I started to notice more edema (swelling) in my ankles, and then, it seems overnight, they became tree trunks. I had been at the doctors 12 days before, for routine stuff, so when I went as an emergency, his scale showed I had gained 18 pounds in 12 days. We assumed it was all fluid, so after ruling out renal failure with a blood test, we surmised, maybe I was only getting in 80gm instead of 100gm like I thought. Slowly, a deficiency developed, and I didn't realize it until my cells could no longer contain fluid. We started diuretics, and increased my protein intake to about 150. The blood counts showed a slightly below normal count, but the symptoms were terrible. I couldn't wear shoes, my pants didn't fit over my calves, and I couldn't bend my ankles. It took about 4 weeks, and 2 different diuretics (plus Potassium) to get back to normal.
I should have listened to those long time DS'ers who said, Drink a protein shake every day. It's the most bio-available for your body, it will boost your protein intake, and keep you on track. I'm back to doing that, and will certainly recommend it to everyone I talk to. Food is great, I love eating, and do like protein best.... but realize I still need a supplement. The other thing that's started in acid reflux when sleeping, especially if I have had a higher fat than usual meal. This is probably do to normal aging, stress, etc. I'm not sure what to do, as I don't want to add a med that will interfere with absorption, like an acid reducer. I may have to in the long run, but for now, I'm going to treat it with diet changes. No bacon at night, no spicy stuff after dinner, no greasy snacks (pepperoni) at night, etc. Things a NORMAL person would try!
I'm still dating the EHarmony guy, G. The commute each weekend is getting to me. He's wonderful, but we can't keep this up forever. His industry is only located in one section of the state, and required a daily physical presence. No telecommuting for him! I'm 21 years into a pension system, and have to stay until I'm 55 to collect. That's still several years away. Other than the distance, a few minor chinks have emerged. I'm a planner, have to be working towards something, and really am probably a little too focused on outcomes. He is NOT. Everything is last minute, winging it. It works for him, but it makes me melt down. Most importantly, I don't feel like a priority to him (in my mind). Everything comes ahead of what I would like. I realize being older, and having lived alone, I'm used to making the decisions. If I want to go somewhere, I go... If I want to leave, I leave. We'll make a plan, but there's always something, kids, parents, work, house, that interferes. I know he has a lot of responsibilities, but sheesh! I'm tired of being understanding.... Whew, then, when not gripping, I realize he is kind, sweet, smart, a hard worker, etc.... and there aren't many like him anywhere. So I hang on, and keep driving, driving, driving.
I am 6 months or so away from finishing my Doctorate. This has been the most incredible 2 years of my life... I've grown so much, and worked so hard. It will be great to finish my dissertation, and have that behind me... so blogging falls to the wayside. I still log on in the middle of the night, and play catch up, and read.... but seldom write too much. This was relaxing, so maybe... oh well... time to hit the books....
What was the busiest time in your life??? How did you handle it? Would you do it again?
MC
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