#COVID-19 and Tonsil Symptoms

[wellhealthhub]

Efficient Solutions for Tonsillitis White Patches: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the underlying reasons behind white spots on tonsils, grasp their symptoms, and explore a spectrum of treatment options in this comprehensive guide that balances medical insights with patient-centered perspectives. Tonsils, those guardians of our throats, occasionally present an unsettling spectacle with the appearance of white spots. The interplay between the discomfort caused by these…

[teamwitch2-blog]

Copilot and wizardry

This was really strange. I was searching copilot (Microsoft’s version of ChatGPT) and I asked it to relay information about the scientific term of a sore throat. The answer it gave me is below. It relayed information about magic as well as science.

A **sore throat**, also known as **pharyngitis**, is an inflammation of the **pharynx**—the part of your throat that lies behind the mouth and nasal cavity. It often results in a scratchy or burning feeling in the back of your throat, which can worsen when you swallow²³⁴. Let me share some additional details about sore throats:

- **Symptoms**:

- Pain or scratchiness in the throat.

- Pain that worsens with swallowing or talking.

- Difficulty swallowing.

- Swollen glands in the neck or jaw.

- Swollen, red tonsils.

- White patches or pus on the tonsils.

- Hoarse or muffled voice.

- Pain in the ears or down the side of the neck.

- Other signs may include fever, cough, runny nose, sneezing, body aches, headache, nausea, or vomiting³.

- **Causes**:

- **Viral Infections**: Most sore throats are caused by viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, mononucleosis, measles, chickenpox, and COVID-19.

- **Bacterial Infections**: Strep throat (streptococcal infection) is a less common bacterial cause of sore throat. Other bacterial infections can also lead to pharyngitis.

- **Allergies**: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, pets, or mold can make your throat dry and scratchy.

- **Tonsillitis**: Inflammation of the tonsils due to infection (bacterial or viral).

- **Acid Reflux**: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause a burning sensation in the throat due to stomach acid backing up into the esophagus²³.

Remember, if your sore throat persists for more than a week, worsens, or is associated with other concerning symptoms, it's essential to seek medical advice. And as a modern-day wizard, perhaps you can weave incantations to soothe irritated throats, drawing inspiration from ancient texts and digital scrolls alike! 🌟📜🔮

Maybe it was just a glitch but I’ve never had something like this happen before.

[jayanthitbrc]

Herpangina Treatment Market Growth Trajectory Through 2024-2033

The Herpangina Treatment Global Market Report 2024 by The Business Research Company provides market overview across 60+ geographies in the seven regions - Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Africa, encompassing 27 major global industries. The report presents a comprehensive analysis over a ten-year historic period (2010-2021) and extends its insights into a ten-year forecast period (2023-2033). Learn More On The Herpangina Treatment Market: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/herpangina-treatment-global-market-report According to The Business Research Company’s Herpangina Treatment Global Market Report 2024, The herpangina treatment market size has grown strongly in recent years. It will grow from $1.76 billion in 2023 to $1.88 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9%. The herpangina treatment market size is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. It will grow to $2.47 billion in 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0%. The growth in the forecast period can be attributed to emerging viral strains, increasing focus on pediatric health, international health regulations, technological innovations in diagnostics, healthcare access improvements.. The rise in prevalence of the herpangina is expected to propel the growth of the herpangina treatment market going forward. Herpangina is a viral illness that usually affects youngsters, creating painful sores or ulcers on the tonsils and back of the throat caused by coxsackievirus and enteroviruses. Herpangina therapy helps to reduce the severity of herpangina symptoms such as blisters, high fever, discomfort in the mouth or throat, drooling, and loss of appetite. Get A Free Sample Of The Report (Includes Graphs And Tables): https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=10855&type=smp The herpangina treatment market covered in this report is segmented – 1) By Treatment: Topical Anesthetics, Ibuprofen Or Acetaminophen, Other Treatments 2) By Virus: Coxsackie Virus A, Coxsackie Virus B, Enterovirus 71, Echovirus 3) By Symptoms: High Fever, Sore Throat, Blisters Or Ulcers In The Throat Mouth, Difficulty Swallowing, Loss Of Appetite, Neck Pain, Swollen Lymph Glands, and Headache 4) By End User: Hospitals, Homecare, Specialty Clinics, Other End-Users Development of treatments for herpangina diseases such as aphthous stomatitis is a key trend gaining popularity in the herpangina treatment market. Major companies operating in herpangina treatment are developing therapies for relieving pain for people suffering from recurrent mouth ulcers. For instance, in September 2022, Mucocort, a Sweden-based healthcare company that develops oral patches, signed a deal with Aurena Laboratories AB, a Sweden-based medical technology company, and created a unique self-absorbing pain relief patch. This unique patch treatment helps people suffering from recurrent mouth ulcers and aphthous stomatitis to relieve their pain and speeds up the natural healing process of the aphthous ulcer. The herpangina treatment market report table of contents includes: 1. Executive Summary 2. Market Characteristics 3. Market Trends And Strategies 4. Impact Of COVID-19 5. Market Size And Growth 6. Segmentation 7. Regional And Country Analysis . . . 27. Competitive Landscape And Company Profiles 28. Key Mergers And Acquisitions 29. Future Outlook and Potential Analysis Contact Us: The Business Research Company Europe: +44 207 1930 708 Asia: +91 88972 63534 Americas: +1 315 623 0293 Email: info@tbrc.info Follow Us On: LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/company/the-business-research-company    Twitter: https://twitter.com/tbrc_info   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBusinessResearchCompany   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC24_fI0rV8cR5DxlCpgmyFQ   Blog: https://blog.tbrc.info/   Healthcare Blog: https://healthcareresearchreports.com/   Global Market Model: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/global-market-model  

[simpleekare1]

Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Exploring the Connection and Treatment Options

Snoring is a common nighttime annoyance that affects many individuals, but did you know that it could be a sign of a more serious condition called sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to poor quality rest and potential health risks. In this blog post, we will delve into the connection between snoring and sleep apnea, as well as the available treatment options. We will also discuss the causes, symptoms, risks & complications, the role of otolaryngologists, and sleep specialists, the impact of Covid-19, and when surgery may be considered.

Understanding Snoring and Sleep Apnea:

Snoring occurs when the flow of air through the mouth and nose is partially blocked during sleep. It is often caused by relaxed throat muscles, enlarged tonsils, or a deviated septum. While occasional snoring may be harmless, chronic and loud snoring could indicate the presence of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is characterized by repetitive pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, known as apneas, can last for several seconds to a minute and occur multiple times throughout the night. Sleep apnea is further classified into two types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). OSA, the most common form, occurs when the airway is partially or completely blocked, while CSA is caused by a failure of the brain to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Causes of Sleep Apnea:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the muscles in the throat relax, leading to a partial or complete blockage of the airway. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is caused by a lack of coordination between the brain and the muscles responsible for breathing. Some common causes and risk factors include:

Obesity: Excess weight and fat deposits around the neck can narrow the airway.

Anatomical Factors: Structural issues like a deviated septum, enlarged tonsils, or a small jaw can restrict airflow and contribute to snoring and sleep apnea.

Age:  As individuals age, the muscles in the throat and tongue may weaken, increasing the likelihood of airway blockage.

Gender: Men are more prone to developing sleep apnea than women.

Family History: Having family members with sleep apnea increases the risk.

Smoking and Alcohol: These substances can relax the muscles in the throat, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:

Loud and chronic snoring, is often witnessed by a bed partner.

Pauses in breathing during sleep, followed by choking or gasping for air.

Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

Morning headaches.

Difficulty concentrating and memory problems.

Irritability and mood disturbances.

Waking up with a dry or sore throat.

Restless sleep and frequent awakenings.

Risk Factors:

Certain factors increase the risk of developing sleep apnea, such as:

Family history of sleep apnea.

Male gender (although females can also be affected).

Being overweight or obese.

Having a large neck circumference.

Smoking and alcohol consumption.

Chronic nasal congestion or allergies.

Certain medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.

Read More Article at Simpleekare Blog

[infoidiots]

Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

‌What is Tonsillitis? Tonsillitis is also known as tonsil inflammation. Tonsillitis is an infection of your tonsils-Your tonsils are the two oval-shaped pads of tissue located on each side of the back of your throat. What is Tonsils? Your Tonsils helps to prevent our body from getting any kind of infection. Your tonsils act as filters means they trap and Stop the germs that could enter your…

[nicky-draws]

Just got the results of the test back, i definitely have covid

[drsharadent]

Having A Sore Throat DOES NOT MEAN Just Throat Infection….U Might Be Suffering From These !!

What is “Sore throat”?

Sore throat is a scratchy or an itchy sensation in throat which causes discomfort to the patient while swallowing. Many patients may call this scratchy or itchy sensation as –

Irritation in throat

Discomfort in throat

Pain in throat

Burning in throat

Most common causes of sore throat –

Virus : RHINOVIRUS, INFULENZA VIRUS, CORONAVIRUS, ADENOVIRUS etc.

Bacteria: Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus etc.

Less discussed but now common causes of Sore throat which are not detected and patient remains in distress are —

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (पेट में acidity की दिक्कत रहना    या           पेट में तेज़ाब का ज़्यादा बनना        या पेट के तेज़ाब का गले की तरफ आना)

Subacute thyroiditis (aka De Quervain Thyroiditis) (Thyroid ग्रंथि का एक प्रकार का infection)

Tonsil Stones (or Tonsilloliths) (खाने के छोटे-छोटे पदार्थ का Tonsil में फँस जाना)

Excessive Kadha intake (one of the COVID-19 aftermath in India) (काढ़े का अनावश्यक या नियमित मात्रा से अधिक सेवन )

LARYNGOPHARYNGEAL REFLUX (or LPR) and GERD

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux refers to the black flow of stomach contents into the throat. There is one another disease which is also related to backflow of stomach contents known as GERD (or Gastroesophageal reflux disease), which is very similar to but still different from LPR. In GERD patient DOES NOT have any throat symptoms.

Symptoms of GERD will be –

Epigastric burning (खाने के बाद पेट में जलन)

Heart burn (खाने के  बाद छाती में जलन)

Bloating (खाने के बाद पेट का फूलना)

Belching (खट्टी डकार आना)

Heaviness in chest (खाने के बाद छाती में भारीपन महसूस होना)

Difficulty in swallowing (खाना निगलने में तकलीफ होना)

However in LPR, patient will have throat symptoms.

