One less thing

 I started putting some pieces together in my mind regarding how I have been feeling in recent weeks.

Compelled to go to bed before it was dark out, and sleeping/staying in bed for 10 or 11 hours.  No stamina at all for exercise.  Feeling light headed when I stand up.

My doctor also noticed that my heart rate has been running higher than normal.

Then I thought about the fact that I was put on a blood pressure lowering beta blocker two and a half years (or so) ago, when the Enhertu chemo caused heart issues.

I have not had an Enhertu treatment since July, but was still taking this medication on a daily basis.

I started measuring my blood pressure and heart rate every day, and the pressure was low, pretty consistently, and the heart rate was elevated.

After failing to find my cardiologist's information in My Chart (maybe he moved or retired), I did some research on the medication, and YES, being on a beta blocker un-necessarily could cause all of these symptoms.

SO, I wrote a message to my oncologist's office, and the response was immediate and simple... YES, stop taking the beta blocker, and monitor your blood pressure and heart rate daily until we see you for your next appointment.

I stopped the medication, since I was only taking 12.5 mg per day, but my heart rate sky rocketed, so I did some additional research, and learned that it's bad to stop taking the medication all at once.

My oncology nurse/PA probably didn't KNOW that, so it wasn't specified in their response to my inquiry.

Fortunately, the tablets are really easy to cut with a sharp knife, so, for a few days, I took half of my normal dose, and my pressure and heart rate have been fine.

Today, I will try going without that 6 mg, and see where we are.  It will be nice to have one less thing!!

In the meantime, my lack of exercise is catching up with me, but I am determined to get back on track, one way or another.

I have a new pair of walking shoes on order, and have been doing my yoga and physical therapy exercises almost daily (took yesterday off), to stay ahead of the pain and stiffness..... I'll get moving again soon!

Especially if the weather cools down.... please??

In other news, members of my family are gathering today, in Iowa City, to lay my Aunt Janet to rest.  She passed a few months ago, at the age of 96.

I am very grateful that some of us could be there.  The funeral is today, and the interment of ashes is tomorrow.

It's very cool that the church in Iowa City has the same name as the one she grew up in, (as did we all), in Wheaton, IL.... Trinity Episcopal.  

Nothing much else to report on..... I will see my oncologist on the 9th just for a check in.  My scans aren't until November 5th, so we will just continue as we are now, on a "break" from chemo until further notice.

I will still receive my bone treatment every 8 weeks, as mentioned before.... which also accomplishes the required flushing of my port.

In the meantime, I am trying my best to stay hydrated and nourished.

Have a lovely week!