Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Towards the end of February I attended a special bloggers' event via Zoom about Wolvit Biotin. I like events like this because aside from being able to interact with other people from the comforts of my home (although I really, really miss going out), I also get to learn a lot! A guest dermatologist, Dr. Angela Tomacruz-Cumagun, called in and discussed facts about and causes of as well as ways to treat it.
I have been taking Wolvit Biotin every day for more than a month now, and here is my review.
Having a healthy amount of biotin is associated with having glossy hair, glowing skin, and sturdy and beautiful nails. Because of its benefits, Biotin is usually regarded as Vitamin H. If you are not getting enough biotin, you may experience hair loss, scaly red skin rashes, and/ or brittle nails.
Wolvit (Biotin 5mg) is a B-vitamin supplement that promises to rejuvenate the skin by hydrating and moisturizing it from within, strengthen hair shaft and restore hair texture, and help thicken nail cuticles and prevent breakage. It is advisable for adult men and women.
I have thick hair but the amount of fallen hair that I see when I vacuum is a bit concerning. I think I need a hair cut since my hair might be too heavy for my scalp already, but I am too scared to go out and visit a salon because of the rising Covid-19 cases. It has been a year since my Mom cut my hair and because I moved out last January, there's no one to do it for me here and I'm still collating the courage to do it myself.
Another problem I've been having is the insistence of gray/ white hairs to show up. I'm always reminded of that scene in Sex and the City when Samantha said that when you take one out, another ten attends its funeral. I actually asked Dr. Angela if Wolvit Biotin will help my premature gray hair, but sadly she said no, it will not. My only hope is that if it helps lessen my hair fall, then a new gray hair will not grow on its place.
I looked forward to seeing the results but since I've only been taking it for a month, it is understandable that I will not see visible results yet ALTHOUGH these days I do not need to vacuum as much, so I think it helped contribute to that. I am very happy to report to you though, dear reader, that my nails are so much stronger now and they do not chip anymore!
The biggest proof that it worked for me is when I had a mini accident about two weeks ago --- I was trying to open an air-tight container and my fingers slipped. I shrieked in pain as it hurt so much, dreading to look at my fingernails because I was positive it had split. True enough, the side of my index finger where the nail meets the finger was bleeding, but my finger nail was intact! It did not split at all even when it received the brunt of the impact!
This gave me the confidence to wear nail polish again. I like seeing pretty colors when I tap tap tap on my keyboard, but seeing chipped and broken nails immediately after applying nail polish is disheartening. Now that I do not have brittle nails anymore, I went ahead and bought new nail polish bottles!
Now you’re probably already getting the daily recommended amount of biotin from the food you eat like meat and poultry, fish like salmon and tuna, dairy, fruits and vegetables, grains, and whole wheat, but if you’d like to increase your intake, you can add more biotin-rich foods into your diet OR you can take over-the-counter biotin supplements like Wolvit (Biotin 5 mg). Take at least one or two tablets of 5,000 micrograms a day (5 mg) every day before a meal.
Wolvit Biotin is unlikely to cause side effects and is generally safe for pregnant and lactating moms and those with hypertension or diabetes, but caution must be applied. Please consult with your doctor first before taking any kind of supplement.
However, if you are experiencing more severe hair loss, male pattern baldness, or alopecia, it is recommended that you see your doctor first so they can diagnose the root causes properly and give you the treatment you need.
Wolvit (Biotin 5mg) is at P225 for a of 30 and you can find it at pharmacy counters of Mercury Drug, Watsons, Southstar Drug, St. Joseph, Curamed, St Joseph, All Day Rx, Sure Rx, and other leading drugstores nationwide. If you do not want to go out, you can also buy online via Watsons Online Store, Mercury Drug Gamot Padala, Southstar Drug Online, or have them delivered via Lazada or Shopee. Alternatively you may also call for delivery through their retail partner (02)86314242 for home delivery. Contact Anne at 0917-5561407 / 0922-8552936 or Glyza at 0917-8392008 From 7am to 4pm/ Mondays to Fridays (Orders can be made through COD or bank deposit).
As for me I will continue taking Wolvit Biotin every day. I haven't accepted my graying hair completely yet, but one of these days I'll get there. :)
One of the things I am most excited about moving to this new place is my spacious balcony. I have already filled a quarter of it with plants, while I am hoping to also utilize some of the space for working out. I brought my yoga mat here and bought a new set of skipping ropes, I just really need to make time for it.
Along with these workout items, I also took my workout wardrobe out from storage. If you are looking to refresh your workout wardrobe in time for the summer, you may see suggestions below.
SPORTS BRA
When you're running, training, or doing yoga poses your chest can get in the way. In some cases this is nothing more than a minor distraction but it can start to hurt, especially if you're jogging, running, or playing a contact sport. This is why you need one or two sports bras in your workout wardrobe. They keep your chest flat and under control during sporting activities and allow you to concentrate on your performance. Don't be without this essential item. Sports bras also make excellent pambahay clothes especially when it's extra hot and humid.
LEGGINGS WITH POCKETS
Leggings are perfect for all kinds of workout activities. They fit snuggly to your legs and give you a wide range of movement and plenty of options for flexibility. The trouble is they don't have any pockets which can be inconvenient. When you go for a run or an outdoor yoga session there is nowhere to store your media device or earphones. However, if you include some leggings with pockets in your workout wardrobe you can still listen to podcasts or yoga workout routines on the go.
WOMAN'S TREE RUNNERS
This summer you need a pair of light breathable training shoes in your workout wardrobe. However, you also want a pair that are cruelty free and ethically produced. There is no longer any excuse not to go for a pair of cruelty free training shoes. The Woman's Tree Runners from Allbird get it right when it comes to integrating the requirements of a modern running shoe. These shoes are made from tree fibers and are ethically produced. They are light, breathable and feel more like socks.
BACKLESS TOPS
Backless tops are usually made from light cotton. They have a wide neckline and a U-shaped bare back that's usually decorated with lace or ties. Backless tops make excellent workout gear, especially for yoga and strength training. The reason you want some Backless tops in your workout wardrobe is because of what they can offer. These tops are light and flexible, they give you a good range of motion and keep you cool which complements your workout and boosts your performance.
LOOSE YOGA PANTS
When it comes to yoga pants you have two options, you can have tight ones or loose ones. Both have pros and cons and in the end it comes down to preference, but loose yoga pants give you an added option in your workout wardrobe. If its a very hot day and you have a workout scheduled you might want to opt for pants that are a bit looser and more breathable. That's where the loose yoga pants come in. They are super easy to wear and train in and they cool you down.
