Complications update.

Before I get into it, let me remind you,  I got new PCP a few weeks ago locally.  (Because, I have not seen my PCP's office - with the ONE YEAR WAIT for a physical, and the other crap I was dealing with.)  I went to her for some stat blood work because I felt "off."  

I swear to you I AM NOT A HYPOCHONDRIAC. 

I HATE THAT I FEEL AT ALL "OFF." 

I never GO any doctor.  I avoid.   I have been calling and leaving voice-mail messages for a a couple weeks now.  That translates to what, three or four calls.  I just want to know what my vitamin levels are.  Simple enough.    I guess not.

Anyway -  remember how I told you I got the opportunity to speak with Dr. Jacques?

She sent this along:

And just so that you KNOW -  I BOLD-FACED MY ISSUES:

I do hope that you contact Dr Sasha Stiles at Tufts, and I am working on one additional referral for you.  Her is some information on nutrient deficiencies that can cause seizure:

• B6 Deficiency: Deficiency causes seborrheic dermatitis, glossitis (swollen tongue), and cheilosis (cracked corners of mouth), and, in adults, can cause depression, confusion, EEG abnormalities, and seizures. Seizures, particularly in infants, may be refractory to treatment with anticonvulsants.
  
• Normocytic, microcytic, or sideroblastic anemia can also develop - you need to have this checked and ruled out.  The test is serum PLP and/or and EAST test.
• Vitamin D deficiency can lead to seizure when it causes hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia or both.  You should have all three evaluated: 25-OH-D, serum corrected calcium and red blood cell magnesium.  A PTH test would also be appropriate.
• >Both B1 and B12 deficiency have been documented to cause seizure disorders – though not incredibly commonly.  I would recheck both.  Make sure B12 is above 400.  I would also check folate.  Tests would be serum thiamine, serum B12, and red cell folate.
  
• Several of the B-vitamin deficiencies can cause sensitivity of light as well, especially if they impact the optic nerve.  In addition, deficiency of Vitamin A or zinc (or both since they can occur together) can cause photophobia. 
  

She suggested I get in to see a Dr. Stiles who is now practicing at Tufts, where I had my RNY.  The woman on the phone who took my information was a little confused as to why I would want to see this doctor - five years post operatively.  

"You've had the surgery already?" 

 "So, why do you want to see the doctor?"

I said I was having some "complications."  She asked, "like?" 

I rattled off that I had various deficencies, anemia, hypoglycemia, seizures, yadda, yadda yadda and, um, my teeth are rotting. 

She said, "Your teeth are falling out?"  (Like she didn't believe me.)

That happens with severe Vitamin-D deficiency, but I don't think she heard my other stuff, but I did not really want to discuss it, so I just said, "Yep, can I have an appointment?"

"Hold, please."

January 2nd.  PLEASE let this doctor listen to me and do some GOD DAMNED TESTING.  I want to be healthy.  I want my brain back.