just venting--long weekend

[morgan381]

This past weekend was one I thought was never going to end! To start out, I wasn't feeling great--just some garden variety virus, I guess. My husband, Ryan started to get ill last Wednesday. He had the typical flu symptoms... So, we were both puny and had 3 kids running around to boot.

Ry never calls in sick to work, but he finally did on Friday because he had a 104.8 fever, chills, body ache, fatigue, and was quite weak. Of course, he still refused to go to the doctor or to the ER

About 4AM Saturday, I woke up to a loud crash then a thud. It was the sound of him bouncing off the bathroom door and hitting the floor. I jumped out of bed to find Ry in the floor between the bathroom and bedroom, eyes open, pupils unreactive, neck arched, teeth clenched, body rigid, and making gasping/gurgling noises. It looked like he was having a tonic seizure--but I'm the one with E! The episode lasted less than a minute. When he came to, I took his temp, 98.6 on the dot. (I thought he might have had a febrile seizure).

I insisted on taking to the ER, as this was the first time anything like this has happened to him. he was so weak that I had to put his flip-flops on for him and he couldn't turn the door knob to get out to the car. I called my poor mom and asked her to come sit with the kids, so I didn't have to wake them. Then, we were off to the hospital.

As usual, we waited for hours in the ER. They did the barrage of tests--chest X-ray, CT, EKG, and CBC--nothing abnormal. The doctor came in and said "We don't know what's wrong with you, but we do know what's NOT wrong with you. No pneumonia, no heart arythmia, no brain tumor, no electrolyte imbalance, no blood infection." They acted like it was all in his head and sent us home. I know he's no faker...he has a rediculously high pain tolerance and never complains.

When we got back home, the kids went with thier grandparents so Ry and I could rest. For 2 days, he couldn't even roll over in bed without help; couldn't turn door knobs; couldn't walk to the bathroom on his own; and couldn't even open a bottle of water!

He didn't go to work on Monday either, because he was too weak to do his job. He decided to work yesterday because he felt like he couldn't miss any more work, even though he was only about 75%. When he got home last night, he was so worn out that he didn't even wait on the dinner I was making. He ate a sandwich and went to bed. He went to work today, but said it's going to be a long one...

I'm exhausted! It's physically strenuous to just about carry someone who outweighs me by at least 45 pounds for 3 days, chase kids, and do all the stuff I normally do. I slept just about all day yesterday, but we're both still trying to recover.

Why is it that doctors always think things are in your head when the answers don't show up in black and white? I realize they probably see a lot of hyperchondriacs and they don't know he's not one, but really? I had to help him get his shoes on before we left the hospital. I was just about carrying him to the car--not even an offer of a wheelchair. They watched as a 5'4" woman carried out a 5'10" man!

[wowthissuxass]

wow...that sux.

I am no expert but that sounds almost exactly like what happened to me when I had my T/C's. Except that they were able to diagnose me on the spot after the eeg.

I sure hope he is better soon. Mke sure you take some "me" time to make sure you dont end up seizing and have both of you guys down at the same time.

[Birdbomb]

[scarasm]The ER is a great place to watch a show![/scarasm]

When garbage like that happens, that is the time to put on your "VOICE OF AUTHORITY" If you yell at someone to get you a wheelchair like a doctor would, you'd be very surprised how well it can work.

It sure sounds like he had a seizure! I hope you can get a decent diagnosis. Hang in there, maybe call YOUR neurologist and get an appointment

(((HUGS)))

[morgan381]

Oh, you wanna know the grossest part of the ER visit?...the nurse who drew his blood and started the saline lock (they didn't even give him an IV) did it WITHOUT GLOVES!!!!! She had (his) blood on her hands and under her fingernails afterward [I didn't know this until after it was done or I would have made her glove up--and I wouldn't have been nice about it.] Talk about a healthcode violation! I made a couple phone calls and found out that she is no longer employed at that hospital. In fact, the night we were there was her last shift.

Mr Macho seems to think he's fine. He said to me "I know you want me to think I had a seizure, but I didn't." He seems to think that since he didn't have the post ictal fog, that he just passed out... He refuses to follow up with the GP or a neurologist. Talked to him on the phone a few minutes ago; he's feeling tired, but otherwise fine. He definately seems to be in a better mood. I really hope it wasn't a seizure, but if it was, that it was related to the high fever and nothing else. We don't need 2 spazes in the family

[RobinN]

WOW... I just began to google some words after reading your experience and look what I found:

Effective Prevention and Treatment of Influenza

“Just as governments around the world are stockpiling millions of doses of flu vaccine and antiviral drugs in anticipation of a potential influenza pandemic, two new surprising research papers to be published at the end of September have found that such treatments are far less effective than previously thought,” reported the New York Times last week.

