with further information. This we took as a good sign - I think if there had been anything serious showing up Kendall would have been whipped into hospital post haste.

His doctor's assistant called a while back to tell us that Kendall has diverticulitis and also some pneumonia in his left lung, luckily restricted to the lower part of the lung. The antibiotics that he is taking will deal with both problems over the next few days. He's also taking acidophilous to combat the damage that antibiotics do to the friendly gut bacteria.

We had a plumber come round this afternoon to pump out the well and clean it out with chlorine and that should deal with that problem. The only thing that was found was Total Coliform - not dangerous according to a couple of websites I found - this is a bit from one of them:-

Total coliform bacteria are commonly found in the environment (e.g. soil or
vegetation) and are generally harmless. If only total coliform bacteria are
detected in drinking water, the source is probably environmental, and fecal
contamination is not likely. However, if environmental contamination can enter
the system, there may be a way for other pathogens to enter the system.
Therefore, it is important to determine the source and resolve the problem.

I am not at all sure that the problem with the well is anything to do with Kendall's current condition. The stress of two lots of anaesthetics and two major disappointments, as well as the loss of Ezra, in such a short time period has caused a lot of stress, which would have been an easy trigger for the diverticulitis and in his weakened condition the pneumonia would not be surprising.

Anyway, I'm not going to feed him lobster until he feels a lot better as he just wouldn't appreciate it at all.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 07:55 PM

Good news/bad news Jacqui. With the upcoming flu season promising to be unpleasant, we need to build the Captain up. I am proposing that you run around the backyard with a boombox blasting rap. He can chase you. Seamus and I will keep track of the miles run. OK?

Rest, Kendall. This really sucks.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 08:22 PM

a good diagnosis with fast results from antibiotics. Easy enough to treat, apart from stresses.

hugs to you both

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: maeve
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 09:12 PM

Thank you, Jacqui. Could be worse, and he'll soon feel some better.

Sweet dreams, Kendall.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 09:22 PM

Well, so much for the pregnancy theory.

Both can be cleaned up (I've had pneumonia several times -- it's not fun, but it is fixable). And yes, the stress probably had a lot to do with it.

You know he's not feeling well when he craves J***o.

Go down to the chandler's shop and buy one of those gas powered boat horns, the really loud kind. Then if/when he needs something he can just blow it and you'll know he has needs and wants that require fulfillment. That will help with his stress.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Jeri
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 09:43 PM

Coliform bacteria, other than the E coli 0157, don't cause major symptoms. What the plumber said* about coliform bacteria. It comes out of the wrong end of animals. Heavy rain/flooding can wash it into wells, but if you got E. coli, you likely have other animal-but related bacteria, so treating the well is a good idea.

Obey Jacqui, eat your fiber, take your meds, rest and don't talk. Good luck. Feel better quick.

*Don't go from Kendall's digestive tract to a plumber that fast again. I IMAGINED things.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: maeve
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:03 PM

Rapaire, I can hear it now:

(Whispered) "Oh Love, I have need of thee!" followed by "HOOOOONK!"

Jacqui will love that idea.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:04 PM

Ok Kendall my friend, sick and hurting is one thing but when you start talking Jello you are going to piss me off.   And have a hot dog ... dang Jello ... dang come on there pal must I drive there and kick your ass ... and you know I don't normally talk like this ... Jello

Help me out here Spaw. Get Better, quick .. no more of this stuff ok

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: maeve
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:13 PM

Come to think of it, maybe I should make apple pie jello for the song circle. Either Kendall would consider that comfort food or olddude would drive over in time for the song circle. Hmmm...

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Ebbie
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:22 PM

Oh dear. I had forgotten about olddude and jello.

We have opened the hornets nest.

Run.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:28 PM

Yes, Maeve, I will walk over for a piece of one of your pies. I heard they are legends. But hold the Jello ... gosh see Kendall
now I have to find my holy water and sprinkle it on the keyboard cuase you made me type that cursed word J-E-L-L-O

Is there an exercist in the Forum ...

Jello ... the root of all Evil

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:36 PM

OK, you had me at "Screw the Scotch". But "fuck the jello"?!

What's the MATTER with you people?!

Don't you know they tried all those things BEFORE they called plumbers and doctors?

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 24 Jun 09 - 10:49 PM

It was the Jello I tell you , that's what did it
avoid at all cost

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Tinker
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 07:44 AM

Kendall, I'm sure you know this, but don't take the antibiotic and probiotic (acidophilous) at the same time. The gut friendly stuff will just be wiped out if you do. There are lots of antibiotics in my house.

You guys have had enough....

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 08:02 AM

I like Jell-O. Does this mean that olddude and I can't be friends? Black Cherry is my favorite...

