Doctor Visits and Setbacks

     I've been complaining and overall kind of whiny for a couple weeks about my earache/sinuses etc.  I went to my 3rd dr. appointment this evening, finally an ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist because I've had sinus surgery in the past... His idea?  Oh, there's no infection, so maybe I just lost my hearing.  all of a sudden.  just cuz. So he wanted me to schedule a hearing test.  and he wanted to send me home... Whaaa?  

      Not so fast!  I have learned in the past few years of various doctor's appointments and misdiagnoses (is that a word, anyone?) not to leave the appointment without clearly communicating what I need to say. Even if I have to pull out my notes.  Which I do... Doctors are in a hurry, and we have to be proactive (demanding?) to get what we need!
A more likely scenario  for my issue is a chronic inflammation, which is causing a loud rushing sound, pain, pressure, and other icky things.  Needless to say, it's torture in a classroom with 40 noisy students all day.  Three different doctors, four meds.  So now it's on to prednizone, which is an anti-inflammatory, Flo-nase, Azithromyacin, and a decongestant.  I HATE taking meds, so this is hard for me, but the Doc assures me that once I get the swelling down, I can take steps to keep this from happening again. 

     It's scary to think about losing my hearing, so I'm willing right now to do just about whatever he says.. But I'm still going to research a bit more and see what foods have natural anti-inflammatory qualities.  I don't want to EVER get stuck like this for weeks at a time again... It's certainly messing with my fitness goals and productivity!  I hate to admit it, but I'm going to have to get serious about this before it gets any worse :( 
      In other fun news, Doc stuck a lighted tube up into my sinuses and shoved it around for a bit.  I don't recommend it... not even a lil bit.
     How does this affect my fitness goals?  First off, I can't put my head toward the ground = no pushups.  Other than that, I plan to sit on the stationary bike tonight and do some ab work to kick off the first day of my 30 day fitness challenge!  Join me!  I'm keeping track of my weight and I'll let you know if it changes now that I'm going to be an every-day-exerciser :)

Yup, I'm a winner :)

XOXO
Andrea