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691001 tn?1227458552

Preparing for surgery

I have recently found out that I have a cyst on one of my ovaries.  I don't know how large it is.  In addition, I have a carcinoid tumor in the opening of my small intestines as well as gallstone.  I'm scheduled for surgery Dec. 9, 2008.  I will have two surgeons.  I am in my fifties and use bioidentical hormone creams as well as other supplements due to going throug menopause.  I am interested in knowing if the removal of my ovaries are going to throw me into a 'hormonal nightmare.'  My doctors have said the ovaries probably haven't been working for years.  I'm very proactive regarding health and nutrition.  Any comments?  I am trying to prepare for recovery. JBW828
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356929 tn?1246389756
If you go to the top of this page where you will find "forums", you will see all the other forums MH has to offer. I know there is one on Gastroenterology..

Take care,
Sandy
Helpful - 0
691001 tn?1227458552
Sandy,
I'm spending this time organizing and reading to help with recovery.  I still have a couple of weeks.  I'll still be checking this site often.  I really value reading everyone's comments. I feel for so many that are going through pain.  I've very fortunate.  Considering the extent of the surgery that is to be done, do you recommend a different forum as well as this one?  I will definitely keep you posted.  

Thank you!

Janet
Helpful - 0
356929 tn?1246389756
Don't forget to let us know how the surgery goes when you are able to post again..

Good luck,
Sandy
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691001 tn?1227458552
Cheryl,
Good to hear from you again. I love the scripture verse that you listed on your profile!!  It's a good word.  I have been doing a lot of research since yesterday.  Also, I have talked with my sister-in-law who is 'highly trained' in the medical field.  So far, I have not gotten any other advice that would be contrary to the doctor's recommendations. I have such peace and joy about going through this journey. I am a young 58 year old divorced woman who has three awesome grown sons.  I am going to be Granjan in March to a little beautiful baby girl.  I am researching  to find out ways to have a speedy recovery.  Of course, the most valuable one is..'keeping my mind stayed on Him..because I trust Him.'  Thank you for the reminder!

Blessings,

Janet
Helpful - 0
691001 tn?1227458552
Sandy,
Your words are encouraging.  Yes, I have been in menopause for some time now. I have wonderful doctors overseeing my situation.  I've been doing a lot of reading about the carcinoid tumor that is in my small intestine.  The cells that form this type of tumor are responsible for producing hormones..especially the hormone seratonin. Even though I have been on hormone therapy for years..I've not been able to breakthrough regarding several symptoms. This type of tumor also produces weird symptoms.  I'm encouraged thinking that perhaps the removal of this tumor will bring some relief.  I encourage all ladies not to put off getting a colonoscopy!  I feel very fortunate and blessed that this rare tumor has been found. The doctor stated that he rarely looks in the area that he found the tumor. He stated that he felt God guided him to take the turn.  It hides and brings havac to your hormones and health.  If not found it can spread to other parts of the body and the outlook is very bleak.

Thanks again!

Janet
Helpful - 0
356929 tn?1246389756
Hi,
    I doubt that you'll notice much difference hormone wise since you're already either in menopause or very close to it. Just my opinion.
    Cysts are not uncommon in those of us either in menopause or post menopause. Not to say that they are as common as in our younger friends, but they still happen.
    It sounds like your Dr's are very proactive which is a good thing !. Please keep us posted and try not to worry about the ovarian problem.

Take care,
Sandy
Helpful - 0
661941 tn?1297447355
HI again Janet,
it sounds like you're on top of things... with 3 different doctors agreeing on the same treatment, it sounds like you're in good hands. ;) One thing I do remember my Dr. saying is that even if you're perimenopausal (like I am), the sudden drastic loss of hormones is not as bad as if you were younger, like in your 20's. So, I suppose it makes sense that it will probably be even less noticeable (if at all) if you've already been through menopause. I understand your concerns though. Hope it all works out for you.
Helpful - 0
691001 tn?1227458552
Cheryl,
Thank you so much for your comments!  I have seen a gastroendologist (spelling?), my gyn/onc and the surgeon.  I've also talked with the nurse practioner that works close with the gyn/onc that I use to use.  The nurse practioner is an expert regarding women's healthcare.. adrenal fatigue (which I've battled a long time) and bioidentical hormone treatment.  All of the above agree to remove the organs I've discussed.  Yes, I have been in menopause since my early forties.  Actually, I began to feel 'hormones from hell' when they took out my uterus 25 years ago.  I had delivered a 11 pound baby and had to have a lot of reconstructive surgery.  During the last three years, I have aggressively been working on my health after having been diagnosed with adrenal fatigue.  I have made remarkable progress!!  With adrenal fatigue, the hormone levels are drastically affected.  I was very, very concerned about the removable of both ovaries until I talked with the lady that is very aggressive towards women's health.  Realizing the age that I am..I think that the doctor's recommendations are what I will follow.. although it's been a hard pill to swallow.  I am hearing repeatedly that my ovaries have quick working for some time now.  Yes, I am wrestling with that one. If you find any other information I would greatly appreciate it.  I have found much help in taking the hormone treatments that I use.  I highlly recommend it.  Thank  you!

Janet
Helpful - 0
661941 tn?1297447355
I saw from your profile that you're in your 50's. Have you gone through menopause yet? Also, what type of Dr. are you seeing? I thnk most women on here are more comfortable with a gyn/oncologist when it comes to something like this, as you never really know for sure what the growth is until it is removed. My understanding from my gyn/onc is that your ovaries continue to produce very small amounts of hormone even past menopause. I would question why they need to remove both ovaries, if only one is affected. I was recently told I needed a total abd. hysterectomy... with both ovaries and tubes removed as well. The main concern is a complex ovarian cyst on one of my ovaries. I got a 2nd. opinion and found out the first Dr. was over-reacting and I am now scheduling a laparoscopy (far cry from the TAH) for the removal of just one ovary. I think you have reason for concern.  Let us know how things work out for you.
Cheryl
Helpful - 0
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