Kendall, will Jell-O bring you to the Song Circle on Saturday? If so, let me know flavor choices.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 08:14 AM

I've never been this sick in my life.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 09:00 AM

Are you including hangovers?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 09:17 AM

Yes

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 09:24 AM

SINS
for you, I will make an exception ... as long as I don't have to see it. Captain, lots of food with the antibiotics they always mess up my gut bigtime. No dairy, some antibiotics, dairy will cut the effectiveness according to my doc

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: jacqui.c
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 10:09 AM

LOL.

I learned, many years back, that, in order to get to finishing a course of antibiotics, I have to take acidophilous to repopulate the gut. On advice from my GP at the time I wait about 30 minutes after the antibiotics before taking the acidophilous. That seems to work and is what Kendall is doing right now.

He really doesn't have much of an appetite right now so isn't eating a lot. He's lost about ten pounds over the last couple of weeks and his blood pressure is coming down nicely! If he can keep the weight off he may be able to reduce the BP meds he's taking.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 10:40 AM

Hell of a way to lose weight - pneumonia and diverticulitis. Opt for the meds next time, Captain.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 11:17 AM

A layer of red jello with shredded carrots, a layer of sweetened cream cheese, and a layer of blue jello -- PERFECT for the Glorious Fourth!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 11:22 AM

Rapaire
   I will pray for you !!

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 12:55 PM

Diverticulitis... eat no seeds from such as strawberries, tomatoes, etc.

And, whiskey won't kill ya.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 01:18 PM

Tink, like jacqui, I also take the acidophilous and antibiotics over the same course of treatment and it works well for me. Maybe it depends on what type of meds?

Having just spent two months and about $600+ in insurance copays to diagnose and treat pneumonia, Kendall, I can tell you you to have patience AND don't rest too much.

I learned, the hard way, once again, that you have to keep active, even in small ways, so that you don't lose all of your strength. My pulse ox was dropping way low whenever I moved around, so I got scared and would lay up until I had it up in a better range, but lo and behold, I wasn't getting better.

There is a reason they always make a person get up and moving all of the time in hospital even when one doesn't want to...have to keep things moving etc. I knew all of that from having worked and been in hospital but when I get too sick it's hard to remember, esp. when all I feel like doing is lying in bed! So...rest, yes, but balance it with little walks, etc. And, heal up!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 01:44 PM

I hate to piss you off Kendall, but you need to treat Diverticular disease as a serious condition. Especially for people who are compromised because of other existing conditions, it can be more than just a pain! You need to learn what you cannot tolerate and what you can. Gnu brings up seeds and nuts..........Some folks can do those things under certain conditions, many can't. The AMA says they are okay.....most sufferers say they are not. Similarly, peas, corn, and some beans, also fit that category.

Also.....re: probiotics-------One of the reasons that most have to be taken later is that they start to break down way before they ever get to the large intestine (gut).   I have gone to using "pearl" form and it worked immediately better. LIKE THESE
   
The big thing you're fighting is a bacteria called C-Dif and its the one can cause the biggest problems. It is nasty to the 100th power. It is naturally occurring but when the antibiotics kill the good, C-Dif is left and it will kill you! Capable of eating holes in your gut, you need yet another antibiotic to kill it and this is where the pearl form comes into play as by far the best probiotic to use. I had C-Dif and even after it was supposedly gone, it came right back and with avengeance! I took 4 pearls at intervals every day and they were capable of repopulating the gut with good little beggars where other forms had not worked. As a preventative even now I still take one a day.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 01:57 PM

Piss me off? what makes you think you can piss me off?
What you say makes sense.

My doctor said the jury is still out on the nuts thing. Ironic that the only things that tase right are, strawberries, jello and ice water.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Tinker
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:07 PM

Sorry I wasn't clear... just need to stagger the time of day. We have big bottles here abouts for my immune deficient kids .... Try to scatter it as far as possible between the antibiotic doses.

Kendall ... big hugs...

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:23 PM

Ah, that makes sense, Tink, thanks.

Kendall, all I wanted for about two months was strawberries and orange juice. I hadn't had either one in probably 15-20 years except maybe a handful of times. Now, I had been eating the berries like they were going out of style. I know the oj has potassium, but I am not sure what I may have been craving in the berries, but they still taste good!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Ebbie
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:24 PM

I'm glad that Spaw enunciated it - until she moved 'down south', I knew a woman who was hospitalized with a bad case of diverticulitis. I visited her in hospital and she was so sick she said that she was not sure she would survive it. Not only was she sick but she had a lot of sharp, wrenching abdominal pain.

She did, however, and the last I knew she was OK again but with limitations on what she could eat.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:26 PM

Ok seriously I have had Chrons Disease since I was 18, it was the reason my back, neck and everything else fell apart because there is such a high correlation with arthritis in people who have it along with a host of other problems it can give yaDiverticular.