"The studies published today reinforce the shortcomings of our efforts to control influenza," wrote Dr. Guan Yi, a virologist at the University of Hong Kong, in an editorial that accompanied the papers. The two studies were published early online by The Lancet, the London-based medical publication, because of their important implications for the coming flu season. "There is a wild overestimation of the impact of these vaccines in the community," said Tom Jefferson, a researcher in Rome with the Cochrane Vaccine Fields project. "In the case of a pandemic, we are unsure from the data whether these vaccines would work on the elderly." In the second paper, researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta found older antiviral drugs being ineffective with the threat of the new ones becoming, in short order, equally ineffective as well.

The immediate implications of these finding are most ominous for wealthier nations who have been stockpiling expensive antiviral medicines that might easily fail in their intended use. And as far as flu vaccines the United States has ordered $100 million worth of vaccine, and Italy $43 million worth, a lot to spend on something not only ineffective but dangerous because of the thimerosal most of them contain. The New York Times said, “The fact that the vaccine study showed that inoculations have had only a modest effect in the elderly is particularly worrisome, because this is a group that tends to suffer high rates of complications and deaths from the disease and vaccination is the standard practice. In people over 65, the vaccines "are apparently ineffective" in the prevention of influenza, pneumonia and hospital admissions.”

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) spend a vast amount of their resources on stirring up fears of influenza and bird flu with the aim of selling as much dangerous flu vaccine as possible. It is a lot of time and money for something not “apparently” effective. So it would serve us and millions of people to study and understand what would be effective.

The Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) released state-by-state projections that found more than 500,000 Americans could die and more than 2.3 million could be hospitalized if a moderately severe strain of a pandemic influenza virus hit this country. Based on its estimates, 67 million Americans are at risk of contracting the pandemic influenza strain. A pandemic with the H5N1 strain could be worse though, according to Schwartz.[i][1]

In 1943 Dr. A. Neveu used the magnesium chloride solution in a case of diphtheria to reduce the risks of anaphylactic reaction due to the anti-diphtheria serum that he was ready to administer. To his great surprise, when the next day the laboratory results confirmed the diagnosis of diphtheria, the little girl was completely cured, before he could use the serum. Now what would be safer to administer to a child, a vaccine for diphtheria or a form of magnesium that comes from the sea? According to Dr. Delbet: "Magnesium chloride has a cytophilactic[ii][2]" activity that no other magnesium salt has.

Dr. Pierre Delbet used to give magnesium chloride solution routinely to his patients with infections and for several days before any planned surgery and was surprised by many of these patients experiencing euphoria and bursts of energy.

Dr. Vergini wrote, “A French doctor A. Neveu observed that Magnesium Chloride has no direct effect on bacteria (i.e. it is not an antibiotic). Thus he thought that its action was a specific, immune-enhancing, so it could be useful, in the same manner, also against viral diseases. So he began to treat some cases of poliomyelitis, and had good results. And then found the same good results in: pharyngitis, tonsillitis, hoarseness, common cold, influenza, asthma, bronchitis, broncho-pneumonia, pulmonary emphysema, "children diseases" (whooping-cough, measles, rubella, mumps, scarlet fever...), alimentary and professional poisonings, gastroenteritis, boils, abscesses, erysipelas, whitlow, septic pricks (wounds), puerperal fever and osteomyelitis.”

The problem is that very probably their physicians and pediatricians don't know anything about this therapy, so how can they give good advice? Children under 5, he says, nonetheless must consult their pediatrician.
Dr. Raul Vergini

A naturopathic anti influenza protocol could focus on two essential substances, magnesium chloride, Vitamin C plus pure water (of an alkaline nature) to properly hydrate the body. This suggested protocol could safely be included in any humane practice of medicine whereas the flu vaccine is an exercise in medical and pharmaceutical terrorism. Spirulina, or some other super green food, would certainly back up the above because of its rich nutritional profile. So would some other natural good things.

It is widely recognized that the majority of Americans do not get the government’s minimum daily requirement for magnesium yet the FDA has done everything it could to keep this low-cost mineral out of Americans’ bodies. (Internationally CODEX will undoubtedly do more harm in this direction.) Is it any wonder that disability and death from heart attack and stroke are the nation’s leading killers?