Do you have a workout wardrobe? :)
Aside from being a shopping directory and enabler group, my Animal Crossing group chat with my friends from the blogging community has become an invaluable support group this pandemic. Late last week, Ashley mentioned Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and it was a complete eye opener for me.
According to WomensHealth, PMDD is a condition similar to PMS that also happens in the week or two before your period starts as hormone levels begin to fall after ovulation. PMDD causes more severe symptoms than PMS, including severe depression, irritability, and tension, and affects up to 5% of women of childbearing age. Symptoms of PMDD include:
- Lasting irritability or anger that may affect other people
- Feelings of sadness or despair, or even thoughts of suicide
- Feelings of tension or anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Mood swings or crying often
- Lack of interest in daily activities and relationships
- Trouble thinking or focusing
- Tiredness or low energy
- Food cravings or binge eating
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling out of control
- Physical symptoms, such as cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and joint or muscle pain
This weekend coincided with the end of my ovulation period as tracked by Clue, the menstrual tracking app I use, and boom, all symptoms happened to me, as they do every month. I just didn't know about it before and chalked everything up to good ol' PMS.
- Lasting irritability or anger that may affect other people - Yes. And then, after it has subsided, I will feel guilty and ashamed and wonder why I let myself be that angry.
- Feelings of sadness or despair, or even thoughts of suicide - Yes. I have never had suicidal thoughts, but this weekend I kept wondering about the sweet relief of death.
- Feelings of tension or anxiety - Yes. Last night I went to bed at 9:30 PM but finally fell asleep at 4 AM, and all that time was spent tossing and turning, overthinking.
- Panic attacks - Yes. My heartbeat started skipping again, but I thought it was GERD again.
- Mood swings or crying often - I spent the weekend crying. I woke up around noon today and ate lunch while crying.
- Lack of interest in daily activities and relationships - Yes. I am a serial hobbyist by nature and I can't help but think this might have something to do with it. It has also put a strain on my relationship because of my insistent need to bring up past issues and feel unloved.
- Trouble thinking or focusing - Yes. I tried to read a book but I stopped when I realized I had been rereading the same paragraph for the last five minutes.
- Tiredness or low energy - Yes. I spent the whole day in bed today and didn't even glance at my phone until 3 PM.
- Food cravings or binge eating - Yes.
- Trouble sleeping - Yes. See Feelings of tension or anxiety.
- Feeling out of control - Yes.
- Physical symptoms, such as cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and joint or muscle pain - Yes. I haven't been able to move my right arm properly since around 4 PM today.
I took pills when I was being treated for my myoma and I remember having terrible mood swings then but this is a completely different level. I have been called emotional and dramatic a lot of times and it hurts because it makes it seem like I am just playing it up. It's so easy for some people to tell me to relax as if it's the last thing I want to do. I did not ask for these internal turmoils. I did not ask for my brain to remind me constantly of all the things that are wrong with me.
After checking the symptoms above and wondering if you may have it, I suggest booking an appointment with your doctor so you can get proper diagnosis and prescription, if necessary. PMDD is scary and confusing, but there is a solution. These articles also helped me:
- Should Severe Premenstrual Symptoms Be A Mental Disorder?
- PMDD Almost Ruined My Life Before I Found out What It Was
- PMS Vs PMDD: What You Need To Know For Your Monthly Mental Health
I have not been diagnosed yet but I am pretty sure I have it judging from this list of symptoms and the set of questions shared by our friend who may also have it. Knowing is winning half the battle, so tomorrow I will schedule a tele-consultation to be properly diagnosed and prescribed medical advice and/ or medication. It hasn't affected my work, at least not yet, because the last thing I want is to burden my workmates with unnecessary work. I am thankful for my support group and the people in my life who stick around even when I am at my most vulnerable and unloveable.
I have been wanting to switch to a menstrual cup for some time now because of couple of reasons: I'd like to help lessen my waste and at the same time save money by eliminating the need for disposable pads and tampons. Also, ever since I had a myomectomy I became more conscious of my reproductive health, and I have heard horror stories about raw materials used in sanitary napkins that can't be good down there. My friend Alex is a new menstrual cup advocate and influenced my decision to finally go for it.
When I chanced upon the Anytime Menstrual Cup being offered on sale in BeautyMNL, I decided to go ahead and purchase one. It took me a while to decide on the size to get and I had to answer an online quiz to see what is best for me (although it wasn't that helpful because I don't know how to check if I have a high cervix) but I needn't worry about that because only Size 2 was available, LOL. Anyway, the description says Size 2 is for women 30 and above, so I thought I'll just take my chance since it's being sold at half the original price. I bit the bullet, bought it, and patiently waited.
My package arrived after two days.
It's pretty straightforward: inside the box you get the medical grade silicone menstrual cup sealed in a plastic bag, an instruction manual, and a pouch for safe-keeping. I'm not entirely sure if there's a difference in the size between this and Size 1 as I didn't see a photo nor infographic comparing the two, or if Size 1 is a bit thinner and softer, but I found the mouth of the menstrual cup I got to be thicker than the ones used in online tutorials, and looked a bit more difficult to fold.
I have been reading up a lot on menstrual cups and watching a lot of tutorials before today, and aside from first-hand tips from friends, this is the video I found most helpful:
I couldn't delay it any longer; it was getting late, I'm on the 3rd day of my period, and I needed to get on it. It's currently past midnight but I'm so psyched I don't think I would be able to sleep before writing about this. Indulge me and let me give you a blow-by-blow account of the past hour.
22:45 - I started boiling water to sterilize my menstrual cup with.
22:50 - I put my menstrual cup on the boiling water and let it sterilize for five minutes.
23:00 - As per the instructions in the video, I washed the cup with a mild cleanser and warm water.
23:03 - Stripped down to just my bra in the shower, I went to work. I squatted, tried the U-shaped fold and... Nothing happened.
23:25 - I tried squatting on the floor, I tried sitting on the toilet, I tried standing up, I tried many different kinds of folds, still nothing happened. It was getting a bit bloody. I started praying to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Roman goddess Venus.
23:30 - I shouted through the bathroom door for my boyfriend to bring me a mirror. Maybe it would be better if I could see?
23:45 - The bra has come off at this point. I could see in the mirror and I still couldn't do it. There were instances when I could put it halfway in but I would feel my muscles tense and I couldn't put the rest of it in anymore, and it HURT. I started remembering previous fights my boyfriend and I had. I started seeing patterns on the bathroom tiles I have never noticed before. I started getting anxious about the coming year as well as the choices I have made in life that brought me here, to this specific moment, and tears may or may not have fallen. I prayed to St. Anthony de Padua and all the other angels and saints.
