A Stressful Stress Test

 Now that I am back on track with my crazy pills, things are looking a little better. Crazy is not the name of my meds, it is a mouthful and crazy is easier. Just so you know. Having been to the facility the day before, having the right time and wrong date, I witnessed the lunch rotation. I knew the tongue chewer would be leaving for lunch before I checked in.

We always arrive early and sat in the truck until I saw her come out of the building. Yes, she is that unpleasant. Shortly after arriving I was escorted to the treatment room for the ultrasound of my heart and carotid arteries. My valve is definitely leaky. Even I could see it as I watched the screen. Both valves are defective, but one is worse and had not been 6 months ago. The carotid was unremarkable.

It was not quite time for my turn for the stress test, but they took me back to that area's little waiting alcove. I had not settled in my seat before they got me to start the IV. The technician who stuck me was not gentle and not accurate on the first stick. He was, however, determined. He got me on the second try on the top of my hand. I did not object, even knowing that the coming injections would hurt. The top of the hand is very sensitive. I lack a lot of options for sticking and knew the larger bore needle would hurt. They sometimes resort to pediatric size needles on me.

Back to the waiting alcove for a short time before the room was ready. I wondered at the small portable heater on the floor in the waiting area. It was freezing where the equipment was! I had dressed comfortably, as requested. I had a sweater over my blouse, but it was very chilly as I sat on that table. This is newer piece of equipment and offers the doctor a better view that the previous equipment. I was given options and could have chosen to walk on the treadmill but was told I would have a more accurate reading with the chemical one. I have had both before, but not with this particular machine.

It was much like an MRI, with the tube surrounding your chest area. It was not as confining, since only my chest and abdomen were inside the tube. My head and feet were outside. My sweater had snaps and had to be taken off. If you are worried about the big fan blowing frigid air my way, don't be. After placing myself on the padded table with my feet dangling off the end, they placed a nice knee cushion under my legs. Then I had to raise my arms over my head, in a diving position. Support was placed under arms to make me comfortable for the next 30 minutes.

They take a 9-minute scan first to create a baseline particular to your body and heart. A blood pressure cuff is on the wrist inflating periodically throughout your time on the table stuck in a tube. Electrodes are on your chest, too. The first 9-minute segment is after an EKG. They checked on me and asked if my nose itched or I was in any way uncomfortable. I had to remain in the same position for the next 2 segments of the scan. Step 2 involved an IV injection of radioactive isotopes that would show up on the scan. The IV stung like a bee but was not unbearable. During that segment I could hear the heart monitor when my heart started skipping a few beats. Not necessary because I can also feel the skipped beats.

Then came the fun part. The injection of this chemical makes you feel crappy. The first thing, after feeling the drug burn up my arm was an intense headache. Then came the feeling that I could not catch my breath. Already I was afraid to take a deep breath, knowing I had to be still and that knowledge made me want to take a really deep breath.

All the while I was covered in heated blankets, even the arms were covered over my head. I had to have help to sit up afterwards, dizzy and a pounding headache. I was given the black coffee I had chosen to be my drink of choice upon completing the test.

The caffeine dispelled the headache. The IV was left in place to make sure I left with no headache. They were prepared to administer IV caffeine. The visit to the facility began at 12:15 and I was finally done at 3:00.

The caffeine hit me hard, and I could not stop talking. I tend to talk a lot and fast anyway, but I was on a roll. Off to Longhorn we went to eat. Longhorn is the only restaurant of its type in Blairsville and is always busy, even at 3:00. We had an excellent server and we were both hungry after fasting for the procedure. I told my chauffeur to eat something after he saw me to the back. 

He went to Walmart instead to fill the empty water bottles and procure another 35 lbs. of cat food along with some worms for Dora, the turtle. Dora has ramped it up to 2 worms a day, in addition to her floating pellets and dried shrimp. It would appear all my pets are trying to bankrupt us!

Here's hoping I do NOT hear from my cardiologist. I have to see her in January, unless the stress test dictates an earlier visit. I am now planning a trip south for an undetermined length. No gardens to tend, no obligations other than stops along the way to see my nephews and daughter.