After the mapping was complete, Dr. Taylor gave orders for discharge. He indicated that the bilirubin levels had not dropped the way he had expected. Because of the narrow opening in the duct, it could be taking longer than usual. Mark didn't feel great, but we thought he was gradually improving. Before we left, Dr. Urba came in to visit, which was a treat.
After getting home around 2:30 pm, Mark went to bed where he stayed. Occasionally, he would try to get up but didn't have the energy and was often nauseous and in pain. When I returned from the airport with his two sisters, Mark couldn't even get out of bed to visit. When he tried to eat, it came back up. Even water made him gag, making it impossible to take vital medications. With Adrenal Insufficiency, that is a big problem, as he has to have cortisol!
I texted Dr. Taylor, who called right away and said that Mark likely had pancreatitis--inflammation of the pancreas. He encouraged us to go to the ER as soon as possible. When we arrived around 10:30 pm, there were over 60 people in the waiting area. After checking in and explaining the situation, we went to find a seat when Mark's name was called. That was fast! Blood was taken, and he was given IV Dilaudid for pain. Around 1:30 am, two doctors from the hospital came to discuss Mark's condition. He definitely has pancreatitis and will be hospitalized. With all of the complications of the tumor, the stent, the tight duct, etc., a team of doctors will meet to decide on the next plan of action. That won’t likely happen until Monday. Hopefully, the stent will allow the bile to drain. Mark is very sick. We have no idea how long he will be in the hospital, but it's where he needs to be. It's now 2:45 am, and we are anxious to get into a hospital room. A nurse just told us that we will likely be here for the rest of the night. Oh well. At least he is getting IV liquids and pain meds, and we're not sitting in the waiting area. We are thankful for that!
Later:
I went home in the wee hours of the morning for a nap. This morning Mark was moved to the 4th floor. The nurses here know how to manage patients with pancreatitis. Mostly, he just sleeps.
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