So Tuesday changed a lot of this weeks game plan. Since my mouth sores were getting so bad and I had lost a significant amount of weight since my last visit, Dr. Yang held the methotrexate to allow for a little bit of healing in my mouth. He also prescribed a medicated mouthwash to use 15-30 min before eating to try and eat more substantial meals. Since we didn’t do the methotrexate, I had to have the pegasparagus instead of coming back on Wednesday. I also had to get a unit of platelets since my platelets had dropped so much. Dr said I basically am not tolerating the full dose of methotrexate which isn’t a huge issue, some people can’t tolerate it. It just means that the treatment has to be adjusted. The plan is to continue with it next week but at a lower dose to see if I respond better. I also had to have an appointment scheduled for Friday for a lab check to see if my platelets have come up. Depending on what it is, I anticipate I may have another appointment added on next week before my treatment on Thursday. Hopefully not though. Even though I’m over halfway through this aggressive treatment phase, it sure feels like its kicking my butt more. Since I haven’t been eating a lot, I’m very weak and can’t stand or walk long. When leaving the hospital on Tuesday I lost my footing and fell in the hallway. If Dennis was allowed to be with me I know he would have caught me. Instead I fought the floor and the floor definitely won. I’m very bruised and banged up. But I’ve made it this far without falling once so I’ll take that as a win. Here’s to hoping tomorrow’s bloodwork shows better results. 

Bloodwork Results

We are down in Detroit this Friday for another bloodwork since her platelets were so low last time being only 7.

Bloodwork Results

Kate had to report that she did fall down walking out Tuesday which helped explain all the bruising she has on her hands and legs mainly..  especially her knees. They said she has to keep her leg elevated since it appears swelling has move all the way into her foot.  So elevate and ice the leg and if it doesn't go down she could have a blood clot so we need to monitor it.

The following treatments can be done at home:

Ice therapy
Apply ice immediately after the injury to reduce blood flow around the area. Cooling the blood vessels can reduce the amount of blood that leaks into the surrounding tissue. This can prevent the bruise from being as apparent and reduce swelling.

You can use a reusable ice pack, a bag of ice, or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth or towel. Ice the bruise for 10 minutes at a time. Wait 20 minutes before reapplying.

Heat
You can apply heat to boost circulation and increase blood flow. This will help to clear away the trapped blood after the bruise has already formed. Applying heat can also help to loosen tense muscles and relieve pain. You can use a heating pad or a hot water bottle. Soaking in a hot bath is another option.

Compression
Wrap the bruised area in an elastic bandage. This will squeeze the tissues and help prevent blood vessels from leaking. Using compression can lessen the severity of the bruise and help to reduce pain and swelling.

Elevation
Elevate the bruised area so that it’s above the heart. This helps to relieve pain and drain fluid away from the bruised area. Elevation can also reduce pressure and compression. This gives you the perfect chance to rest and relax, which can also help the healing process.

Arnica
Arnica is a homeopathic herb that is said to reduce inflammation and swelling, thus making it an ideal treatment for bruising. A 2010 study found that topical arnica ointment effectively reduced laser-induced bruising. You can use an arnica ointment or gel on the bruise a few times per day. You can also take arnica orally.

Vitamin K cream
Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that helps with blood clotting. Vitamin K cream was shown to reduce the severity of bruising after laser treatment in a small 2002 studyTrusted Source. To use this treatment, gently rub vitamin K cream onto the bruise at least two times per day.

Aloe vera
Aloe vera has been shownTrusted Source to reduce pain and inflammation. You can apply it topically to the affected area. Make sure to use a gel that is pure aloe vera. Read the label carefully to check for additives.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to promote wound healing. You can also find gels, creams, or serums that contain vitamin C. You can apply these topically. You can also take it as a supplement. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables as well.

Pineapple
Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in pineapple. Bromelain can help to reduce the severity of the bruise and reduce inflammationTrusted Source. You can eat pineapple or take bromelain supplements. You can also apply it topically as a cream.

Comfrey
Comfrey is a plant that is often used to treat skin ailments and inflammation. Comfrey creamTrusted Source has been shown to have healing powers that can be used to treat bruises.

You can apply the cream to your bruise a few times a day. You can also make a compress using dried comfrey leaves. Steep the leaves in boiling water for 10 minutes. Then strain out the liquid and wrap the leaves in a towel or cloth. Apply it to the bruised area.

Summary
Bruises may take a few weeks to heal. Take care to rest your body to allow for maximum healing. Using some of the home remedies described here can help to speed up the healing process. Keep an eye on your progression. Keep in mind that bruises can be the result of a severe sprain or fracture or even a blood clot.

Call your doctor if:

• the injury seemed minor, but you’re still experiencing pain after three days
• you develop a lump over your bruise
• you seem to be bruising for no reason
• you notice blood in your urine or stool

These are symptoms of a more serious injury.