In this video I'm telling you all about the weird & stressful GI testing I had over a course of 3 days at Mayo Clinic. Yuck!! But I learned a lot of valuable information, confirm a few new diagnoses (yes, plural), and tell you what happens next and what my results were!! Most of these tests are ones I couldn't find many first hand accounts about online, so I'm hoping this video helps others who suffer from multi system chronic illnesses, disabilities, or severe GI issues. Thank you so much for watching, I appreciate you!! ==== My curated playlist of my story and chronic illness / health journey th-cam.com/play/PLoZ0vzM0yMpl_X0ldrVlY7RdYUeb7h8s5.html&si=ChyOpVZzT0aoWC5s
Wow, Heather!! I can't imagine what it was like being awake for that test going down your nose and having to drink during it. I hate MRIs. Having to not move for 30 to 45 minutes is rough. And those loud noises are not fun. It's amazing how advanced modern medical advances are. It's good you're getting a couple of answers about things, and hopefully, you get all answers soon and how they can make you all better. My 86 year old friend had to have colon surgery last week. She hadn't been able to poop for several days. While doing the surgery, they saw her colon had twisted. What was supposed to not be a too complicated surgery ended up taking 3 hours to complete and he had to remove part of her colon which means she now has to wear a bag. Needless to say, she's having a rough time with her recovery. She needs lots of prayers. Hope you have a great week.
You have been through the ringer. A step at a time. Hopefully this will help you get back to your normal may be a new kind of normal. Take care Heather. Sending hugs and good vibes.
I'm trying to focus on the progress I have made so I don't get as frustrated. Less migraines, better TSH levels, and hopefully soon my GI issues will be better, so at least those won't be compounding my other issues anymore and maybe my body will better be able to heal itself! 🤞🤞
Wow! That was huge! I especially felt complete empathy for you with the tests. For me the hardest would have been the ones swallowing the water, as I gag on water. And you still have more to do, but at least you are headed in the direction of real answers and healing. You go, girl!! I look forward to hearing about your upcoming bootcamp. 😊
That was definitely my least favorite one....by far!! Lol! And now I get to do it up the other end - lucky me lol! The Dr said that one isn't as bad as the throat though b/c you don't have that choking sensation the whole time. I'm hoping for similar (or better) results from ENT and that the updated treatment plan will do the trick for my throat as well! And btwn having a plan for that, my migraines improving, my TSH in better check, and with this program... I'm really optimistic I should be able to get at least some semblance of my life back and be able to enjoy nature again! 🤞🤞🤞🤞 (I do hope they can confirm the AI/connective tissue issue soon, before it can hurt my heart or organs anymore though!!)
@ Totally agree. You have kept at it and are finding things out. I know it’s been a struggle, but you have persevered. You have to breathe a sigh of relief for how far you have come!
I have acid reflux because of a hiatal hernia...I also have a half-paralyzed stomach because of a virus. So there is certain foods that I cannot eat or drink. I take a med for the gastroparesis. I eat small meals.
You look healthier. I noticed it as soon as I started the video. Makes sense as you are not experiencing those migraines. Just be forewarned with the nitro, it gave me a massive headache the one time I needed it. SO glad you are getting answers!
Well, you have been put through the wringer!!! I'm glad things are getting done and you are getting some answers and some treatments. I know there is still much to do. I am very excited for you to be doing this 3 week program for chronic illness/chronic pain! I am praying it is very helpful for you. And, just so you don't feel totally alone...I, too, had to have Anal Manometry done over a decade ago. One of my many issues is something called pelvic floor dysfunction which is when the muscles of the pelvic floor do not work properly and cause various problems including severe chronic pain.I remember the test being uncomfortable, but not painful. FYI... It does involve a balloon being inserted and inflated . So, if they didn't explain that, I would suggest looking up the procedure so that you aren't blindsided. Continue to do the best you can with all this, and please give yourself the same Grace you would give to others going through all that you are going through. ❤️🙏😊
Thank you for the heads up about the balloon, I was not aware of that part & appreciate not being surprised! And yes, I am sooooo excited for this program. I'm halfway through my first official day of the program (not counting orientation yesterday) and it is HARD so far, but it's unbelievable how hopeful I feel just from what I've seen so far. It's quite emotional tbh!!
Hi Heather good to see you are finally getting answers, wishing you good luck with the program & and all the further tests you need to do. Take care 🙋♀️🇦🇺
wow what a shit show you're going through! One of my favorite things about you is your sense of humor and that you can laugh and make comments and I get every single one and laugh! You're looking radiant in spite of not feeling well. I cant wait to see you feeling better soon! 😊
I’m so so glad your at a good facility getting top notch health service. Sounds like your gonna be getting definite answers. Hang in there pretty lady. There are many adventures in your future. ❤
Being I have a trach I've had to have that done it is really a strange feeling it chokes you up and leaves you with a sore throat it's like a covid test x 100
Yes! So important to get those levels checked! Vitamin D normal range is 30-100. Mine was 28. I started taking 10,000 IU vitamin D each day. Now my level is 40. I've upped to 20,000 IU each day. (My doc said when people have low vitamin D they recommend 50,000IU a day!) Docs have also told me most people are low on vitamin D so adding a 10,000 IU pill each day can only help most people.
