OT - Quiet, but Still Here

[Madalot]

Seems like it's about time for an update for those that are interested.

Life has been stressful with my kids, but since they are both out of the house, it's actually calmer on a day-to-day basis. I'm still using the Trilogy on AVAPS, but gave up on AVAPS-AE mainly because I just couldn't be bothered with it. It was annoying and I decided it was easier to stay off my back.

After my DME brought me the 5th, yes 5th, oxygen concentrator that was fine for a week, then started clanking and carrying on like crazy, I decided to STOP using oxygen. My doctor had told me he really felt I could get by without it so I went a week, then did an overnight. I'm fine. And it's SO much quieter in the bedroom.

I got rid of the cart and put the Trilogy and humidifier on my nightstand, which makes it a lot easier for me to get into bed. All's good on that front.

Unfortunately, I have recently been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. I'm not overly thrilled with it, but it's not a surprise as I've been borderline for YEARS, my mother had it and 3 of my 4 siblings have it. I've accepted it and now test as instructed, take my medication and have made the necessary changes to my diet. I think it's been a shock to my system and I haven't felt well since, but I'm hoping it will all settle down soon.

My doctor freaked out over my high liver enzymes (they've been high since my 20's) and ordered a sonogram which showed either fatty deposits or inflammation so he's testing for other issues and took me off all cholesterol medication. I tried to tell his nurse that I've been down this road a couple times, but she insists he needs to do it again. Whatever.

I have NOT been sleeping well, but it's a combination of stress, warmer weather and pain disrupting my sleep. I'm dealing with it and if I get too tired during the day, I can lay in bed and use the Trilogy for a nap. But I admit I frequently doze in my recliner, sans machine, a couple times a week. Bad, I know, but at this stage, I'm kind of saying "whatever" to a lot of stuff.

Hope everyone is well and I say "welcome" to all the new people on the forum.

[BlackSpinner]

{{{{{Hugs}}}}}

[JDS74]

So glad to hear from you again. Glad to hear that you can make do without supplemental O2, at least for a while.
What machine did/do you have for the O2 concentrator? It would be good to avoid one with that failure rate.
{{{{{ HUGS }}}}

[kteague]

Thanks for the update. Good to hear some things are simpler even if not necessarily better. Sometimes just simplifying life helps. Are you managing ok getting around the house? I remember when your hubby was looking at possibilities for modifying the bathroom. What's your pet status these days? Good to hear from you.

[robysue]

Madalot,

Thanks for the update. And lots of {{hugs}} being sent your way. I'm glad to hear that you've been officially cleared for not using the supplemental O2 at night. That does simplify the whole bedtime routine for you.

Hopefully the Type II diabetes winds up being relatively easy for you to control. It can't be any harder than the battle you've been through just to breathe while sleeping every night.

I'm sorry to hear the kids are still a source of stress, but at least they're not in the house. That does make the kid-related stress easier to manage.

Robysue

[Madalot]

The oxygen concentrators that have just been TOO dang noisy are the Invacare Perfecto2's. The last one started out GREAT, but within a week, it just got horrible, worsening overnight. There comes a point where you just have to give up -- and I did. But I must admit that I miss the way the oxygen made me feel the next day. Oh well.

Robysue, my husband was able to remodel our bathroom last Fall. It is SO nice and because *I* had input, he added 7 extra grab bars (some of our contractors called them 'sissy bars') but it makes it so much safer for me. I still have to be extra careful (almost fell yesterday as a matter of fact) but at least I have a 100% ADA Handicap shower (with a seat) and good grab bars throughout the rest of the bathroom.

[49er]

Hi Madalot,

Many hugs to you as you are dealing with so many tough issues. Regarding diabetes, have you looked into a paleo type diet? Many diabetics have found it very helpful and some have gotten off of medication. Obviously, your mileage will vary.

49er

[BlackSpinner]

Robysue, my husband was able to remodel our bathroom last Fall. It is SO nice and because *I* had input, he added 7 extra grab bars (some of our contractors called them 'sissy bars') but it makes it so much safer for me. I still have to be extra careful (almost fell yesterday as a matter of fact) but at least I have a 100% ADA Handicap shower (with a seat) and good grab bars throughout the rest of the bathroom.

Oh wow you got it done! Congratulations! I remember that discussion.

(I don't know what it is about contractors and builders that they don't believe in safety gear. Last year they were working down the street on a third floor sloping roof and none of them were wearing safety gear, not even helmets!)

