Re: Home from the hospital - I survived!

[Guest guest]

Tarryn

Welcome home! I promise you that it does get better!!! Just rest up

and allow your body to take over and go through its natural healing

process. Be sure to take it slow, but make sure you get enough water.

Iwas like you with being uncomfortable. It wasn't the pain so much

that bothered me, just the discomfort. Sleeping will not even be all

that great at first, but there is nothing like the first time that you

are actually able to lie down flat for the first time post op. What a

good feeling.

Happy Healing

> Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this morning sometime.

I

> am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling isn't so bad,

> but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been given about 5

> different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting anti-biotic

> known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my ice pack at

the

> moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon. Oh, one more

> thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday. Isn't this weird?

> Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> Hope you're doing better than me

> Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Tarryn, you made it!! Whoohoo!! That's one challenge overcome that

you can tick off your list. I'm sorry to hear about the discomfort.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you that it passes quickly. As for

the elastics, I seem to remember several people on this site having

the elastics put in only a few days after surgery so no, you're not

an abnormal case:-). In fact, I think Cammie might not have even been

banded at all. I think she only had a splint but I might be totally

wrong. Any way, we're here if you need us.

Sending you lots of positive vibes and wishing you a speedy recovery.

Sara

> > Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this morning

sometime.

> I

> > am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling isn't so

bad,

> > but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been given about

5

> > different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting anti-

biotic

> > known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my ice pack

at

> the

> > moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon. Oh, one

more

> > thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday. Isn't this

weird?

> > Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> > Hope you're doing better than me

> > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

We are all in this together. Take your time, things

will get better eventually. I know how it is. it

bothers a lot. Get enough rest, drink a lot of

liquids.

I'll be sending good thoughts to you. Be positive.

Time goes by fast and soon it will all be over.

Take care,

Dani

--- cfarero <no_reply > wrote:

> Tarryn

>

> Welcome home! I promise you that it does get

> better!!! Just rest up

> and allow your body to take over and go through its

> natural healing

> process. Be sure to take it slow, but make sure you

> get enough water.

> Iwas like you with being uncomfortable. It wasn't

> the pain so much

> that bothered me, just the discomfort. Sleeping will

> not even be all

> that great at first, but there is nothing like the

> first time that you

> are actually able to lie down flat for the first

> time post op. What a

> good feeling.

>

> Happy Healing

>

>

>

> > Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this

> morning sometime.

> I

> > am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and

> swelling isn't so bad,

> > but the discomfort is out of this world. I have

> been given about 5

> > different tablets to take, including the

> foulest-tasting anti-biotic

> > known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend

> is my ice pack at

> the

> > moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better

> soon. Oh, one more

> > thing; I am only getting elastics put on on

> Friday. Isn't this weird?

> > Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> > Hope you're doing better than me

> > Tarryn

>

>

>

__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

Hi guys

Thanks for all your messages!

I'm actually feeling a lot better today. Went to the physio for

ultra sound and laser therapy (apparently I was getting this 3 times

a day in hospital - I cannot remember a thing about it, but ok) and

to the GP for a pain injection - I'm finding it very hard to take

the painkiller they gave me. Seriously, they gave me the hugest

pills they could find. The anti-inflammatories aren't that big but

the anit-biotic and the painkiller and whatever the other one is are

all giant size. My aunt just mashes them up in fruit juice and

shoots it down my throat in a syringe! The thing is the anti-biotic

leaves the worst after-taste ever -its seriously gross. But I'll get

over it - it wasn't so bad this morning, so we'll see tonight. I'm

taking all my food through the syringes at the moment - those things

are so useful! My dear ice pack sprung a leak this morning (it's one

of those refillable ones) so we had to find another - it was

hideously expenseive, but my mom's hoping to claim back from the

medical aid. That should be interesting!

Well, I think that's all for now. Thanks again for your messages -

they really help!

Tarryn

> > > Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this morning

> sometime.

> > I

> > > am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling isn't

so

> bad,

> > > but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been given

about

> 5

> > > different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting anti-

> biotic

> > > known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my ice

pack

> at

> > the

> > > moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon. Oh,

one

> more

> > > thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday. Isn't this

> weird?

> > > Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> > > Hope you're doing better than me

> > > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

Glad you're home and in your recouperation stage. I completely

understand your misery. It sucks. But I promise, it does get

better. There are some moments when I don't believe it myself - but

it's true: the last five days have proven that to me. I have foul

medicines too. Because of my liquid only diet - can't take the non-

tasting pills. Reminds me of being a kid and my Mom putting my asprin

in some applesause - I couldn't swallow it otherwise!

Hang in there ... keep writing. ( i know i will! )

Carol

> Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this morning sometime.

I

> am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling isn't so bad,

> but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been given about 5

> different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting anti-biotic

> known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my ice pack at

the

> moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon. Oh, one more

> thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday. Isn't this weird?

> Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> Hope you're doing better than me

> Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

Yeah, I find that there is a period of time from the hospital I can't

remember either. I guess it's good to know that we were taken care

of, eh?

All of my medicines are in liquid form. Is that a possibility for

you?

I'm glad to hear that you have your Aunt there helping you. It makes

all the difference!

Don't forget about ice-pack alternatives ... such as the frozen peas

and such. Yay for Mom taking care of business!

Keep happy thoughts. Know that we are thinking about you and sending

you positive vibes!

All the best,

Carol

> > > > Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this morning

> > sometime.

> > > I

> > > > am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling isn't

> so

> > bad,

> > > > but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been given

> about

> > 5

> > > > different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting anti-

> > biotic

> > > > known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my ice

> pack

> > at

> > > the

> > > > moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon. Oh,

> one

> > more

> > > > thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday. Isn't

this

> > weird?

> > > > Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> > > > Hope you're doing better than me

> > > > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Hi Carol,

We meet post-op! Glad to hear you seem to be doing ok. Today I am

yellow. I wasn't bruised at all until this morning, but now my right

cheek is a very odd shade of yellow! My aunt thinks it might be from

the physio, though. The pain is not very bad, but my right side is

slightly worse than the left; more swollen, more painful, etc. And I

can finally swallow all the pills - I am very proud of myself.

No, no liquid medicines for me, although I have no idea why not.

Anyway. Tomorrow is my first post-op checkup, and I'm getting the

elastics on. I have a sad feeling that this is going to be painful!

Oh well. It's amazing how every day is better than the last, even if

its just a little bit!

Hope things keep improving,

Tarryn

> > > > > Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this morning

> > > sometime.

> > > > I

> > > > > am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling

isn't

> > so

> > > bad,

> > > > > but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been given

> > about

> > > 5

> > > > > different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting

anti-

> > > biotic

> > > > > known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my ice

> > pack

> > > at

> > > > the

> > > > > moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon.

Oh,

> > one

> > > more

> > > > > thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday. Isn't

> this

> > > weird?

> > > > > Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> > > > > Hope you're doing better than me

> > > > > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Tarryn

I don't think the elastics will be as painful as they are

uncomfortable. Even though you won't be wired shut, they do tend to

hold you mouth completely closed, which gets really annoying after

about 1 day. Hang in there. You'll get through this.

> > > > > > Hi everyone, just to let you know I got home this

morning

> > > > sometime.

> > > > > I

> > > > > > am feeling absolutely miserable. The pain and swelling

> isn't

> > > so

> > > > bad,

> > > > > > but the discomfort is out of this world. I have been

given

> > > about

> > > > 5

> > > > > > different tablets to take, including the foulest-tasting

> anti-

> > > > biotic

> > > > > > known to man; the dreaded Zinnat. My best friend is my

ice

> > > pack

> > > > at

> > > > > the

> > > > > > moment! So yes. I seriously hope this gets better soon.

> Oh,

> > > one

> > > > more

> > > > > > thing; I am only getting elastics put on on Friday.

Isn't

> > this

> > > > weird?

> > > > > > Well, must go. Time to rinse! What fun.

> > > > > > Hope you're doing better than me

> > > > > > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

So we do! I'm glad to hear you're well, too.

Yeah, I know that awful mustard color your talking about. It will

fade, don't you worry. I was only black and blue under the right

side of my chin and it's almost all gone now.

I'm so glad that the pill swallowing has gotten better. I'm still

sucking down the liquid stuff with this awful slurping noise. But

hey, as long as it works, right?

I hope your first post-op appointment goes well. Mine involved a set

of x-rays ... for which I sat, my Surgeon poking around a bit ...

telling me that I need to brush more and better and then he answered

my list of questions ... each one.

Hang in there. I hear the bands don't have to be all that bad -

depending. Remember I'm wired shut ... so I don't have any first

hand experience about that.

Keep positive and keep writing!

Glad to be on the other side with you!

Carol

> > > > Tarryn, you made it!! Whoohoo!! That's one challenge overcome

> > that

> > > > you can tick off your list. I'm sorry to hear about the

> > > discomfort.

> > > > I'll keep my fingers crossed for you that it passes quickly.

> As

> > > for

> > > > the elastics, I seem to remember several people on this site

> > > having

> > > > the elastics put in only a few days after surgery so no,

> you're

> > > not

> > > > an abnormal case:-). In fact, I think Cammie might not have

> even

> > > been

> > > > banded at all. I think she only had a splint but I might be

> > > totally

> > > > wrong. Any way, we're here if you need us.

> > > >

> > > > Sending you lots of positive vibes and wishing you a speedy

> > > recovery.

> > > >

> > > > Sara

[Guest guest]

Hey Carol

Wow, I forgot you were getting wired shut. How's it going? I'm so

glad I just got elastics; if was wired closed I think I would go

nuts!

Yes, got the elastics on today; not at all painful, but it does feel

a little weird. That's funny - I was also told I need to improve my

brushing! I guess I'm a little nervous about brushing too

vigorously - what if I damage something?!?

My swelling had gone down a lot - even I can see the difference now.

And I managed to sleep last night (admittedly, after taking a

sleeping tablet, but still).

The only thing that's bothering me is that I'm so hungry!!! I see

people eating food around me...I can't take it! I want to EAT!!

Sorry. Had to get that out!

Hope you're having a good day

Tarryn

> > > > > Tarryn, you made it!! Whoohoo!! That's one challenge

overcome

> > > that

> > > > > you can tick off your list. I'm sorry to hear about the

> > > > discomfort.

> > > > > I'll keep my fingers crossed for you that it passes

quickly.

> > As

> > > > for

> > > > > the elastics, I seem to remember several people on this

site

> > > > having

> > > > > the elastics put in only a few days after surgery so no,

> > you're

> > > > not

> > > > > an abnormal case:-). In fact, I think Cammie might not

have

> > even

> > > > been

> > > > > banded at all. I think she only had a splint but I might

be

> > > > totally

> > > > > wrong. Any way, we're here if you need us.

> > > > >

> > > > > Sending you lots of positive vibes and wishing you a

speedy

> > > > recovery.

> > > > >

> > > > > Sara

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

Yeah, it sucks. But I'm dealing! The worst part is talking. As

the swelling goes down I'm forcing myself to just give it a try.

But, people still can't understand me. S'okay. I'm a chatter

box. So, I'm probably due to give my mouth a break!

