Cardiologist appointment update

October 21... that's the big day.

Until then, I have long-acting nitroglycerin tablets to take twice a day.

For two days before the procedure, the day of, and for two days after I cannot take my gloucophage because of how it interacts with the contrast material and my kidneys. OK, I can handle that.

I'm allergic to Betadine, so I have to be pre-medicated with allergy medication. The day before, I have to take two Prednisone at 8am, 2pm, and 10pm and 50mg Benadryl at the same time; at 6am on the morning of, I take two more Prednisone and 50mg Benadryl. The Benadryl "may cause drowsiness" so they don't recommend that I drive - but the Prednisone may cause insomnia so it may be a wash. I may be up all night Wednesday night, or I may be asleep at my desk all day. Oh joy... did I mention that Prednisone will raise my blood sugar? And, I can't take my main oral medication? Good thing I am a very controlled diabetic.

The doc wasn't overly concerned (I mean - he didn't say stuff like go home, put your feet up, and do nothing) but he was concerned enough to suggest I take the nitro every day until the day of the procedure. He doesn't know what he's going to find but I guess he wants to err on the side of caution instead of not giving me something and then finding out that I needed it.

Ron says he'll go sit at the hospital with me, but that doesn't sound very easy on him. He can't be my driver but I can drive up there in the morning, with him as my passenger. I don't know - maybe that would work. Amy and/or Keith could come over in the afternoon and drive us home.

I've got a week to figure it out. I'm not stressing. I think I'll start taking the 50mg of Benadryl at night tonight.