placidranger said:I’m a chronic sleeper—I can drift off anywhere, anytime. If I’m not even tired, just dimming the lights and sitting down in front of the TV is enough to knock me out in ten minutes. Reading a book or the paper works even faster. Lately, during this winter stretch, as soon as it starts getting dark, I'm yawning. But my sleep quality is terrible; I wake up constantly, and I usually beat my alarm in the morning (and yes, I'm the same person who normally complains about how much it sucks to have to get up every single day😁). Right now, I'm going through a rough patch. I'm exhausted, stressed out, and my nerves are frayed—I feel like I'm one step away from a total meltdown. For the last few days, I've been taking some herbal sleep aids, and they've finally let me sleep through the night. Sure, when I wake up, I feel like a zombie, but at least the main goal was achieved. I'm sure you can find similar herbal supplements here in the States—maybe give them a shot for a night or two. Under normal circumstances, though—like when insomnia hits for no specific reason—just having a book in bed and a glass of red wine with dinner does the trick for me.
It’s actually very common for people to stop breathing during the night without even realizing it. In an eight-hour window, it's possible to experience 250 to 500 interruptions in breathing. It's serious stuff, so getting tested is highly recommended.
Personally, I've been using a CPAP machine for the last three years.
The condition is called Sleep Apnea; I'll include a link to the Mayo Clinic.
Testicular cancer is the most common type of tumor found here. It's also worth noting that even the healthy testis on the opposite side carries an increased risk. While fixing the descent doesn't technically lower that specific risk, it does make regular self-exams much easier, which is crucial for catching anything early. In fact, having the testis properly positioned makes it easier to monitor both sides effectively. - Trauma: A misplaced testis is essentially "trapped" in an abnormal position, making it much more vulnerable to injury during everyday activities. - Complications stemming from untreated inguinal hernias. - Testicular torsion (twisting). - Psychological impact: A child might not notice much at first, but as they hit puberty and become more body-conscious, untreated cryptorchidism can take an emotional toll. After surgery, things usually look quite normal, though sometimes the undescended testis remains smaller than its counterpart. If that happens—or if a testis is missing entirely—a testicular implant can be used to ensure everything looks symmetrical.
Definition. Undescended testes, or cryptorchidism, is a fairly common condition where the testicle hasn't moved into the scrotum or can't be manually guided there. It happens on both sides in about 10-20% of cases, and in roughly 90% of instances, there's an associated indirect inguinal hernia. Since testicles can sometimes drop later in development, we usually refer to it as undescended testes if they haven't descended by the age of 12. It stands as the most frequent congenital disorder of the male genitourinary system.
Title The term cryptorchidism actually stems from two Greek roots: *crypto*, meaning hidden, and *orchis*, meaning testis. So, if you take it literally, it translates to "hidden testis." Medical term: cryptorchidism English terms: cryptorchidism, undescended testis
Standard testicular descent. During fetal development, the testes actually form in the abdominal cavity near the kidneys—much like how ovaries develop in girls. Between the seventh and ninth month of pregnancy, they normally migrate down through the inguinal canal into the scrotum. This movement is guided by a structure called the processus vaginalis, which essentially acts as a pathway; in medical terms, this is what forms an inguinal hernia. The testis slides along the back wall of this canal. Once the descent is complete, the inguinal canal—that small opening between the abdomen and the scrotum—closes up before birth, cutting off that connection. We don't fully understand all the hormonal drivers and forces behind testicular descent just yet. In some cases, the process actually continues even after a baby is born. While cryptorchidism affects about 3% of full-term infants, most of that descent happens within the first few weeks or months of life. By the time a baby reaches 6 to 9 months, the frequency drops to less than 1%. Generally speaking, most testicles have descended by 3 or 4 months, with only a small number occurring later than that.
The tapering process can be broken down into three distinct phases: The descent through the abdominal cavity from its origin down to the inguinal ring. The second stage involves creating an opening in the inguinal canal, which allows the testicle to descend from the abdominal cavity. Inguinal canal passage and scrotal descent. If any part of the process goes wrong, you might end up with one or both testicles failing to descend properly. When this happens, a testis can get stuck anywhere from the abdominal cavity down to just above the scrotum. Sometimes, the descent starts, but then takes a wrong turn, ending up in an unusual spot—what doctors call ectopic placement—though it’s usually still fairly close to the scrotum.