23:51 - The spirit is willing but the body is weak. Squatting on the floor, feeling frustrated and alone with just my menstrual cup in a 7-shaped fold as company, I got ready to give up but for the heck of it I tried again and I swear without thinking about it I started to stand up and : POP : I wasn't holding the 7-shaped menstrual cup anymore? Instead I am seeing just the stem jutting out. I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT BECAUSE I WAS SO AMAZED?
And that is how I was able to put my menstrual cup in after just 51 minutes.
You think that was difficult? You should have been there when I tried using a tampon for the first time. I literally had people on the other side of the bathroom door shouting encouragements at me. Yes. It was during a beauty event out of town and I suddenly got my period but thankfully I brought a tampon with me because I brought my swimsuit that day and I really wanted to take a dip.
It wasn't immediately A+ perfect, though. I had to poke around for a bit because I felt it was still folded inside and hasn't completely assumed the proper shape of a menstrual cup, which proved to be challenging because yikes, I haven't trimmed my nails for more than a week. (Note to self: clip nails tomorrow.) After a few minutes poking around and adjusting, I believe it is now secure and firmly in place. I still wore a liner though, just on my first time of using it, in case I didn't put it correctly and I get leaks.
Additional trivia that I don't think will be of use to you: I know the menstrual cup can't get lost inside me but I still needed to check the stem a couple of times and ensure I can easily pull it out, heh.
I believe I would purchase another one, in Size 1, to see if it's the better fit for me. But right now I can say that it hasn't even been three hours yet but I think I am now the newest menstrual cup convert and advocate! Hooray to not needing disposable feminine pads again!
It is half past 1 AM and I shall go to sleep soundly knowing I was able to succeed in the mission I set for myself.
Are you a menstrual cup convert? How was your experience? OR are you looking to switch to a menstrual cup? Let me know how it goes! Good luck!
I wasn't able to post my weekly Currently for this week but I think I can be forgiven. After all, I just spent four days in the hospital and was only able to go home yesterday. Yes, I am alive and I am at home now, recuperating after my open surgery to remove my myomas.
(˶◡‿◡)
I guess I've always known this, but I never realized how many people care for me until messages of concern, support, and encouragement poured in after I posted about my operation. I had so many people praying for me, and I feel so blessed and humbled.
Now I'd like to share my story in the hopes I might help someone who's going through the same. As I shared on my previous post, my Mama and I together with my boyfriend went to ManilaMed on Monday afternoon so I can be already be confined in preparation for my Tuesday 8:30 AM operation. I really wanted to treat it as a vacation that I even brought facial masks so my Mom and I can relax and bond the night prior, so I was definitely not expecting to be given the dextrose so early and for nurses and doctors to do their rounds every hour! At around 10 PM, I was given an enema, and by midnight I wasn't allowed to eat or drink anything anymore.
Tuesday, the day of the operation, came. I was up by 6 AM and was wheeled out by 7:30 AM. My boyfriend, bless him, did not go to work so he could see me and wait while the surgery was being done. I was crying when they wheeled me in the operating room but my sweet and nice anesthesiologist, Dr. Vanni Cristi, gave me a shot to calm me down. I don't actually remember much from the operation because everything seemed hazy since, like the overhead lights were transformed to a huge kaleidoscope and I was just lying there, astonished by it. I don't even remember being given the anesthesia. I drifted in and out of consciousness and there was a cover that prevented me from seeing what was being done to me but I could see the reflection from the overhead lights. I get squeamish when I see blood and innards but I guess the shot they gave me was really good because I felt calm and collected all throughout the operation, drifting off when Dr. Cristi notices I'm awake and says I should sleep.
When I came to and heard it was done and the operation was successful, I remember wanting to ask if it was a boy or a girl, and then I realized I didn't actually give birth.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The doctors removed not four, not six (as displayed by my latest TVS ultrasound results), but eleven myomas! Eleven! Holy freaking mammals. @_@
I'm thankful to my doctors especially Dr. Margaret Joyce Cristi Limson and Dr. Luisa Mangubat, anesthesiologist, nurses, and staff in ManilaMed. Service is really A+++ and I can't recommend the hospital enough. I'm thankful to my family especially my Mom and Dad and my boyfriend J for taking care of me. I'm thankful to my bosses and for our health card, without which my bill (from the consultations to the lab tests to the operation itself) would've been ginormous and I would've needed to leave one of my kidneys for collateral LOL. I once took my health card for granted because I never had a need for it, until this happened. I'm thankful to my friends Michael and Niel and Tita Mary who visited me in the hospital. I'm thankful to Tita Judy for sending so many goodies. I'm thankful to my officemates and friends who constantly check up on me and everyone who sent me encouraging messages and prayed for me. And of course I'm thankful to God for blessing the hands of my doctors and for giving my reproductive health a new lease on being able to give life (in case we choose to, in the future).
Right now everything still hurts and it's a struggle for me to stand up and walk, and I'm looking forward to full recovery. I'm currently on a long break from work, and I'm aiming to use this time to do things that feed my soul, as per the advice of my boss Celine.
I spent almost 20 years of my life thinking my prolonged periods and very painful cramps are normal, #justgirlythings, and it wasn't until I got asked almost every day by people (sometimes even strangers) if I were pregnant that I decided to do something about it and get checked. I wouldn't have undergone the surgery if those myomas didn't pose a risk for my viability to have a baby in the future, but I didn't want to not have that choice someday. Seeing them after my operation, I realized it couldn't have been good to have those inside me. I'm happy and thankful they're gone and that I can now relax knowing that my uterus and tubes are safe and healthy.
My belly now has a tiny bikini cut, but my heart is full and my uterus is devoid of myomas. Thank you.
Awareness is best, if you're experiencing very heavy and prolonged periods and intolerable cramps, I suggest that you see your doctor. ♡
(˶◡‿◡)
I guess I've always known this, but I never realized how many people care for me until messages of concern, support, and encouragement poured in after I posted about my operation. I had so many people praying for me, and I feel so blessed and humbled.
Now I'd like to share my story in the hopes I might help someone who's going through the same. As I shared on my previous post, my Mama and I together with my boyfriend went to ManilaMed on Monday afternoon so I can be already be confined in preparation for my Tuesday 8:30 AM operation. I really wanted to treat it as a vacation that I even brought facial masks so my Mom and I can relax and bond the night prior, so I was definitely not expecting to be given the dextrose so early and for nurses and doctors to do their rounds every hour! At around 10 PM, I was given an enema, and by midnight I wasn't allowed to eat or drink anything anymore.