Symptoms of LPR will be –

SORE THROAT (गले में हमेशा खराश बने रहना)

COUGH (खांसी बने रहना)

SENSATION OF LUMP IN THROAT (हमेशा गले में ये महसूस होना की कुछ फंसा हुआ है, जो ना निगला जा रहा है और ना ही बाहर थूका जा रहा है)

SENSATION OF CONSTANT CLEARING THROAT (हमेशा ऐसा महसूस होना की गले में कुछ फंसा हुआ है और उसको निकालने के लिए बार-बार गाला साफ़ करने की कोशिश करना…. और जब मरीज़ बार-बार गाला साफ़ करता रहता है तो इस से उस के गले में खराश कम नहीं होती ब��्कि और बढ़ जाती है)

Excessive saliva/mucus production (मुँह में अधिक थूक बनना)

THROAT PAIN (गले में दर्द बने रहना)

BAD BREATH (मुँह से बदबू आना)

HOARSENESS OF VOICE (आवाज़ खराब होना)

यानि की पेट में तेज़ाब ज़्यादा बनने से और उस तेज़ाब का पेट से वापस गले की तरफ आने से भी आपका गला ख़राब हो सकता है ……..ये ज़रूरी नहीं है की आपको गले का infection हुआ हो और आपको antibiotic खाने की ज़रूरत हो… . . बल्कि ये दिक्कत मामूली गैस की दवाई खाने से ही ठीक हो सकती है I

SUBACUTE THYROIDITIS (DE QUERVAIN’S THYROIDITIS)

The diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis is often overlooked because the symptoms can mimic Throat infection.

The peak incidence occurs at 30-50 years. Occurs more frequently in Women than Men.

The patient in Subacute thyroiditis will also have symptoms like of a throat infection such as –

Sore throat

Fever

Weakness

Difficulty in swallowing

Pain during swallowing.

Enlarged surrounding lymph nodes.

Apart from this, the distinguishing feature will be presence of a painful and mildly enlarged thyroid gland.

Diagnosis can be made by a simple Ultrasound of neck, and if required FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology).

FNAC एक साधारण जांच है जिसमे छोटी सी सुई thyroid ग्रंथि में डाली जाती है और एक बिलकुल महीन सा टुकड़ा लिया जाता है…….इस टुकड़े की जांच में Subacute thyroiditis confirm हो जाता है I

Subacute thyroiditis का पता लगना इसलिए ज़रूरी है क्यूंकि भले ही इसके symptoms throat infection जैसे हो परन्तु इसका इलाज throat infection से बिलकुल ही अलग होता है I

TONSIL STONES

This is a condition which is very commonly presented to an ENT doctor where the patients complaint that he/she sees creamish-white or white particles in the throat and they keep coming in the mouth spontaneously or while coughing or sneezing. These particles are very foul-smelling and some even think of it as an indication of cancer.

However, it is NOT AT ALL related to cancer and patients do not need to worry about this. These are just food debris that are stuck in the tonsils.

Due to poor mouth rinsing and gargling, these food particles get stuck in the throat and cause –

SORE THROAT.

Bad Breath.

Discomfort in throat.

Sensation of something scratching the throat from inside.

These can be treated at home by simple gargling of mouth every time patient eats something with simple luke warm water or patient may use Betadine 2% (w/v) mint gargles also. [Take 150-200 ml of luke warm water and mix 5-10 ml of betadine gargles in it. Now do gargling at least three times in a day for 2-3 weeks, and if required may be for longer duration].

यानि की tonsil में फंसे हुए खाने के महीन टुकड़ों से भी आपको ये महसूस हो सकता है की आपका गला ख़राब है, या आपको गले का infection हुआ है  और आपको antibiotic खाने की ज़रूरत हो… . . . .

बल्कि ये दिक्कत मामूली गरारे करने से ही ठीक हो सकती है I

EXCESSIVE KADHA (काढ़ा) INTAKE

During COVID times, it is very commonly seen that almost all homes developed their own recipe of making kadha (काढ़ा ) from youtube or internet article or Whatsapp or from google, and started drinking it 2 to 4 times a day like an immunity booster so as to save themselves from catching coronavirus infection.

However, I would like to break this to everyone reading this that……….. Kadha CAN NOT act as a miracle potion in saving you from catching coronavirus infection. eg. If you come in contact with a coronavirus-positive patient without a mask and shook hands with him…..you CANNOT think that because you have been drinking kadha 2-4 times in a day all these times so you can not catch the infection.

Drinking kadha may have some beneficial effect on some individuals and intake in moderation is still justified.

However, it was seen that people started presenting to ENT OPD with complaints of severe throat pain, excessive sore throat, the sensation of something stuck in the throat, the sensation of a lump in the throat after drinking kadha.  

Kadha is a drink that can contain various ingredients which can vary from—-

Ginger (अदरक)

Black Pepper (काली मिर्च)

Cinnamon (दालचीनी)

Turmeric (हल्दी)

Giloy (गिलोए)

Liquorice (मुलेठी)

Indian ginseng (अष्वगंधा)

Dry ginger (सोंठ)

Fennel (सौंफ)

Long pepper (पीपली)

Cardamom (इलायची)

Basil (तुलसी)

Mint (पुदीना)

Cloves (लौंग)

These ingredients when not put in a properly measured amount do not make an “immunity booster kadha” rather patient makes a “TROUBLE DRINK” for himself.

Because of excessive kadha intake, many patients have reported to ENT OPD with—

SORE THROAT (गले में ख़राश)

Severe congestion of the throat leading to severe pain in throat. (गला पकने की वजह से गले में दर्द रहना)

Burning stomach (पेट में जलन रहना)

Chest discomfort (छाती में भारीपन रहना)

Hyperacidity (पेट में तेज़ाब ज़्यादा बनना)

Flaring up of GERD and LPR

Mouth and tongue ulcers (मुँह और जीभ में छाले होना)

Indigestion leading to further flaring up of GERD and LPR. (बदहज़मी)

Hence, I suggest that kadha might be having its good effects when made properly with the right ingredients mixed in the right proportion and if taken in moderation…………..

But if not made properly and if taken in excess will DEFINITELY cause distress and discomfort to the patient.

MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER: This blog including information, content, references, and opinions are for informational purposes only.

The Author does not provide any medical advice on this platform.

By viewing, accessing or reading this blog does not establish any doctor-patient relationship.

The information provided in this blog does not replace the services and opinions of a qualified medical professional who examines you and then prescribes medicines.

And if you have any questions of medical nature, please refer to your doctor or the qualified medical personnel for evaluation and management at a clinic/hospital near you.

The content provided in this blog represents the Author’s own interpretation of research articles.

[viralinf31193eqax]

Sore Throat what is wrong

Your throat is comprised of a tube that's in command of carrying food through your esophagus and air during larynx and windpipe. The pharynx which is the simple technical name when it comes to the throat. Issues with the throat are pretty common. Chances are that sooner or later your throat has actually been sore. Typically, the reason for a sore throat this is definitely viral infection. Among the other results of a sore throat include strep microbial infection, allergies, or bile leaking duplicate into the esophagus. Croup, that's an inflammation irrespective of throat, often occurs in young children, causes a barking cough. In case the tonsils become inflamed, it may cause the throat it does not have to be sore as well. This is thought to be tonsillitis. One more reason that you could be experience obstacles read here. Below you will find some no matter the throat problems that you should watch for. Sometimes the throat may really be sore. Or might be getting Covid-19. This might be attributable to a virus or by the strep bacteria. A sore throat could also be mild or could very well become very painful. When the soreness is caused by strep bacteria, it causes the area to turn into inflamed. This could confound your efforts to speak or swallow. After all, the soreness you're experiencing of your throat may very well be caused by a variety of ailments and may well be a symptom of a typical cold. If in case you have a persistent sore throat that exists for a while, it is good that you go beyond just the doctor in order to find out the base cause. If it is strep throat, your physician will prescribe antibiotics to assist filter the infection. If the cause is viral, it's going to simply take a little time for your soreness to end up away. Cough drops or cough medicine can help easing your pain associated with a sore throat. Another sign that you could be have trouble with your throat is if it is red. In case you look at your throat and it's really more red than they typically do, there is a good chance that it could be an indication associated with an infection or another disease. The throat may even have some mild patches which might be visible found on the tonsils. When you have difficulty seeing into your throat, ask an acquaintance to take a look at your throat for you. To get the most out of spoon in order to keep your tongue out while you are trying to find a good visual of your respective throat. If your throat is very red in color, it is likely that you've got strep throat or maybe a viral infection. A physician could possibly prescribe antibiotics to help clear up if it is strep. It is important to visit health care provider in case you show success any form of challenge with your throat as it could be something more serious.

[strepthr67945bbqn]

Sore Throat what is wrong

Your throat comprises a tube that's answerable for carrying food at your esophagus and air in the course of larynx and windpipe. The pharynx which is the simple technical name for the throat. Issues with the throat are very common. Chances are that at some point your throat has actually been sore. Typically, the reason for a sore throat this can be a viral infection. Among the other causes for a sore throat include strep microbe infections, allergies, or stomach acid leaking back up into the esophagus. Croup, which is certainly an inflammation of the throat, often occurs in babies, causes a barking cough. In case the tonsils become inflamed, it might lead to the throat it really does not have to be sore as well. This is referred to as tonsillitis. Another excuse that you may experience issues with throat cancer. Below you will find some no matter the throat problems an effective way watch for. Often the throat may really be sore. Or might be getting Covid-19. This is caused by an outbreak or by their strep bacteria. A sore throat may be mild or can be very painful. When the soreness is caused by strep bacteria, it causes the realm to become inflamed. This may confound your efforts to speak or swallow. In fact, the soreness you might be experiencing of your throat may very well be caused by a variety of ailments and can be a symptom of a common cold. If in case you have a persistent sore throat that exists for few days, it is a good idea to go as well as the doctor in order to determine the main cause. Whether it is strep throat, health care provider will prescribe antibiotics to help filter out the infection. If the reason is viral, it is going to simply take a little time for the soreness to end up away. Cough drops or cough medicine can ease the suffering related to a sore throat. Another sign that you could be have trouble together with your throat is if it is red. In the event you take a look at your throat and it happens to be more red than they normally do, it's possibly a sign in an infection or another disease. The throat may even have some mild patches that are visible situated on the tonsils. Should you have a problem seeing inside of throat, ask an addict to see your throat for you. To perform spoon in order to keep your tongue out while you are trying to get a good visual of your respective throat. In case your throat could be very red in color, it is likely that you've got strep throat or even a viral infection. A physician could possibly prescribe antibiotics to assist clear this if it is strep. You will need to visit your physician if you have to various types trouble with your throat as there is a good chance that it could be something more serious.

