| Author | Message | ||
     Deva Intermediate Member Username: Deva Post Number: 56 Registered: 02-2003 |
> The "CLASSIC" symptoms are an ABDOMEN that rather SUDDENLY ENLARGES and > CONSTIPATION and/or DIARRHEA. I had these classic symptoms and went to > the doctor. Because these symptoms seemed to be "abdominal," I went to a > gastroenterologist. He ran tests that were designed to determine whether > there was a bacteria infection; these tests were negative, and I was > diagnosed with "Irritable Bowel Syndrome." I guess I would have accepted > this diagnosis had it not been for my enlarged abdomen. I swear to you, > it looked like I was 4-5 months pregnant! I therefore insisted on more > tests. > > They took an X-ray of my abdomen; it was negative. I Was again assured > that I had Irritable Bowel Syndrome and was encouraged to go on my > scheduled month-long trip to Europe. I couldn't wear any of my slacks or > shorts because I couldn't get them buttoned, and I KNEW something was > radically wrong. I INSISTED on more tests, and they reluctantly) > scheduled me for a CT-Scan (just to shut me up, I think). This is what I > mean by "taking charge of our own health care." > > The CT-Scan showed a lot of fluid in my abdomen (NOT normal). Needless to > say, I had to cancel my trip and have FIVE POUNDS of fluids extracted. > Scary I assure you, but NOTHING compared to what was ahead of me). Tests > revealed cancer cells in the fluid. Finally, finally, finally, the doctor > ran a CA-125 blood test, and I was properly diagnosed. > |
