Recent content by Kevin

I had CHF pretty bad prior to my recent surgery. I was carrying 36 pounds of fluid. My calves were the size of my thighs and they were weeping blood due to the skin being so stretched. Have you noticed a big jump in your weight? You should begin to weigh yourself daily to monitor the fluid...

Since we moved to "primary care networks" (PCN), it is much more difficult to choose a doctor. For example, I have tried numerous times to have my wife see my GP, but his load is full and they keep trying to pass her over to a doctor that is new to their particular PCN. It's like filling an ice...

I had three TEE's when I was awake. They sprayed some really awful tasting stuff into my mouth/throat, which was icky, but not uncomfortable. After that, they gave me a light sedative and I don't remember much. I have a bad gag reflex, plus in my last one, I had a very sensitive stomach and...

Thank you all for this info. I will definitely ask my doctor about it at the next visit and will refrain from coffee until they give me a green light. Kev

Hi there. I am 3 weeks post-op. I was told to stay away from caffeine for a while, but stupidly, I did not ask how long or why. It is obvious to me that caffeine affects heart rate and gives you that jittery feeling in high doses, so it can't be the best thing for you when you just get done...

Congratulations Doug!!!! You did it and the worst is over. Kev

Yes, walking a ton and will keep doing so. Lost 3 pounds between yesterday and this morning. Eating like a piglet, so there must be some fluid coming out, I hope. Good to know that the walking actually helps. Thanks Ross! Kev

I have my AVR plus repair of two others on Nov 26. Maybe 5 days post-op, I started to retain fluid again (had a big bout of that pre-op for a few weeks). They have me on Lasix (40mg, 3X per day) and some other water pill that starts with "S" that I am too lazy to look up right now. That was 3...

My deepest sympathies to Christina's family. Rest in peace, Christina. Kev

I have not experienced this, but I have found that using a neti pot helps reduce the post-nasal drip and cleans everything out quite nicely so you can get some relief. Basically, it's a mini-tea pot looking thing. You fill it with warm water and put a packet of this stuff (baking soda or...

Sarah, please accept my deepest sympathies. So sorry to hear about your father's passing. Kev

I cannot speak for anyone but myself, but for me it was about 48 hours after they stopped it that most of the symptoms went away. After that, I was still had a teeny bit of seeing spots and stuff, especially after closing my eyes. For me, that went on for an additional day. You were not...

My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Kev

I had the same delusional behaviour. Lot of paranoia and hallucinations. The docs were sure mine was morphine related. Went away after about 3 days of coming conscious. Kev

You are going to do great, Doug! Great that you got a date. That part alone removes a lot of stress. Best of luck to you. I will be thinking of you on Dec 16 and sending you all the most healthy thoughts I can muster. Kev