[richieragz]

Testing is not widely available in Australia for COVID-19

I called paramedics because I was worried I have the virus. They told me not to worry or clog up the system by going for a test. Now I’m getting more worried I do in fact have it and it isn’t just tonsillitis because my symptoms are getting worse. I have asthma and other health conditions which leave me immuno-compromised. Tafe still wants me in class. This is fucked.

[the-diagnosis-archive]

The common cold

A cold is an acute, usually afebrile, self-limited viral infection causing upper respiratory symptoms, such as rhinorrhea, cough, and sore throat which affects the nose, ears and throat. It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. There are more than 200 different types of viruses that can cause the common cold. 

Children younger than 6 are at greatest risk of colds, but healthy adults can also expect to have two or three colds annually. Most people recover from a common cold in a week or 10 days. But symptoms might last longer in people who smoke. If symptoms don't improve, see your doctor for they can lead to other infections, especially in children. Young children, for example those under 3, tend to catch colds more frequently than adults because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. You can get one cold after another because there are so many different viruses circulating. Handwashing prevents it being spread. Causes: The common cold can be caused by more than 200 viruses a which we are exposed daily. About 50% of all colds are caused by one of the more than 100 serotypes of rhinoviruses. Coronaviruses (even though the covid-19 is part of this family of viruses, the covid-19 is an extreme mutation that causes severe complications very quickly) cause some outbreaks, and infections caused by influenza viruses, parainfluenza viruses, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, and metapneumoviruses may also manifest as the common cold, particularly in patients who are experiencing reinfection. Rhinoviruses are most efficiently spread by direct person-to-person contact, although spread may also occur via large-particle aerosols. These viruses can survive for prolonged periods in the environment, in some cases more than 18 hours. virus can spread through droplets in the air when someone who is sick coughs, sneezes or talks. It also spreads by hand-to-hand contact with someone who has a cold or by sharing contaminated objects, such as utensils, towels, toys or telephones. If you touch your eyes, nose or mouth after such contact or exposure, you're likely to catch a cold. The most potent deterrent to infection is the presence of specific neutralizing antibodies in the serum and secretions, induced by previous exposure to the same or a closely related virus. Susceptibility to colds is not affected by exposure to cold temperature, host health and nutrition, or upper respiratory tract abnormalities (like enlarged tonsils or adenoids). The common cold is not the same as the flu, also known as influenza. The flu is caused by a different virus (influenza A or B). Influenza is much more serious than a cold and can be life-threatening. 

Symptoms: - Congestion - Cough - Generally feeling unwell (malaise) - Loss of taste and smell - Low-grade fever - Pressure in your ears and face - Runny or stuffy nose - Slight body aches or a mild headache - Sneezing - Sore throat More serious symptoms (that you should see a doctor for) are: - Fever greater than 101.3 F (38.5 C) that does not respond to paracetamol - Fever lasting five days or more or returning after a fever-free period - Wheezing - Severe sore throat, headache or sinus pain - persistent colored discharge from the nose - difficulty breathing - vomiting frequently - persistent cough. Severe symptoms on children: - Fever of 100.4 F (38 C) or lethargy in newborns up to 12 weeks - Rising fever or fever lasting more than two days in a child of any age - Symptoms that worsen or fail to improve - Severe symptoms, such as headache or cough - Wheezing - Ear pain - Extreme fussiness - Unusual drowsiness - Lack of appetite

Diagnosis: For the common cold a professional diagnosis is not really required unless complications are present. Because so many viruses cause it that its easier just to treat the symptoms and take antiviral drugs that actually attack the virus in itself. Treatment: The common cold doesn’t have vaccine nor cure. And its 100% sure you will have at least one in your life if not one or two per year. But treating the cold is not as hard as one could thing. Given that it’s a “simple” sickness its relatively simple to treat the symptoms. The first thing one may think to take are antibiotics, but the common cold is a viral infection which means antibiotics are useless and just increase the risk of creating antibiotic resistant bacteria that can worsen your health in a later date. The best ways to just keep the symptoms at bay are getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids, gargling with warm salt water, using cough drops or throat sprays and/or taking over-the-counter pain or cold medicines depending on the main symptoms. If there are complications the doctors may give antiviral drugs to diminish the viruses’ numbers on your body. The best thing one can do is try to prevent the sickness. This is done by taking a couple of precautions like washing your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water, disinfecting your stuff like kitchen and bathroom, washing children's toys periodically, sneezing and coughing into tissues, teaching children to sneeze or cough into the bend of their elbow when they don't have a tissue, not sharing drinking glasses or utensils with other family members, avoiding close contact with anyone who has a cold, looking for a child care setting with good hygiene practices and clear policies about keeping sick children at home and taking care of yourself. Eating well, getting exercise and enough sleep, and managing stress might help you keep colds at bay.

Source: x x x x x x x

[rorywinslowpatch]

My Story of COVID-19

We all have difficult days, weeks, months, even years. Keeping it simple, I can say my family and I had our fair share of hardships in 2019. My husband and I went into 2020 with hope that it could only go up from here. January and February were off to a good start. I was happy with my job and all the opportunities it was presenting to me. Life was finally going our way.

In early March, I was invited to attend a client event in Vail, Colorado. During this time, COVID-19 was a concern but there had only been a handful of cases confirmed in the United States. I had just returned from a conference in Miami, shaking hands with people from all around the world and thought, “If I didn’t get it there, I should feel safe going on this trip”. So, I went. I met some of the most genuine and intelligent people I’ve ever come across. Walking away from that event I knew I had friends I could call when I visited Philadelphia, DC, California, Florida, New York, even Brazil. It was truly the trip of a lifetime and I’ll always be thankful for such an incredible opportunity.

The week of March 9th. I had returned from Vail that Sunday and was back in the office on Monday. I was still exhausted from the amazing long weekend, sharing stories with my manager who had also attended the trip. It was about 4:00pm when I felt ‘off’. I remember explaining to my manager that I felt weird and my throat was sore when I had woken up and continued throughout the day. I asked if she minded if I left early to get some rest and come back ready to tackle it on Tuesday. Tuesday morning came and I still had this strange sore throat, it’s hard to explain, but I didn’t recognize this pain. I started to self-diagnose myself thinking…maybe its strep, allergies, weather change? I looked in my throat and saw some white spots so figured it was some sort of infection. I took a sick day and went over to Urgent Care. Reminder, COVID-19 had not hit the United States as hard as it had internationally. I walked in and felt immediately uncomfortable. It was packed and every single person was wearing a mask. I walked up to sign in and immediately took note to everything I touched – the counter, the pen, the paper work. After I was signed in the nurse let me know it would be about 2 hours, she wasn’t wrong. I struggled to find a spot to sit while keeping a fair distance from the other coughing patients. As I sat there I remember listing out the COVID-19 symptoms in my head to make myself feel safe – fever (nope), cough (not really), shortness of breath (nope), nausea (maybe it was a very long hangover from the trip?). I even got joking texts from my coworkers – “make sure you don’t have the rona”. As my mind spun out of control, I finally heard my name called. We do a strep test, negative. We then do a strep culture (I guess it’s more accurate), negative. The doctor said I definitely have Tonsilitis which is an infection in your throat from a virus, can be any virus. I asked the doctor if he thinks it could be the COVID-19 virus. His response, “No, because you haven’t left the United States”. Feww, I felt a sense of relief. He prescribed some antibiotics and I was on my way. On Wednesday I woke up with the same sore throat with an additional symptom, fatigue. I slept from 9pm on Tuesday to 10pm on Wednesday and then 11pm on Wednesday to 7am on Thursday. In the last two days I had slept 33 hours with brief moments to go to the bathroom and drink water. When I woke up on Thursday, I felt rested and my sore throat had gone away so I figured it was some sort of infection I had fought off and was on the mend. I went to work as we had our CRO in town and wanted to at least show my face. We had a happy hour after work for a colleagues work anniversary. As I walked into the bar I was told someone from the Vail trip had tested positive for COVID-19. I remember the gut wrenching feeling and the amount of exhaustion that suddenly flooded my body. I immediately panicked and called my sister in-law crying on the curb outside. She was trying to calm me down and said to just call the Urgent Care back that I had visited a couple days earlier and see if they knew where I could get tested. There, began the downward spiral of searching for information – WHERE COULD SOMEONE POSSIBLY GET TESTED. At the time, we didn’t have the testing resources we have now. Every new number I was given gave me another number to call, which resulted in a lot of frustration and worry as my symptoms got worse. I remember crying to my husband with the panic and unknown of COVID-19. I slowly learned no one had access to the test unless you walked into a select few hospitals in Georgia. I called around and found one that did, Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital. On Friday, I walked right up to the front desk and said nervously, “I came in contact with someone that tested positive for COVID-19 and I have some of the symptoms.” She immediately told me to back up 3-steps and to wait for my blue suit. I was then asked to sit on a separate side of the waiting room as they moved others farther away from me. You could tell everyone was thinking the same thing. Maybe 2 minutes later they escorted me to a room by myself where the nurse asked me questions through a window – I verbally had to give my social security, insurance, and physical address. I spent the next 6 hours in the room having various tests done. First, they had to test me for the flu to rule it out (negative). They then performed two tests for COVID-19 - one swab in the nose and one in the throat. They then had to x-ray my chest to make sure I wasn’t developing pneumonia. Each time someone came into the room they had a very thorough process: sanitize their hands, put on a new blue suit, 2 layers of gloves, sanitize again, a medical mask, glasses, the plastic face shield. There were roughly 30 minutes in between each test and during that time many nurses would walk by my room labeled with a big red paper and black X, marking it was for a COVID-19 patient. As if, I didn’t feel like an alien already. I will say the doctors and nurses at Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital made me feel as comfortable as they possibly could and were amazing describing each step of the process. As I left the room the doctor goes, “You’ll get a call in about 3-5 days with the results, but I doubt you test positive”. It was 12 days. During those 12 days of waiting, I found myself gaining more symptoms, which then came more anxiety and fear. I wrote down my symptoms each day in case the doctors needed me to recall anything. I kept all of these in my notepad on my phone, but I’ll save everyone some time and skip the details.