Your Diverticular IBD can cause a lot of problems as Spaw said, the pocket can rupture and put the bacteria through the system, that maybe what is going on, they call it micro tears or something like that. Put me in the hospital about 100 times ... if you get running a good fever, go right to the ER room don't mess with it. Right now you don't need a gut surgery on top of everything else. I am a bit of an expert on that crap, been there done it and didn't like it a bit ..

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:29 PM

Spaw... I did not say nuts, although I am. But, it's a good one. Fact is, they can cause ulcers. Not just in the guts if the diet is such that they can get a "hold" in a pocket. They can also cause ulcers on the gums if you don't thoroughly rinse and brush after eating them.

Docs can say a lot of things, but, why take a chance? Especially if you HAVE the condition?

I gave up peanuts for two reasons. Mostly, one tiny thoroughly unmasticated bit can cause an ulcer anywhere in the entire alimentary canal... and it's a long paddle. Two, They make me stemmie... horny as a ten peckered hoot owl... a couple of hand fulls and I am hoot hoot hoot let the birds out.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:45 PM

Actually I'm with you gnu.....just don't get too close and cover your mouth when you cough..........

There is all of this discussion going on and my Doc had the best advice for me. She had been around far too many to rule out the seeds and nuts thing as the AMA did but she had also encountered folks who had problems elsewhere, like with corn. She said to test yourself slowly and be prepared for an attack anytime......and ALWAYS be aware of what you're eating.

About 7 or 8 years back, another 'Catter and myself both wound up in the hospital at the same time for Diverticular problems......just 3000 miles apart!   I was a gnat's ass away from surgery and a colostomy and she was perhaps even worse as she'd gone into a coma! To this day I know she absolutely cannot do many foods that I can and yet there are some things that I can't tolerate that seem silly and I don't know why I can't. I have no problem with corn at all and I know that in "Lyrical Lady's" case, its a major trigger. I can't get within a mile of a sesame seed or a poppy seed yet I'm unaffected by anise and caraway......go figure. Hell, I once had the beginnings of an attack from eating undercooked rice!

Dan....I don't envy you at all!


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 03:48 PM

and I know chrons is far worse then Diverticulitis but that one can mess you up and make you very ill also. With chrons I cannot tell you how many times it put me in the hospital not counting the spinal surgeries. Nearly bleed out a couple of times. Just watch yourself with this stuff. Just a nice easy diet for sure.

For me Nuts, love them, but they can put me in the hospital so I try to avoid mostly. Only once in a while do I eat em

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 04:02 PM

Peanut better is butter.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 04:06 PM

Right......and your ass sucks canal water..........

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 04:22 PM

My attacks dont seem to be caused by any particular food.
Come to think of it, I was eating a lot of corn on the cob, and I've always loved mixed nuts.

My doctor recommends high fibre foods such as bran and shredded wheat.

Today I tried chocolate ice cream and it tasted just like chocolate ice cream.
I've lost 10 pounds, my blood pressure is 98/54 and my glucose is 64.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 04:27 PM

"I've always loved mixed nuts."

That's why you are at the Café?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 05:21 PM

64! Good Lord! EAT!

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 05:33 PM

That's a tad wee bit low, Kendall.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: jacqui.c
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 07:22 PM

He's now managed to put away two helpings of chocolate ice cream today and has enjoyed them. He's not eating a lot right now so I'm just trying to make sure that we have, in the house, anything that might tempt his appetite.

He ate corn all last summer and regularly eats nuts in the evening without any ill effect. I'm pretty certain that the stress of the past few months was the trigger for this attack.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: LilyFestre
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 07:25 PM

Was that 64 before the ice cream? How's it now?

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: kendall
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 07:32 PM

I dont dare look.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 07:55 PM

I think you are right, jacqui. I don't think folks realise just how much of an effect stress can have on them.

Kendall, one of the other things I could *tolerate* was Ensure, high fiber, vanilla flavoured. You might want to try some. It's also loaded with sugar.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: gnu
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 07:58 PM

Two screams? Well, load up on some cereal and have more ice screams. If that don't motivate ya, nothin will.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: olddude
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 08:05 PM

Well thank God !
you are eating Ice Cream instead of that terrible J word that I won't mention ...

There is hope here

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: open mike
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 09:13 PM

i remember being surprised to hear that bananas actually have seeds
that can cause trouble for diverticulosis....

http://www.diverticulosis.net/

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Jun 09 - 10:05 PM

Do you know that you can get Jell-o flavored ice cream?

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: Ebbie
Date: 26 Jun 09 - 12:01 AM

lol Bad, Rap.

Subject: RE: BS: Is there a Doctor in the forum?
From: KT
Date: 26 Jun 09 - 02:29 AM

Thinking of you, Kendall. Feel better fast, k?