[robysue]

Robysue, my husband was able to remodel our bathroom last Fall. It is SO nice and because *I* had input, he added 7 extra grab bars (some of our contractors called them 'sissy bars') but it makes it so much safer for me.

They only call them 'sissy bars' because they have no idea how tough it is to be disabled. Bet they'd never make it through one of your typical days.

I'm glad you have the bathroom renovated to your specs. That's got to make things much easier for you. I'm also glad you didn't actually fall yesterday.

[Madalot]

Regarding diabetes, have you looked into a paleo type diet? Many diabetics have found it very helpful and some have gotten off of medication. Obviously, your mileage will vary.

I haven't looked into any special diets as of yet, just doing my own thing with cutting out sweets, watching carbs and just overall trying to eat healthier (and less).

One of the things about special diets is I can't cook. I need to eat foods that are easy for me to just grab from the cabinet or frig.

Robysue, my husband was able to remodel our bathroom last Fall. It is SO nice and because *I* had input, he added 7 extra grab bars (some of our contractors called them 'sissy bars') but it makes it so much safer for me.

They only call them 'sissy bars' because they have no idea how tough it is to be disabled. Bet they'd never make it through one of your typical days.

I'm glad you have the bathroom renovated to your specs. That's got to make things much easier for you. I'm also glad you didn't actually fall yesterday.

Truth be told, the guy that called them "sissy bars" was having serious knee issues and was so grateful they were there! And yeah, getting through a day ain't easy for sure! But thank goodness for my "sissy bars" -- I love them! And bless my husband for putting them wherever I wanted them, even adding some at the last minute!

[msla]

My mother-in-law was a type 2 diabetic and loved chocolate. After her diagnosis, she controlled it with diet alone. She never had another chocolate. She live for almost 35 years and only needed to use drugs the last couple of years. She passed last year at 91. The most self discipline I have had the honor to witness.

It will be a challenge, but you can do it!!

[BlackSpinner]

My mother-in-law was a type 2 diabetic and loved chocolate. After her diagnosis, she controlled it with diet alone. She never had another chocolate. She live for almost 35 years and only needed to use drugs the last couple of years. She passed last year at 91. The most self discipline I have had the honor to witness.

It will be a challenge, but you can do it!!

My mother also did this. She kept hers controlled by diet alone for 30 years and kept her weight down. Only after her stroke did she require insulin.

[Sir NoddinOff]

Thanks for checking in. Hope thing get better soon.

SNO.

[Madalot]

My mother-in-law was a type 2 diabetic and loved chocolate. After her diagnosis, she controlled it with diet alone. She never had another chocolate. She live for almost 35 years and only needed to use drugs the last couple of years. She passed last year at 91. The most self discipline I have had the honor to witness.

It will be a challenge, but you can do it!!

I have been "borderline" for years and didn't worry about it. After they told me, I went through a few days of "I don't give a crap" and continued eating whatever I wanted, including ice cream. But after I got the meter and saw my glucose level at 216, I decided I needed to take control. As a sweet lover, I had sweets (small portions) for breakfast every morning, partly because I can't get up and cook something. Sweets are easier. But, I went through all my "stash" and pulled out anything not good for me and gave it all to my son to take back to his barracks for him and his buddies. I have cut out ALL sweets (except sugar free) and cut down on my food intake by 60-75% per day. I'm watching the carbs and have stocked up on foods that are recommended for diabetics.

My doctor DID put me on medication and unfortunately, between it and my radical diet changes, is wrecking havoc on my system. My stomach is upset almost constantly and at least one meal a day attempts to escape (if you get my meaning). After my A1C came back at 7.9, he tried to double my medication dose, but when I told him of my issues, suggested we meet to discuss my medications and figure out what the next step is.

So for now, I continue my medication and diet modifications until I meet with him next week. And we'll take it from there.

What is irritating the crap out of (and it's not anybody here) but those that keep saying "diet and exercise" when they should know damn well I CANNOT exercise! I have a neuromuscular disease (well documented) that one of the symptoms is "exercise intolerance" and I simply cannot do what these people suggest. They say "You need to take a walk" and I'm like "Hello??? Do you not see me in the power WHEELCHAIR?!?"

Medication and diet are going to have to be my methods to control this (although I would love to get rid of the medication).

[BlackSpinner]

When you do meet with him get a referral to a dietician. They have amazing resources and know all sorts of "dirty" tricks. I was amazed at what is available. I had one to help me with mom when she could no longer handle solids.
Have to go now but will be back