What causes this? Since undescended testes typically begin their descent during the seventh month of pregnancy, this issue is more common in premature babies. It’s often linked to low birth weight, hormonal imbalances—like hypogonadism or hypopituitarism—spina bifida, and other congenital malformations. In about 1% to 2% of cases, chromosomal abnormalities are present. While we can pinpoint the cause in a small number of instances, most of the time, the reason remains a mystery. Research suggests that cryptorchidism may be linked to several factors: maternal colds during the first trimester, risks of miscarriage in the first or second trimester, preeclampsia, paternal exposure to pesticides, and mothers being under the age of 24.
Classification. Cryptorchidism is categorized based on where the testicle is located. Abdominal fat—around 8-10%. Inguinal hernia (in the inguinal canal) – roughly 70-72%. High position in the scrotum (pre-scrotal) - 20% Cryptorchidism can be unilateral or bilateral. Bilateral cases account for about 10-20% of instances.
Risk factors and prevalence. Birth weights play a significant role here. We see this issue in all male newborns weighing 900 grams or less. Among babies born between 2 and 2.5 kg, the rate hits about 17%, while for those born prematurely, it’s around 3%. There's also a clear genetic component: roughly 6% of fathers whose children have cryptorchidism dealt with this same issue themselves.
Diagnosis Whether it’s parents or a pediatrician noticing an undescended testicle during a routine checkup, the discovery often comes alongside an inguinal hernia—basically a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall where tissue can slip through. To figure out exactly what's going on, doctors usually start with an ultrasound. It's cost-effective, easy to get done, and since most undescended testicles are just sitting in the groin area, they're pretty easy to spot on a scan. If we can't find it there, we might need to look deeper into the abdomen using a CT scan, an MRI, or even laparoscopy. In some cases, if a specialist feels it's necessary, they might also use venography or angiography to get a clear view of the blood vessels.
Other potential causes for an "empty scrotum" that need to be ruled out: Retractile testis - this is when the testis can be felt and moved down into the scrotum (even if it snaps back up once released, a diagnosis of undescended testis is ruled out). In my experience, these typically settle into their normal position by adolescence and stay there. Ectopic testis - the testis traveled through the inguinal canal but ended up in an unusual spot, like the perineum, thigh, or above the pubic bone. Testicular agenesis - the testis is completely missing on one or both sides. Atrophic testis - usually the result of testicular torsion. Sometimes, parts of the inguinal process or a lymph node can be felt where the testis should be, leading to a mistaken identity.
Treatment The approach for an undescended testis depends entirely on its location. Sometimes, the testes are too poorly developed to be moved. This can happen during fetal development if they twisted, cutting off blood supply and leaving behind non-functional scar tissue instead of a healthy testis. If this occurs, the testis is removed, and the scrotum may be filled with an implant. If an inguinal hernia is present, that’s also addressed during the same surgery. For testes located in the groin area, an orchidopexy is usually recommended. The name literally means "fixing the testis." It’s most commonly performed between 6 months and 2 years of age and has a success rate of about 98%.
There are several surgical techniques available, and the choice depends on where the testis is sitting and how far it is from the scrotum. The procedure is done under general anesthesia. A small incision is made in the groin to locate the testis. The surgery takes about 60 to 90 minutes, recovery is quick, and results are generally excellent. An alternative is hormone therapy using HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) or GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), which triggers the release of gonadotropins. Through a series of injections, the testis is stimulated to produce male sex hormones, which can trigger the natural mechanism to descend. For a smaller group of boys, this leads to permanent descent. Hormone therapy is sometimes suggested if the testis is close to the scrotum and there's a good chance of success. However, it's less effective than surgery; research shows about a 19% success rate. Studies also indicate there's a possibility the testis could migrate back up after hormone treatment ends.