Tuesday, the day of the operation, came. I was up by 6 AM and was wheeled out by 7:30 AM. My boyfriend, bless him, did not go to work so he could see me and wait while the surgery was being done. I was crying when they wheeled me in the operating room but my sweet and nice anesthesiologist, Dr. Vanni Cristi, gave me a shot to calm me down. I don't actually remember much from the operation because everything seemed hazy since, like the overhead lights were transformed to a huge kaleidoscope and I was just lying there, astonished by it. I don't even remember being given the anesthesia. I drifted in and out of consciousness and there was a cover that prevented me from seeing what was being done to me but I could see the reflection from the overhead lights. I get squeamish when I see blood and innards but I guess the shot they gave me was really good because I felt calm and collected all throughout the operation, drifting off when Dr. Cristi notices I'm awake and says I should sleep.
When I came to and heard it was done and the operation was successful, I remember wanting to ask if it was a boy or a girl, and then I realized I didn't actually give birth.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The doctors removed not four, not six (as displayed by my latest TVS ultrasound results), but eleven myomas! Eleven! Holy freaking mammals. @_@
I'm thankful to my doctors especially Dr. Margaret Joyce Cristi Limson and Dr. Luisa Mangubat, anesthesiologist, nurses, and staff in ManilaMed. Service is really A+++ and I can't recommend the hospital enough. I'm thankful to my family especially my Mom and Dad and my boyfriend J for taking care of me. I'm thankful to my bosses and for our health card, without which my bill (from the consultations to the lab tests to the operation itself) would've been ginormous and I would've needed to leave one of my kidneys for collateral LOL. I once took my health card for granted because I never had a need for it, until this happened. I'm thankful to my friends Michael and Niel and Tita Mary who visited me in the hospital. I'm thankful to Tita Judy for sending so many goodies. I'm thankful to my officemates and friends who constantly check up on me and everyone who sent me encouraging messages and prayed for me. And of course I'm thankful to God for blessing the hands of my doctors and for giving my reproductive health a new lease on being able to give life (in case we choose to, in the future).
Right now everything still hurts and it's a struggle for me to stand up and walk, and I'm looking forward to full recovery. I'm currently on a long break from work, and I'm aiming to use this time to do things that feed my soul, as per the advice of my boss Celine.
I spent almost 20 years of my life thinking my prolonged periods and very painful cramps are normal, #justgirlythings, and it wasn't until I got asked almost every day by people (sometimes even strangers) if I were pregnant that I decided to do something about it and get checked. I wouldn't have undergone the surgery if those myomas didn't pose a risk for my viability to have a baby in the future, but I didn't want to not have that choice someday. Seeing them after my operation, I realized it couldn't have been good to have those inside me. I'm happy and thankful they're gone and that I can now relax knowing that my uterus and tubes are safe and healthy.
My belly now has a tiny bikini cut, but my heart is full and my uterus is devoid of myomas. Thank you.
Awareness is best, if you're experiencing very heavy and prolonged periods and intolerable cramps, I suggest that you see your doctor. ♡
As you may be aware, I, together with my doctors and supported by my boyfriend and our respective families, have been trying to shrink the myomas I was diagnosed to have since May of last year. Unfortunately, three of the original four got even bigger and added two more nasty, needless, useless nuisances into the fold.
My doctors suggested it was time to bring in the big guns, metaphorically, and operate on me before they get even bigger and pose greater risks for me and my future baby in the event my future husband and I decide to have kids someday.
The operation is scheduled for tomorrow morning, and I am due to be confined this afternoon. This sounds strange and wildly inappropriate, but I feel oddly excited for the prospect of being confined in the hospital. Look on the bright side, yes? Well I’m treating it as a vacation. I am thankful to my bosses for being supportive of my need to take a long break from work while my body recovers, and I am looking forward to getting rid of and not worrying about these nuisances anymore.
Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
I will write here again as soon as I can.
(˶◡‿◡)
(˶◡‿◡)
Being a woman is hard enough without all the things we deal with. I feel like if only men knew what we go through on a monthly basis, then it will be easier for us all to get along. And that, folks, is how we will achieve world peace.
A few months ago I wrote about my myoma and how it affects me. My OB first prescribed a brand of birth control pills that made me break out and feel like the whole world is against me. It was definitely a struggle. Thankfully, the second brand she prescribed agreed with me a lot better: my skin cleared up and my mood swings lessened. I gained weight, though, and I experienced bleeding.
There is never an ideal scenario when unexpected bleeding is welcome. That is why, every little helps. I wear a liner every day and I make sure I am prepared in case I get more bleeding.
I have a stash of both Whisper Cottony Clean and Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights in my office locker for myself and my officemates who might need it.
I also never leave home without it.
Here’s my favorite workbag, a Rags2Riches bag that contains my everyday work essentials: notebook and Kindle, umbrella, makeup kit, pens, pouch with my earphones and cords, powerbank, phones, ID, wallet, wipes, hair freshener spray, hand sanitizer, pouch with meds, and a pad each of Whisper Cottony Clean and Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights.
During weekend dates, casual day-outs, quick grocery runs, or when we go to church, I don’t bring my humongous bag anymore. (I bring a smaller purse instead and pray I don’t leave anything at home.) My current favorite go-to purse is this Forever21 glitter rainbow bag, where I put my wallet, phones, hand sanitizer, pen, lipsticks, lip balm, powder, brush, and a Whisper Cottony Clean pad.
Uninterrupted sleep is very important for me so Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights is perfect for making sure I sleep soundly without worrying about any leaks.
Whisper acts as an excellent partner for me to continue unlocking my potential on full speed, going after my goals, and being the best version of myself without worrying about unexpected accidents.
Thanks to Sample Room for helping me discover brand! Great news, roommates: you can also grab your FREE samples by logging in to sampleroom.ph! Be updated about available samples by following Sample Room on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
A few months ago I wrote about my myoma and how it affects me. My OB first prescribed a brand of birth control pills that made me break out and feel like the whole world is against me. It was definitely a struggle. Thankfully, the second brand she prescribed agreed with me a lot better: my skin cleared up and my mood swings lessened. I gained weight, though, and I experienced bleeding.
There is never an ideal scenario when unexpected bleeding is welcome. That is why, every little helps. I wear a liner every day and I make sure I am prepared in case I get more bleeding.
So I can be more confident to move freely, I depend on the Whisper Cottony Clean and Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights.
With their built-in blue anti-leak channels and soft cottony cover, you'll surely get protected from stains and skin irritation. But to give you a superb Whisper experience even as you sleep, here's Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights that's made softer, longer, and wider to give you stain-free nights! It'll provide an all night all around leakage protection as it has 5x more absorbency than an average pad, so you can get your worry-free and comfy #SleepGoals at night!It has now become a permanent fixture in my everyday life.
I have a stash of both Whisper Cottony Clean and Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights in my office locker for myself and my officemates who might need it.