While the government officially refuses to recognize the effects of magnesium in preventing vascular disease the nation’s leading health agency acknowledges magnesium’s critical role in keeping us alive.[iii][i] Why is it that the government has done everything it can to keep Americans from learning about the lifesaving properties of this mineral? And why are healthcare practitioners so slow to pick up on the reality that their patients are deficient in magnesium? We must address this fundamental nutritional reality in our patients and ourselves in short order for that is how quickly they will benefit from magnesium therapy.

Doctors eagerly prescribe expensive patented drugs, while low-cost nutrients like magnesium remain overlooked. If the 68% of Americans who are magnesium deficient took corrective action, the need for prescription drugs would be reduced, our detoxification and chelation protocols would function more efficiently, and our ability to fight off infections would be greatly enhanced. But the public does not know and the result is that startling numbers of adults and children suffer the sometimes lethal consequences of magnesium deficiency.

http://www.remarkable-recovery.com/article/00564.php


I am not a doctor, not do I claim to have any medical experience. I am just interested in why our conventional medical service providers can't do the same thing as I... use the information that is at their fingertips.

I wonder if this is something that might be an answer for your husband as well?

[RobinN]

I just found this too:

There is much to learn and much to do to regain your health, but we help people do this every day at our center, The Ohio State University Center for Integrative Medicine.
Ask your doctor but this is what I use for my patients who desire to regain their health:
1) Limit gluten, chips, chicken, turkey, farm-fed fish, peanut products and granola products
2) Fish oil 3x1000mg (900 mg EPA/DHA) before each meal and at bedtime. (If you notice burping take these from the freezer) before meals and at bedtime or take with yogurt, milk or cottage cheese).
3) High Potency B complex, (B-100) just before each meal
4) ½ Centrum Silver or generic equivalent before breakfast and before dinner for trace elements
5) Magnesium oxide 250 mg taken before each meal and at bedtime (not pre-mixed with calcium)
6) Calcium carbonate with Vit D at dinner and bedtime (not pre-mixed with magnesium)
7) Vit C 1000 mg before each meal (can take ester-C form if regular C causes too much acid)
Vit E 400 IU twice a day at breakfast and dinner
9) Cinnamon 1/4 tsp in food or 2x500mg caps before each meal if over weight, diabetic, have a cholesterol problem, hypoglycemia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, metabolic or low energy symptoms.

Glen F Aukerman MD

Expertise: 27 years of private practice, 13 years of Academic Family Medicine, 12 years of Managed Care activities.
I have been President of the American Academy of Family Physicians, served on the Health Reform Task Force at the White House, Have Chaired 2 University Depts of Family Medicine, Have practiced private family medicine for 30 years and University family medicine for 12 years. I am board certified in Family Medicine, Holistic Medicine and managed care. I am consultant for several pharmaceutical companies and Medical Director of two managed care companies. I have 4 children, 3 in medicine, 2 are family physicians, one in sports medicine, one in internal medicine residency and 6 grand children.

[seizures4ever]

Morgan,

I have a husband who sounds as hard-headed as yours! Oh my goodness, my hubby will never be swayed by anything I say (especially if he has already determined that he is right...which is most of the time) He is never sick and almost never takes time off from work. Like you, I would be immediately concerned if my hubby started showing those symptoms. Hospital ER's just tick me off; You know your husband...who are they to tell you what is normal behavior for him and what is not?

You have so much on your shoulders right now...the kids, the housework, your husband (I'm sure your list goes on and on). Remember to take time for yourself too o.k.? Or, at the very least, when you get through this tough time, treat yourself to something you really want (which will probably be sleep) But make sure to pamper yourself physically and emotionally.

Many hugs. -Julie

[Georgiagirl88]

For what it is worth..there has been something going around ..seriously like the Flu..tons of people that work for my husband and then the other offices had it as well. My brother-in-law came down with it also. All like true flu symptoms. High fever,sore throat,glands,weakness,cough..It lasts about 10 days-2 weeks. and just when you think you are feeling better..you get sick again. Summer virus?? Alot of people passing it around.

Michelle

[hawke86]

Very interesting.

[morgan381]

I am not a doctor, not do I claim to have any medical experience. I am just interested in why our conventional medical service providers can't do the same thing as I... use the information that is at their fingertips.

I wonder if this is something that might be an answer for your husband as well?

The FDA does not regulate vitamin and mineral supplements, only pharmaceuticals. {insert sarcasm here} Surely they wouldn't want to keep an effective, inexpensive cure/treatment a secret.

I have been giving him magnesium since we got home...it seems to be helping. No more muscle aches and his strength is improving. He's still exhaused at the end of the day, but he seems to be on the upswing.