I was nervous about hurting anything - mostly the splint/wires/and

other assorted metal stuff ... but also - myself! My boyfriend went

out and bought me two kids toothbrushes. They are teeny tiny and

extra soft and have the cutest cartoon characters on them. It makes

me smile just to pick them up! So, I'm trying - gently - but I'm

trying. I use a prescribed mouthwash too. So, I'm hopeful that's

helping on the inside. I have a water pik, too. My Surgeon said as

long as I use it on its softest setting, I can feel free to use it

whenever I want. It's amazing what it seems to find and what I see

fall to the sink and go down the drain. ( I know, gross. But, true -

and if I can't be honest here ...) So, good luck with that! Maybe we

can both get better checkups next time!

Just in the last couple of days my stomach has started to growl.

Every commerical is for a restaurant or food product. My Mom is

bringing me over a brand new blender tomorrow (the one I have is as

old as me!) so I'm looking forward to getting experimental.

I hope things in your world are good today!

Until next time,

Carol

> > > > Tarryn,

> > > > Yeah, I find that there is a period of time from the hospital

> I

> > > can't

> > > > remember either. I guess it's good to know that we were

taken

> > > care

> > > > of, eh?

> > > > All of my medicines are in liquid form. Is that a

possibility

> > for

> > > > you?

> > > > I'm glad to hear that you have your Aunt there helping you.

> It

> > > makes

> > > > all the difference!

> > > > Don't forget about ice-pack alternatives ... such as the

> frozen

> > > peas

> > > > and such. Yay for Mom taking care of business!

> > > > Keep happy thoughts. Know that we are thinking about you and

> > > sending

> > > > you positive vibes!

> > > > All the best,

> > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Hi Carol

Talking is also a major problem for me - especially in the

beginning. I would get so frustrated coz no one knew what I wanted,

and then when I tried to write, they coudn't read my handwriting! Oh

well - they pretty much understand my caveman-like gruntings by

now I'm even singing a little bit - my sister thinks it's the

funniest thing ever coz I can only manage " uhn uhn uhn " ! Anyway.

My mom also bought me a teeny toothbrush - so nice. Your boyfriend

sounds so cute! I read a message from someone wanting to advertise

for a boyfriend like that: I think that sounds like a plan!

What exactly is a water pik? Excuse my ignorance!

You should have seen the nasty stuff that came out of my mouth - esp

n the first few days. It was driving me absolutely insane, having

alll this gunk in my mouth and not being able to get rid of it. I

would rinse and rinse, and it would still be there! I actually got

quite hysterical about it the first night - it took the Ward Sister

to calm me down! I ws convinced I was going to choke on whatever it

was and die. It was also the reason I refused to eat at first - who

knew what I might be swallowing. Gross! Then at home, with tweezers

(Yes! I am not joking) and my aunt actually physically cleaning my

mouth with cotton wool, we managed to get everything out. Best

feeling ever. And the hydrogen peroxide really helps as well.

Yesterday I managed to eat a whole breadroll, and it really helped

with the hunger. I broke the bread up into tiny pieces, dipped them

in soup (potato and leek - a variation on chicken!) and swallowed

them. So delicious.

Have fun with the blender! I saw a recipe on here for an oreo shake -

now that is something I want to try!

Have a good day

Tarryn

> > > > > Tarryn,

> > > > > Yeah, I find that there is a period of time from the

hospital

> > I

> > > > can't

> > > > > remember either. I guess it's good to know that we were

> taken

> > > > care

> > > > > of, eh?

> > > > > All of my medicines are in liquid form. Is that a

> possibility

> > > for

> > > > > you?

> > > > > I'm glad to hear that you have your Aunt there helping

you.

> > It

> > > > makes

> > > > > all the difference!

> > > > > Don't forget about ice-pack alternatives ... such as the

> > frozen

> > > > peas

> > > > > and such. Yay for Mom taking care of business!

> > > > > Keep happy thoughts. Know that we are thinking about you

and

> > > > sending

> > > > > you positive vibes!

> > > > > All the best,

> > > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

So, I had my second panic attack yesterday. And it was on the

phone. My son had called and no matter how hard we both tried he

just couldn't understand me. I was " screaming " into the phone and

banging on the counter in frustration. <sigh> When he got home we sat

down and figured out a plan of action. From now on, over the phone,

he will only ask me yes or no questions. This way neither of us will

get upset and we can just keep calm and focus on those two words.

I'm exremely hopeful it will work.

You're singing?! That's awesome!!! I spent a good chunk of the day

yesterday talking (probably why, by the end of the day I was so hard

to understand) and for the most part it worked out ok. I did notice

last night, though, that my jaw was exhausted! All the muscles had

gotten quite a workout and they were all tensed up. Thank the

Surgeon for some pain medicine - it relaxed my jaw and allowed me to

sleep.

So, a water pik is an appliance that pushes water through a tube and

then out the end where there is a like a tiny straw. You can control

how hard the water comes out. It allows you to pin point areas in

your mouth and around your teeth so you can sort of flush all the

debris away. I kind of hang my head over the sink and gently work my

way around my mouth. I do this after I brush my teeth first. It

helps to get out all sorts of stuff that stays behind after

brushing. It's sort of like floss ... only in water form. You can

add mouthwash/rinse/etc. to the containter where you put water, too.

That makes for a wonderfully fresh feeling afterward. I know that

you need to be careful when you use a water pik post surgery. If

it's on too hard of a setting it can push debris into incision sites

and stuff. But, my Surgeon knew I had used one with my first surgery

so he let me go ahead this time - keeping it on the softest setting

possible. I highly reccommend it and would suggest talking to your

Doctor and maybe doing a Google search to check it out. Good luck!

So glad to hear you are finding ways to satisfy your growling

stomach! My Mom and StepDad bought me a new blender yesterday. I'm

all about mixing and matching ... straining and sipping! It's fun!

Well, that's enough rambling for now.

Happy Sunday!!!

Carol

> > > > Tarryn,

> > > > So we do! I'm glad to hear you're well, too.