I also never leave home without it.
Here’s my favorite workbag, a Rags2Riches bag that contains my everyday work essentials: notebook and Kindle, umbrella, makeup kit, pens, pouch with my earphones and cords, powerbank, phones, ID, wallet, wipes, hair freshener spray, hand sanitizer, pouch with meds, and a pad each of Whisper Cottony Clean and Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights.
During weekend dates, casual day-outs, quick grocery runs, or when we go to church, I don’t bring my humongous bag anymore. (I bring a smaller purse instead and pray I don’t leave anything at home.) My current favorite go-to purse is this Forever21 glitter rainbow bag, where I put my wallet, phones, hand sanitizer, pen, lipsticks, lip balm, powder, brush, and a Whisper Cottony Clean pad.
Uninterrupted sleep is very important for me so Whisper Cottony X-Long Overnights is perfect for making sure I sleep soundly without worrying about any leaks.
Whisper acts as an excellent partner for me to continue unlocking my potential on full speed, going after my goals, and being the best version of myself without worrying about unexpected accidents.
Thanks to Sample Room for helping me discover brand! Great news, roommates: you can also grab your FREE samples by logging in to sampleroom.ph! Be updated about available samples by following Sample Room on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Huh. I feel like we just welcomed the new year and now we're already halfway through.
Inconceivable.
What a packed month, this month, and I missed writing so I thought I'd do a month in review, especially since aside from celebrating our second anniversary, one of my biggest childhood dreams came true this June.
We started the month with a BANG through Oxygen X Bieber.
Oxygen continues to creatively evolve with the latest trends, especially given the worldwide resurgence of street style fashion, and I am SO PROUD to work with them. This time, the homegrown brand has done it by rolling out exclusive licensed merchandise featuring the international music icon that has taken both the music and fashion world by storm—Justin Bieber.
Models, celebrities, and Beliebers flocked to the launch of the coveted Oxygen X Bieber collection, which was unveiled in an exclusive shopping party at the SM Mega Fashion Hall. I witnessed a LOT of fans clamoring for the merchandise on the weeks leading up to the event, and it was amazing/ heartwarming to see them lining up outside hours before the mall opened even though the collection wouldn't have been available for them until 1 PM!
Released in partnership with Bravado and MCA Universal, the collection features street wear staples including pullovers, bomber jackets, coach jackets, caps, bags, and shirts that all draw inspiration from Bieber’s hit album, Purpose. I wore my Maybelline Loaded Bold Matte Lipstick in Pitch Black during the shopping party and it was a hit!
The first few days of June were also a hit for my artistic sensibilities. Featured above are mementos from a packed #BU13 and #BatCon and a Monday spent with talented artists Julienne, Mika, and Rian.
And HERE! The day I've been waiting for since I was 12 happened this month!
Not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes they sing and dance on stage and inspire you that if they can get through 2008 and look fabulous doing it, then you can get through anything. Britney Spears has been my personal hero since I was 12 years old and seeing her perform live last June 15 is definitely one of my life's highlights. The concert exceeded all my expectations and then some. I was SO HAPPY I cried on my way to work the next morning, you guys. I waited for this for so long, I'm still emotional even now.
^^ Daily reminder.
This month I also joined the #DareToShare free Instagram challenge and training by Arriane Serafico of The Purposeful Creative podcast. I had so much fun crafting my posts, interacting with the community, and meeting a lot of new people! One of my favorite posts is when I shared this vintage collection of Studio Ghibli postcards I got from a book blogger who destashed recently. So many like-minded people who share my passion for stationery inspires me to continue working to build my own stationery brand, Krissyfied Makes!
Now, as you may know, I have been diagnosed to have four myomas in my uterine wall. I started taking birth control pills to help shrink it and I've started noticing the effects: intense mood swings, spotting, and breakouts. I am hoping these are temporary though and the myomas indeed shrink, although until now the TRO against birth control pills in the country remains to be a problem. I am part of a group who seeks to lift it though and I am crossing my fingers that we get heard.
My breakouts took a toll on my self-esteem so, yay for BeautyMNL flash sale! I shopped for new skincare products (and a few extra products just because): Skin Genie Pit Perfect Whitening Deodorant Spray, Déjà Poo Pre-Poo Spray in Vanilla, In Her Element Low pH Rose Gel Cleanser, Holika Holika Shimmering Petit BB, Innisfree It's Real Squeeze Masks in Rose and Tea Tree, Esfolio Pure Skin Mask Sheets in Red Ginseng, Honey, Green Tea, Banana, and Pearl Essence, and Pink Sugar Sweet Cheeks HD Cheek Color in Paris Lights. I also got an Origins Facial Voucher as gift with purchase.
The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream smells soooo good and makes my skin super soft! The limited edition pot designed by iconic British fashion designer pair Eley Kishimoto is a pretty addition to your boudoir!
Look at this sweet face. ♥
Friday last week was pretty fun as I got to enjoy brunch at IHOP with the PR team. I love this team because everyone's so dedicated and efficient, and our work dynamics are all in sync.
Last Sunday, my boyfriend went with me to far North to celebrate my Lola's birthday.
And heyyy, I finally got the Magic Sky clip which is one of my dream PANDORA charms! It features a sun in one side and a crescent moon and a star on the other side, as shown on the photo above!
I would also like to include here how my boyfriend surprised me in the office last Wednesday. He's never the sappy surprise type so I was beyond shocked to see him there. It took a couple of seconds before it registered in my brain that it was really him, heh. And he brought me Krispy Kreme New York Cheesecake because I messaged him earlier in the day that I was craving. ♥ What a guy, this guy.
By the way! His toy group SICness.ph has an ongoing exhibit at this year's ToyCon 2017 Pop Life Fan Xperience. Go visit and check it out. :)
Sadly, I would need to include a rant here. I wish people would be a little more mindful. Here is my five-minute artwork inspired by The Little Prince, scanned and printed on canvas sticker using the Canon Pixma Ink Efficient E470 at an event earlier. I was so proud of this drawing, especially since Alessa Lanot guided us through the process. It was on top of a table in the office but I found it when I was about to go home, strewn like trash, crumpled and dirty with muddy footprints. I mean, I know it's not much since I'm not that good in drawing, but it's my artwork and I poured my all on making sure it came out the way I liked, based on the limited skills I have. I don't think I would ever know who did it but whether it happened accidentally or not, there wasn't even any attempt at all to erase or clean the dirt and/ or straighten the crumpled paper. I wish people could have more sense of responsibility. Sloppy manners, sloppy work.
I didn't want to end on a sour note especially since the photos above accompany happy anecdotes, but it happened just today so I'm still feeling pretty pissed.
