My 3.5hr visit in the Emergency
I was having some lower abdominal pain since Wednesday morning, intermittently. On and off, pain was either like a dull ache, or a sudden sharp pain. I stayed home, firstly, it was due to an allergic reaction I had to a shampoo I used Monday night. Tuesday when I went to work, my face was still very red, bumpy, and itchy. I left 2 hours earlier. Then, called in sick on Wednesday, because it was still somewhat red and itchy in the morning. So, this abdominal pain, continued on yesterday when I returned to work. I measured my blood pressure a couple times before my parents dropped me off, and blood pressure was higher than normal, and pulse was 2x my normal rate. When I got to work, I went to a nurse and asked her to take my vitals, as Hospital machines are probably more accurate than what we use at home. And she says my pulse is quite high too. Says there's something definitely going on in my body. I spoke briefly with a general surgeon between his cases, and he had a felt to my tummy and says it's nothing of concern, and he doesn't think going to the Emergency is necessary. But, in between my shift from noon to 5pm, there had been too many times where I felt a sharp pain in the middle of walking.. So, I decided to check myself into Emergency and get it checked. Another nurse took me, as with the renovated ER department, I wasn't sure where I have to go to get checked in. Still in hospital scrubs, I already think I was seen quicker than others. So, in those 3.5hrs.. it was a lot of waiting. Waiting to see the doctor, and then waited for another hour or so to get my bloodwork results. The doctor says she'll send a requisition for an ultrasound for today (which I just called them a while ago, and got myself an appointment at 2:15pm, need to be an empty stomach, it was either that time, or for tomorrow). My bloodwork, shows that my white blood cells are higher than normal, which also indicates there's some sort of inflammation that my body is fighting. The ER Doctor had asked me to check back in with them to see the results of the ultrasound, so, I'm going to have to remember to ask the Medical Imaging staff how that works. Will ER call me to go back to them once results are out?
I figured I should get the ultrasound done today, in case I need surgery, I could do it right away. If I do the ultrasound on Saturday, if surgery is needed, I'll need to go to another hospital, as our hospital, the operating room is not open on weekends.
I wasn't really able to sleep last night, too worried about what's wrong with my abdomen and where the pain is coming from. But I did few the pain a few times in the night. Not as frequent this morning, but my pulse is still higher than normal. Blood pressure is kind back to normal, on the lower end. I'll probably ask the nurse to check my vitals again once I get to work.
@Jaeteuk I'm truly sorry to hear about the ordeal you're going through with your abdominal pain. It sounds like you've been dealing with a lot, especially with the added stress of not knowing what's causing the pain. It's understandable that you're feeling worried and anxious about the situation.
It's commendable that you took the initiative to seek medical attention despite the initial reassurance from the general surgeon. Your health should always be a top priority, and it's important to listen to your body and advocate for yourself when necessary.
Waiting for test results and undergoing medical procedures can be incredibly stressful, and it's completely normal to feel anxious during this time.
Please try to take care of yourself as best as you can during this waiting period. If you ever need someone to talk to or vent your feelings, I'm here to listen.
Please keep us posted on how you're doing, we're rooting for your speedy recovery. Take care 💜
I ended up staying overnight in a recliner in the ER on Friday from 7:30pm. Discharged Saturday around 1pm, only to be told I need to return to Outpatient Department daily for IV Therapy. Wednesday they will reassess my condition to see of further treatment is needed. I'm also on a strict clear fluid diet during this treatment time. At least, I don't need surgery. I was able to get 5 hours of sleep last night.
@Jaeteuk I'm sorry to hear about your experience in the ER, but I'm glad to hear that you don't need surgery and that you were able to get some sleep last night. It's good that they're taking steps to help you recover. If you need someone to talk to or support you during this time, I'm here for you. Take care <3
Thank you, Mya. The overall experiences in the ER was fine just was unfortunate that there were any stretchers to sleep on. Just a recliner chair where the back of the chair doesn't go down, but just have your feet up.
Had my first experience in Outpatients yesterday. They wrapped up by arm better after the IV drip. The frequency of my pain has lessened a lot, compared to last Wed, Thurs, and Fri. I was told yesterday, that a Dr will come see me today. So, I get to ask her/him some questions. I just hope it would be in a private room. The IV Therapy area is like a big open living room, with about 20 recliners along 3 sides of the wall, with the nursing stations in the centre. Luckily my IV drip only takes about 30 minutes, I'm the quickest to leave. Looks like other patients that are there will be hours before leaving. People were reading books, listening to something through their phones, maybe some even sleeping.. yesterday, one lady talked non-stop with the person beside her. I'll probably see the same people for the next few days. As we're booked for the same time everyday for the treatment.
@Jaeteuk I'm glad to hear that your overall experience in the ER was fine, despite the inconvenience of the recliner chair. It's positive to know that your pain frequency has lessened compared to last week. It sounds like you're making progress, and it's great that you have the opportunity to ask questions and receive further care from a doctor today. I hope your consultation goes well and that you're able to get the privacy you desire. Hang in there, and if you need anything or just want to chat, I'm here for you.
