Later this week I’m taking Ryan out for several images. He will be able to get everything needed in just one outing and at one location. For this visit we hired a transport company (in lieu of the Chick Magnet) since so much is involved in getting him to and from the visit.
Here’s what is scheduled:
- Chest x-Ray. We just want to make sure nothing is brewing in his lungs.
- Femur x-Ray. This is a follow-up image that I will give to the orthopedic in hopes it will be enough to prevent Ryan from making an office visit.
- Forearm x-Ray. I thought we should just double-check this.
- Abdomen and Pelvic CT Scan. These will be taken to Ryan’s urologist to check his bladder, kidneys, and urinary pathways. Mainly we are seeing if there are any obstructions (e.g., kidney stones, inflammation, prostate enlargement, etc) that might be the cause of his frequent urinary tract infections.
- Dexascan. This checks bone density.
Speaking of bone density, we learned that longterm proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, like Nexium, can lead to bone loss. Even many over-the-counter types can do the same (like Prilosec OTC and Prevacid). Ryan has been on Nexium since his injury to protect his stomach from all the drugs he takes. It reduces the likelihood of aspiration. We are now beginning to work with doctors for an alternative. The apparent path will be to gradually switch him to another type of acid-reducer, called H2 blockers. Zantac is in this class. One thing that is important is Ryan must be slowly weaned from the Nexium. If you’re so inclined, you can read about the FDA warning here.
Hi Ken, I’m glad you’re getting the abdomen and pelvic CT scans, and very interested to see if those scans show anything. One thing that can always be said about you is that you look into every possibility when it comes to ensuring the best health for Ryan. The Dexascan will be very helpful too. What can be done if it shows Ryan’s bones are more brittle than they should be? I guess that’s another problem for Dr. Diviney to figure out. Seems like you do one thing to address one problem, and then something else can be negatively affected — it’s such a balancing act.
Hoping that tomorrow will be a nice enough day that maybe you and Ryan can catch some rays on the back porch.
Thinking of you both and praying you are having a good day together.
Hugs, love, and prayers
Paula
Ken, Aunt Betty also got some kind of treatment to help with bone density because the drugs she was put on for her breast cancer were none to hurt bone density. I can get info on that if your doctor looks at you blankly when you ask. (which I doubt he will).She had very little side effects from it.
Ken, Another busy week for Ryan, hoping all tests come out good. Ryan will be so thankful for all the extraordinary care you and Sue are giving him. Thinking of you all and hope the day and week go smooth Love Gail
I pray that all scans show “Status Quo”. I admire you and Sue so very much. Your diligence and attention to detail makes all the difference. You miss nothing and as a result, your Ryan is better than most persons in his position. I know it take so much work both physically and emotionally so I will pray for your continued strength and endurance.
Thank you for the information. I had no idea that the side affects of acid reducer’s could cause such side affects. Frankie has been taking one daily for the last 21months to help protect his stomach from the variety of medications he takes. I’m going to ask his doctor’s about this. See Ken, you never know who your story is reaching and/or how it’s helping, but, little guys like my Frankie are benefiting. I know that you would prefer not to be the “teacher”, that you would prefer that Ryan is completely healed… and honestly, I couldn’t agree more! I will continue to pray for that, but, in the meantime, please know how very much I THANK YOU, YOUR RYAN and YOUR FAMILY. You are helping so many, including my precious Frankie… there are no words for that. Thank you.
With love and in prayer,
Keri, My Frankie and Family
Keri,Yes Ken’s information is very helpful to many people, Drs don’t always discuss the side effects of medicines,Ken delves so deeply,thank goodness for Ryan, your Frankie and many,many more!Praying Frankie is doing well. xo Gail