When a testis cannot be felt in the scrotum, we call it an empty or non-palpable testis. In these cases, the testis might be in the abdomen, it might be too small, or it might simply not have developed at all. Since physical exams can struggle to determine if a testis is actually in the abdomen, a surgical assessment is often necessary. This is usually done via laparoscopy. During this procedure, a small incision is made near the navel, and a tool similar to a telescope is inserted into the abdominal cavity to directly view the internal organs. If no testis is found, the procedure is complete. If a small testis is found in the groin, a small incision is made to find it, and it usually needs to be removed. If it's found in the abdomen, it can either be moved down into the scrotum or removed. Moving high-seated testes is more complex than dealing with those in the groin, so the success rate for high-seated testes is lower. There is a technique called laparoscopic orchidopexy—originally proposed by Gerald Jordan—which has proven to be safe and effective. The testis is freed from structures preventing its descent while preserving the blood vessels and the vas deferens. Then, the testis is positioned and secured in the scrotum. The surgery carries a low risk of complications. For adults dealing with an undescended testis, the situation is a bit different. Descending the testis likely won't fix fertility issues, so the testis is usually removed. The risk for testicular cancer is highest between ages 18 and 40, with younger men being more affected.
Definition. Swelling in the scrotum can be pretty alarming for any guy. Even though it isn't always the actual testicles that are enlarging—often it’s just inflammation or fluid buildup in the surrounding area—most men experience it as testicular swelling. This issue can pop up at any age and usually comes with other symptoms like pain or general discomfort. It might happen on one side or both, and while it's mostly centered in the scrotum, the discomfort can sometimes involve the penis as well.
Potential causes. There are plenty of reasons why one or both sides of the scrotum might swell. Most of the time, it’s nothing serious and doesn't involve anything cancerous. Still, you should always get it checked out to rule out cancer, just to be safe. Testicular torsion. Injury. I haven't posted in a while. Just checking in. Heart failure. hydrocele Varicocele. Spermatoceles are essentially fluid-filled sacs that develop in the scrotum. They’re generally benign, meaning they aren't cancerous, but they can certainly cause some discomfort or a heavy sensation if they grow quite large. If you're noticing one, it's worth getting it checked out by a specialist just to be safe. Hematoma. Sebaceous and epidermal cysts. Testicular inflammation (orchitis). Epididymitis—inflammation of the epididymis. Some medical procedures. A surgical procedure in the groin area. Tumors. Generally speaking, there are quite a few different conditions that can cause fluid imbalance in the body.
Testicular torsion is a medical emergency. It happens when the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood flow to the testicle. You’ll likely experience sudden, intense pain and swelling, and the affected side will often sit much higher in the scrotum than usual. If this isn't treated surgically within a few hours, the loss of blood supply can lead to permanent damage or even the loss of the testicle itself. This requires immediate medical attention.
When you sustain an injury, blood vessels get damaged and become more permeable, which leads to fluid buildup and swelling in the scrotum. To help manage the pain and reduce the swelling initially, applying ice packs can be quite effective.
An inguinal hernia is essentially an opening between the abdominal cavity and the scrotum. It’s a risky situation because loops of intestine can slide through that gap. If they get stuck, it can cut off blood supply and lead to tissue death, which is life-threatening. You'll usually notice the bulge getting larger when you strain, cough, sneeze, stand up, or lift something heavy.
When heart failure occurs, it messes with how the body regulates fluids. Just like you might see swelling in other parts of the body, testicular swelling can happen too. In these cases, the enlargement is bilateral.
A hydrocele basically means a "water sac." It’s just a buildup of fluid around the testicle or along the vas deferens. This can happen due to a developmental issue or simply because the body is producing more fluid than it can clear out. On its own, a hydrocele isn't usually a major concern, but you really need to figure out why it's happening. You don't want to miss an underlying condition that might be causing it. Usually, you'll feel it located just above and behind the testicle.
Varicocele is essentially an enlargement of the veins that drain blood from the testicle. It shows up much more frequently on the left side, and honestly, most of the time we don't even know what causes it. Occasionally, it can be a byproduct of issues in the upper urinary tract, like a kidney tumor. If you feel it, the scrotum can feel a bit like a bag of worms. You might also deal with some sweating, skin irritation, or a rash in that area.
A spermatocele is essentially a cyst—a small bulge located near the epididymis. It happens when those tiny, closed-ended tubes expand. Most of the time, they don't cause any pain at all.
A hematocele is essentially blood collecting in the scrotum. It tends to be more painful than a hydrocele. This usually happens because of an injury, complications from surgery, or some kind of inflammation.
Sebaceous cysts and epidermal cysts can cause small bumps or more significant swelling in the scrotum. These are typically mobile and located just under the skin.