> > > > Yeah, I know that awful mustard color your talking about. It

> > will

> > > > fade, don't you worry. I was only black and blue under the

> right

> > > > side of my chin and it's almost all gone now.

> > > > I'm so glad that the pill swallowing has gotten better. I'm

> > still

> > > > sucking down the liquid stuff with this awful slurping

noise.

> > But

> > > > hey, as long as it works, right?

> > > > I hope your first post-op appointment goes well. Mine

> involved a

> > > set

> > > > of x-rays ... for which I sat, my Surgeon poking around a

> bit ...

> > > > telling me that I need to brush more and better and then he

> > > answered

> > > > my list of questions ... each one.

> > > > Hang in there. I hear the bands don't have to be all that

> bad -

> > > > depending. Remember I'm wired shut ... so I don't have any

> first

> > > > hand experience about that.

> > > > Keep positive and keep writing!

> > > > Glad to be on the other side with you!

> > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Hi Carol

Sorry to hear about your panic attack. I completely understand how

you must have felt, though. It is so frustrating when no one

understands what you're trying to say!

I spent an hour on the phone last night talking to one of my

friends. She understood me pretty well, but afterwards my mouth was

so sore!

Thanks for explaining the water pik It sounds really useful; I

shall investigate.

I can hardly believe it's already been more than a week since the

op. And I feel so much better! When I think " This time last week I

was... " it's incredible how much it's improved. I'm still fairly

swollen though, but at least the yellow has mostly faded. And I've

stopped drooling - at last! That was so gross.

So I'm feeling pretty happy today. Oh, quick question; I think I'm

seeing the orthodontist this week. What exactly is she going to do??

Have a good week!

Tarryn

> > > > > Tarryn,

> > > > > So we do! I'm glad to hear you're well, too.

> > > > > Yeah, I know that awful mustard color your talking about.

It

> > > will

> > > > > fade, don't you worry. I was only black and blue under

the

> > right

> > > > > side of my chin and it's almost all gone now.

> > > > > I'm so glad that the pill swallowing has gotten better.

I'm

> > > still

> > > > > sucking down the liquid stuff with this awful slurping

> noise.

> > > But

> > > > > hey, as long as it works, right?

> > > > > I hope your first post-op appointment goes well. Mine

> > involved a

> > > > set

> > > > > of x-rays ... for which I sat, my Surgeon poking around a

> > bit ...

> > > > > telling me that I need to brush more and better and then

he

> > > > answered

> > > > > my list of questions ... each one.

> > > > > Hang in there. I hear the bands don't have to be all that

> > bad -

> > > > > depending. Remember I'm wired shut ... so I don't have

any

> > first

> > > > > hand experience about that.

> > > > > Keep positive and keep writing!

> > > > > Glad to be on the other side with you!

> > > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

Thanks for your understanding. It's getting better and I'm just

hanging in there.

Yeah, definetly check out the water pik. I couldn't live without

mine!

Yup ... time flies! I'm going back to work on Thursday: half days

Thursday and Friday, back full time next Monday. It's hard to

believe I'm almost 2 weeks post-op!

I haven't seen my Orthodontist since my surgery. You actually

reminded me that my son had an appointment today - and I forgot all

about it! Oh dear! I'll have to call tomorrow to reschedule.

Take care,

Carol

> > > > Tarryn,

> > > >

> > > > Yeah, it sucks. But I'm dealing! The worst part is

> talking.

> > > As

> > > > the swelling goes down I'm forcing myself to just give it a

> try.

> > > > But, people still can't understand me. S'okay. I'm a

> chatter

> > > > box. So, I'm probably due to give my mouth a break!

> > > >

> > > > I was nervous about hurting anything - mostly the

> > splint/wires/and

> > > > other assorted metal stuff ... but also - myself! My

> boyfriend

> > > went

> > > > out and bought me two kids toothbrushes. They are teeny tiny

> and

> > > > extra soft and have the cutest cartoon characters on them.

It

> > > makes

> > > > me smile just to pick them up! So, I'm trying - gently - but

> I'm

> > > > trying. I use a prescribed mouthwash too. So, I'm hopeful

> > that's

> > > > helping on the inside. I have a water pik, too. My Surgeon

> said

> > > as

> > > > long as I use it on its softest setting, I can feel free to

> use

> > it

> > > > whenever I want. It's amazing what it seems to find and what

> I

> > > see

> > > > fall to the sink and go down the drain. ( I know, gross.

But,

> > > true -

> > > > and if I can't be honest here ...) So, good luck with that!

> > Maybe

> > > we

> > > > can both get better checkups next time!

> > > >

> > > > Just in the last couple of days my stomach has started to

> growl.

> > > > Every commerical is for a restaurant or food product. My Mom

> is

> > > > bringing me over a brand new blender tomorrow (the one I have

> is

> > > as

> > > > old as me!) so I'm looking forward to getting experimental.

> > > >

> > > > I hope things in your world are good today!

> > > > Until next time,

> > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Hello

So I went to the orthodontist today. It was very annoying - I sat in

the waiting room for 35 minutes, then when I was finally called

through I waited another 10 minutes for the doctor. So an

appointment that was supposed to happen at 11.00 finally took place

at 11.45! And it only took 5 minutes anyway. She didn't do very

much, but when she was looking she kept pressing against my upper

jaw - it was so sore! She also rearranged the elastics that the

surgeon put in - I'm seeing him tomorrow so we'll see what he says

about that. Then I had to walk home, because my poor aunt was tired

of waiting! Not that I blame her. And I always walk to and from the

ortho anyway, so it was fine.

Ha - I have missed so many ortho appointments in my time, just

because I forgot about them and/or lost the appointment card!

Good luck with work tomorrow!

