Trip to the E.R.
I've been rather sick for more than a week now. Started with a cough and cold, then became the flu. Despite taking numerous OTC meds, symptoms worsened. Then the headaches started. They were worse than any I've ever experienced--extreme jolts of pain that lasted only a second, but that were excruciating.
Despite not having insurance, I couldn't let the situation go unchecked. I was terrified, as the pain was unbearable, and I had no clue what was causing it.
At the clinic, I was given an anti-inflammatory shot. Symptoms continued, and I was referred to the E.R. The doctor was concerned that it could be encephalitis, which would require a spinal tap. I made a lame joke about the "pain going all the way to 11", and the doc clearly didn't get it.
At the E.R., many tests and X-rays later, I was diagnosed with a viral infection, and possible pneumonia. The care was great, but I was miffed that they wouldn't give me a meal, as my blood sugar was crashing. All I was given was graham crackers and orange juice.
I was given a few prescriptions (antibiotic, muscle relaxant). Last night, I only awoke once during the night (first time in a week). The headaches and hacking cough persist, though not as severe. The fever seems to have finally broken.
There will be thousands in charges, to be sure. Sigh.
It's really been a week from hell. Thanks to my dear friend, Jean, for helping me make it through the worst. Hopefully, the worst is now past...
Once again, all comments will be screened. Obviously, those who relish in my misery will not be welcomed here.
Despite not having insurance, I couldn't let the situation go unchecked. I was terrified, as the pain was unbearable, and I had no clue what was causing it.
At the clinic, I was given an anti-inflammatory shot. Symptoms continued, and I was referred to the E.R. The doctor was concerned that it could be encephalitis, which would require a spinal tap. I made a lame joke about the "pain going all the way to 11", and the doc clearly didn't get it.
At the E.R., many tests and X-rays later, I was diagnosed with a viral infection, and possible pneumonia. The care was great, but I was miffed that they wouldn't give me a meal, as my blood sugar was crashing. All I was given was graham crackers and orange juice.
I was given a few prescriptions (antibiotic, muscle relaxant). Last night, I only awoke once during the night (first time in a week). The headaches and hacking cough persist, though not as severe. The fever seems to have finally broken.
There will be thousands in charges, to be sure. Sigh.
It's really been a week from hell. Thanks to my dear friend, Jean, for helping me make it through the worst. Hopefully, the worst is now past...
Once again, all comments will be screened. Obviously, those who relish in my misery will not be welcomed here.