I went into the ER on Monday, after developing a large, hard knot in my belly.  Since I have heart problems, I was automatically admitted for overnight observation. 

Though it was determined the swelling was due to a subsurface hematoma, the extremely high blood pressure readings worried my cardiologist, and he wanted me to have a chemical stress test on Wednesday.  Since I figured it was easier than being readmitted later for the same thing, I agreed. 

After 12 AM Wednesday, I wasn't allowed to eat or drink.  The time for my test came and went, and it was approaching 2 PM, but my doctor had gotten a cardiac emergency, and couldn't do my test for another two or three hours.  Since I am a diabetic and had to eat, the test was rescheduled for Thursday.

On Thursday, the chemical stress test finally took place.  I had never had one before (though I had had the regular kind) and I knew, before the attending doctor (not my regular cardiologist) told me, that it was bad news.  That damn thing hurt, like a bad attack of angina aggravated by a horse kick in the chest.

So Friday, the attending cardiologist did a heart cath.  A blockage that had only been about 40% in July had grown to over 90% in six months.  This one, unlike most of the others, could be stented, and that was immediately done. 

I am still here due to excessive bleeding at the cath site and extra tenderness on the left side.  I am very hopeful that there is nothing under the skin, no deep hematomas....

I really, really want to go home.

UPDATE:  I saw both my primary care physician and the stand in cardiologist.  And I won't be getting out of here today....if the ultrasound of my lower abdomen tomorrow is clear I will get out then.  If not....who knows.