Tarryn

> > > > > Tarryn,

> > > > >

> > > > > Yeah, it sucks. But I'm dealing! The worst part is

> > talking.

> > > > As

> > > > > the swelling goes down I'm forcing myself to just give it

a

> > try.

> > > > > But, people still can't understand me. S'okay. I'm a

> > chatter

> > > > > box. So, I'm probably due to give my mouth a break!

> > > > >

> > > > > I was nervous about hurting anything - mostly the

> > > splint/wires/and

> > > > > other assorted metal stuff ... but also - myself! My

> > boyfriend

> > > > went

> > > > > out and bought me two kids toothbrushes. They are teeny

tiny

> > and

> > > > > extra soft and have the cutest cartoon characters on

them.

> It

> > > > makes

> > > > > me smile just to pick them up! So, I'm trying - gently -

but

> > I'm

> > > > > trying. I use a prescribed mouthwash too. So, I'm

hopeful

> > > that's

> > > > > helping on the inside. I have a water pik, too. My

Surgeon

> > said

> > > > as

> > > > > long as I use it on its softest setting, I can feel free

to

> > use

> > > it

> > > > > whenever I want. It's amazing what it seems to find and

what

> > I

> > > > see

> > > > > fall to the sink and go down the drain. ( I know, gross.

> But,

> > > > true -

> > > > > and if I can't be honest here ...) So, good luck with

that!

> > > Maybe

> > > > we

> > > > > can both get better checkups next time!

> > > > >

> > > > > Just in the last couple of days my stomach has started to

> > growl.

> > > > > Every commerical is for a restaurant or food product. My

Mom

> > is

> > > > > bringing me over a brand new blender tomorrow (the one I

have

> > is

> > > > as

> > > > > old as me!) so I'm looking forward to getting

experimental.

> > > > >

> > > > > I hope things in your world are good today!

> > > > > Until next time,

> > > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

Gosh, what a long day you had! At least the actual " appointment "

was only 5 minutes.

I had a situation after my first surgery (upper) where my PCP pressed

against my sinus' relating to a cold that I had. I almost fainted

and screamed loudly enough to scare her! At first I was thinking

what an idiot she was and didn't she know anything and I can't

believe she just did that ... but then I realized that Orthognathic

Surgery may not be a very well understood field within the world of

a " normal " MD. So, I cut her some slack. At least I know that after

I explained it to her - she never did that to anyone else!

So, my long story is simply to let you know that I understand all

about the poking you went through. I hope you're feeling ok, now.

I've often heard/read stories where someones Orthodontist and Surgeon

disagree. I'd be interested to know what your Surgeon says about the

reorganizing of your bands. I've been lucky, I guess, in that my

Doctors always seem to be on the same page. <shrug>

Take care,

Carol

> > > > Tarryn,

> > > >

> > > > So, I had my second panic attack yesterday. And it was on

the

> > > > phone. My son had called and no matter how hard we both

> tried

> > > he

> > > > just couldn't understand me. I was " screaming " into the

phone

> > and

> > > > banging on the counter in frustration. <sigh> When he got

home

> we

> > > sat

> > > > down and figured out a plan of action. From now on, over the

> > > phone,

> > > > he will only ask me yes or no questions. This way neither of

> us

> > > will

> > > > get upset and we can just keep calm and focus on those two

> > words.

> > > > I'm exremely hopeful it will work.

> > > >

> > > > You're singing?! That's awesome!!! I spent a good chunk of

> the

> > > day

> > > > yesterday talking (probably why, by the end of the day I was

> so

> > > hard

> > > > to understand) and for the most part it worked out ok. I did

> > > notice

> > > > last night, though, that my jaw was exhausted! All the

> muscles

> > > had

> > > > gotten quite a workout and they were all tensed up. Thank

the

> > > > Surgeon for some pain medicine - it relaxed my jaw and

allowed

> me

> > > to

> > > > sleep.

> > > >

> > > > So, a water pik is an appliance that pushes water through a

> tube

> > > and

> > > > then out the end where there is a like a tiny straw. You can

> > > control

> > > > how hard the water comes out. It allows you to pin point

> areas

> > in

> > > > your mouth and around your teeth so you can sort of flush all

> the

> > > > debris away. I kind of hang my head over the sink and gently

> > work

> > > my

> > > > way around my mouth. I do this after I brush my teeth

first.

> It

> > > > helps to get out all sorts of stuff that stays behind after

> > > > brushing. It's sort of like floss ... only in water form.

> You

> > > can

> > > > add mouthwash/rinse/etc. to the containter where you put

> water,

> > > too.

> > > > That makes for a wonderfully fresh feeling afterward. I know

> > that

> > > > you need to be careful when you use a water pik post

surgery.

> If

> > > > it's on too hard of a setting it can push debris into

incision

> > > sites

> > > > and stuff. But, my Surgeon knew I had used one with my first

> > > surgery

> > > > so he let me go ahead this time - keeping it on the softest

> > > setting

> > > > possible. I highly reccommend it and would suggest talking

to

> > > your

> > > > Doctor and maybe doing a Google search to check it out.

> Good

> > > luck!

> > > >

> > > > So glad to hear you are finding ways to satisfy your growling

> > > > stomach! My Mom and StepDad bought me a new blender

> yesterday.

> > > I'm

> > > > all about mixing and matching ... straining and sipping!

It's

> > fun!

> > > > Well, that's enough rambling for now.

> > > > Happy Sunday!!!

> > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

I can understand your frustration about the wait -- but actually,

that's not a long one. I once waited three hours in an orthopedic

surgeon's office for a follow-up appointment that finally gave me 5

whole minutes of his time -- and that included my fussing at him

about the wait!

