In August I had my routine post-cancer PET Scan and then went to see my oncologist for a follow-up visit to receive the results. It was not the news I wanted to hear. My tonsils and adenoids had "lit up" on my scan and they recommended a follow-up visit with an ear-nose-throat (ENT) specialist. Keep in mind, a PET Scan is not a "cancer" scan. A PET just shows any area of metabolic activity which can include inflammation, pain, infections, etc.
I went to see the ENT and she recommended removal of the tonsils and adenoids. She said that it could be nothing, but that in order to really check it out the most comprehensive course of action would be complete removal. Her logic was that if did end up being cancer related, we could not only diagnose it, but also go ahead and potentially get rid of the problem in one procedure.
And as much as I didn't want to be a 40-year old woman getting her tonsils taken out, I agreed that it was the best plan and we scheduled it. I had outpatient surgery the Tuesday after labor day. This was my first real surgery and it went very well. I was home by lunch time and well-medicated.
Adult tonsil removal is painful and the recovery process is slow. The first two days weren't so bad because I was still on the many drugs they gave me during surgery. But as those have worn off, the discomfort has increased. In fact, the last two days have been the worst thus far. Additionally, the adenoid removal has caused some sinus issues that make laying down to sleep pretty much impossible. So between hydrocodone, nearly no sleep, and very little food in my stomach I'm a joy to be around.
I went for a follow up with the ENT today and the good news is that the PET Scan blip was nothing more than that - a blip! No cancer. My tonsils were apparently just inflammed. I wish I could drink a glass of champagne to celebrate! But that would really really hurt.
I can't wait to get this "blip" over with and get back to hot coffee and sleep!