That's it for June.
Inhale. Exhale.
Inhale.
Exhale.
Hello in a bit, July.
What a roller-coaster ride this week has been.
It all started when my Mama said I should probably see an OB-Gyne for my tummy. She had myoma before and had her uterus removed along with it. I've actually noticed my stomach getting bigger but I was in denial, blaming my love for sugary treats and rice and telling myself I will just exercise more. Having my mom call me out on it was a wake-up call that I could not ignore it any longer, so I took half the day off work last Tuesday to go to my first OB-Gyne appointment since I turned 30.
Hello, St. Luke's Medical Center. We meet again.
Side note: since I was there already, I figured I should also have my moles checked by a dermatologist. Because when a stranger at the mall tells you to have your moles checked if you don't want to suffer the same fate as his wife did, you go and have your moles checked. Good news: my mole at my right shoulder is completely harmless while my mole on my right leg turns out to be not a mole but a skin nodule that can be removed topically.
Back to my OB-Gyne story. The doctor performed a Pap smear on me and also ordered me to have a trans-vaginal ultrasound. Yes, both procedures were as painful as they sounded. I was comforted by the fact that I didn't have to shell out more than P10,000 for the two lab tests and the doctor's consultation fee because they were covered by our company health card. Thank you, ARC PR.
One of my character flaws is that I think too much. As expected, I spent the next couple of days agonizing over the results and dreading the worst.
When Friday finally rolled around, I used my lunch-break to go back to St. Luke's for the results.
When Friday finally rolled around, I used my lunch-break to go back to St. Luke's for the results.
Good news, I don't have cancer. Bad news, I have myoma.
I have four of them.
Four nasty, needless, useless nuisances.
Two of them are quite large while the other two are smaller, but all of them are located inside the muscles of my uterus.
The doctor's recommendation is for me to have a Laparoscopic myomectomy, a minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon accesses and removes fibroids through several small abdominal incisions. But that would cost me upwards of P300,000(!!!) so it's not an option I can just choose anytime soon, aside from the fact I wouldn't really want any apparatus messing with my reproductive system before I'm ready to get pregnant and give birth.
Her other solution is to have a Caesarean section but personally that would be even worse because aside from injecting anesthesia on my spinal cord and cutting my abdomen open to get to my uterus (I get weak in the knees just typing that down), it would take me about two months to recover from the operation. It would also take longer before my body can recover enough to be able to get pregnant and give birth.
I cried in front of the doctor, cried in my Uber on the way back to the office, cried to my officemates, cried on the way home, cried to my Mom, and cried while messaging my boyfriend and close friends.
I was so scared that I won't be able to have a baby.
I mean, I'm not ready to have a baby now but, you know, it's nice to know that I can when my partner and I decide we're ready.
I was so scared and worried and my tears wouldn't stop coming.
It was exhausting.
My boyfriend maintained a clear and rational head through all this and proposed that we see his aunt who's also an OB-Gyne for a second opinion.
Our Saturday, usually spent on a movie- or shopping-date, was spent falling in line at the hospital, waiting for our turn so her aunt doctor can see me.
After checking my lab results and asking me the necessary questions for her diagnosis, she asked that my boyfriend go in before she discuss my condition and her recommendations since she said he will just bug her about it. It was sweet. :)
Dr. Mangubat was able to clearly explain everything to us and patiently answered all our questions about my condition. She explained that a woman may develop myoma not necessarily because of her diet nor her lifestyle; it's just something that decides to pop up without any known specific causes. The good thing is I was able to have it detected early. The best part? She assured me I can still have a baby.
She enumerated all options available for me given my current state. It was a complete relief to hear her say I didn't need to have any apparatus anywhere near my uterus as she doesn't see the need to operate on me, seeing as how I don't suffer the other symptoms that require immediate surgery. What a complete joy to breathe a sigh of relief after holding my breath the rest of the week.
I'll start medication when my next cycle starts, and I'm crossing my fingers and praying to God that all goes well.
I need to stop eating a lot of my favorite foods (like ube, dried fruits, and soya, among others) but that's a minor inconvenience I'm willing to go through if it means it can help shrink these four nuisances.
My enemy now is the TRO against birth control in the Philippines, but I guess we'll cross the bridge when we get there.
Through all these, I am thankful for my family and friends and my boyfriend and his family. What are the odds that I would have this condition and then have a boyfriend whose aunt can help? We are connected by an invisible thread, and I am so thankful this intangible string of fate led us to where we were supposed to be.
I can enumerate the many instances that prove we were destined to meet, but that's another story for another day. In the meantime, I hope you can pray with me for my quick recovery. I also hope you can sign this petition to lift the TRO. I am looking forward to getting better and healthier and, God willing, being a great Mom to my future kid/s. Thank you for reading. ♥
Her other solution is to have a Caesarean section but personally that would be even worse because aside from injecting anesthesia on my spinal cord and cutting my abdomen open to get to my uterus (I get weak in the knees just typing that down), it would take me about two months to recover from the operation. It would also take longer before my body can recover enough to be able to get pregnant and give birth.
I cried in front of the doctor, cried in my Uber on the way back to the office, cried to my officemates, cried on the way home, cried to my Mom, and cried while messaging my boyfriend and close friends.
I was so scared that I won't be able to have a baby.
I mean, I'm not ready to have a baby now but, you know, it's nice to know that I can when my partner and I decide we're ready.
I was so scared and worried and my tears wouldn't stop coming.
It was exhausting.
My boyfriend maintained a clear and rational head through all this and proposed that we see his aunt who's also an OB-Gyne for a second opinion.
Our Saturday, usually spent on a movie- or shopping-date, was spent falling in line at the hospital, waiting for our turn so her aunt doctor can see me.
After checking my lab results and asking me the necessary questions for her diagnosis, she asked that my boyfriend go in before she discuss my condition and her recommendations since she said he will just bug her about it. It was sweet. :)
Dr. Mangubat was able to clearly explain everything to us and patiently answered all our questions about my condition. She explained that a woman may develop myoma not necessarily because of her diet nor her lifestyle; it's just something that decides to pop up without any known specific causes. The good thing is I was able to have it detected early. The best part? She assured me I can still have a baby.
She enumerated all options available for me given my current state. It was a complete relief to hear her say I didn't need to have any apparatus anywhere near my uterus as she doesn't see the need to operate on me, seeing as how I don't suffer the other symptoms that require immediate surgery. What a complete joy to breathe a sigh of relief after holding my breath the rest of the week.
I'll start medication when my next cycle starts, and I'm crossing my fingers and praying to God that all goes well.