Recently, I went through a visit to a hospital emergency room. A

broken rib was in question. We got there about 7 p.m., and left

about 11. The rib was broken, but there was nothing to do about it,

except prescribe pain pills, which we already had. Won't do that

again soon.

Yuck.

I don't know the answers. I do know that I see some docs who get me

in within 15 minutes. And give me plenty of time with the doc, as

well.

Everybody understands that emergencies happen, but I do believe that

some of thesee folks are very um, casual about the evaluation they

place on their patients' time.

C.

> Hello

> So I went to the orthodontist today. It was very annoying - I sat

in

> the waiting room for 35 minutes, then when I was finally called

> through I waited another 10 minutes for the doctor. So an

> appointment that was supposed to happen at 11.00 finally took

place

> at 11.45! And it only took 5 minutes anyway. She didn't do very

> much, but when she was looking she kept pressing against my upper

> jaw - it was so sore! She also rearranged the elastics that the

> surgeon put in - I'm seeing him tomorrow so we'll see what he says

> about that. Then I had to walk home, because my poor aunt was

tired

> of waiting! Not that I blame her. And I always walk to and from

the

> ortho anyway, so it was fine.

> Ha - I have missed so many ortho appointments in my time, just

> because I forgot about them and/or lost the appointment card!

> Good luck with work tomorrow!

> Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Yes - it could have been a lot worse, I suppose. Like your trip to

the emergency room: that sounds like a nightmare!

Today at the surgeon we had another 45 minute wait, but I guess

there's nothing you can do about these things.

Have a good day!

Tarryn

> > Hello

> > So I went to the orthodontist today. It was very annoying - I

sat

> in

> > the waiting room for 35 minutes, then when I was finally called

> > through I waited another 10 minutes for the doctor. So an

> > appointment that was supposed to happen at 11.00 finally took

> place

> > at 11.45! And it only took 5 minutes anyway. She didn't do very

> > much, but when she was looking she kept pressing against my

upper

> > jaw - it was so sore! She also rearranged the elastics that the

> > surgeon put in - I'm seeing him tomorrow so we'll see what he

says

> > about that. Then I had to walk home, because my poor aunt was

> tired

> > of waiting! Not that I blame her. And I always walk to and from

> the

> > ortho anyway, so it was fine.

> > Ha - I have missed so many ortho appointments in my time, just

> > because I forgot about them and/or lost the appointment card!

> > Good luck with work tomorrow!

> > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Ah, it wasn't that bad, as someone else rightly pointed out My

word - if someone had touched my sinuses like that I would have died!

Today at the surgeon we spent another 45 minutes in the waiting

room, but what can you do?? About the bands, he said that the ortho

usually rearranges them, so it was ok. He prescribed more

painkillers and another nasal spray - I slept on my back for the

first time last night, and it was blissfully comfortable, but this

morning my sinuses were totally blocked. I cannot win, I tell you!

He also said I must continue with the hydrogen peroxide, " and " , he

says, " the warm salt and bicarb. " My mom and I just look at each

other. No one, not pre-op, not in the hospital, not at last week's

check-up had mentioned anything about warm salt and bicarb! Am I

supposed to sniff these things out the air?? So.

Next week he says he'll take some x-rays. I also asked him about the

odd bits of wire and metal in my gums, and he said he would take

that out sometime (I'm not sure when.) I think you also have this?

He didn't say anything about it to me pre-op, so when I got home I

was like, " hey, that's new! " Haha. At least it's not permanent.

Well, that's all I have to share today.

How are you doing, 2 weeks post-op?

Have a lovely day

Tarryn

> > > > > Tarryn,

> > > > >

> > > > > So, I had my second panic attack yesterday. And it was on

> the

> > > > > phone. My son had called and no matter how hard we both

> > tried

> > > > he

> > > > > just couldn't understand me. I was " screaming " into the

> phone

> > > and

> > > > > banging on the counter in frustration. <sigh> When he got

> home

> > we

> > > > sat

> > > > > down and figured out a plan of action. From now on, over

the

> > > > phone,

> > > > > he will only ask me yes or no questions. This way neither

of

> > us

> > > > will

> > > > > get upset and we can just keep calm and focus on those two

> > > words.

> > > > > I'm exremely hopeful it will work.

> > > > >

> > > > > You're singing?! That's awesome!!! I spent a good chunk

of

> > the

> > > > day

> > > > > yesterday talking (probably why, by the end of the day I

was

> > so

> > > > hard

> > > > > to understand) and for the most part it worked out ok. I

did

> > > > notice

> > > > > last night, though, that my jaw was exhausted! All the

> > muscles

> > > > had

> > > > > gotten quite a workout and they were all tensed up. Thank

> the

> > > > > Surgeon for some pain medicine - it relaxed my jaw and

> allowed

> > me

> > > > to

> > > > > sleep.

> > > > >

> > > > > So, a water pik is an appliance that pushes water through

a

> > tube

> > > > and

> > > > > then out the end where there is a like a tiny straw. You

can

> > > > control

> > > > > how hard the water comes out. It allows you to pin point

> > areas

> > > in

> > > > > your mouth and around your teeth so you can sort of flush

all

> > the

> > > > > debris away. I kind of hang my head over the sink and

gently

> > > work

> > > > my

> > > > > way around my mouth. I do this after I brush my teeth

> first.

> > It

> > > > > helps to get out all sorts of stuff that stays behind

after

> > > > > brushing. It's sort of like floss ... only in water

form.

> > You

> > > > can

> > > > > add mouthwash/rinse/etc. to the containter where you put

> > water,

> > > > too.

> > > > > That makes for a wonderfully fresh feeling afterward. I

know

> > > that

> > > > > you need to be careful when you use a water pik post

> surgery.

