Overhearing What Doctors are Saying
Diane interviews a man who recalls the fear he felt after overhearing what a doctor said to a nurse about tests he was undergoing.
A big mistake
I decided to go to the hospital after experiencing pain when I tried to urinate. I was given some relaxation pills and told to come back in three weeks. This was in the year 2015. As a man, I started feeling so much better and didn’t go back until the end of 2016. That was a big mistake.
I was sent to a urologist immediately, who asked me to do several tests, and while I was still in his office. I didn't see this coming. I thought I was there for just a consultation. My doctor went out into the hallway to talk to a nurse. I overheard him say that if these 4 tests are not done properly, that I might die. What!!! I left there in fear and didn't go back until 2017.
Seemingly dangerous results
Of course, the pain became so bad that I couldn’t walk and had no other choice but to see a doctor. I had to take time off from work. I remember missing a phone call for an entire day because of severe pain and burning.
When I realized the situation was getting worse and the relaxation drugs were no longer working, I went back to the same hospital. Another year had gone by, and I had to go back for a biopsy test, plus the previous test I had already done. My PSA level was 86.8, which was dangerous, according to the results.
Undergoing treatment
I was told to begin medication along with radiology, which I did. After a month, I had a test performed that confirmed that it was not cancer yet, but rather a tumor that, if not treated promptly, would progress to prostate cancer. The treatment began for three months, along with taking drugs at home. I was under care for a year, and when I went for a checkup later that year, it was confirmed that I had a tumor that could be removed.
After my treatment, I was fortunate enough not to experience any side effects. I had done plenty of research because I was so scared after the doctor's remarks. The prostate treatment was slightly more expensive, but it made a big difference in my overall health. Because having good health is more important than money.
Getting checkups
After treatment, my doctors advised me to change my diet slightly. I cut back on sugar and resolved to eat more fruits and vegetables. Other than that, I eat normally, and the only exercise I do is a round of walking on my farm, which I consider to be exercise.
In 2021, we had an estimated 248,530 new cases of prostate cancer.1 We have to take the initiative to spread the word and go get yearly checkups. This will help in detecting the condition early and starting treatment as soon as possible. Don't let fear get in the way as I did. This could have been deadly for me.
To the hospital staff, if you are anywhere outside a patient's room, we can hear you talking. I’m just saying.
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