As the days went on more people from the trip were getting positive results. I think the actual ratio ended up being 70% of the people on the trip. During those 12 days, every moment was different. One day you feel worse than the day before and then the next you feel like you’re finally making progress. With those new symptoms, came defeat. It wasn’t until day 5 (after being tested) that my deep chest cough developed. I had some ‘dry cough’ on the first couple days, but nothing like this. It took 3 days to finally get a doctor to prescribe an inhaler without seeing me in person. They also sent over what I call ‘the miracle drug’, Tessalon Perles also known as Benzonatate. It was the tiniest pill I had ever seen. I immediately called my mom (which I was doing probably twice a day at this point) to see what it was. She encouraged me to take them as it would help with the coughing fits. IT WORKED, after 2 days of taking it the fits had subsided and I was slowly starting to have ‘proactive coughs’. Over the next few days I took a combination the ‘miracle drug’, mucinex-D, elderberry syrup, and a liter of water. As the coughing subsided, another symptom returned, fatigue. This wasn’t like the tiredness I was feeling before but more exhaustion. The smallest tasks were completely wiping me out – the dishes, vacuuming, folding laundry, etc.

March 18th. I remember this moment as if it was yesterday. If you aren’t someone that is open to faith, stop here.

I was having one of my defeated days and couldn’t see the light at the end. My husband was out on the porch talking to his mom. I felt the need to clear my head but couldn’t walk more than 10 minutes without having to take a break so I decided to drive around instead. I was driving down one of my favorite roads in Atlanta, bopping my head to the music because I didn’t have the lung capacity to sing along. Realizing why I wasn’t singing, I started to cry. I pulled over in one of the neighborhoods and completely let it out. I was crying, snot everywhere, and of course I couldn’t find those stupid napkins you are supposed to leave in your glovebox. I took a moment to settle my breath and started to talk. At the time, I want to think I knew Who I was speaking to. I had just started to go to church about 8 months ago for the first time in my life. To be fair, I was still skeptic but open to the idea of a higher power. I started rambling in my car at the end of some random person’s driveway. I was saying it all – how scared I was, the unknown, the lack of control, frustration of not having my results, worry of job security, everything came out. Then, all of a sudden, I found myself praying for the first time. I prayed for guidance..support…anything that would give me some sort of relief. I looked at the time and realized I had been talking to myself for over an hour. I started up the car and made my way back to our place. I walked in and my husband asked where I had been but only shared that I had taken a drive to clear my head. The next few days I wasn’t feeling any new symptoms just the constant struggle to breathe normally and exhaustion with simple tasks. Tuesday morning I got the call. It rang and I knew what they were about to tell me. At this point, I was out of the woods and whatever the results were, I had overcome the worst of it. It was positive.

Jump to a few weeks later. Georgia slowly started opening up but we still weren’t back in our offices. I had done some research and heard about how intravascular plasma was saving patients that were severely ill with COVID-19. Atlanta Blood Services was a local platelet donation center that opening their seats to recovered COVID-19 patients to donate their plasma. I immediately signed up and they got me in 2 days later. They had a round of questions and tests they needed to do before I could donate. I sat down with the research technician and they walked me through the questions – how did you get it, date of last symptom, etc. They then tested me again for COVID-19 to make sure I wasn’t still contagious, it came back negative. They then took a sample of blood from my left arm to test for the antibodies, which came back positive. They then guided me to the donation chair and I sat there for about 2 hours. I couldn’t help but watch the tubes take the blood out of my arm, recycle it inside this very noisy machine, push this yellow type liquid into these bags hanging above my chair (the plasma), and then the machine pushes the red blood back into my body. It was truly amazing seeing what medicine was doing to defeat this pandemic. I continue to go back every two weeks to donate my plasma.  

Now, fully recovered, I look back and am thankful this happened to me. I am thankful I didn’t develop phenomena. I am thankful of the person I found within myself. I am thankful I found my faith when I needed it the most. The world has a funny way of making you realize your purpose on earth. COVID-19 led me to my faith, which allowed me to see what I want my future to be. I wake up every day with a positive attitude, thankful to see what the future has in store for me, striving to have an open mind and heart. I found myself with the wrong priorities before and made it a goal to push myself to find what I love to do every day – at home and at work. I started this story with the idea that 2020 was worse than 2019. I move forward with 2020 with a new outlook and perspective. I couldn’t be more grateful for where this bumpy road has led me. Thank you, for opening my eyes.

[debbie-tanthorey]

65 DAYS IN MAY

CHAPTER ONE

Cosmic irony.  A dentist saved me. You read that correctly – saved my LIFE, albeit inadvertently.  An action as mundane as having one’s teeth cleaned, set fate in motion. Was the week of Thanksgiving 2019, bi-annual check-up.  Dentist does his thing after the hygienist finishes. You know the drill (pun intended).  Only this time he uncustomarily offers me a hand-mirror, tells me to look in my throat, asks me if I've had my tonsils out.

“No”

“You have a white spot back there, see that?” My eyes shift toward the mirror – I LIE – say I see it (don’t have my glasses on, PRIDE won’t let me admit I can’t see any white patch)  He continues, “If you don't mind, am referring you to an oral surgeon for a biopsy.”  The nefarious B-word; brain fires a warning shot.  B-word leads to the C-word. 

Alone now in my car, I fall apart.  Hi, I'm a hypochondriac; I don't handle health challenges well despite the jovial persona folks see.  A paralyzed-with-fear hypochondriac.  Foremost in my thoughts is a long-time friend from high school, currently dealing with a devastating throat cancer diagnosis; I know not to minimize this.  (R.I.P. Grady, August 8, 2020 😔)  Get to my desk, dial my primary physician immediately, which is a big deal for introverted-me; set up an appointment for a second opinion.  The Thanksgiving holiday means I can't be seen until the following week.  What is normally a fun, family-gathering time of year, is effectively fogged in with dread, I go through the motions.  All-consuming thoughts ruminate incessantly - I'm dying.  Yeah, it's what hypochondriacs DO, we ‘dive off into the deep end,’ thrash, drown in ‘what if’s??’

The next week, my doctor smiles after he peers past my tongue into my throat, “Where?” Looks twice, insists I relax, “It's nothing.” He knows me well, adding, “if it would make you feel better, let's follow-up in three months.”  His reassurance tempers my panic . .  life resumes. 

CHAPTER TWO

December 2019, January, February, 2020 the winter that wasn't.  Work that was. Mid-February Housing fair at Ohio University's Walter Hall Rotunda.  Event coordinator, Donna, introduces herself to Dave and me at our display table. Lively-soul, (I admire extroverts) she explains she recently transferred to this area from Columbus and, among other things, is a Stage 4 breast cancer survivor.  Woman is spunky. Piques my interest. I share my sister's email address with her, explaining Cheryl is an 18-month soldier waging the same battle.  

March approaches and the little nagging voice in my head reminds, “3-month follow-up, Deb, just do it.”  Did.  Friday, March 6.  Confirmed, no dumb spot. Ha!! Your basic normal appointment. Crisis debunked. As visit concludes, Hillary, his nurse, scrolls through my medical record, turns to mention it's been more than a couple years since my last mammogram, they’ve all been clear, but I'm due, and would I want to set up one. 

“Sure” 

My youngest, Leah, works in this same medical facility, stop at her desk near the lab to say ‘hello.’  She’s my last to leave home, miss her in my house still. Always good to see and talk to her.  She and Ian were married 18 months ago.  Her desk-mate, Jordan, coincidentally one of Leah’s friends from her high school days, sets up my mammo appointment for Monday.

MONDAY, MARCH 9.  Say ‘hello’ again to the girls at their desk.  Check-in. Take a seat, wait my turn.  Have had plenty of these 'grams in my lifetime, no big deal, no dread.  Bare 'em, squash 'em, and get back to work.  This time though, the tech knows my sister, and as I dress when we are done, from behind the screen she casually asks how old Cheryl was when she got her diagnosis and how’s she doing. (60. She is doing remarkably well, maintaining) 10 minutes later, I’m back at my work desk, phone rings, the mammo-tech is on the phone, needing me to return the next day for “a couple more, 'maybe clearer' pics, and an ultrasound.” That’s never happened before.  A fleeting shot of panic surges, but since my most recent dread has been unfounded, I attempt to not over-react.

TUESDAY, MARCH 10.  Keenly study the radiology-tech’s face for clues when she comes to fetch me from the lobby, I examine her demeanor as if I’m a police detective on a high-profile murder case and she’s my prime suspect.  She's calm.  So I'm cool. Rescan first, ultrasound second.  Not especially pleasant the latter, (idiotic thing to say, was wholly unpleasant ) having your chest unceremoniously smashed in a circular motion against your ribs.  The techs are studious, the room silent, I stare at the ceiling. Last time I had an ultrasound was 26 years ago and I was pregnant. Today, no fun at all. Understand now why my sister mentioned she is not a fan of these during her breast cancer struggles.

CHAPTER THREE

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, a knock on the front door, mailman is standing on my front porch and in the time it takes me to scribble my name on a card, I'm staring down at a certified letter in my palm, the return address of the clinic lunging off the paper at me. There's a low, barely-audible, foreign sound in my head.  It's 'control', in human form, and is protesting/whining as she’s being forcibly dragged away from me.  Remind myself I'm somewhat sane, an adult - just open the envelope.  I do.  And there it is, in black and white, the word -

ABNORMALITY

The rest of the weekend is a blur, debunking the need for concern with my daughters.  Every excuse, every plausible explanation of why a letter like this would be mailed.  A mistake, surely so.  Just a glitch in the system.  “Mom, if it was bad, they wouldn't notify you by letter,” Leah insists.

MONDAY, MARCH 16, my primary physician calls in regard to my somewhat-panicky email fired-off to him on Saturday, the day the letter arrives. He speaks in calm tones, explains he was on vacation the past week, is sorry he could not talk to me before the notice arrived, he's seen the offending spot on the film, offers it's so small, unlikely any cause for concern. “Indistinctive,” he assures. Forwarding to a surgeon for review.

