Two days ago I wrote about a snake – the kind that goes down your throat to your stomach. My body shakes in anticipation.
Months ago, the snake showed that there was a small ring of flesh in my esophagus. It was causing irritation but the doctor thought a medication called Pantoprazole would fix me up.
Yesterday my family doctor recommended a second visit by the snake. “Irritation” is now far too small a word. Based on my symptoms, he thinks the ring has grown.
My doctor gave me the phone number of the gastroenterologist I saw last time so I could make an appointment. So I phoned – a consultation six weeks from now!
Oh well … the rich textures of a life lived.
In the spirit of a silver lining, Dr. Lagae had some good things to say:
1. He expects that the stomach doctor would offer me the option of full anesthesia, sparing me the terror of last time. Yes, please … especially since the next insertion is likely to be longer. Not only looking around but also widening the esophagus so the good stuff can flow freely. I vote for being knocked out!
2. Essentially doc said “Do what I tell you to do.” Drink at least two litres of water a day and eat very slowly – much chewing.
About the first, I bet that throughout my adult life I’ve averaged about half a litre of water a day. Drinking a lot more has always been in the realm of “a good idea” … and never acted on. “Okay, Bruce. Now we’re in the realm of ‘essential’. Get over it and put your lips to the water bottle!”
About the second, prolonged chewing has never lived in my universe. Even though I’ve perceived myself as a slow eater, maybe that’s not true.
In general, I think Belgian folks eat quickly. I see a funny moment in my future – actually Christmas Day dinner with my dear Maarkedal friends. I’ll be chewing on my appetizer for the rest of time and they’ll be digging into dessert. And so what? Let’s laugh about it. What we’ll most enjoy is each other’s company.
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So the body keeps playing tricks on me
“Gotcha, Bruce!”
I bet yours does the same
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