TESTING TIME

The appointments dropped on the doormat thick & fast,I can't remember the order,there were the usual suspects,this time they included...

Ultrasound Abdomen scan
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?PG=abdominct
As used on pregnant women.There is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test.

CT (CAT Scan )( Computed Tomography )
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003789.htm
Layed flat the scanner moves along the body encircling it,so your head & feet are not enclosed.

ECG ( Electro Cardio Gram )
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/examinations/ecg.htm,
which checks the electric activity in your heart.Quick & very simple.

There was an Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (camera down the gullet ) http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/upper-gastrointestinal-endoscopy  May I recommend the use of Diazipam as administered by the clinic & a companion to help you home.I opted for the spray in the back of the throat,as I was alone & was driving.This made it uncomfortable,but we managed it.The reason for this test is to inspect the Oesophagus for an varicose veins,which could lead to bleeding & with clotting of the blood being affected by TX drugs,could be a reason to delay.
My dear friend,to whom I pay tribute in this blog,had this issue, they placed stents,to reinforce the effected veins & he did his treatment (TX),not only once but two rounds of TX.So don't worry too much,if you can manage.There are always options for you,right up to transplant & beyond.

MRI Scan ( Magnetic Resonance Imaging ) Into the tunnel,but deeper
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_resonance_imaging
The MRI will be used to clarify any irregular signs picked up in the Abdominal scan.
The only obvious worry is if one is claustrophobic,but there again a dose of diazipam will make for a smoother ride.Needs must & all that.

Always remember to read & follow any eating & drinking requests set out in your appointment info,as this is essential for the clearest results on the day.When in doubt,ring up the clinic your due at & ask them what the procedure pre test is.
Their number will be on the appointment letter,in case you need to cancel.

Always cancel in good time & reschedule.Your diary for your pills & jabs will come in handy for keeping track of these appointments...REMEMBER,missing these,without a very good reason,not only deprives another person of this wasted hour of valuable NHS resources.This will reflect alongside other failures in your conduct during TX & be taken into account,if you should find yourself wanting another shot at TX.

What goes around comes around...

I did all my tests,over the following months.Then,after the question of an apparent hemangioma on my liver had been settled,(it wasn't growing), http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemangioma

I was given the green light for treatment.