The Verdict
....after a run out for bloodwork last night, x-rays this morning, and a stat referral to the local emergency/specialty clinic for an ultrasound shortly thereafter?
Pyelonephritis - his left kidney is almost completely destroyed at this point.
And probable heart disease, most likely secondary to hyperthyroidism.
And lung cancer.
But other than that, you know, he's fine.
I've got him on antibiotics and pain meds, and it seems to be helping a bit. He's not crying when he goes to his bowl, and he actually ate a few bites. Whether or not he gets better from here will depend on what's causing the bulk of his symptoms - the cancer, unfortunately, is pretty thoroughly untreatable, and the thyroid meds we can't start until he's eating again, since their primary effect is loss of appetite. No matter what, it looks like he's starting his final lap around the track. But at least I have a few answers, and I know it's nothing I caused. And that helps a little.
Thank you all for your support, and your thoughts; it helps a lot knowing that there are people who hear and care....
Pyelonephritis - his left kidney is almost completely destroyed at this point.
And probable heart disease, most likely secondary to hyperthyroidism.
And lung cancer.
But other than that, you know, he's fine.
I've got him on antibiotics and pain meds, and it seems to be helping a bit. He's not crying when he goes to his bowl, and he actually ate a few bites. Whether or not he gets better from here will depend on what's causing the bulk of his symptoms - the cancer, unfortunately, is pretty thoroughly untreatable, and the thyroid meds we can't start until he's eating again, since their primary effect is loss of appetite. No matter what, it looks like he's starting his final lap around the track. But at least I have a few answers, and I know it's nothing I caused. And that helps a little.
Thank you all for your support, and your thoughts; it helps a lot knowing that there are people who hear and care....