When I worked in a health food/vitamin shop, all out information recommended taking magnesium with calcium. What does your info say is the reason for taking these separately? Just curious...

[morgan381]

You have so much on your shoulders right now...the kids, the housework, your husband (I'm sure your list goes on and on). Remember to take time for yourself too o.k.? Or, at the very least, when you get through this tough time, treat yourself to something you really want (which will probably be sleep) But make sure to pamper yourself physically and emotionally.

My agenda yesterday consisted of some web surfing, naps, yoga and a chick flick. Mission accomplished.

On the topic of housework, I'm trying to convince my family that we should become nudists......laundry is the one chore that is NEVER finished.

[Loudmouth]

I have this little theory that if I ever reach the very last item of dirty clothing in the house and have EVERYTHING washed and clean and dry and put away, after that the laundry fairy will take over...unfortunately, in my house that has never happened in 10 years!! NOW my daughter has suddenly reached that age where for some inexplicable reasin, it appears to be necessary to wear at least 6 outfits each day, which if it continues, may result in me whipping her to death with the 4th pair of jeans in a day.......add to that the fact that I have 2 young boys (6 and 4) and my house begins to resemble a launderette!! I HATE LAUNDRY!!!

[Loudmouth]

OH and I hope that you and your husband are on the mend now.

[morgan381]

So, you've heard of the laundry fairy too?! Whenever someone here gripes about not having clean _________ (fill in the blank), I tell them that the darn laundry fairy didn't come today... I don't have girls, so I can't relate to the dozen wardrobe changes you get to experience. I have 3 rough and tumble boys, so it's a miracle if it isn't torn, shredded, or stained beyond recognition before it gets to the laundry basket. If I ever catch that laundry fairy, I'm gonna give her a peice of my mind

As for us...we're much better now.

Thanks to everyone for your concern and support.
~morgan~

[RobinN]

When I worked in a health food/vitamin shop, all out information recommended taking magnesium with calcium. What does your info say is the reason for taking these separately? Just curious...

it isrecommended that you take magnesium and calcium separately because the receptor sites on your cells can only accept one of them at a time. That eliminates most supplements on the market. You can take magnesium with breakfast and calcium with lunch and dinner.

Some forms of minerals are also more easily assimilated than others. Most of the calcium that is added to products is calcium carbonate; ground up rock. For every 1000 mgs of calcium carbonate you take you are only absorbing 26%. If you use the new angstrom liquid minerals instead they go directly to the cells, bypassing the digestive system, and they are more easily absorbed.

Magnesium is undersupplied in most people's diets and that is the mineral that makes our bones flexible and strong. Magnesium should be taken to bowel tolerance, up to 1000 mgs a day. If you can't tolerate that much without diarrhea at first, just add slowly and your tolerance will increase.

A recently issued National Academy of Sciences (NAS) report indicates that nearly 80% of Americans are deficient in magnesium, an essential mineral that is required for the health of living cells, bones and normal function of muscle and heart tissues. Magnesium is found in foods such as dark-green leafy vegetables, whole grains and nuts, but nutrition researchers say the over-processing of foodstuffs and the use of phosphates in cola soft drinks have led to mineral deficiencies, particularly shortages of magnesium.

http://www.osteo-solutions.com/calmag.htm
a very good site about cal / mag / vit D ... at least I found it interesting

[brain]

Had been away for a time being.

Just now came across your post and so sorry you
had to undergo through all of this; however, how is
Ry doing now so far? Sending you both lots of hugs!

[morgan381]

Robin--thanks for the info and the link. I'll definately check it out.

Brain--thanks for the concern and the hug! We both feel much better. He says he's fully recovered, I hope he's right.

[Tralee A]

Wow. someone else to have a wonderful weekend.
i know what u mean about ER. almost a 2nd home to me at times. At least in this tiny town one of the local Dr's ordered the nursing staff that if either my brother or I came in with something that we weren't crying wolf. both of us have high pain threshold. As for the ER dept in the bigger towns. AARGH! unless you're just about dead it takes ages to get someone to come and fix you up. Or be like my loving mum and go and rant to one of the nurses (happened after being in ER for an hr or 2 and only had someone come and see me 1x in all of that)
Chin up.
"2 rules in life....look after number 1. rule 2: remmber your number"

[alivenwell]

That is an amazing story. I hope you recovered and got some rest from all of that.
This may be a silly question, but did you eat tomatoes or hot peppers that could have been tainted with salmonella?

When they had that scare, I threw all fresh veggies out and thoroughly cleaned my fridge.