Testicular inflammation often shows up alongside epididymitis, though sometimes the inflammation stays localized to just one of those areas. It’s typically triggered by microorganisms, which increase blood vessel permeability and lead to swelling in the scrotum.
Medical procedures can sometimes lead to injury or introduce microorganisms into the bloodstream or urinary tract, which might indirectly cause testicular swelling.
Surgery in the groin area can lead to temporary swelling of the testicles. This usually happens because the tissue is healing and blood flow increases in that area.
Tumors can lead to swelling in the scrotum—this might stem from tumors in the testes themselves or surrounding connective tissue. Other issues, such as kidney tumors, can also cause testicular enlargement indirectly by triggering a varicocele. Given the risks associated with testicular cancer, any swelling should be treated as a potential tumor until proven otherwise. It’s better to be cautious so we don't miss an early diagnosis. Beyond seminomas, other less common growths that can cause swelling include leiomyomas, lymphangiomas, perineuromas, angiomyxomas, adenocarcinomas, histiocytomas, sarcomas, and hemangiomas.
Conditions that disrupt how the body regulates fluid can result in symmetrical testicular enlargement, often accompanied by swelling in other parts of the body as well.
Symptoms Most scrotal or testicular swelling is painless. Depending on what's causing it, the swelling might appear suddenly or develop gradually, sometimes accompanied by other local or general symptoms. It can affect one side or both. Hematoceles tend to be quite painful and usually show up shortly after an injury or surgery. Testicular torsion is also extremely painful. Significant swelling can cause a sense of heaviness, pulling, or general discomfort. In some cases, such as with a hydrocele, the swelling might get large enough that it becomes difficult to wear regular clothing comfortably.
Diagnosis A physical exam alone can reveal testicular enlargement. A visit to your primary care doctor, followed by a specialist in the Department of Urology, will help investigate the cause and reach a diagnosis. During the exam, the doctor checks the appearance, size, and symmetry of the scrotum, while palpation is used to assess consistency. A varicocele often feels like a "bag of worms" during a physical exam, and the swelling may decrease once the patient lies down and the veins drain. To confirm a diagnosis, doctors typically use palpation, ultrasound imaging, and transillumination. For transillumination, the exam is done in a dark room using a light source; if light passes through the scrotum, it likely indicates the presence of fluid. Spermatoceles and hydroceles usually allow light to pass through, whereas hematoceles do not because the blood is too dark. If a urologist suspects an issue with another organ system, they may consult specialists like a cardiologist or a nephrologist for more detailed testing.
The following information is vital for an accurate diagnosis: - Timing: When did the swelling start, was it sudden, and is it getting worse? - Appearance: How large is the swelling? Does the scrotum feel like it's filled with fluid or a solid mass? Can you feel tissue within the swelling (like a hernia)? - Location: Is the swelling localized to one spot or does it involve the whole scrotum? Is it present on both sides? - Risk factors: Have you had recent surgery in the groin area, a recent injury, or a urinary tract infection? Does your partner have a genital infection? Have you had any recent urological procedures or tests? Does the swelling worsen when you exert yourself, stand up, or lift heavy objects? - Relief factors: Does the swelling go down after lying in bed? - Other: Are there other symptoms like redness, pain, warmth, skin changes, excessive sweating, or swelling elsewhere in the body?
Treatment If you notice any swelling, you should see a doctor right away. In some instances, this condition can lead to long-term complications like infertility or the loss of a testicle. Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause, so getting a proper diagnosis first is essential. Once identified, we can treat the root issue. For injuries or hematoceles, pain relievers and cold compresses usually help. Inflammations are typically treated with antibiotics and rest. Following surgery or certain diagnostic procedures, swelling often subsides on its own as wounds heal. Hernias, cysts, and tumors generally require surgical intervention. For all other conditions, we treat the primary cause—for example, if congestive heart failure caused the swelling, the focus remains on managing the heart condition.
Prognosis The outcome depends on the specific cause of the swelling, but even with tumors, the prognosis is very good today. Many of these conditions eventually resolve on their own, while others may persist for a long time without causing much trouble beyond cosmetic concerns.
Right on! Honestly, what is wrong with everyone here? A little more education regarding men's health could actually go a long way. Men tend to be pretty bad at looking after themselves anyway.
As a future healthcare professional, you really should know better. This is such a typical reaction you'd see from someone living in the States. It's embarrassing. What's the issue? Statistics show that just as many women die from breast cancer as men do from prostate cancer.