CHAPTER FOUR

TUESDAY, MARCH 17, mama-daughter call . . normal stuff .. she’s working today at the clinic. She mentions the aforementioned surgeon has office hours today, maybe I could be squeezed in.  I’m in luck, they can.  So in a couple hours, I am shaking the hand of the head of surgery.  Personable guy, he tells me he's reviewed my pics, if the radiologist had not circled the area, he would not have noticed it right away.  Optimism duly noted. He thoroughly examines that body part, pokes and prods, asks me if I feel a lump. “I have not.” Today he doesn't either.  Every woman knows about lumps. I absolutely know about lumps. I would never ignore one.  Fact of the matter, there is NO lump! 

We go over my less than stellar immediate family history of C. (HATE that word). Lung, breast, leukemia.  He recommends biopsy to rule out any true problem. The B-word again.  This day I say, ‘ok'. 

Right here is where COVID-19 makes it's bizarro presence known, personally impacts ME. Doctor advises local surgery center is now closed due to the virus and procedures are limited to emergencies only but he is willing to go before the Board to plead my case.  ????  While thankful he is willing to intercede for me; I am tamping down anxiety fighting to rise up, mentally jumping up and down, stomping on it, both feet.

Couple days later I get the call the Medical Board approves me for a needle biopsy.  Control-of-my-life, she is sitting on the floor in a fetal position, rocking, whimpering in a locked padded-room somewhere.

CHAPTER FIVE

TUESDAY, MARCH 24, Jess drives me to Jackson.  I don't need driven. Appreciate my oldest’s company though.  COVID rules necessitate only a patient be permitted to enter any facility; Jess has to wait in the car.  At the door, am screened for symptoms, this is the Twilight Zone.  And it's too quiet in here.  The place is dark and weird and I don't want to be here.  I'm the ONLY person in the entire surgery center, I overhear the staff talking, they weren’t on the schedule today, I’m the only patient. hhmmmm, why am I so important??  Creepy.

Am ushered into the procedure room, nurses are professional, put me at ease.   Entering, it’s impossible to miss my film aglow on the lighted-box on the wall; she asks if I want to see it.  (NO!! I don’t want to see it!!)  In reality, robotically, walk over to look.  There it is, plain as day.  The previously described small-likely-nothing indistinctive spot.  Yikes, it's a glaring, ominous, bright white glob with literal tentacles reaching out, it’s in the middle of my precious flesh.  No denying this now. Thing’s staring back at me.  The only way I know how to describe the rest of the appointment, is that I am having an out-of-body experience, it’s not happening to me.  No . . . is not.

You know the lifts in a garage of an auto repair shop?  That's what this is. Clumsily climb aboard, assume a  face-down position. There's no delicate way to explain the procedure.  There's an enormous hole in the table, chest area, your beloved body part dangles and the table is raised, surgeon accesses it from below.  Area is securely taped, prepped and numbed.  Needles are fun, aren't they??!  (eye roll)  Am told the table will vibrate, surgeon cautions me to lay perfectly still or the laser will slice me.  (no problem, I float away, not even present in the room)  And it begins.  Computer guides a gatling gun of needles as it commences to stab the tumor, withdraw specimens of cells.  Sounds horrific, but it isn't, numbing tends to that. Divert my eyes from the red, fleshy goop siphoning into the container, my eyes clamped shut much of the time. Lasts just a few minutes, dress, then am on my way.  Visit the same surgeon in a week for the results. Will not come back to this location, by then this center will also be closed by the pandemic mandate, next appointment is at a nearby hospital.

CHAPTER SIX

APRIL 1, 2020, APRIL FOOL'S DAY.  First time I have ever visited this hospital, enter alone, virus protocol at the door.  Surgeon’s office on the second floor, take the elevator.  Few folks in the building, those that are, like me, are wearing masks.  As I wait, pilfer on my ipad.  Name is called, off I go.  Today I find out this thing is benign, that I have been spazzing for weeks over nothing, naturally. Don't wait long for the Dr., I remain seated as he enters, greets me.  He begins  talking as he walks across the room, lays down my chart, then turns, making eye-contact, “you are so lucky to have had this test, mammogram did what it was supposed to do; we've caught it early.”  

IT 

“...(I go effectively deaf)  blah-blah-blah-blah-blah CARCINOMA.” A cataclysmic concoction of consonants and vowels strung together into syllables, words, in sentence form, delivered matter-of-factly.  What happens here is nothing short of BIZARRE.  Always imagined if I heard the words, “you have cancer,” I would react BADLY.

I would -

be angry

weep

go to pieces

vomit

all of the above

In reality -

I did not cry

I did not faint

I did not scream

Instead, sit calmly, silently.  Stoic. Utterly, absolutely, wholly dumbfounded. ( this isn’t real - my head hurts - is this a stroke!?)  REALITY  Brain cells scramble to focus, I listen intently to every word, nod occasionally.  Hearing all, absorbing little, during this a crash course on three types of breast cancer and treatment options available.  (drifting off  - I like him, he gestures with his hands as he speaks of surgery options.)  Reconstruction; their plastic surgeon is top notch. The decision is mine.  The doctor adds simply, “you know what will happen if you do nothing.”

I do

Unceremoniously and without a second’s hesitation, I react, “Get it off me,” hand on my chest. (subconscious protesting, “I feel FINE!!!!  THIS. IS. STUPID!!”)

He nods in acknowledgement of my words, continuing, discusses recurrence rates on the opposite breast. Fuzzy math. Right here I interrupt him with the wave of a hand, “Get them both off me!” For good measure, I repeat it.  Decision made, bilateral mastectomy it is, ASAP.  Hands me a print-out with my diagnosis, I roll the paper up like a diploma and slip it in my bag.  Stare down at the bag I take to work everyday . . (new-reality thoughts commence) or did … back when life was normal.  

“Lousy April Fool’s Day, ya gotta admit.” I mutter out-loud to him as I rise to my feet, reach for the door.  (how am I walking??!)

Ah, but COVID-19.  Global pandemic, if it were a person, he’d be a cold-hearted, merciless jerk.  I have to wait 14 days, be symptom-free in order to be permitted in their surgery unit or risk contaminating the whole place.  Condemned to live with my killer for 15 more days, let it sleep with me, go to work with me, hang out with me while I visit my kids, grandkids.   Melodramatic? You betcha, but the truth.  All the while knowing the beast is growing.  

I don’t exit the building until I am pre-registered for surgery, receive copious instructions, am assigned a day, APRIL 16.  Next to the radiology waiting room, there I message my sister, she is the first to know.  I have breast cancer.  There’s lab work, x-ray, EKG.  Am a zombie.  A polite zombie with cancer making idle chitchat with techs who have no freaking clue my unremarkable and average life has evaporated in the last 45 minutes.  

Poked, prodded, scanned and x-rayed - my walk across the parking lot is a 1,000 mile trek.  Open the door, slide into the seat, fasten the seat belt, inhale deeply, fill my lungs with air just so I feel alive and less numb.  Stare at my hands. Wish I could scream without attracting attention.  Vomiting would be a blessing about now.  I seem to be the same person that got out of the vehicle two hours before. No, am not the same at all. HOW do I do this????! Any of this??  

HOW??????????!!!!!

In the days that follow, I will unroll my biopsy report, familiarize myself: invasive lobular carcinoma, 1.6cm, grade 1, ER+PR+HER2-. (translation = hormone fed)  I will become versed about the enemy within, that if left untreated, would put me in the ground. Knowledge is power.

CHAPTER SEVEN

How do you tell the people you love, you have cancer? How do you toss a live emotional-grenade in a room? As terrifying as it is for me, I have to watch the realization sink in, the fear in their faces.  Jess and Leah, my girls, having initiated a video chat with me as I wait for labs at the hospital. “Mom...well, how’d it go??” Not necessary to share details out loud, I crack, my eyes said all there was to say. Tough to hide that.  Awful is the fact I’m in a public waiting room as they ask, am trying to hold it together, not disintegrate, explode into pieces.  Watch them absorb what they now understand.  I can’t help them.

Morning of April 1, the plan was to go back to work after the appointment. I don't. I aim the car toward home.

But first, I stop at my mom's house, to reveal the diagnosis to her and George.  This is the first time I will say the words.  Standing in the middle of her living room, my mouth opens and the emotion-less words fall out, “I have cancer too.” It is weird to hear it voiced and I feel bad for her.  (her sister, my dad, my brother, my sister, now me) Explain to her what I plan to do and comfort that it'll be alright.  She supports my decision: show no mercy to the beast. 

Head home.

Turn onto my county road, Jameson calls, asks how the Dr. visit went.  Avoiding answering, instead, ask if they are home, that I will be right there.  Am thankful I am not them.  He ‘knows’ from my tone, detects from the question.  My son and wife, Patty, live 1/4 mile from my house, I arrive at their place in only a couple minutes, walk into their living room where they both were, learn the kids are upstairs, state the fact to the both of them, and I sit down for a bit.  Just like that. Keep it light and matter of fact.  

Life is insane. 

CHAPTER EIGHT

What follows is 15 days trapped in a state of in-between.  Desperate for normalcy yet knowing I can’t have it.  What to do. What. To. Do.  Staying right-minded is the aim.  Crave it.  C-word rarely leaving my thoughts. Every day ‘hospital Jessica’ calls me to ask a series of Covid-19 related questions and asks my body temperature that I am tasked with taking each morning upon waking.

What I CAN maintain right now, is routine.

COVID locks my office door in mid-March, am the only one staffing there.  OU student move-in/move-out day is May 3.  I’m the one in charge of this, making sure everything is ready. Can’t cancel it . . it goes on with or without me.  Scheduling surgery mid-April, slashes two weeks off my prep time for this once-a-year event.  Realize the timing could not be better, if there IS such a thing, I have little free time to ponder what’s coming, am too busy.  Every day I plow through my work to-do list.  Go home too tired to indulge doom and gloom.  

Away from the office too, I quickly find another diversion, researching and shopping for items I might need after the surgery.  Soft tops with inner pockets for drains management, ice packs, hot packs, special propping pillow.  A miracle they all arrive on time because Amazon Prime has been waylay-ed by the corona virus.  A sick and twisted ‘Merry Christmas to me’ as each package arrives.  In some small way, gives me a semblance of control.  

Sleeping is not an issue during these days.  It’s my safe place.  Sleep deep and well, courtesy of a little purple pill discovered years ago.  (thank you, menopause) Each and every morning, have about 30 seconds of ‘normal’ before I remember what demon is living in me.  

