I’m really in no mood to write this morning. I was worried, over the past couple of days, that something was bothering Ryan. I just had a gut feeling about it. It kept me awake most of the night (since one o’clock). I just watched him and could see whatever was bothering him was worsening. I couldn’t put my finger on it until this morning. I did a urine sample and he showed leukocytes (white blood cells). He has a urinary tract infection (UTI).It’s not as though this didn’t cross my mind (in fact, it’s ALWAYS on my mind). We take a urine sample every morning (around 4:30am) and it’s been just fine. His urine is still clear and odorless, even as I write this. The absence of any indicators made me discount my instincts… but not enough to completely dismiss them. I’m glad I didn’t.
For whatever reason, I took another urine sample just after getting him up just before six. It was positive (which is a bad thing). I caught another sample again at 8:30, after making sure everything was clean and I wouldn’t be picking-up contamination from another source. It was even worse.
I put a text into Dr. Rodriguez’s office and they’re calling in an antibiotic to our local pharmacy. Ryan will start on it immediately. In the meantime, I’ll catch another sample and send it over for a culture. We might as well know exactly what bacteria we’re dealing with here.
Well, back to the drawing board with how I can prevent future occurrences.
I hope things have improved as I write this. Boy, one thing after another. Thankfully you are so in tuned with Ryan and his needs that these type of things are caught quickly. Here’s hoping for a peaceful night. Still here.
Ken, so sorry to hear this news. You are awesome at being so in tune with Ryan to be able to act on his needs and to bring him the comfort he needs. That is a gift! Much love and prayers to see this one through again too.
Love, Peggie
UTI — didn’t expect to hear this. My grandmother, who had more home remedies than could be contained in an ordinary sized book, used to say that extreme weather changes can cause UTIs if the susceptibility is there already. She recommended cranberries also, but if a UTI developed, then antibiotic and Phenazopyridine (a chemical which, when excreted into the urine, has a local analgesic effect. It is often used to alleviate the pain, irritation, discomfort, or urgency caused by urinary tract infections). If Ryan seems uncomfortable, it seems to me that he is in pain. Since you didn’t mention it, I wondered if he is on Phen. also. It works very well, but results in orange/red urine. Always here. Ryan, get well fast! 🙂
Hello Ken, once again your intuition was right. Thankfully you got right on it and it’s being treated. I’m so sorry you have had to worry (once again) like this. Praying the antibiotic will work quickly and that any discomfort Ryan may be feeling will be soothed. God bless you, dear Ken, and I am hoping to read an update soon that says Ryan is on the mend.
Love & prayers, hugs and more hugs,
Paula
Sorry, but I think this is something that you will always have to deal with.
Dear Ken–Hoping a good recovery ASAP from this UTI. I think some of these are inevitable because of all the meds Ryan is on, but i don’t really know. Fortunately, you are so attuned to Ryan, you knew something was ‘up’ and needed your close scrutiny. You look especially good in your ‘doctor’ hat. You are the best. Interesting that Ryan was exhibiting a response to his discomfort. I think that is a great sign. Prayers always and love, Annie
Extra love and prayers are coming your way today <3
Ken,Thank goodness you are so aware and quick to discover what’s bothering Ryan and he can start antibiotics right away . Hope he’s feeling better real soon and that you can get some rest…Thinking of you all. love Gail
You are so intuitive to what’s going on with Ryan – the fact that you have it identified the problem and treatment is on it’s way speaks volumes to your diligence. Ryan is very lucky to have you and I’m sure he knows that. Hope he feels better soon.
Sorry, Ken.