Introduction Prostate cancer accounts for a significant portion of all male malignancies in the US for men over 50, and incidence rates climb with every passing decade. In fact, on average, every second man over the age of 70 will have a histological finding of prostate cancer. However, most of these men never actually develop symptoms, and fewer than 3% of patients with such findings ever die from the disease.
There are several reasons for this pattern. Primarily, we are looking at an older population that often deals with various other acute or chronic illnesses that threaten their lives. A patient's prognosis depends heavily on how far the cancer has spread; clinically, we distinguish between localized disease (confined to the prostate) and advanced disease (which has spread beyond it). The histological grade of differentiation also plays a major role. We categorize these into well, moderately, and poorly differentiated carcinomas—where well-differentiated tumors offer the best prognosis and poorly differentiated ones the worst. Consequently, if an older patient is diagnosed with a well-differentiated, clinically localized prostate cancer, the progression is usually such that they will pass away *with* the cancer, rather than *from* it. That doesn't mean we should ignore symptoms that might point toward prostate cancer or skip attempting to treat the patient. We have to keep in mind that prostate cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related death in American men. Unfortunately, nearly 50% of patients are diagnosed when the cancer is already clinically advanced.
Clinical Presentation Most patients are asymptomatic or present with symptoms similar to those caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). These include a delayed start to urination, straining, and a decrease in stream strength or caliber. As the disease progresses and ureteral obstruction sets in, these symptoms may be joined by blood in the urine (hematuria) or total urinary retention. In cases of poorly differentiated carcinoma, the first sign might actually be distant metastases. Prostate cancer most commonly spreads to the bones—such as the pelvis, ribs, or spine—which often manifests as pain or pathological fractures.
Diagnosis The primary diagnostic tool is the digital rectal exam. A prostate that feels hard, enlarged, or nodular with an irregular surface is highly suspicious of malignancy. In advanced stages, the prostate may feel fixed to surrounding tissues due to local spreading.
Ultrasound exams and intravenous urography are additional methods used to gather more data regarding the state of the prostate, its relationship to surrounding structures, and the overall condition of the urinary system.
To determine if the disease has become metastatic, we can use bone scans, alongside monitoring increases in acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase levels.
Any suspicion of prostate cancer warrants a biopsy to analyze prostate tissue. This is most frequently performed using ultrasound guidance via a transrectal approach.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is incredibly helpful in diagnostics; blood PSA levels are elevated in between 25% and 92% of prostate cancer cases, depending on the size of the tumor. However, using PSA for early detection is a bit of a double-edged sword. It comes back negative in about one-third of clinically significant tumors, yet it can also yield a false positive in roughly 60% of cases where the issue is benign hypertrophy rather than malignancy. Undoubtedly, PSA is the most sensitive marker for monitoring disease progression and therapeutic response once a diagnosis is made. A significant drop in PSA levels following surgery suggests a reduction in tumor mass or complete removal. If PSA begins to rise again after some time, it likely indicates a recurrence of the disease. PSA levels shouldn't be measured immediately after a digital rectal exam or a prostate biopsy, otherwise, you'll end up with falsely elevated results.
Conditions with similar clinical presentations Other issues to consider that can mimic prostate cancer symptoms include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate stones (prostatolithiasis), and chronic prostatitis.
Treatment options If the tumor is contained within the prostate, we usually look at surgery or radiation therapy. Surgical procedures carry a notable mortality rate (0.3 - 2%) and a high frequency of complications—ranging from impotence in 30 - 100% of cases to urinary incontinence in about 6 - 7%. Radiation therapy generally shows lower mortality (0 - 0.6%) and fewer complications. Choosing the right path depends on things like the patient's overall health and age. When the tumor has spread into surrounding tissues, radiation therapy is typically the preferred method. For advanced, metastatic disease, antiandrogens can provide palliative relief. Since prostate cancer is hormone-dependent (relying on testosterone), blocking those hormones allows us to slow the progression and offer some immediate improvement. LH-RH analogs and estrogens work similarly. While castration reduces testosterone secretion and minimizes certain drug-related risks, it’s often a difficult option for patients to accept. Even though about three-quarters of patients with advanced disease respond to hormone therapy, roughly one-third will develop resistance within a year.