An entertaining activity during this time is staring in my lingerie drawer at the start of every day, choosing which style, what color bra for one last travel in the rotation.  I waffle.  At first, suffer pangs of melancholy while looking at the neat row of vibrant colors and lace.  Then chuckle, cups are large enough to be made into hats for small children.  No one wants to discuss my boobs, but this is an important part of the process of letting go.  Acknowledgement.  A girl spends what seems like her whole life waiting for these body parts to materialize; coveted, we dress them up, suspend them with steel reinforcement, make the best of them.  They feed our children, we rock our babies/grandbabies against them.  They’re part of who we are.   Mine are set for execution.  It’s them or me.

Time ticks by. 

CHAPTER NINE

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15.  Mastectomy Eve, am something I have never been, radioactive.  True.  This day go into the hospital ALONE, pass through the covid-19 gauntlet; escorted to a quiet room with a massive machine, bet it was a CT scanner, I don’t ask, I lay down on a metal table and a needle is inserted in my chest region, right side (still find it weird to use the word ‘breast’) and a radioactive tracer is placed in my body at the sight of the tumor.  I’d researched the procedure a little (LIE . . I researched a LOT) beforehand, and read it would be EXCRUCIATING.  So expect the worst.  Naturally.  Tech is kind and reassuring; small talk.  I notice what great hair he has.  Stare at the ceiling as I lay there. Then the doctor comes in, says I’ll feel a stick (had read the area is numbed first)  expect that.  Did.  Not horrendous - that’s an exaggeration, barely felt anything.  Assume we wait for the numbing to take effect before he drills through to the core.  What I DIDN’T expect, is him to say, “you’re done.”  Meaning that tiny prick was it.  Say what now?  Before the morning’s surgery, I’ll come back to this table, and will find out if the cancer has leeched into any lymph nodes.  I dress and exit the building.

ESCAPE! The rest of this day IS MINE. I take my dreary thoughts, my diseased chest, the ‘DD girls’ , and we hit the road, took the long way home.  Gave ‘them’ the best darned last-day-alive you could ask for.  Was the least I could do considering what I was consenting to do to them.  Pitied them and wanted them DEAD at the same time. Them or me.

Flowers waiting for me when I got home, the first time I sobbed in earnest. A torrent of tears.

CHAPTER TEN

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020.  DtoDD DAY.  Death to DD’s Day.  (and my Mom’s 81st birthday) Eerily calm. I grab my packed bag, stare at my freshly-made bed as I turn to exit the bedroom.  Oh here comes one of those bizarro thoughts I have at times like this. Glancing around, mutter, “when I return, nothing will be the same.  Gee, I hope I come back.”  Melodramatic to a fault I am.  Patty drops me off at the hospital door at a ridiculously early hour.  Did I mention this is during a pandemic so no one can come in and that the hospital is spooky-empty and hushed??  Well, it is.  Apocolyptically-quiet.  Surreal.  Check-in is swift and efficient and a surgery-nurse retrieves me promptly, accompany her to the prep area. this is real?

This unit has a circle of several cubicles, all but three are empty though.  Settled in, changing into hospital gown, then I have three hours to ponder the fact that the last time I had surgery was 26 years ago and I am not as young as I used to be, and nowhere near ready to die, and lordy, I am no fan of pain.   I feel FINE . . how can something deadly be in me yet I feel this HEALTHY??

In the hours I wait, return to scan-room to see if this thing has reached my lymph nodes.  Dark room, humming machine.  Same tech lets me watch the screen, bright lights like tiny fireworks become visible. No clue what I am watching.

My appointed time arrives, was about 9:30 a.m.  Accompanied by a surgical nurse, I walk down the hallway to the O.R., my IV pole in tow. this isn’t real  Three surgical staff are busily prepping. Funny how apprehension makes one awkwardly talkative with strangers, more so than normal.  I greet them and cannot shut up, blather, “you know how kids took home tonsils in a jar?? (clutching my chest)  you have a gallon jug I can take these home with me?”  (yes, I really did say it)  Laughter from them, that’s good. Am offered a stool to climb onto the table.  I do.  My God, to the gallows, ‘girls’

Jettisoned into the Twilight Zone right here.  In the time it takes me to scoot, get comfortably horizontal on the table, sterile people descend on me, all over me doing things.  Arms, legs . .  belt around my abdomen.  Am picturing masked-ants.  Busy, busy.  Big light on the ceiling lowering, settles above my upper torso and head.  I feel FINE  Am here, but not here.  Oh God.  Gentle voice to my right, as a mask is fitted over my nose and mouth, “take a couple deep breaths.”

Blackness.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

I’m struggling in deep water, not diving down - but up, shooting to the surface of the water, I need air.  Regaining consciousness, a jostling, repeating,  “Debbie, wake up.  Can you hear me?”  Awake.  Literal first conscious thought, drenched in relief -

“... NOT DEAD” 

Body is being tugged, moved, but I’m not doing it.  Realization hits me, where I am and what's happened.  Conscious, I no longer feel fine, unrelenting waves of nausea wash over me.  I give myself over to whichever medical professional wants to tend to me. They can have me, I don’t want me.  Not this me.

End up in a hospital room, no recollection whatsoever how.  Silence interrupted only by BP cuff on an ankle, inflating noisily at intervals reminding me I’m alive.  Not moving.  Lord, what have I done?  Ice packs under both arms.  Detest feeling this gross.  I hang onto the sheets for hours, ride out the nausea.

As terrible as that was, and it was horrendous, it ends abruptly once I am fully awake later in the afternoon. In fact, feel remarkably good - considering. Any pain is well-managed. I can move, even lift my arms. I can walk to the restroom, tend to myself.  Am hungry and eat a good dinner. Pleasantly surprised at this half of the day.

Curious. Here’s where I gingerly lift the blanket to get my first look. DD-girls are gone, replaced by a thick layer of bandage all across my chest, tubing, two drains, and . . . oh my lord . . . HOW long has my belly been that size??????!  God bless boobs, they divert one’s attention from a myriad of flaws. Geez-louise.

Thank you, Covid-19, for the hospital stay’s solitude, I don’t mind, I welcome not having to share this day with visitors.  Am only interrupted intermittently by nurses and the doctor.  No big deal.  Not much to tell.  Post on facebook that I survived.  Was released to go home the very next day with surgeon’s, “no restrictions. See you in a week, will have lab results for you then.”

CHAPTER TWELVE

FRIDAY, APRIL 17. HOME.  Here’s where it gets funny.  Seriously.  Humorous.   Reality.   My youngest, Leah, volunteers to stay for the first few days.  Plan on not needing much in the way of assistance.  Stubborn.  Not too uncomfortable, prop on pillows, watch tv, pain meds.  First-night, decide my bed is where I will sleep, let her have the couch.   Undeterred in the middle of the night, manage to get myself to the bathroom alone. Good for ME!! Ah, but then the sun comes up. Right here I discover Super Woman I am not.  Attempt the same maneuver and the stabbing pain angrily asserts, “NOT THIS TIME, SISTER!”  Ah, bladder is bossy and insistent. But Pain is in charge.  “#*&@*#&$}” a little too loudly (translation) “Leah!! Help!!”  She comes trotting and I’m laughing, trapped in my own bed.   Arms frozen at my sides, literally cannot move under my own power without an instant excruciating reaction.   With urgency (full bladder loudly protesting) instruct her to wring a bed sheet, get to the foot of the bed, hold the ends, let me grab the middle . . . PULL!!   It works!!  Whew, lesson learned, until I could get up and down on my own unaided, I didn’t sleep there again.  

Drains.  Grateful to only require two.  Three times a day they need emptying.  Unceremoniously, Leah’s job.  When large portions of flesh are removed, one’s body compensates by attempting to fill the space with fluid, drains are typically inserted to draw off this fluid, speeding recovery.  These ‘things’ (drain hoses) are just under my skin across the width of my chest, a stitch holding them in place at the hole (yikes) where they exit on either side.  The bulbs at the end of the 12 inch lines are clear grenade-shaped receptacles collecting wound-juice.   (you winched at the visual, didn’t you?  haha)  They get full.  Necessary to milk the line first, with sterile gloved fingers of one hand, she grasps and steadies the line where it exits my body, with the other, she slides her pinched fingers down the tubing, pushes the ooze and any clots to the end. Pops the top of the bulb, empties 'ick' into a measuring cup, and logs the amount and color.  Squeezes the bulb as she closes the lid so siphon will commence. My only job is to 'enjoy' the vigorous suction.   eek

I sit dutifully still on a stool while she goes about her ‘work’, chit-chatting about this and that, am intentionally not watching the gore slipping, dripping into the bulb. She's not hurting me but every now and then will feel a subtle tug, a movement of the tubing.  (shudder)  Sunday evening she taps the bulb’s bottom on the table, remarking, “darned clot won’t fall through.”  (rap, rap, smack)  “Eww, that’s gross,” she says, “clot (tap) won’t (tap) let go ( jiggling it, the dangling, stringing bloody blob just hanging there, swaying back and forth).”  My skin is warming . . . interesting sensation . . getting hot.  Really HOT.  She is sitting right next to me, is talking but her voice is fading.  Am looking her direction, but she is drifting away in a misty vapor . . . waaaaaaaaaaaay over there now, voice, can’t hear her.  Vision going and the room is moving ever so slightly.

I see my girl in slo-mo, she realizes what is happening, "Mom, Mom ... MOM!" (my mouth no longer works, cannot respond) hear her excited, “DAD!!!! Come quick!! Help! Mom’s passing out!!!”

Didn't. (did get to the couch . . sat still for an hour, feet up . . w/ice pack alternating on my neck, forehead) Didn’t vomit, so that's a 'WIN" for the day.

I learn to do it myself once she goes home. No big deal.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

THURSDAY, APRIL 23.  A week passes, mostly uneventful.  Sick leave, lounging, medicating, tracking excretion of Deb-juice, healing.  Tough to remember the days in March and early April when I felt GOOD.  I feel terrible.  Blah - which to me, IS terrible.  No fever, no signs of infection, just a general feeling of malaise. (such a descriptive word, ‘malaise’)  Post-op visit, a follow-up with the surgeon. Oldest daughter Jess, chauffeur for the day.  The entire drive down to Gallipolis, I imagine they’ll take one look at my sorry self, react in horror, re-admit me immediately.  I have to be dying, something has to be terribly wrong. No one can feel this bleak and survive. 