> > If

> > > > > it's on too hard of a setting it can push debris into

> incision

> > > > sites

> > > > > and stuff. But, my Surgeon knew I had used one with my

first

> > > > surgery

> > > > > so he let me go ahead this time - keeping it on the

softest

> > > > setting

> > > > > possible. I highly reccommend it and would suggest

talking

> to

> > > > your

> > > > > Doctor and maybe doing a Google search to check it out.

> > Good

> > > > luck!

> > > > >

> > > > > So glad to hear you are finding ways to satisfy your

growling

> > > > > stomach! My Mom and StepDad bought me a new blender

> > yesterday.

> > > > I'm

> > > > > all about mixing and matching ... straining and sipping!

> It's

> > > fun!

> > > > > Well, that's enough rambling for now.

> > > > > Happy Sunday!!!

> > > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

Yeah, I guess these folks are busybusybusy. At least it gives us a

chance to read the latest magazines or stare blankly at a really cool

fish tank, or something.

It's no fun when things are left out. I think I have a great set of

doctors ... but there were still things that they neglected to

mention. I dunno ... maybe because they do this all day every day -

sometimes they think they have told us and they haven't. Thankfully,

there are places like this to ask questions and share experiences and

vent!

So, do you have the Skeletal Wires that will be removed too? Any

idea when they will come out? I'd love to have someone to share that

experience with 'cause I'm quite anxious about it.

I'm doing ok, two weeks post-op. I'm starting back to work today

from 10-2. I'm nervous and excited all at the same time.

As 's Law would have it, I woke up this morning with this

shooting pain in my chin. I hadn't felt pain there before. So, it

seems that I'll have this brand new issue to deal with on my first

day back. Oh, well. At least my boyfriend found me this great

liquid pain medicine at CVS last night. I had been taking the

children's stuff (Motrin) ... but it tasted gross and really wasn't

strong enough. He found me some adult strength stuff (Tylenol), so

I'm hopeful that will get me through the day.

How are things in your world? You're just a couple of days away from

2 weeks post-op, right?

Happy thoughts,

Carol

> > > > Tarryn,

> > > > Thanks for your understanding. It's getting better and I'm

> just

> > > > hanging in there.

> > > > Yeah, definetly check out the water pik. I couldn't live

> without

> > > > mine!

> > > > Yup ... time flies! I'm going back to work on Thursday: half

> > days

> > > > Thursday and Friday, back full time next Monday. It's hard

to

> > > > believe I'm almost 2 weeks post-op!

> > > > I haven't seen my Orthodontist since my surgery. You

actually

> > > > reminded me that my son had an appointment today - and I

> forgot

> > > all

> > > > about it! Oh dear! I'll have to call tomorrow to reschedule.

> > > > Take care,

> > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Emergency rooms are the worst. I was once brought in at 1am to the

emergency room at St. 's hospital in London. I was suffering from

severe stomach cramps. Despite the fact that I fainted several times

in front of the nurses in the waiting room and that my boyfriend was

getting increasinly more hysterical, they did not think to give me a

pain reliever until 4am and I was not admitted until 6am. Worse yet,

when they finally admitted me they kept me in for another 10 hours to

do a bunch of tests to only diagnose me with the WRONG THING! They

said one of my ovaries had hemoraged internally and that it could be,

I quote, " potentially quite fatal " . I could not believe my ears! I

asked, " which part is potential and which part is fatal doctor? "

Thank god I figured out that they didn't know what they were talking

about and took the first plane home to my doctor in Italy. Turns out

I had colic and a severely infected intestine. Since then, I try to

steer clear from Emergency rooms. Always make sure you have a good

doctor in your neighborhood that you can call in the middle of the

night if needs be. And I feel for all patients who are forced to wait

for more than 30 minutes. What I usually tell myself to calm myself

down is that there might be someone else with my doctor who is having

the exact same troubles as me and if it were me in their place I'd

want the doctor to spend extra time with me too.

Sara

> > > Hello

> > > So I went to the orthodontist today. It was very annoying - I

> sat

> > in

> > > the waiting room for 35 minutes, then when I was finally called

> > > through I waited another 10 minutes for the doctor. So an

> > > appointment that was supposed to happen at 11.00 finally took

> > place

> > > at 11.45! And it only took 5 minutes anyway. She didn't do very

> > > much, but when she was looking she kept pressing against my

> upper

> > > jaw - it was so sore! She also rearranged the elastics that the

> > > surgeon put in - I'm seeing him tomorrow so we'll see what he

> says

> > > about that. Then I had to walk home, because my poor aunt was

> > tired

> > > of waiting! Not that I blame her. And I always walk to and from

> > the

> > > ortho anyway, so it was fine.

> > > Ha - I have missed so many ortho appointments in my time, just

> > > because I forgot about them and/or lost the appointment card!

> > > Good luck with work tomorrow!

> > > Tarryn

[Guest guest]

Carol,

No, no fishtank at my doctor! I think next time I will take a

book.

I have no clue when the Skeletal Wires are coming out - although I

would hazard a guess at the 5th or 7th week appointment? We'll see.

I suppose yours would only come out after you're been unwired?

I remember reading in a previous post from someone that it's a

fairly painless procedure? Haha - I never believe people when they

say that! But the doctor didn't seem too concerned about it.

So, I had my last physio appointment today, and I'll be 2 weeks post-

op tommorrow. I was in quite a bit of pain the last couple of days,

but it seems to have calmed down now. I'm on a different painkiller

(Myprodol), which is also an anti-inflammatory, so it's helping with

the swelling as well. How did the Tylenol work for you? I have these

funny tingles in my chin, and occasionally a sharp pain, but it's

not too bad.

How was work yesterday and today?

Tarryn

-- In orthognathicsurgerysupport , miss_redagain2005

<no_reply@y...> wrote:

> Tarryn,

> Yeah, I guess these folks are busybusybusy. At least it gives us

a

> chance to read the latest magazines or stare blankly at a really

cool

> fish tank, or something.