Prognosis The 10-year survival rate for patients with well-differentiated, localized tumors is above 65%. That percentage drops if the tumor is poorly differentiated or if the disease has progressed. However, with proper radiation and hormone management, many patients can still see extended lives and an improved quality of life.
Ask any man what one of the first signs of breast cancer is in women, and almost everyone will say a lump.
Now, ask a man how much he actually knows about the prostate. Most men don't even know where it's located or how big it is, let alone knowing at what age you should start being careful, which tests to get, how often, or when to begin screening.
In America, a man dies from prostate cancer every three hours. With a population of around 330 million, that means 32 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every single day. Back in 2000, there were 12,000 diagnoses and 2,700 deaths attributed to it.
Prostate cancer is typically very slow-growing, usually surfacing in middle age. Most men aren't diagnosed until their late 50s or 60s, though it's most prevalent in those aged 70 or 80. Often, those older gentlemen pass away from other causes before the prostate cancer even becomes the primary issue.
Prostate cancer causes just as many deaths as breast cancer... yet, screening for prostate cancer is 60% easier than getting a mammogram! So why is it that only one in ten men actually gets tested? One hurdle is the DRE (digital rectal exam). It’s a quick, simple procedure where the doctor uses a gloved finger to feel the prostate—which is roughly the size of a walnut— to check its size, shape, and firmness.
That’s really it. In my experience, it isn't painful, just a little awkward. I've had my annual checkup since I was 48, and now I'm 62. It's just like a standard blood test, which also checks your PSA (prostate-specific antigen)—a level that rises if cancer is present.
Personally, I’d recommend every man over 45 get his blood work done and talk to his doctor about a screening. Pass the word along to your friends, too... especially if someone in your family has dealt with it.
It’s a small price to pay if it might save your life.
Hey Casey Palmer5, I really appreciate those links. I’ve actually known about this stuff for quite a while now... nerve stimulators and morphine pumps. The downside is the cost. Between the surgery and the implant itself, I’m looking at roughly $45,000. Around here, you can get these procedures done, but usually only through private hospitals... That means you're on the hook for everything—the hospital stay, the procedure, and then the stimulator or the morphine pump.
Like quietfox17 mentioned, we basically have two systems: one for the wealthy and one for everyone else.
Regardless, thanks for the advice. I’ll just have to see what next week and the future hold for me.
Casey Palmer5 said:The specialists at the local major hospital perform top-tier spinal surgeries; I think they stay very much in step with Western standards. Plus, the cost for private patients is likely lower here than abroad.
Casey Palmer5, you know my situation well. You've seen the reports, and you know I had that surgery back in 1972—which didn't work out—and that I'm dealing with Arachnoiditis. There isn't really any other way this goes. I suppose I should just be grateful I managed to push through the pain all those years, even if it means facing a future of it. I find that hard to believe. I'm heading to the Pain Clinic next week, but I doubt they'll be able to do much.
And you know I'm dealing with Asbestosis, too. What else is there to say?
My Father died of this horrid Disease on September 25, 1998. I spent over 25 years watching him fight it. This doesn't just hit the patient; it hits the whole family. You sit there watching your dad struggle just to walk across a room or try to take a breath without being hooked up to tubes. He couldn't even step outside for a quick trip to the store or make it to a family dinner. These people live every day knowing they are essentially a walking time bomb with a very limited clock.
Victoria L. Bell daughter of Everett E. Johnson, senior
My Father died of this horrid Disease on September 25, 1998. I watched him suffer through it for more than 25 years. It isn't just the patient who suffers; the entire family feels it too. You watch your father struggle to move across a room, fight to breathe without oxygen tubes, and lose the ability to simply go to the grocery store or attend a family get-together. These people have to live with the constant weight of knowing they are a ticking time bomb, and that their time is running out. Viktoria L. Bell daughter of Everett E. Johnson, senior
Vilkov comment: Believe me, unless you're dealing with asbestosis yourself, you can't truly understand. It starts small, and then you're left wondering what's coming next, how it will hit, and when it's all going to end.
Well, let me add my two cents here—not from a scientific perspective, just my own experience.
