Hi @yvonne55, I see that you are getting top-class support from both @merpreb and @sueinmn in this discussion as well as comments in another discussion about lung nodules https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/786637/ where you state:
"I've had "pneumonia " twice in summer. Collapsed at home in Aug. Sent home after 10 days (6 of those in ICU) and collapsed again 2 weeks later with sepsis as well as lung issue. Intubated, bronchoscopy, echocardiogram, lots of blood work, ct scans. No diagnosis. No symptoms leading up to collapsing. Drs guessing severe pneumonia or Interstitial lung disease. Healing well now, ground glass opacities are shrinking and swollen fibers shrinking. Ct done on Dec 9 saw "non specific lymph node" nearer to trachea. "
It sounds like you are in good hands and that your doctors are following you closely. I concur with Merry and Sue that you should advocate for yourself and be informed. But you also want to keep balance your stress levels and have confidence in the care you are getting.
You are healing well now. That's great. Recognize that you've been through a lot. ICU is a scary experience and you may be experiencing post intensive care syndrome (PICS). PICS is defined as new or worse health problems after critical illness. These problems can affect your mind, body, thoughts, and/or feelings.
You can read more about PICS in this blog
- Post Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/pics/tab/faqs/#ch-tab-navigation
- Breaking it Down: What exactly is Post Intensive Care Syndrome? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/pics/newsfeed-post/breaking-it-down-what-exactly-is-post-intensive-care-syndrome/
As you wait to see the pulmonology specialist soon, I might suggest focusing on your mental well being. Eat well. Get enough sleep. And perhaps talk to someone like a social worker. Have you asked about a social worker at the hospital where you are receiving care?
Thank you so much! I had no idea about this post intensive care syndrome! I'll look into it for sure. I can look into the social workers but I believe they only are available to current hospital patients. I'm sure they overloaded. Stress is hard to keep tabs on as I'm going thru a separation and hes a renal patient who's not been happy about helping me. I've been under much stress. And therapists have long waiting times . But thank you for your info!