> It's no fun when things are left out. I think I have a great set

of

> doctors ... but there were still things that they neglected to

> mention. I dunno ... maybe because they do this all day every

day -

> sometimes they think they have told us and they haven't.

Thankfully,

> there are places like this to ask questions and share experiences

and

> vent!

> So, do you have the Skeletal Wires that will be removed too? Any

> idea when they will come out? I'd love to have someone to share

that

> experience with 'cause I'm quite anxious about it.

> I'm doing ok, two weeks post-op. I'm starting back to work today

> from 10-2. I'm nervous and excited all at the same time.

> As 's Law would have it, I woke up this morning with this

> shooting pain in my chin. I hadn't felt pain there before. So,

it

> seems that I'll have this brand new issue to deal with on my first

> day back. Oh, well. At least my boyfriend found me this great

> liquid pain medicine at CVS last night. I had been taking the

> children's stuff (Motrin) ... but it tasted gross and really

wasn't

> strong enough. He found me some adult strength stuff (Tylenol),

so

> I'm hopeful that will get me through the day.

> How are things in your world? You're just a couple of days away

from

> 2 weeks post-op, right?

> Happy thoughts,

> Carol

>

>

> > > > > Tarryn,

> > > > > Thanks for your understanding. It's getting better and

I'm

> > just

> > > > > hanging in there.

> > > > > Yeah, definetly check out the water pik. I couldn't live

> > without

> > > > > mine!

> > > > > Yup ... time flies! I'm going back to work on Thursday:

half

> > > days

> > > > > Thursday and Friday, back full time next Monday. It's

hard

> to

> > > > > believe I'm almost 2 weeks post-op!

> > > > > I haven't seen my Orthodontist since my surgery. You

> actually

> > > > > reminded me that my son had an appointment today - and I

> > forgot

> > > > all

> > > > > about it! Oh dear! I'll have to call tomorrow to

reschedule.

> > > > > Take care,

> > > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Tarryn,

I believe mine are coming out at the 10 week mark. You may actually

get yours out first, then. I'd really love to hear how that goes

when it happens. I was told it was painless, too. But ... it still

freaks me out.

I'm sorry to hear about your pain but I'm glad it's subsided a bit.

I had a stabbing/shooting pain my chin all day yesterday - but when I

woke up this morning it was gone. Today was a good day - no major

pain. I think I'll ask my Surgeon about that Myprodol. I need a

good pain killer that I can take and still function on.

The Tylenol takes the edge of - sorta kinda - but I think I need

something stronger.

I'm tingling and stuff too. It's strange how it happens out of

nowhere and is in random place. I'm just hopeful that it means

feeling will eventually come back. I'm numb from my lower eyelids to

my chin!

Work wasn't too bad. Everyone has been supportive and I've been

taking it easy. Next week will be the real challenge as it will be a

full week for me.

Take care,

Carol

> > > > Tarryn,

> > > > Gosh, what a long day you had! At least the

> > > actual " appointment "

> > > > was only 5 minutes.

> > > > I had a situation after my first surgery (upper) where my PCP

> > > pressed

> > > > against my sinus' relating to a cold that I had. I almost

> > fainted

> > > > and screamed loudly enough to scare her! At first I was

> thinking

> > > > what an idiot she was and didn't she know anything and I

can't

> > > > believe she just did that ... but then I realized that

> > > Orthognathic

> > > > Surgery may not be a very well understood field within the

> world

> > > of

> > > > a " normal " MD. So, I cut her some slack. At least I know

> that

> > > after

> > > > I explained it to her - she never did that to anyone else!

> > > > So, my long story is simply to let you know that I understand

> all

> > > > about the poking you went through. I hope you're feeling ok,

> > > now.

> > > > I've often heard/read stories where someones Orthodontist and

> > > Surgeon

> > > > disagree. I'd be interested to know what your Surgeon says

> about

> > > the

> > > > reorganizing of your bands. I've been lucky, I guess, in

that

> my

> > > > Doctors always seem to be on the same page. <shrug>

> > > > Take care,

> > > > Carol

[Guest guest]

Carol,

I'm also numb from my chin to just under my eyes, and the funniest

thing happened the other day: I got this twitch just below my left

eye that felt exactly like some insect had landed there! So there I

am, franticly trying to brush away this non-existing insect from my

face - it was very funny.

I will definitely tell you all about the wire removal when it

happens.

Best of luck for work this week!

Tarryn

> > > > > Tarryn,

> > > > > Gosh, what a long day you had! At least the

> > > > actual " appointment "

> > > > > was only 5 minutes.

> > > > > I had a situation after my first surgery (upper) where my

PCP

> > > > pressed

> > > > > against my sinus' relating to a cold that I had. I almost

> > > fainted

> > > > > and screamed loudly enough to scare her! At first I was

> > thinking

> > > > > what an idiot she was and didn't she know anything and I

> can't

> > > > > believe she just did that ... but then I realized that

> > > > Orthognathic

> > > > > Surgery may not be a very well understood field within the

> > world

> > > > of

> > > > > a " normal " MD. So, I cut her some slack. At least I know

> > that

> > > > after

> > > > > I explained it to her - she never did that to anyone

else!

> > > > > So, my long story is simply to let you know that I

understand

> > all

> > > > > about the poking you went through. I hope you're feeling

ok,

> > > > now.

> > > > > I've often heard/read stories where someones Orthodontist

and

> > > > Surgeon

> > > > > disagree. I'd be interested to know what your Surgeon

says

> > about

> > > > the

> > > > > reorganizing of your bands. I've been lucky, I guess, in

> that

> > my

> > > > > Doctors always seem to be on the same page. <shrug>

> > > > > Take care,

> > > > > Carol