First off, I’ve always eaten for two and worked for three... okay, let's say I eat for two. I have a massive sweet tooth. Up until I was 28, I had about 12 teeth pulled because I couldn't stop eating sugar. Since we moved to Australia, I've managed to save all my teeth and just patch them up with amalgam fillings. It’s working out okay, considering my schedule is a total mess. I eat constantly, day and night, mostly because my sleep is erratic. Sometimes I don't sleep for 20 hours, then I crash for 12. Who knows what's next. I use a Waterpik to rinse my mouth thoroughly once or twice a day, and I always use an electric toothbrush.
My cholesterol sits around 4.5, maybe hitting 5 at most. They flagged early signs of diabetes a year ago, but I take two pills a day and it stays under control.
How am I still standing after taking nearly 40 pills? How is that even possible?
Has anyone else here tried this? Is it really this tough? Honestly, I'm glad I found a rhythm that works for me. Doctors always look at me sideways, wondering how I manage when other people struggle with just two or three medications.
Rule number one: I never, ever take pills on an empty stomach.
If it isn't mealtime, I have a few go-to snacks. They aren't exactly "health food," but they've kept me going for 30 years.
When my stomach acts up and I feel dizzy, I have to take two pills, and usually, I pair them with something like: 1. Dried cheese—various kinds. My wife buys the low-fat versions.
2. Just some sweet biscuits... maybe up to 300 grams. 3. Jerky, but strictly lean.
That's my survival kit. Have you ever heard of someone taking anti-inflammatories continuously for 32 years?
Most people try it, stop after a couple of days because it wreaks havoc on their stomach (which happens to me too), but if I don't take them, I can't even move.
I'm a stubborn guy. If I set my mind to something, I'll see it through even if it kills me. I'm not like what some might call the "lazy" approach where you just pop pills and do nothing for your health.
I haven't been able to bend over for 32 years. I've done all my work in the attic on my knees or lying down. For the last five years, even walking has been a struggle; I was barely getting by using a cane until about six months ago.
We live in a senior living community. We have our own unit, and while I pay for repairs, I usually end up doing the work myself anyway.
Food is the only thing keeping me upright. Luckily, we have access to fresh fruit and vegetables year-round. I love apples and pears; I'll eat 6 to 10 a day.
dustycanyon6 is probably going to lose it reading this, thinking I'm doing everything wrong. But for me, food is the fuel that lets me handle all these meds and stay strong enough to stay away from anything harder.
I get endoscopies and colonoscopies every year, and everything looks mostly fine. My stomach hurts, sure, but that's just life. The gastroenterologist is baffled that I haven't developed a stomach ulcer from all the anti-inflammatories, though he does help me manage things with six daily pills for my stomach. In Colorado, I rely on Mebeverine hydrochloride 135 mg; I wouldn't make it without it.
It's funny—food can kill us, but so can medicine.
P.S. Just to add, for 50 years, I've cooked everything in oil. When my wife buys meat, she trims off all the fat. We have fish at least once a week, sometimes canned tuna. I'd say we eat pretty well while watching the fat, even if we aren't strictly dieting.
For instance, my wife has a very sensitive stomach and can't touch certain foods, whereas I have to eat plenty just to function.
People will talk, and then hundreds of others will talk about them.
Friday, August 29th, 2003, is finally here. It’s been a week I won't soon forget. On Tuesday, I saw my psychiatrist, and Wednesday was an appointment with a dermatologist... had to have a little skin carcinoma removed. Thursday marked my first time ever seeing a Urologist, and I'm actually feeling pretty good about it. My prostate numbers have hovered around PSA 1 for years, but I'm dealing with chronic epididymitis in both testicles... plus my testosterone levels are incredibly low. The current medications aren't doing anything for my impotence, either... so I need to follow up with biopsies and another blood test for testosterone. Hopefully, that will make getting hormone replacement therapy a bit more affordable later on.
Most importantly, I sought out a surgical opinion from the legendary Professor Fraser. I already knew he was world-renowned and one of the best out there, but a friend sent me a link to look him up online... the man has made massive contributions to spinal research. He's internationally famous and even received an award from Ford two years ago for his research and advancements in spinal surgery.
As far as my own case goes, he’s been one of four leading specialists I've consulted over the last year. All four of them are in total agreement... they say I'm stubborn, and while I move slowly and with difficulty, I'm doing everything possible for my health. None of them recommend surgery. It's ultimately my call, but the chances are slim, and if I go elsewhere, they might not be able to help me unless it's specifically to help me walk a little easier—but that's a gamble. I could end up worse off, perhaps even in a wheelchair.
