Once More Unto the Breach, or Type A Rears Its Ugly Head Again

[cathschaffstump]

Hey cats and kitties.

You might remember my very vague post about guts last week. So, here's what we got. After the colonoscopy, which is, by the way a great way to lose about 4 pounds overnight. Scratch that. It's actually a really horrible way to lose 4 pounds overnight. Well, after the colonoscopy, we discovered that I have a tiny ulcer in my intestines. These are usually caused by foreign bacteria (Vietnam?), and this one is already healing, thanks probably to the foresight of Dr. Banks and some antibiotics. Several biopsies were taken, and we'll see if the weird bacteria needs another kick in the teeth. All is well. I see Dr. Qiao again in December to see how I'm doing.

So...cool. Contrary to popular belief, ulcers are not caused by stress. Which was my first fear. BUT there is this--the digestive difficulties I've been having should not have been caused by this teeny microscopic ulcer. The bacteria could play a role, if we find it. But stress does affect that sort of thing.

It occurs to me that around the stressful times of the semester (beginning and end) I have suffered some sort of digestive issues or breathing issues or anxiety issues for the last, oh five years. Not to over-dramatize (would I do that to you?), but the problems seem to be getting worse, not better. Pills manage anxiety, increased medication manages heartburn, and other issues of digestive function we sort of live with until they go away. This was by far one of the most stressful periods of beginning a semester, with new college rules and regulations. I cannot detach like I would hope, and I stay wound up, and ta-da! issues.

There's a lot to unpack here. I'm going to cut this, because you know, maybe TMI or disinterest on your part.

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