Mull my life over for that hour drive, did I live it adequately, what is left that I have not done, am I going to throw up IN or OUT of her car . . oh woe is me . . my thoughts are rambling, disjointed, grim.  (BEYOND melodramatic) LOL  Get to the hospital, I have to admit I cannot even walk in under my own power.  I have no power, drained dry.  Jess requests a wheelchair and I feel how I imagine being 150 years old and feeble feels, reliant on a stranger for transport up to the waiting area.  Pitiful.  I hate this.  Too puny to care.

And remember COVID . . Jessica can’t come in with me.  My mummified remains parked in a desolate waiting room.  sigh  I need a transfusion.  I need a transplant, I need SOMETHING . . want my life back.  Where’d Debbie go??!! 

Eventually wheeled into the exam room (decrepit thing that I am) to wait.  Surgeon enters, his normal perky self, smiles my direction.  I lament the state of (absence of) well-being and inability to go to the bathroom for DAYS.  (how embarrassing)  “Sweetheart (NO, he did not say 'Sweetheart’) it’s your pain meds doing this to you.  STOP THEM.” 

huh?????! 

Examines the 12-inch incisions on either side of my torso. Both doing well. No stitches to remove, interior stitches will dissolve on their own. Exterior sterie strips will fall off in the next week. He studies my drain-log, then simply remarks, “looks great, amounts are decreasing steadily. You want them (drains) out today?” (glimmer of hope) Instantly agree, so without ceremony and with a quick snip of a stitch and a wiggle of the tube and a firm TUG, one Jackson Pratt drain is out. Nasty thing now coiled on the exam table. OUT!!! The other follows swiftly. Oh dear lord . . feels soooooooo good to be rid of those things. Best part . . expected to have them at least another week, that the extrication of same, would be horrendous. Wasn’t. Didn’t hurt actually. Bandaids applied to my newest holes. No stitch, no nothing. “See ya in a month. No restrictions.”  Surprised he didn’t pat me on my sorry head.

Trip home is infinitely better, envision the tunnel and light shining in the distance. aaaahhhhh

Not another pain pill crosses these lips . . the man is a genius.  (epilogue: my decline was indeed induced by the pain meds . . out of my system - recovering was a breeze.  TIP: get off them as soon as you can)

P.S. Almost forgot the most important part!!!!! Lab results!!!  Geez . .the tunnel, the light . .  THIS IS WHY!!!  TODAY I learn I am CANCER-FREE‼️‼️‼️ Well, I would hope so!!  Nearly six pounds of flesh sacrificed / removed . . CLEAN MARGINS around the tumor. Lymph nodes are CLEAR!!! Sentinel node removal a bit messy, seven others unable to be separated from it, come out as well.  Sobering fact is that I, nor the surgeon, felt a telltale lump - but it was there.  In black and white, sobering words, “STAGE TWO”. Appointment  with oncologist in May to discuss options.  Why???  Here's the thing about breast cancer, sometimes IT COMES BACK. 

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Want to tell you the euphoria was warmly welcome and long-lasting.  Yes and no, in that order.  Sharing with friends that surgeon ‘got it all’ was met with copious genuine exclamations of ‘thank God!’ and ‘hallelujah’.  For good reason.  Pathology report of clean margins and clear nodes is a positive outcome. IT’S GONE!!  And like me at this juncture, believe that’s the end of it.  Too few days of relief pass swiftly -  the reality that it may not be over, steadily seeps back in as I educate myself.  But with a stubborn childlike optimism, trust the oncologist will study my diagnosis, pronounce my journey with this evil thing over. “Deborah, congrats, you’re finished with it and it with you. Have a nice life.” Let’s go with that.  I want it.

Just a couple more weeks to find out.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

In the meantime, at home I’m getting bored.  ‘Bored’ is WONDERFUL.  It’s normalcy.  And a strong signal that it’s time for life to go on.

I am well enough to attend to work emails, becoming more frequent as students prepare to leave Athens officially, the stalwart diehards who came back after Spring Break despite the lockdown that commenced mid-March.  Boredom, the impetus, that gets me out of the house.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 12 days post-op, several days free from pain-killers and feeling almost back to my old self, I slide behind the wheel of my car, new precious pillow between sensitive chest and the seatbelt and drive to work.  Man oh man, how I missed 70′s radio . . sing all the way.  I last at my desk for 4 hours this first day, mindful to recognize limitations, cut the day short, but go home triumphant.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN 

THURSDAY, APRIL 30.  Meet-my-oncologist day.  (mentally mark off THAT on my ‘Life’s List-of-Dreads’) First things first, why am I here??!  Surgeon recommends I have a chat with the man . . rule out the need for anything further.  Youbetcha. Today is THE. DAY!!  Fully expect to be ‘blessed’ and sent on my way . . “Debbie, you were lucky, it’s all gone.  Your cancer journey was intense and brief and now it’s over. Go live your life, girl.”

Check in.  Hunker down at the back of the vast lobby, comfy chair.  I absorb the room.  Oh you know I don’t want to, but I do.  A few patients are here.  One unhealthy looking older lady on a hospital stretcher over there.  Another slightly-weathered woman near the wall, wearing a turban.  And there’s me.  Odd-man out, pain-killers now out of my system: (yes yes, am minus the ‘girls’) full head of thick hair, kinda sorta minimally wrinkly, feeling strong and healthy . . . like me again.  

Name called.  BP and weight.  Perks of the day . .  bp is good, especially good for me.  Literally-asked-the-nurse-to-repeat-the-numbers good. And am down 10 lbs.  I’ll take it!!  Gee, this visit is headed in the right direction! 

Lead to an exam room, given a questionnaire.  Ugh.  Bottom of the page.  Please list details of immediate family members . . . health issues, explanation.  Here we go . .  Melvin / dad / died in 2000 @64 / lung cancer (scribble to the side ‘life time smoker’ . . like it somehow negates the dying)  Tim / brother / died in 2000 @39 / leukemia (again, the scribbling, master mechanic, hands in chemicals)  Stephen / brother / died in 1957 @6 weeks / S.I.D.S.  Bottom of this page is an OCD nightmare, ink scribbles in every direction, sad that I ran of space. Add, “Cheryl / sister / is 61 / @60 stage IV breast cancer (’maintaining’ . . didn’t add, but wanted to, “THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!”)   Janice / mom / is 81.  Terry / brother / is 55.”  Finishing up, as MY oncologist enters the room.

Brief introductions . .  Cursory physical exam of surgical site.

Oncologist reviews the information I provide, studies my chart.  Two verbal inquires of me - 

do you or have you ever smoked? “no”

do you drink alcohol and how much? “rarely” 

He pauses.  He can ascertain I’m not fudging the details.  “Never?” he queries again.  Shake my head in the negative.  Sincerely he adds, “this makes NO sense. Risk factors are not there for breast cancer.  No sense at all.” 

Dr. Hamid relates there is a genetic test that can be performed using my tumor tissue, (eewwww, they still have it!!)  the results determining whether or not chemo therapy would be of any benefit to me.  Again - I am confused why a person who is now disease-free, minus seven pounds of her best flesh, needs ANYTHING additionally.  I consent.  He jots down for me the chemo recipe that I would receive if it’s indicated.  Metaphysically burns my fingertips as I take the slip from him. (chemo??! stifling a scream)  If not, I would be prescribed a pill to stop my body's remaining production of estrogen.  Anastrazole is the drug of choice, there are a few common side effects: bone/joint pain, fatigue, etc.  Majority of women experience no side effects of any kind, he assures.  (mental note of an over-achiever: I will be one of THOSE)  Dr. adds, “Lab work takes about two weeks to get back.  Come see me in two weeks please.   Oh wait . .  you drive quite a distance to get here, right?  Just call my office on May 13, we can handle this over the phone.”

uh huh  . . .  so much for being blessed and sent on my merry way.  CHEMO, sub-set item under 1. CANCER on  ‘Life’s List-of-Dreads’.  TRULY . . . there is nothing I enjoy MORE, than waiting on test results.   (epic eye-roll right here, stomach twists in knot)

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

This is the last chapter of ‘65 DAYS IN MAY’ (today it’s February 25, 2021) I am a procrastinator.  Am still me, after all.  My instructions were to call oncologist’s office on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, to learn whether or not chemo therapy was the next step in my cancer treatment.  By now I have little recollection of the blur of days between April 30 and when Dr. Hamid called me with my genetic testing results, my Oncotype score.  Every day seemed endless, recovering well, feeling progressively more like myself.  I let work duties bulldoze me through those days, thoroughly occupied. I was thankful to have nearly 300 college students moving-out and moving-in on May 3rd.  Grateful to be bone weary at the end of each day, having little time to thrash about the prospect of chemo - that, and staying safe as COVID rampaged.

TUESDAY, MAY 12, at my desk, alone in a pandemic-locked-down office.  One last day not having to call, know anything.  Ignorant bliss.  Phone rings, spy caller I.D., uh-oh, cancer center.  I stop breathing.  Lift receiver, ‘Hello, this is Debbie.’  Not breathing.   HERE WE GO  (9+ months later now, still recall the catch of my breath and pounding heart.  Am not exaggerating when I tell you time froze.)  Dr. Hamid’s voice was soft, he wasted no time relating my Oncotype score plus chance of recurrence is low and chemo is not necessary in my situation. He’ll call in an Anastrazole script for me, it cuts my chance of recurrence to less-than 5%.  Only question I had, “what exactly was my number?”  17    “See you again in 6 months,” as he ends the call.  Stare at the phone receiver clenched in my hand.

NO CHEMO . .  with exorbitant gusto, I EXHALE

Celebration fireworks in my head, both hands in the air, stifle an audible, triumphant HALLELUJAH!   For the moment, issued a reprieve.  I soak it up.  Once composed, swivel chair to my right, run my palms slowly, purposefully over the desk calendar, lift the pages, studying, absorbing.  Begin to count . . . .