I need to stop eating a lot of my favorite foods (like ube, dried fruits, and soya, among others) but that's a minor inconvenience I'm willing to go through if it means it can help shrink these four nuisances.
My enemy now is the TRO against birth control in the Philippines, but I guess we'll cross the bridge when we get there.
Through all these, I am thankful for my family and friends and my boyfriend and his family. What are the odds that I would have this condition and then have a boyfriend whose aunt can help? We are connected by an invisible thread, and I am so thankful this intangible string of fate led us to where we were supposed to be.
I can enumerate the many instances that prove we were destined to meet, but that's another story for another day. In the meantime, I hope you can pray with me for my quick recovery. I also hope you can sign this petition to lift the TRO. I am looking forward to getting better and healthier and, God willing, being a great Mom to my future kid/s. Thank you for reading. ♥
One thing I love about my job is that I can actually work anywhere so long as there's a working Internet connection. I still need to go to the office 40 hours a week though, but we are not required to go on overtime and I am almost always out of the door before 5:15 PM. That's especially helpful for me because I live far from my workplace and commuting to and from work easily eats up almost four hours of my day, every weekday.
As for my weekends, they're sacred and are spent with my boyfriend and family (and every four weeks, my orthodontist). Last Saturday, I was with Miah as usual but it was more special because it was our 17th monthsary.
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| He's not smile-y in photos but trust me, he's happy. Heh. The hoodies are my monthsary gift to him. Anyway, we were wearing our hoodies because it was cold inside New Life in Market! Market!, okay? |
17 months. Whoah. Where did all those months go?
We celebrated the occasion by attending a design workshop by industrial engineer/ inventor John Tan featuring the Vaquform he designed and getting our body weight, height, and blood pressure measured at a machine inside Mercury Drug. How romantic, right? But I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm so in love with this nerd. ♥
Meanwhile, his gift for me was the Frozen Moisturizing Matte Lippe set featuring Elsa and Anna from Happy Skin's collaboration with Disney!!!
I was really surprised as I wasn't expecting him to remember all my lipstick blah blahs, let alone visit a Happy Skin store by himself(!!!) and get me this. I was so touched and proud. *heart eyes emoji* I've already swatched them and they're GORGEOUS! I will post my review this week!
I also got myself this:
A Fitbit Charge HR in purple! I have wanted one for so long and finally saved up enough. I wanted it in black but the color's no longer available so as per Miah's recommendation I opted for the purple instead. I've only been using it for less than two days but I'm enjoying it so far. I especially like the Sleep Tracker feature! Hopefully it inspires me to take care of myself better and be in the pink of health.
In related news, I'm scheduled to go to the gastroenterologist later so we can rule out other sicknesses that might be afflicting me, as well as get helpful advice on how I can take care of myself better. I'm hopeful it will be like any other routine checkup and no diseases will be found. Kindly include me in your thoughts and prayers as I intend to live a really long life, get married, have kids, and see my dreams of having a bookstore/ cafe come to fruition.
UPDATE: I just came from the hospital and everything's normal! I just have to continue with my meds and stay away from foods the doctor cautioned me against and everything's well. :)
Take care of yourself, kids.
I've come to the point where I'm more mindful of the products I use and put on my face, especially those that might be absorbed by my body. With all the chemicals floating around in our food, in the air, and in the products we use, we can never be too careful. Environmental concerns is also an important factor; I don't purchase products in sachets anymore and instead buy products in bottles or packaging that can be upcycled. I love Human Nature because their products tick all the boxes for me: natural ingredients, innovative products, environment-friendly packaging, and affordable prices.
Long-time friends of mine and readers of this blog may remember how much I love Human Nature and patronize their products. I even had a brief stint as a reseller when I was living and working in Quezon City! I enjoyed that sideline because not only did I learn about the importance of taking care of one's self using natural ingredients, I was also able to dish helpful advice to my friends and buyers!
And so it wasn't that difficult of a decision for me to say YES when I received an email challenging me to participate in Human Nature's Sweep Challenge. This entails "sweeping" my current personal care products and using Human Nature products for seven days instead.
First I answered a questionnaire, and then they sent me a care package filled with Human Nature products I was supposed to use for seven days, handpicked according to my needs and preferences!
My Human Nature care package contained a 200ml bottle of Natural Feminine Wash in Powder Cool, a 200ml bottle of Balancing Facial Wash, a 200ml bottle of Balancing Face Toner, a 200ml bottle of Moisturizing Natural Shampoo in Mandarin Fresh, a 200ml tube of Moisturizing Natural Conditioner in Mandarin Fresh, a 200ml bottle of Natural Body Wash in Gentle Berry, a 200ml bottle of Healthy Lotion in Powder Love, and a 120g tube of Natural Toothpaste.
Here are my quick thoughts about each one as well as non-affiliate links:
I used to use the Chamomile Fresh variant but I think I like this one better because of the cooling sensation. Just make sure to use sparingly (one drop is enough!) because it can be really cool down there if you use too much. ;)
The facial wash I was using before switching to this duo is made of natural ingredients also but from a foreign company so it's a lot more expensive. I ran out of my favorite variant from the brand so I was using a different one that sadly left my face feeling and looking dull. This duo saved my skin and brightened it up again. I love the exfoliating action that didn't leave my face dry! Much recommended. Save money when you buy the bundle!
- Moisturizing Natural Shampoo and Moisturizing Natural Conditioner in Mandarin Fresh
I love Human Nature but I used to not like their hair products because the old variants didn't lather, therefore leaving me wanting and feeling like my hair wasn't clean yet. I understand it's because they don't use chemicals, but I want my lather. Good news to lather-lovers like me, this shampoo with CREAMFoam technology lathers! I love the fresh orange scent, too. I live vicariously through scents these days because I'm not allowed to eat citrus fruits. I shampoo every other day and condition every day.
- Natural Body Wash in Gentle Berry
Perfect consistency, suds up, and leaves my skin feeling clean and fragrant? No complaints on this one, except for the fact I also want to try the Sweet Orange and Rose Bouquet variants, heh.
- Healthy Lotion in Powder Bliss
I'm actually on the fence about this one. On the one hand it's very runny, but on the other hand it gets absorbed by my skin easily. I love its fresh powder scent that lasts half the day though, so I guess it's alright. I would love to try Orange Sunrise and Blossom Beauty next.
I wasn't counting much on this to be honest as the natural toothpaste I used from another brand before was just meh, but this toothpaste blew the competition out of the water. I love its fresh minty taste and smell, and how it takes care of my gums. Having braces gave me weak gums that bleed almost every time I brush my teeth, but no bleeding has happened ever since I switched to this toothpaste! I think I'll never go back to regular toothpaste.
