My MRI Experience

Yesterday I was finally able to complete my requested MRI.  This is due to my lower back pain which I complained to a chiropractor, but because of his relatively expensive (but very helpful) treatment, I really have to look for cheaper yet as effective alternative.  So no choice but to randomly choose an Orthopedic from Maxicare's roster.

The MRI schedule requested me to be in the laboratory 30 minutes early. Mom and Busy Boy went with me for support. As soon as I was under, they'd have some lola-apo bonding on the works.  My schedule was 10-11am and the procedure was supposed to be 45 minutes long.

First up, I was interviewed by a resident as to why I wanted/needed an MRI, an explanation of what the procedure does, some does and don'ts and then a blood pressure check which I had to repeat because it was pretty high.  Blame it on the nerves.

Then, it was on to the machine where I had to don a hospital gown.  The lady radiologist was nice enough to let me leave my shirt on since you can be cold and as much as possible, DO NOT move. I was given a headphone like gadget to keep the noise down, pillow, a blanket over me and pillow under my knees so as not to strain my back some more.

And I was off.. inch by inch I slipped inside that big dome.  I thought I'd be claustrophobic, hence the nerves, but there was about an arms span distance from my face to the 'roof'.  So that's ok. Now what to do for the next 45 minutes?  I couldn't sleep since I might jerk awake.. so I kept thinking of random things.. like channel surfing in my head.  I tried to make a tune out of the hammering sounds I heard or the last episode of any show, and even blog posts. I wiggled my toes and fingers often so I won't be really stiff all over.   Before you know it, I was done.  Ms. Radiologist just had to check if my negative was blurred or not which took another 15 minutes.  And finally, I was out.

Ms. Radiologist was very kind and seemed concerned enough to ask how I was after.  The hard, cold surface can be pretty tough on the back but its a minute sacrifice.  I get my results in 2 days  and I'm hoping it won't be as bad.  I'm really thankful Dad's coverage was up to it.  I learned it was a whopping P9,000, more if they have to remove it.

It was a relief to see my son and mom waiting for me in the lobby.  I treated them to a Starbucks drink (for a sticker) and a black pepper spam sandwich.. and we're back home to Dad.

Now we wait.. wish me luck!

More Hospitality

Weekend number two of going back to our friendly neighborhood hospital. This time, I got both good and not so nice news. First, I completed all the tests I had to undergo: ultrasound and the long delayed MRI. Not so nice with the former were the findings plus the inavailability of both my OB and the cardiologist. I just have to wait a little more so I can get the results and get the doctors to explain.

Keeping my fingers crossed. Will take advantage of the HMO benefits..

Re-Investing on Health

Killed 3 birds with my visit to our favorite hospital yesterday.   Took me the whole morning and most of the afternoon but I finished the job!  Completed my OB visited and was prescribed a diet; got a schedule for an MRI for my back with a new Orthopedic doctor and a schedule for my back rehab.  Details I hope to post later. 

It will be a busy November for me with lab schedules and return to doctor visits.  I hope the tests will give positive results.  Aside from my back, I will also have a reading on my ECG this week.  But, its time I might as well invest on (rather than bringing home work). Thank goodness for a kick ass health card from Busy Dad's company where it can help defray costs as well as keep us healthy.  Take advantage of the benefits! 

In the past I have forgone doctor visits because of work but -- you gotta live more. Did you know someone who wished they could have worked longer in the office on their deathbeds? Don't think so..

No Rice

[caption id="attachment_25" align="alignright" width="240"] image by pleecher[/caption]

Ok with the rebirth of my blog, I officially trimmed down my rice intake this weekend.  Of course, there would no visible results after 2 days but I was able to survive the day with rice during lunch only.  I will re-check my measurements after a week.  I also need to trim down too much snacking.  I should not 'compensate'.