I was under strict instructions from my GP, that the next round of blood tests, had to be initiated at the Hospital, and not to use an external Path Lab.
Being of a somewhat nervous disposition, I took this to mean there would be some new and hideously horrible process involved in the extraction of the blood, and therefore the appointment should be delayed for as long as I could. It turns out that although my supply of excuses was almost exhausted, they lasted longer than Jane’s patience, which gave way today. In calendar terms that’s about ten days and I’m counting it as a win.
Having returned from the Hospital with just the usual single hole in my arm that was installed by a well-aimed needle and a steady hand I am none the wiser as to why it was necessary to undertake the procedure at the Hospital. They did relieve me of a significant quantity of blood, at least 8 of those little test tubes worth before I stopped counting. I am sure that I was still using some of that blood, at least my blood pressure should be lower.
One of the requested tests was definitely to measure “Clotting”, there were other tests requested, but I was unable to decipher from the notes what they were, or why the Endocrinologist wanted them. I have added this to the list of questions I want to ask when I eventually get to meet him.
The bulk of my questions relate to the risks or potential unpleasant side effects of the process of Hormone Treatment. I need to know just how dangerous, or otherwise this treatment is. My understanding of the process is that initially there is a drug induced reduction of Testosterone levels and this is followed by a gradual introduction of the Female hormone, that I am going to call Suzannestragen.
I also need to understand how long it takes before I, or possibly more importantly other people, will begin to notice the changes the treatment will bring about.
Its fascinating, nerve-wracking and exciting, so much so that I was compelled to go shoe shopping, but more on that in the next post.
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