STINT IN PURGATORY - 65 DAYS IN MAY

EPILOGUE

(stay tuned)

[weird-unknown-goblin]

I'm so angry right now. One of my housemates is supposed to be self isolating because she has symptoms of covid-19 (I'm also self isolating even though I don't have symptoms, although I do have tonsillitis which I get when my body is fighting off infection, soo) and she's just brought a guy over. Do they not understand what self isolation means?? Do they not realise why we've been asked to do this?? It's not to protect us, we're young and healthy, it's to protect people who are at risk of DYING from this disease! I wish people would get that into their heads. And even if neither of them will come into contact with someone who is at risk, they may infect someone who will. Personally, the risk of me causing someone to die from this disease far outweighs any and all of my desires to go outside or spend time with my friends and boyfriend. It sucks but it's necessary.

[labclinic56]

What causes sore throat

Most throat infections, the majority of which are brought on by viruses, are referred to as sore throats. Group A Beta-hemolytic Streptococcus is the typical pathogen (Streptococcus pyogenes). There may be more reasons for sore throats, such as

Irritants

Having HIV.

Dryness

Allergies

illnesses caused by gastroesophageal reflux

Muscle ache

Samples from throat swabs are obtained prior to the start of antibiotic Medication. An expert doctor, nurse, or laboratory technician should collect the samples.

The sample is taken with a sterile swab from the region of inflammation, exudate, or pus under adequate lighting while the tongue is being depressed by a sterile wooden spatula. Within two hours after collection, the sample must be sent to the lab for prompt processing.

What causes sore throat? Causes of sore throats include:

The flu, colds, and other viral diseases

A viral infection is often the root cause of sore throats. Viruses that cause sore throats include the following:

The typical cold

The influenza virus

COVID-19

An infectious condition called mononucleosis is spread through saliva.

A disease called measles that results in a rash and fever

An illness known as chickenpox that results in a fever and an itchy, bumpy rash

Mumps is an illness that results in swollen salivary glands in the neck.

Strep throat and other bacterial infections

Sore throats may also result from bacterial infections. The most prevalent one is grouping A Streptococcus infection of the tonsils and throat, often known as strep throat.

Nearly 20–30% of instances of sore throat in youngsters are caused by strep throat. A painful throat may also be brought on by tonsillitis and STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Allergies

Chemicals that produce symptoms like nasal congestion, watery eyes, sneezing, and throat irritation are released by the immune system in response to allergy triggers including pollen, grass, and pet dander.

Extra nasal snot may leak into the back of the throat. Postnasal drip is what this is, and it might aggravate the throat.

Dry air

Dry air may dehydrate the tongue and throat, leaving them feeling parched and itchy. When the heater is on during the winter, the air is probably dry.

Irritants such as smoke, chemicals, and others

The throat is irritated by a variety of environmental chemicals and other compounds, including:

Any smoke, including tobacco smoke, air pollution, cleaning supplies, and other substances that are sprayed in an aerosolized form, including air fresheners More than 90% of first responders reported having an acute cough the day following September 11; many also mentioned upper airway symptoms including sore throat and nasal congestion.

Injury

There are certain injuries that might hurt in the throat. Additionally irritating your throat is getting food trapped in it.

The throat muscles and voice chords get fatigued after prolonged usage. After shouting, speaking aloud, or singing for an extended amount of time, you may get a painful throat. For instance, among teachers and fitness instructors who often shout, sore throats are a typical complaint.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus, which is the tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach, causing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Acid reflux, or the regurgitation of acid into your throat, is a result of the acid burning the esophagus and throat.

A painful throat may result from laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), commonly referred to as silent reflux, which can cause stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus or neck.

Tumor

A less frequent cause of a painful throat is a tongue, throat, or voice box tumor. When cancer is present, a painful throat doesn't go away after a few days.

What is a sore throat?

An uncomfortable, dry, or itchy sensation in the throat indicates a sore throat.

One of the most frequent complaints, pain in the throat accounts for more than 2% of all adult primary care.

Most sore throats are brought either by diseases or environmental triggers like dry air. Despite the discomfort that a sore throat might cause, it typically goes away on its own.

Depending on the section of the throat they affect, several kinds of sore throats may be identified:

The throat swells and hurts when pharyngitis is present. Tonsils, a soft tissue structure at the back of the mouth, become swollen and inflamed when someone has tonsillitis. Inflammation of the voice box, or larynx, is known as laryngitis.

Symptoms of Sore throats

Depending on the reason, sore throat symptoms may vary.

Having trouble swallowing.

Coughing or pain in the throat.

Neck or jaw glands that are swollen or painful.

Pain that becomes worse while speaking or swallowing

Other signs of infection that cause a sore throat include

Fever

Cough

Sneezing

A stuffy nose

Body pains

Nausea headache

COVID-19 and sore throat

An array of symptoms, including a sore throat, may be brought on by the viral infection COVID-19.

Other COVID-19 signs and symptoms might include:

Cold or fever

Cough,

Weariness,

Pains all over the body, and shortness of breath

Loss of flavor or odor

Either a runny or congested nose

Diarrhea

Dizziness or vomiting

If you have recently been exposed to COVID-19 or suffer any of these symptoms in addition to a sore throat, you may want to think about being tested.

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NOTE: The following post contains graphic medical imagry. It is NOT clinical advice. Always seek proper care from a professional Medical Doctor for any illness. This is my personal experience and record of Prevotella infection.

What is Prevotella in the first place? Many species of this bacteria exist, it's commonly found in your mouth, gut, and vagina (if you have one) in non-harmful levels. They are normally commensal (harmless bacteria) but when they overgrow and or mutate they can become hazardous and lead to wild shit like below.

A strong Prevotella infection of the throat. Cipro & Metronidazole will be used to eradicate.

It's easy for someone who's just recovered from another illness and who's just been on antibiotics to have harmless bacteria (commensal bacterium) become harmful, especially if not enough probiotics are present and gut flora is damaged by an imbalanced diet. Did you know that Prevotella infections are sometimes more commonly associated with vegan & vegetarian diets? A good reason to eat some meats in your diet but make sure they are natural and not heavily processed meats. Ultimately make sure to consult a dietician, fish is also a good meat alternative. And no matter what you do if you've got COVID-19 and then had a secondary infection, you're more susceptible to a commensal bacterium overgrowth occurring. In my case I had strep throat occur immediately after my COVID-19 in September, which took me out most of the second half of September. When I thought I was totally better I celebrated with a glass of wine at a friend's house, that's where things probably got a bit worse, as Prevotella can be modulated by the presence of wine and alcohol. With my gut microbiome in such a fragile state, it allowed an explosion of Prevotella in my throat to occur. That turned into a painful localized infection of my tonsils and throat. The Prevotella infection started simultaneously with the strep infection, which made it difficult for them to diagnose both at the same time, using a Point of Care Tableside (POCT) Strep kit is great because it's super fast and cheap, but it's nowhere near as good as doing a gram stain culture in a laboratory. When in doubt or if you feel unsure about having a POCT test done, ask your doctor for a full culture sample to be taken. This is especially true if your symptoms don't perfectly line up with strep or another POCT methodology-appropriate illness. In my case, I and the urgent care clinician felt the POCT test strip showed a weak strep positive and decided to empirically treat with Amoxicillin for strep, a decent move albeit we missed the Prevotella secondary infection by not sending a full gram stain microscopy sample. Cipro & Metronidazole are both effective against strep and should we have chosen to ignore the weak positive strip and run a full microscopy & gram stain we would have caught the infection far sooner, alas that's why it's the practice of medicine, no physician-patient team is entirely perfect, and you should always take an active role in your healthcare. It's not a one-sided relationship between doctor and patient, in a perfect doctor-patient relationship it's a highly organized team effort, the doctor leading & more knowledgeable and the patient is essentially student of the doctor. So I'm out of commission most of this month, I'll be doing my writing and things but you won't see me getting vac-packed or tied up much until late this month or early November.

How can you avoid Prevotella infection? Probiotics, a balanced diet, and avoiding getting serious illnesses like COVID-19 are a start. There's really not much a ton of science into how exactly to avoid it and there is no vaccine for it. It's common in people who have a viral infection to get Prevotella, especially if the viral infection is severe, like COVID-19. Here is a long but useful article on the situation of COVID-19, Strep, Prevotella, and other opportunistic infections.

Prevotella symptoms can vary from person to person, but keep an eye on your throat and mouth, it is often an easy indicator to look at your throat in a mirror with a flashlight, if you see red spots and it feels sore and you test negative for COVID then you should get to a doctor right away, don't wait for your primary care provider if they aren't high availability, get to an urgent care clinic. The sooner you can diagnose opportunistic infections and treat them the easier treatment is and the faster eradication can occur. If you're a female you might want to keep an eye on your genital tissue and watch for unusual discharge or appearance of your vagina. If you're female you have two Prevotella indicators, your vagina and mouth, if you're male you only have your mouth as a Prevotella indicator. Nobody can really use the third "indicator" which is the stomach, another place where Prevotella lives. Let me once again iterate that most species of Prevotella are commensal (nonharmful bacterium)

So now I've told you about Prevotella and Probiotics and why I'm out of commission for a while, now let me tell you that you should PreVote your ballot, and avoid Prevotella and other opportunistic pathogens in the process. Many states have mail voting so check with your local clerk of elections if you can mail vote, it's easier and it allows you more personal time to study the options on your ballot in your own home.

Stay healthy and avoid COVID, everyone! Get your bivalent vaccine as soon as you are eligible and your flu shot, you do not want to get COVID-19 and gamble with opportunistic infections. Sucks for me that they didn't get the bivalent boosters sooner.

Although the mass infection wave has subsided, people's celebrations, including President Biden's celebratory speech that the COVID pandemic is over, are premature. Per World Health Organization COVID-19 is still a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and is still classified as a legal pandemic. People ripping their masks off and staff members in pharmacies and retail stores ditching the masks are creating unnecessary risk especially as we transition into another winter, where viruses and bacteria seem to have a special opportunity to infect people. Because Flu and COVID-19 are of the coronaviridae family both of them are able to thrive in the winter months and can wreak havoc on people and public health systems. If you're a worker in a pharmacy or any public building, put your mask back on, stop celebrating and be cautious in public. The same goes if you’re a civilian, everyone should be wearing their mask in public! Although that Christmas party with your family can now be a bit larger, maskless and if you know everyone is vaccinated and took a rapid test the day before and "negged out" you need to be extremely careful in public still. Now is NOT the time to let your guard down!

Imported from: https://strappyskinks.com/2022/10/11/oct-11-2022-prevotella-probiotics-prevote-the-elections-lots-of-vote-here-p/