... who feels that removing the spleen is probably the right thing to do considering its size and the drop in hgb. However, you're right, and I think a second opinion will be in the offing. ... (25 replies)

... cm to 19 cm and what relation to the medication have you noticed the changes meaning how long into you're medication befor the swelling started and the sudden drop in hemoglobin ? ... (25 replies)

... started taking Viread. SInce I work as a social worker in a large trauma center, it is relatively easy to track my lab work and what I am discovering is that my hemoglobin has dropped steadily sicne last May. It was then 13.2 and now is 6.6. I was transfused in November which brought it to 9.0. ... (25 replies)

... each time they draw blood there is a tendency for our hemoglobin to drop one point. So, the less blood draws the more stable the hemoglobin. ... (4 replies)

... Numbers and percentages don't always match because one catagory on white blood cell may rise up more than usual and drop down the percentage of another . ... (10 replies)

... I have had a significant drop in hemoglobin. In Feb of this year it was at 6.6. I saw a hematologist who recommended that I be transfused with two units and be infused with Iron. ... (6 replies)

... OK, so I went to PCP this morning and he seems in agreement that the spleen should be removed. "Major surgery," he said. After running down some names of surgeons I have made an appointment with one for next week. I am going to post the question on the board about people who have undergone this surgery to see if others have and what they've had to deal with. Keep in touch. CS (25 replies)

... LS will write more this evening. Thanks for the questions which I will take with me to my drs. appointment this morning. Talk to you later CS (25 replies)

... Another thought ....... Prime rib Ah' jus baked potato extra extra soure cream and chives and corn o'brian Hmmmmm time to make a trip to the outback steakhouse ........ :) (25 replies)

... Yes that is very true a damaged spleen can lead to all sorts of problems . Once again not to scare tge hell out of you. The spleen serves many functions it holds and also filters the blood ect.... As I'm sure you're reading up on so I won't get into spleen function . My concern is . Is there a chance the swelling will ever go down meaning ( can it be saved) Hiv patients... (25 replies)

... Here's the deal: I spent some time at work (still here) searching the internet re: splenectomies and also as it relates to HIV. As best I can determine at this time, living without a spleen may be better than living with a damaged one (like being alone is sometimes better than having a roomate). I'll see the PCP in the morning and hopefully get through the thirty or forty... (25 replies)

... Haha some times I even sleep :) Well that's why you need to get all the facts 1) will you need to be on other medications? 2)at rate is you're spleen enlarging ? 3)is there a chance of saving it with medications and would they need to be permanent? 4) how much wood could a woodchuck chuck:) Well it sounds like you're running a bit of a maze but you're getting educated on... (25 replies)

... LS: OK, so now I have to discard the paper plates and plastic cuttlery. Anyway, each day is filled with new things unfolding - will my hgb remain up? Will my spleen eviscerate through my abdomen? When is a runny nose not a runny nose? Ah, the sweet joys of anticipation! And, the hell are you doing up at 4 a.m. CS (25 replies)

... Don't forget the gold plated flatware and crystal glasses ..............:) (25 replies)

... That does make a lot of sense and chances are you probably know a few from working ther so that would help you feel a bit more comfortable . I think its a great thing what you do in the trama center also and what you also do here (MY HATS OFF TO YOU) ;) Have a great day and I hope to here from you soon :) .......... Lost spirit ............. (25 replies)

... LS: NO doubt about it..the New York Strip is on me! ANyway, here's what I did today. SInce I work in a major trauma center (have been for the past 11 yrs) I started asking physicians, pastoral care personnel, nurses, etc. about surgeons. So far, the only one that made any sense is the ARNP who suggested that I use one of our trauma surgeons becuase trauma surgeons remove... (25 replies)

... If you're buying ;) (25 replies)

... you crack me up:) Good to hear from you again and the dining room table would be a bit messy don't you think? And yes they do come in pill form . I take them to help with my many problems . Hospitals , shopping centers all germ factories and it is wise to avoid them if its not of great need to go there . Once again it is good to hear from you and I'm glad all is going... (25 replies)

... Dear LS: "reshie mushrooms?" Does this come in a pill form, powder, or can I saute them over a New York strip? Seriously, thanks for your message...I have an appointment with my PCP on Wednesday and not with my hematologist until May 05. I have a surgeon friend in North Carolina that I will probably be in contact with about the possibility of surgery. However, since I work... (25 replies)

... I'm glad you're feeling better and I hope the iron pumps you up even more it is truley amazing how quickly the body can bounce back . I'm not into magical potions (LOL) :) but I've found that reshie mushroom has been very useful in restoring vitality after about 2 weeks of (PILL POPPING) :) I don't belive in magic bullet cures but a little natural help never hurt. I can't... (25 replies)