In the 6 months since I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, the cardiologist has had me come in every two to three weeks for blood work, to see if the dosage of the RX can be increased. For reasons I don't really understand, this prescription has to be increased very gradually. Apparently, jumping to a high dose all at once would not be wise.
I don't mind going to the doctor's office, although I do wish I could drive myself, instead of Wick having to take a day from work to take me. I don't mind (very much) having blood drawn, since the nurse is very good at what she does, and only sticks me once each time. So far, my lab results have been within acceptable ranges, so the RX has been increased a little bit each visit.
The problem is how I feel after each increase. I feel just awful.
When I first get up, I feel pretty good, and try to accomplish whatever I have planned for the day in the first hour or two. After that, my energy dwindles rapidly. By mid-afternoon, I feel as if someone has pulled the plug, and if I don't lie down, I might fall down.
When I went to the dr. Friday, my med was increased again, and the nurse told me how pleased the dr. is with the results of the lab work. She says I will probably get the goal dose level at the next visit. We have had a similar conversation every time I have come in, and she tries to encourage me to feel that I am making excellent progress. She says I am getting better all the time.
I started the higher dose today, and immediately felt the drop in energy.
Today, I wanted to fix a decent meal for Wick for supper, and use some fresh vegetables one of our neighbors gave us this weekend. So this morning, I put out some ground meat to thaw.
After a brief rest, I cut up a quarter of an onion.
After another, slightly longer, rest, I sliced a squash.
After a little longer rest, I sliced a zucchini.
The celery and bell pepper had to wait until I had a little nap.
About two o'clock, I fried the beef.
About three o'clock I started assembling the casserole.
When Wick got home from work, he added the grated cheese and put the dish in the oven.
While it was baking, I took another nap.
My dears, when I am too tired to eat, I know I really have a problem.
On the other hand.....if I am too tired to eat, maybe I won't gain back the 60 pounds I lost this winter.
My question is....how long can I keep "getting better", without getting well?
Monday, June 01, 2009
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