This past Thursday, I completed a video swallow test to determine what, if any, nutrition I could begin to take by mouth. Here is how the test works. First, while sitting in a chair, a “video x-ray” machine is positioned to record the motion of one’s oral cavity and throat. Second, a speech pathologist gives the patient white barium solutions with different consistencies to swallow. Finally, the radiologist and others watch the barium solution move through the mouth and throat to assess risk and swallowing capability of the patient.
To begin, the speech pathologist gave me a spoonful of barium the consistency of nectar. This went down okay. There was a little gurgle when I swallowed, but nothing of concern. Then I was given a spoonful of barium the consistency of honey. I was able to swallow, but there was some discomfort in my throat when I did. Finally, I was not able to swallow well when the consistency was as thick as pudding. My tongue had trouble manipulating the substance . Then when I swallowed my gag reflex was triggered.
For the entire test, none of my swallows indicated risk of aspiration. This is good! In other words, my throat was able to direct the solution to my esophagus and away from my wind pipe.
So while I would have liked to have advanced further, I am now cleared to begin swallowing liquids the consistency of nectar. We were given a substance to thicken broths and drinks to the right consistency. Initial attempts at sipping these liquids indicate I have a long way to go, but it is a step forward. For that, I’m thankful.
I am doing what I can to suppress my desire to have more normalcy to my life. Over the past six weeks since treatment stopped, I’ve gone through periods where I work to accelerate my recovery to times when I just sit back and wait for changes to occur. I find it best when just I accept where I’m at and enjoy life as I am able.
Finally, last week I began to work from home one to two hours a day. I’m very thankful to my boss and human resources for allowing me to begin working again, even though its minimal. This has helped my mind… and the days go by just a little bit quicker.
Talk with you soon.
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3 comments:
I'm happy to hear this good news, Dave. Years ago a friend of ours went to the optometrist and was told she needed glasses. She resisted, but then relented. A week later she picked up her new glasses. On the drive home she was somewhat startled to notice that the trees had individual leaves and houses had individual bricks. It is a metaphor for all of us. Not until we are deprived of something - whether at once or gradually - do we sometimes begin to appreciate. Your experiences with your recovery, which you are so generously sharing, make terrific entries into my own grateful journal. Blessings to you and yours.
Rodger
What a testiment you are. I am so glad you decided to have this blog. I enjoy hearing how you are doing and it helps to be more specific in what to pray for.
Keep up the hard work and determination in this continuous fight. (your doing a great job !)
Kelli Heying (Lowe)
Dave and Theresa -
Greetings from the Bay Area.
I've heard through the ACI grapevine that you're fighting a good fight. Now, I've read it in your own, inspiring words.
Thank you so much for sharing your powerful testament to recovery. Paul and I are keeping you both in our thoughts and prayers.
I know first hand the kind of determination, spirit and grit you are made of. You have everything you need to fight this thing and win. You're doing it!
Cheering you on from the West Coast,
Mary Witwer
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