The only scenario where I'd jump straight into surgery, regardless of the odds, is if I lose significant leg function, run into bathroom issues, or struggle with urinary retention. In those cases, I'll take the risk.
Right now, any movement or walking feels like absolute hell; I get this burning sensation in both legs immediately. Still, I can manage a little walking, which is vital for my other organs. The pain is constant. Standing or walking is the worst part; sitting helps for a bit, but I constantly have to shift positions.
At night, I'm either waking up or just lying there unable to sleep for three or four hours because my legs feel wooden and are burning. This is what my life looks like now. I could just live with the pain as I get older, but right now, I'm heading to a specialized Pain Clinic on September 9th after a long wait. Honestly, though, I've already tried almost every medication available, so I'm not expecting much of a change.
To be honest, I was about 30% hopeful that Professor Fraser might suggest surgery... but I think I'll listen to the experts. When almost every specialist tells you they wouldn't opt for surgery if they were in your shoes, it's probably best to listen.
Casey Palmer5 said:If sugar is an anti-nutrient, why do hospitals keep people on glucose drips after surgery or when they're unconscious?
Glucose is essentially the primary form of sugar circulating in our system. Other types of sugar found in food are simply digested and converted into glucose. The body uses glucose to provide us with immediate energy.
Glycogen is the carbohydrate stored in the liver; it's built from glucose to act as a backup energy supply, which then converts back into glucose whenever we need it.
shadowgardener12 said:As for the nonsense about milk being "dangerous,"😁 it isn't. If someone truly lacks enough lactase to digest it (I've seen cases), there are plenty of ways to consume dairy—cooked, semi-cooked, yogurt, kefir, acidophilus yogurt, cheese, mozzarella... all of these are easier to digest. At least one of them will likely work even for someone who usually can't handle milk at all.
Missing out on dairy entirely is actually much more dangerous because it leads to calcium deficiencies.
I haven't spent much time writing about "food dangers" until now. Based on my wife's experience over the last 40 years, she deals with many digestive issues and vitamin deficiencies despite eating well; her system just doesn't absorb what's in her stomach. As I mentioned recently, she’ll be on B12 injections for the rest of her life. She eats foods containing B12, but her body just won't process them. Luckily, it's manageable. She's been fighting this for years and is incredibly careful about avoiding processed foods, but some people are just built that way, no matter how cautious they are.
The poor thing just laughs and calls herself a "REJECT"... it's a little joke, but there's some truth to it when everything seems to hit a snag.
Reading the post about milk, acidophilus yogurt is highly recommended... especially when we're sick or taking antibiotics. Plus, calcium is vital for everyone to prevent osteoporosis. My wife had a hysterectomy at age 40 and uses hormone replacement therapy via a patch and takes 1,200 mg of calcium daily by prescription.
She struggles quite a bit with her lipids, but she walks for 30-40 minutes every day at a brisk pace, and she's 66. Her doctor's motto for her is "use it or lose it."
I've dealt with muscle cramps across my entire body since I was young. For the last 33 years, I've relied on a prescription for (Quinbisul). It’s originally intended for malaria, but honestly, it's the gold standard for spasms and cramping. You might see it under different names like Biquinate, Myoquin, Quinate, Quinoctal, or Qui nsul.
I gave natural products a shot, but they just didn't do the trick for me.
***The only catch is that it isn't recommended during pregnancy.
Jamie Clark74 said:Thanks for understanding, it really means a lot.
Anyway, I decided to try being a bit clever—acting like a smart assistant.
I introduced myself with a heavy foreign accent, asked for an appointment, and told them I’d pay for everything, including the surgery, in cash!
"No problem, sir. We'll see you on August 22nd at 4:30 PM."
It hasn't even been four months since they last told me. I'm not expecting miracles, but I have to give this every possible chance.
Once this is all over, I'll submit a report to let you guys know how it went.
Best,
🙂 😉 😎
Just my luck... late tonight, around 9:00 PM on August 20th, the doctor tells me he has to head to London for a funeral... they said they'd likely be able to see me in about a week.
I'm so tense just waiting to hear what they think. My legs are getting weaker, and I'm starting to worry it's permanent damage from Arachnoiditis. I'm terrified I might end up partially paralyzed in my legs. Even my GP thinks that's a possibility...