Yes, they thankfully have been good about regularly checking to make sure none of my levels dip or elevate too much. They do have me on a prescription vitamin D supplement, but thankfully my D levels have been good with that. My magnesium and other electrolyte levels are all good. Ironically I've been drinking LMNT electrolytes daily b/c water doesn't seem to be cutting it alone lately, so I was worried about my sodium levels, but those are right on target too still, so I guess my body knew it needed the boost without needing the labs to tell it first LOL!!
@jodybogdanovich4333 they're OK with me still drinking it, especially now that I've been sweating a lot more as well. (But I normally dilute it in 32 Oz of water instead of 16 so it doesn't taste too salty for me!) I think since I'm prone to dehydrating easily and am drinking more than the daily recommended average water intake already
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures Okay. Was thinking you were some kind of rebel, breaking rules in there. 😉 It's so cool you get to hit your reset button in this program!
First, let me say that you look so pretty and rested in this video. Secondly, I am happy that you are getting answers. It’s so hard to cope with life when your body is trying to destroy itself. You are far too young to have to deal with everything that you have dealt with so far. I hope that you get on the right path and find your way back to your normal life. I’m glad that you are giving us updates because I am rooting for you to come through this ordeal very soon and get back to some good times. 💙🩵💚
![IMPOSSIBLE! [or NOT?] - Learn English Conversation in 4 Hours](/img/n.gif)
In this video I'm telling you all about the weird & stressful GI testing I had over a course of 3 days at Mayo Clinic. Yuck!! But I learned a lot of valuable information, confirm a few new diagnoses (yes, plural), and tell you what happens next and what my results were!!
Most of these tests are ones I couldn't find many first hand accounts about online, so I'm hoping this video helps others who suffer from multi system chronic illnesses, disabilities, or severe GI issues. Thank you so much for watching, I appreciate you!!
====
My curated playlist of my story and chronic illness / health journey
th-cam.com/play/PLoZ0vzM0yMpl_X0ldrVlY7RdYUeb7h8s5.html&si=ChyOpVZzT0aoWC5s
Wow, Heather!! I can't imagine what it was like being awake for that test going down your nose and having to drink during it. I hate MRIs. Having to not move for 30 to 45 minutes is rough. And those loud noises are not fun. It's amazing how advanced modern medical advances are. It's good you're getting a couple of answers about things, and hopefully, you get all answers soon and how they can make you all better. My 86 year old friend had to have colon surgery last week. She hadn't been able to poop for several days. While doing the surgery, they saw her colon had twisted. What was supposed to not be a too complicated surgery ended up taking 3 hours to complete and he had to remove part of her colon which means she now has to wear a bag. Needless to say, she's having a rough time with her recovery. She needs lots of prayers. Hope you have a great week.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures - I am so impressed by Mayo’s thorough process! Best of luck in your intensive clinic ☘️ To your health 💝
Oh my goodness, you're poor friend! I hope she's doing better soon!! And thank you so much!
You have been through the ringer. A step at a time. Hopefully this will help you get back to your normal may be a new kind of normal. Take care Heather. Sending hugs and good vibes.
I'm trying to focus on the progress I have made so I don't get as frustrated. Less migraines, better TSH levels, and hopefully soon my GI issues will be better, so at least those won't be compounding my other issues anymore and maybe my body will better be able to heal itself! 🤞🤞
Wow! That was huge! I especially felt complete empathy for you with the tests. For me the hardest would have been the ones swallowing the water, as I gag on water. And you still have more to do, but at least you are headed in the direction of real answers and healing. You go, girl!! I look forward to hearing about your upcoming bootcamp. 😊
That was definitely my least favorite one....by far!! Lol! And now I get to do it up the other end - lucky me lol! The Dr said that one isn't as bad as the throat though b/c you don't have that choking sensation the whole time. I'm hoping for similar (or better) results from ENT and that the updated treatment plan will do the trick for my throat as well! And btwn having a plan for that, my migraines improving, my TSH in better check, and with this program... I'm really optimistic I should be able to get at least some semblance of my life back and be able to enjoy nature again! 🤞🤞🤞🤞
(I do hope they can confirm the AI/connective tissue issue soon, before it can hurt my heart or organs anymore though!!)
@ Totally agree. You have kept at it and are finding things out. I know it’s been a struggle, but you have persevered. You have to breathe a sigh of relief for how far you have come!
Heather, Doing alot more than wishing you luck, I am prayng for you 🙏! All sounds good and finally with the specialists that can help you.
Thanks so much Julie!!
Omg wish I could get that 3 week program. Anyhow prayers continue wishing you the best
I'm really hoping it helps. It seems like a very successful program! I will definitely pass along any of the useful/cool things I learn! Thank you!!
