Saturday Morning: Back in the Slammer!

Well, Dad's worst nightmare has come to pass. He's back in the hospital. Hopefully this visit will be way quicker than the last one.

They ran a bunch of tests yesterday. Some of the results are back. Heart rhythms are strong. Oxygen level is outstanding. Some of his lab counts are low, but that's been known. Basic level of health is good.

One of his doctors, I believe she was the 'hospitalist' was in for the second time today. We were able to give her a better picture of Dad's background which was helpful to her. The prime suspect is the amiodarone which is the drug controlling his heart rhythm. Readers might remember when Dr. Musselman 'doubled' the dose to control the arrythmia two days after the surgery. It was the effectiveness of the drug that made the cardioversion unnecessary. However it does have side effects. The following is from the National Institute of Health:

Amiodarone(a mee' oh da rone)

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are taking this medication.

 

What side effects can this medication cause?

Amiodarone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• constipation
• loss of appetite
• headache
• decreased sex drive
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• flushing
• dry eyes
• changes in ability to taste and smell
• changes in amount of saliva

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, or those listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your doctor immediately:

• rash
• weight loss or gain
• restlessness
• intolerance to heat or cold
• thinning hair
• excessive sweating
• changes in menstrual cycle
• swelling in the front of the neck (goiter)
• eye pain
• swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

Sounds like it really covers Dad's symptoms. Dosage starts high and then tapers and eventually stopped. The removal process is carefully monitored to be sure arrythmia does not return.

However she was unaware of any neurological component to Dad's work up. I did mention that Wiggans had discussed it and that I thought someone had mentioned it yesterday. She said she's look into it.

So,  breakfast was bad. He's on what's called a grey diet. How great can that be? Someone should smuggle in some salt and pepper to go packets. That would really brighten his life, believe me. Just tearing open the packets will put a smile on his face!