The discharge letter from the hospital shows the following liver values in Greg's blood. If you are an expert, you will know what these mean. If, like me, you have absolutely no idea what they stand for, at least you can see that Greg's values are way over what should be normal.
Normal range (Greg's)
ALT 8 - 20 (103)
ALP 20 - 70 (113)
Bilirubin 0.1 - 1.0 (11)
GGT 0 - 65 (1500)
AST 8 - 20 (262)
It doesn't take an expert to see that Greg's liver is decidedly unhappy, to put it politely.
The bad news is that he is still creeping around in control of a zimmer frame at a pace slower than a tortoise, he is sleeping a good deal of the time and back to smoking ten cigarettes a day (it would be more but I am rationing them! Remember, it's the smoking that is causing the poor circulation in his legs.) The good news is that his appetite is returning and he is eating healthily. And so far not a drop of alcohol has touched his lips since he went into hospital ten days ago, but then he has not been able to drive out himself to get any. He was of course weaned off it in hospital, so is no longer alcohol-dependent. It is just a question of whether when he is able to drive again, he will find himself in a shop that sells it! Watch this space!
Because of a computer breakdown and a need to tidy the house, I was out of action for the last few days, so have been unable to do some of the things I was planning to do, which include visiting my GP for advice, talking to THAT social worker and getting advice from my nearest Citizen's Advice Bureau. All grist to my mill for making some decisions.
12 comments:
Have been wondering and waiting. I can't imagine how you feel when you wake each morning and wonder what your day is going to hold for you.
Thinking of you.
I agree with Aims. Maybe he'll decide the alcohol isn't worth the trouble. I know, probably just wishful thinking. But I really hope he does.
You have a lot on your plate at the moment. Hope without the alcohol that Greg is a little more human to live with. Make sure you take some time out for yourself just to relax and not think - the decisions will come to you. Take care. Dx
This seems like the ideal opportunity to give him an ultimatum. I know that sounds harsh, but I hate to think of you giving up your life for someone who doesn't want to live.
I'm sending you all my best wishes. and a big hug. x
I'm no expert but those fugures don't look good. It's positive to hear he has been without alcohol for so long, but as you say, who knows what will happen when he can drive again. I was hoping the title 'Sky Hugh' meant that you were feeling really happy, but clearly things are not good at all. Continuing to think of you x
You are in my thoughts. Sending you all of my love. Hang in there.
I'm not a nurse but those figures look dangerous. He looks like he's heading for liver, if not multiple organ failure. Try and make those meetings, you do need to talk to some professionals.
Have you ever thought about disabling his car?
Disabling the car? I feel that would be sneaky and dishonest! I think it's as necessary now, as it was when you were first married, to be absolutely straight with each other.
Hi Rosiero,
Those figures must have come as a shock regardless of Greg's state- they are so out of proportion. Its sad there is not the after care there of at the very least someone sitting down with you and explaining what they mean. You are the one with Greg every day and as his carer you should be the most important and informed person in the loop.
Fingers crossed that Greg can find some purpose in his sobriety.
All the best
Nechtan
man, what a roller coaster.
I don't know how you cope with the constant uncertainty in your situation. You're in my thoughts.
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