I have acid reflux because of a hiatal hernia...I also have a half-paralyzed stomach because of a virus. So there is certain foods that I cannot eat or drink. I take a med for the gastroparesis. I eat small meals.
Same. COVID gave me a paralyzed digestive track.
It is crazy how many people I am hearing similar stories from, I'm so sorry you are dealing with that. Smaller meals definitely helps!
You look healthier. I noticed it as soon as I started the video. Makes sense as you are not experiencing those migraines. Just be forewarned with the nitro, it gave me a massive headache the one time I needed it. SO glad you are getting answers!
Thank you and thanks for the heads up on the nitro! It really is a relief not having to worry about such regular migraines!!
I had to pop nitro a few years ago and HATED the headache with it. That's when I discovered OTC naproxen! It was the only thing that helped.
Wow Heather, you are a health warrior goddess!
I feel like a tired health Warrior that's already been through battle lol!! 💕💕
Well, you have been put through the wringer!!! I'm glad things are getting done and you are getting some answers and some treatments. I know there is still much to do. I am very excited for you to be doing this 3 week program for chronic illness/chronic pain! I am praying it is very helpful for you.
And, just so you don't feel totally alone...I, too, had to have Anal Manometry done over a decade ago. One of my many issues is something called pelvic floor dysfunction which is when the muscles of the pelvic floor do not work properly and cause various problems including severe chronic pain.I remember the test being uncomfortable, but not painful. FYI... It does involve a balloon being inserted and inflated . So, if they didn't explain that, I would suggest looking up the procedure so that you aren't blindsided.
Continue to do the best you can with all this, and please give yourself the same Grace you would give to others going through all that you are going through. ❤️🙏😊
Thank you for the heads up about the balloon, I was not aware of that part & appreciate not being surprised!
And yes, I am sooooo excited for this program. I'm halfway through my first official day of the program (not counting orientation yesterday) and it is HARD so far, but it's unbelievable how hopeful I feel just from what I've seen so far. It's quite emotional tbh!!
I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you!
Hi Heather good to see you are finally getting answers, wishing you good luck with the program & and all the further tests you need to do.
Take care
🙋♀️🇦🇺
Thank you so much!
wow what a shit show you're going through! One of my favorite things about you is your sense of humor and that you can laugh and make comments and I get every single one and laugh! You're looking radiant in spite of not feeling well. I cant wait to see you feeling better soon! 😊
Thank you, I so appreciate that!!
I’m so so glad your at a good facility getting top notch health service. Sounds like your gonna be getting definite answers. Hang in there pretty lady. There are many adventures in your future. ❤
Thank you so much!
Being I have a trach I've had to have that done it is really a strange feeling it chokes you up and leaves you with a sore throat it's like a covid test x 100
Yes, so true!!!
Prayers for you always. I use crystallize ginger, I chew a little and let it sit on the side of mouth and let it work. Best of luck!
Thank you, and for the tip!
All this is not fun, but i'm glad you're not giving up and finding the best care for you!! 💐 Greetings 👋
I appreciate you!! 💚
Have you tried upping your vitamin d and magnesium???
Yes! So important to get those levels checked! Vitamin D normal range is 30-100. Mine was 28. I started taking 10,000 IU vitamin D each day. Now my level is 40. I've upped to 20,000 IU each day. (My doc said when people have low vitamin D they recommend 50,000IU a day!) Docs have also told me most people are low on vitamin D so adding a 10,000 IU pill each day can only help most people.
Yes, they thankfully have been good about regularly checking to make sure none of my levels dip or elevate too much. They do have me on a prescription vitamin D supplement, but thankfully my D levels have been good with that. My magnesium and other electrolyte levels are all good. Ironically I've been drinking LMNT electrolytes daily b/c water doesn't seem to be cutting it alone lately, so I was worried about my sodium levels, but those are right on target too still, so I guess my body knew it needed the boost without needing the labs to tell it first LOL!!
@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANturesDo they let you drink that at Mayo or are you sneaking it in?
@jodybogdanovich4333 they're OK with me still drinking it, especially now that I've been sweating a lot more as well. (But I normally dilute it in 32 Oz of water instead of 16 so it doesn't taste too salty for me!) I think since I'm prone to dehydrating easily and am drinking more than the daily recommended average water intake already
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures Okay. Was thinking you were some kind of rebel, breaking rules in there. 😉 It's so cool you get to hit your reset button in this program!
💜💐
💚
First, let me say that you look so pretty and rested in this video. Secondly, I am happy that you are getting answers. It’s so hard to cope with life when your body is trying to destroy itself. You are far too young to have to deal with everything that you have dealt with so far. I hope that you get on the right path and find your way back to your normal life. I’m glad that you are giving us updates because I am rooting for you to come through this ordeal very soon and get back to some good times. 💙🩵💚
Thank you so much, you are always so encouraging!