Day 2 was a tough day, mentally and physically.

I met my cardiologist and his team for the first time. Good news, I like them all, especially Doc R. Everyone has been kind, patient, and supportive.

My lack of medical care over the last 20 years is a real problem for my new doctors. They don't have much to go on, only what I'm telling them about how I feel right now, and what they can learn from tests like x-rays, EKGs, and blood tests. And they know for sure my "issues" could have been addressed a lot sooner if I had been under regular care.

Doc R felt that lack of attention to high-blood pressure readings over the last 10-15 years is why I'm feeling the way I do today. Doctors and assistants have checked my blood pressure for various reasons, and every time it's been high. But, for one reason or another neither my physicians nor myself have looked into it further or tried to do anything about it. Now my high blood pressure is at a critical level. I need to point out that I haven't had a primary care physician since roughly 2005. That's not good.

My doctors, and I, cannot stress the importance of regular physicals, regular blood pressure and bloodwork checks, and a solid relationship with a primary care physician. It's no different than breast cancer — annual mammograms can often catch cancer at a very early and treatable stage, making the process of kicking cancer's ass easier for the patient with a greater chance of a positive outcome. That goes for pretty much every other part of your body, too, especially your heart, lungs, and brain. If you love yourself and/or those around you, go see your doctor regularly, even if you feel OK. If you don't have a primary care doctor, get one. Find someone you like with a personality that meshes with yours. Understand that someone who does not like doctors, hospitals, and especially health insurance, is giving you this advice.

Doc R prescribed 2 blood pressure medications, which I picked up on the way home. He also gave me instructions for immediate changes in beverage and food intake, with an emphasis on long-term dietary changes.

Doc R also said he thinks most of my condition may be reversible.

I'll have more to say about my bloodwork after my doctors have reviewed it. I don't want to jump to any conclusions because I am not a physician.

One of my heart medications is meant to be taken 1 hour before bed, so I'm starting that one tonight. The other two are supposed to be taken in the morning, so I will start those tomorrow.

Also, we scheduled my Sleep Study for 7/22, and an echocardiogram for 7/23. We also scheduled a colonoscopy for 10/28.

Definitely a challenging day with highs and lows. I'm drained physically and emotionally.

In closing, zero is a number. I started this blog on Day 1, the day after I met Doc G for the first time. So, really, today is the third day of my journey. Not that anyone cares, LOL — I just like accuracy.

More tomorrow after my doctors have reviewed my bloodwork.

Thanks for reading. Much 💙 from the shop.

This blog and every article in it documents one person's journey — Sparky's journey. Every person's health situation is unique, and what applies here may not apply to you. Sparky is not a physician or medical professional. The information shared in these posts reflects his own experiences and what he believes he understood from conversations with his care team — and he doesn't always get it right. Nothing written here should be taken as medical advice. If you have concerns or questions about your own health, please contact your physician. And if you don't have one — get one.