Doing something stupid

[Cosmojo]

I've been posting a lot on here in the past few days, I've fallen into this massive flare up and can hardly eat, super weak, fevers, the whole deal. The really bad things is tomorrow afternoon I fly to LA because I have a week long consultant work at JPL (jet propulsion lab) to do. Basically one of the most important things I've done so far as a graduate student and I can hardly work. My team is scheduled to work 14 hour days all of next week and I know I don't have the energy for this-oh yea I'm the project lead so its not like I can go sit and hide in the back somewhere the whole time.

I'm being stupid and going, even though I shouldn't go I've been working for this for months! I'm only not going to the ER right now because I'm afraid they will admit me and then I can't go and all this work and this entire opportunity is wasted. I'm concerned that I have major small bowel narrowing that might get to be an emergency situation.

I just need to make in through 1 week but it feel like eternity and I'm afraid I'm taking too many risks and I'll end up ignoring my body when I really do need help.

 

[Daisy123]

In case it is a stricture, be careful of what you eat. I would recommend low residue diet or replacement drinks until you get back. Paracetamol 2 4 x daily to try and keep the fever under control. Why did you stop the Imuran?

 

[Cosmojo]

My doctor stopped it because Imuran long term puts you at really high risk certain cancers, especially when used in combo with something like Remicade, and that wasn't a risk my doctors were willing to take.

I'm doing low residue diet now, unfortunately even drinking hurts

 

[Daisy123]

It is a difficult one. I think you ought to go to the ER. I also work in HE so do understand that it isn't like a normal job, but your health has to come first. You need a scan to show what is happening.

 

[Cross-stitch gal]

My husband says he's extremely jealous!!! He's an airplane mechanic for an airline around here and would love to go there with you. On a more serious note. I hope you'll at least get yourself checked out. Make sure to let them know about the necessity of this trip and see if there's anything that they can do to make you more comfortable till you return home. Please keep us updated on how you're doing. Sending lots of hugs your way.

 

[scoutfinch]

As someone who has put work ahead of health a number of times, I can tell you that it's not always worth it. Sometimes it is - and maybe for you this project is one of those times - but it usually isn't, in retrospect.

If you do decide to try to power through, my advice would be to:
1- Set a pain cut-off threshold. Don't wait until you are thisclose to calling an ambulance to call in sick and rest.
2- Look up which local hospital in LA is best for gastro surgery, just in case you end up needing to go to the ER.

Good luck. Regardless of whether or not you go on this trip, I hope you receive treatment and start to feel better soon.

 

[Cosmojo]

I've been resting all day today and feel a bit better, so I'm gonna hold off going in, I'm just gonna try and do liquids all of next week and I have a rental car so if I need to go the pharmacy or a walk in clinic its no problem.

I'm taking part in their Team X planetary science summer school, and I let them know I have a medical issue so hopefully if I'm moving slow or I need to be sitting its not a big deal. Luckily I don't have a physical job.
Thanks for the support ya'll I'll give you an update next week.

 

[Cross-stitch gal]

scoutfinch, I was just about to mention the same thing about hospitals in the area cosmojo would be. I too seem to be preaching to the choir about taking care of yourself. Especially when I too have worked when I shouldn't have and have been sent home once because of being in so much pain.

cosmojo, we know you're an adult and we trust your judgement. Just know that we're worried about you no matter what you decide. Take care of yourself. :hug:

 

[If*]

Hope you feel better.
In case liquid drinks are hard to carry around there is powder form boost you can mix with fluids. The concierge or room service can always bring fluids but not always liquid meal replacements. Stay hydrated. Watch for fever, chills, vomiting (as you know)
Call an ambulance if you need one or a Dr. don't let things get out of control.

I will be hoping the very best for you!! Have a safe and productive trip.:hug:

 

[Cosmojo]

I just wanted to let you all know that my work thing just wrapped up and I am flying home tomorrow. My work was a great success and I managed to do a great job despite feeling terrible! I didn't eat very much and hit up the bathrooms over a dozen times a day but I did it

 

[poopaholic]

That is awesome, never let this damn disease win . I know how hard it can be , but I also know that willpower goes a long way .

 

[Cross-stitch gal]

Glad to hear that you made it and that you're coming home. Sorry to hear about the struggling. But, hopefully you can get the help you need soon. Please keep us updated on how you're doing. Xxxx