My name is Kristel and I have recently connected with Sydney over Instagram when I was researching Airway Disorders. I have been suffering for years from extreme fatigue, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, Chron’s disease (which is triggered by stress and exhaustion), migraines, memory problems, and poor sleep quality. My overall quality of life was decreasing quickly over the past 7 years. It was difficult keeping a full time job because of how tired I was, my marriage was suffering because of my moods and inability to work, and my sleep was so poor it was hard to function day to day. It wasn’t until I sprained my jaw April 2023 that attention was brought to my airway. So the sprain was actually a blessing in disguise as it brought to light the bigger, more serious issue that was my collapsed airway. Thus, I began the long and arduous journey of trying to figure out what doctor to see, and how to go about getting my airway fixed. Since April, I saw 8 different doctors that all gave me different opinions and solutions. It was a very confusing time and I felt very lost, because very little is known about Airway Disorders therefore doctors don’t really know how to handle your symptoms. Then finally, I found Dr. Edward Zebovitz in MD, who specializes is airway disorders and who has given me so much compassion, support, and information that no other doctor could provide me with. I have been flying over 4,000 miles from Hawaii to Maryland to make sure my airway and overall health is in the best hands. Over the course of several months, with lots of imaging, endoscopies, and biomedical engineering, I have learned how all of my symptoms are connected to my collapsed airway. I even discovered that I have ligaments in my neck connected to my airway that have completely calcified due to being in constant contraction trying to keep my airway open. The muscles in my throat and neck, including my tongue and floor of mouth, are in constant spasm as they try to keep my airway open. Even though this is extremely painful, it’s amazing what the body will do to keep you alive and breathing! I have extensive maxillary and mandibular reconstructive jaw surgery scheduled for November 30 2023 ( 3 more weeks!) and I cannot wait to be on the other side and start my healing. So, this is my story so far. I know I have many more weeks and months to continue to write my story, but I hope this little piece I have to offer right now may help someone navigate their own journey in finding relief.
With love,
Kristel
