Today, I got the results of the CT scan. What did we learn today?

[OmahaBlueDog]

You might remember this poll:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x9668796

So, figuring inquiring minds might want to know, we will learn what might have happened when I was hooked to an IV that made me feel like I was being slow roasted while (simultaneously) being passed through a big radioactive ring.

[siligut]

1. Welcome to fukin western medicine

They know they have us over a barrel. Sounds like you are going to be OK? And, I believe that sometimes these expensive tests are actually ordered to stimulate income, but like with your car mechanic; how can you know? That IV was radioactive dye, assholes should have slowed it down or diluted it if it was painful. Sorry for your shitty, expensive experience.

[OmahaBlueDog]

2. Thanks

<<They know they have us over a barrel....And, I believe that sometimes these expensive tests are actually ordered to stimulate income, but like with your car mechanic; how can you know?>>

Once upon a time I was a service writer at a car dealer. I really think todays doctors use this as a business model. As you say -- I have no idea if he's telling the truth or bullcrapping me.

<<Sounds like you are going to be OK?>>

Yes. It looks like I had (past tense) a very small kidney stone that I passed without knowing I had it. It caused some bleeding to show up on a routine urine screen (so I'm told -- I didn't see anything). They did a CT and took blood.

<<That IV was radioactive dye, assholes should have slowed it down or diluted it if it was painful. Sorry for your shitty, expensive experience.>>

Please, please, please don't be sorry. There are some genuinely good people on this board afficted with serious issues. Nothing is wrong with me that can't be readily fixed. My family and I are blessed with very good insurance, and I am truly thankful it's not something like renal cell carcinoma (almost always lethal).

The test wasn't so bad -- I exaggerated a little for effect. I did experience a bizarre heating sensation on ...various parts of my anatomy.

:hi:

[siligut]

3. That great insurance may be why the CT was ordered

I appreciate that you aren't complaining and that you realize you are among the lucky ones. However, a kidney stone? Without your deep pockets, that probably would have been identified and diagnosed by its signs and symptoms. I suggest that they pulled out the cancer scare to influence your readiness for further exams. Plus, may I suggest you do go for the diet and exercise blah, blah, blah, that is a lifestyle change almost all of us are in need of. This poll was too funny to let sink.

[OmahaBlueDog]

4. It is difficult to avoid the siren song of the beer and the pizza

However, I fear my future is bleak if I do not work some fruits, veggies, and exercise into the mix.

..and you are correct -- they are going to perform whatever testing they know they can get reimbursed for.