I had fun navigating around the Human Nature's revamped website and I found a few old favorites I would love to repurchase like the Vanilla Exfoliating Bar, Lavender Mint Scented Cleansing Bar, and the Powder Fresh Deodorant Roll-on, as well as a couple of new ones I would like to try like the Cooling Leg and Body Cream, Minka Bamboo Toothbrush, and the Pore Cleansing Brush!
Breast Cancer Awareness Month may be over, but it doesn't mean we stop advocating awareness. Prevention is still better than cure so if you can avoid piling on the toxic and synthetic ingredients that enter your body through the products you use, then by all means do so. Doing the Human Nature Sweep Challenge is an excellent way to start introducing natural products (and they're legit because they're accredited by the Natural Products Association!) to your and your family's lifestyle. Rethink your pink and read up on this stuff as you never know when the information will be useful to you.
The seven days of the challenge may be over, but I'm still continuing on using these products. :)
Do you use Human Nature, too? What are your favorites?
Disclosure: I was sent products to try by Human Nature but I was not forced nor compensated for this feature. All opinions are my own. Links are non-affiliate links. You may read my blog's complete Disclosure Policy here.
I had fun navigating around the Human Nature's revamped website and I found a few old favorites I would love to repurchase like the Vanilla Exfoliating Bar, Lavender Mint Scented Cleansing Bar, and the Powder Fresh Deodorant Roll-on, as well as a couple of new ones I would like to try like the Cooling Leg and Body Cream, Minka Bamboo Toothbrush, and the Pore Cleansing Brush!
Breast Cancer Awareness Month may be over, but it doesn't mean we stop advocating awareness. Prevention is still better than cure so if you can avoid piling on the toxic and synthetic ingredients that enter your body through the products you use, then by all means do so. Doing the Human Nature Sweep Challenge is an excellent way to start introducing natural products (and they're legit because they're accredited by the Natural Products Association!) to your and your family's lifestyle. Rethink your pink and read up on this stuff as you never know when the information will be useful to you.
The seven days of the challenge may be over, but I'm still continuing on using these products. :)
Do you use Human Nature, too? What are your favorites?
Disclosure: I was sent products to try by Human Nature but I was not forced nor compensated for this feature. All opinions are my own. Links are non-affiliate links. You may read my blog's complete Disclosure Policy here.
Yesterday I rushed myself to the Emergency Room of St. Luke's Medical Center in BGC. I only meant to go home earlier than my official time-out from work but my boyfriend said to go to the hospital and so that's what I did. It was my first time to go to the Emergency Room of any hospital ever so you could just imagine how terrified I was.
Early this year, my heart started beating irregularly in that sometimes it would skip one or two beats and then go really fast that I am left out of breath. I had it checked and had ECG and Thyroid Function test done but the doctor didn't find anything unusual. She chalked it up to stress — which made sense as I was dealing with a major change then — and ordered me to stop drinking coffee and tea for a while. I did, and the palpitations stopped. It would return every now and then but not that frequently so I just ignored it.
Until it returned about two weeks ago, and it got to the point that it was too difficult to ignore. Yesterday was that point.
It started with a simple chest pain, and then as 4:00 rolled around I was full on having difficulty breathing; I was literally gasping for air. I was a total mess, panicking and tearing up and messaging my boyfriend while fixing my stuff preparing to go home and rest it off, and that was when he told me to go straight to the hospital and that he'd meet me there. Amidst helpful advice from my officemates on what I should do when I get to the hospital I booked an Uber and next scene, I was in the Emergency Room talking to the nurse while she was getting my details and checking my vital signs.
Apparently it was not a life-threatening situation as I waited for about 15 to 20 minutes more before another nurse attended to me for an ECG. I got scared again when the nurse couldn't get a proper reading even after two attempts. Was my heart condition that bad that it couldn't be read? This is modern facility with modern equipment, why wouldn't the machine work? Am I dying? We had to transfer to another room and use another machine, and finally it worked this time.
The results of the ECG were passed to the doctor and she told me neither the electrocardiogram nor the stethoscope didn't detect anything wrong with my heart.
I felt like panicking again because what could be wrong with me?
She asked some more questions which I answered as thoroughly as I can, and that was when she deduced that it has nothing to do with my heart, but my stomach.
The diagnosis was Costochondritis.
Until it returned about two weeks ago, and it got to the point that it was too difficult to ignore. Yesterday was that point.
It started with a simple chest pain, and then as 4:00 rolled around I was full on having difficulty breathing; I was literally gasping for air. I was a total mess, panicking and tearing up and messaging my boyfriend while fixing my stuff preparing to go home and rest it off, and that was when he told me to go straight to the hospital and that he'd meet me there. Amidst helpful advice from my officemates on what I should do when I get to the hospital I booked an Uber and next scene, I was in the Emergency Room talking to the nurse while she was getting my details and checking my vital signs.
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| First day back at work after the extra long weekend and now this ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ |
The results of the ECG were passed to the doctor and she told me neither the electrocardiogram nor the stethoscope didn't detect anything wrong with my heart.
I felt like panicking again because what could be wrong with me?
She asked some more questions which I answered as thoroughly as I can, and that was when she deduced that it has nothing to do with my heart, but my stomach.
The diagnosis was Costochondritis.
I was administered an antacid and a painkiller intravenously. It was the first time I experienced something like it, and it's something I wouldn't want to go through again simply because it was weird and disconcerting having a needle inserted into my vein for that long.
Aside from medicines, I was prescribed to avoid skipping meals, cigarettes (not a problem because I don't smoke), alcohol (not a problem because I don't drink), coffee (huhu), tea (huhu), spicy food (huhu), sour food (huhu), NSAIDs medication, and activities I find stressful. It will be challenging but I can avoid caffeine and spicy and sour food, but how can I avoid stress when the nature of my job demands it? Exhibit A: I was on sick leave today but I constantly had to be on my phone to respond to messages.
Aside from medicines, I was prescribed to avoid skipping meals, cigarettes (not a problem because I don't smoke), alcohol (not a problem because I don't drink), coffee (huhu), tea (huhu), spicy food (huhu), sour food (huhu), NSAIDs medication, and activities I find stressful. It will be challenging but I can avoid caffeine and spicy and sour food, but how can I avoid stress when the nature of my job demands it? Exhibit A: I was on sick leave today but I constantly had to be on my phone to respond to messages.
So, yeah, I'm going back to work tomorrow. Thank you for your keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. Special mention to my boyfriend who (I was surprised and very touched to find out) packed an overnight bag with clothes and toiletries for me for if I get confined in the hospital, as well as my friends who asked how I was doing. It's the little things... ♥
Take care of yourself, kids.
Take care of yourself, kids.
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