[at-l] Puffiness and swelling

[kellyswhitman at hotmail.com (Kelly Whitman)]

Have you tried seeing someone else, like a sports specialist, and paying for 
it yourself?  I know that can be expensive, but If you see someone in 
private practice in a small office, sometimes you can negotiate a lower rate 
if you're paying for it "out of pocket" or if you can pay in cash.  You can 
also negotiate a payment plan, or put it on a credit if you really have to.  
It might just be a one-appointment thing. Sometimes doctors in small, 
individual practices are even willing to barter for part their fees.  I 
think it's worth it to try to brainstorm a way to see someone.  Don't let 
being part of an HMO or PPO prevent you from getting the care you need 
(there's irony for ya)!  You still have other options outside of their plan.

Kelly Whitman
INTP
-----------
"There ARE no other women like me."  -- 7 of 9

>Thanks for all the responses on puffiness and swelling,
>I hesitate to visit my doctor since he gives me the quick once over and a
>bunch of drugs. To see a sports specialist would take a referral from him
>which he is unlikely to give. I do not like to take pills and would like to
>know the cause instead of the treatment. That is why I asked you all.  My
>hubby has had this type of swelling in the past. For me, it goes away in 
>3-4
>days. My eyes are swollen, hands, feet, ankles. It is not uncomfortable but
>I look like I've been beaten up. I think I do not drink enough fluids when 
>I
>hike (probably only 2 liters a day) at the most). I cannot drink large
>quantities of water. I must force myself to drink that much. I probably
>sweat out electrolytes too. When I go hiking on Thanksgiving weekend I will
>take Gookinade or Gatorade and evaluate the results. Any more advice would
>be appreciated. Thanks.
>Slim aka Nancy

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