Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out?
Someone recommended eating 1/2 cup yogurt daily. I also rinse with perioxide which seems to help. niasha – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out?
I just brush my teeth and rinse really well after I take my meds, including flovent. I haven’t had any problems yet.
Hi James, Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out?
The best thing you can do to avoid thrush from steroid inhalers is to use a spacer device like the Aerochamber. It breaks the medication down a bit and stops the medication from hitting the back of your mouth. You might notice that when you use a steroid inhaler, you get a nasty taste in your mouth – this usually means that most of the medication has hit the back of your mouth and that you did not inhale deeply enough to get it into your lungs. I would strongly recommend: Getting a spacer Asking your doctor, pharmacist or a Respiratory Therapist to demonstrate the correct use of a spacer Rinsing your mouth out everytime you use the medication (even with the spacer). You do not really need listerine….just rinsing with water has always done the trick for me. Of course, after you have thrush, you probably do need to use Listerine or Scope.
People get thrush when they don’t rinse because the medicine is intended for the lungs not the mouth. In the mouth it breaks down the immune system and throws off the natural balance allowing an opportunity for the yeast (which is normal to be there) to take over and become over abundant. If you rinse with listerine you further break down the natural defenses and allow the yeast an even greater opportunity. Joann RT – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi James, Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out? The best thing you can do to avoid thrush from steroid inhalers is to use a spacer device like the Aerochamber. It breaks the medication down a bit and stops the medication from hitting the back of your mouth. You might notice that when you use a steroid inhaler, you get a nasty taste in your mouth – this usually means that most of the medication has hit the back of your mouth and that you did not inhale deeply enough to get it into your lungs. I would strongly recommend: Getting a spacer Asking your doctor, pharmacist or a Respiratory Therapist to demonstrate the correct use of a spacer Rinsing your mouth out everytime you use the medication (even with the spacer). You do not really need listerine….just rinsing with water has always done the trick for me. Of course, after you have thrush, you probably do need to use Listerine or Scope.
On Sat, 08 Feb 2003 02:09:40 GMT, "Lis" <liont…@ptd.net
wrote: Many people are able to do this, and the next best drug is the clonezapam, it’s also a narcotic (highly addictive).
Clonazepam is NOT a narcotic, but it does have addicting properties (best tapered off slowly).
On Sat, 08 Feb 2003 00:58:18 GMT, "DenoxiS" <denoxisTHISPARTISFORS…@hotmail.com
wrote: When we sleep with my girlfriend in the same bed, she kicks and sounds like she is going to cry. I hardly stop her and usually cannot have a good night sleep. I saw a program on TV about this sleep disorder and they said there are some medicine available for this. They didn’t give more specific information. Does anybody know anything about the medication? Does it work? Is it expensive?
The usual medicine used for PLMD is Klonopin. It has antiseizure and antianxiety effects. It has been around for many years, and is available generically (which means "inexpensive").
DenoxiS wrote:
Hi, When we sleep with my girlfriend in the same bed, she kicks and sounds like she is going to cry. I hardly stop her and usually cannot have a good night sleep. I saw a program on TV about this sleep disorder and they said there are some medicine available for this. They didn’t give more specific information. Does anybody know anything about the medication? Does it work? Is it expensive? TIA — – Deniz
Deniz…… before you start thinking of treatment with medicines, you have to diagnose the problem. She should go to a doctor and be tested. Self treatment is dangerous. Regards Lee in Toronto ———–== Posted via Newsfeed.Com – Uncensored Usenet News ==———- http://www.newsfeed.com The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–= Over 100,000 Newsgroups – Unlimited Fast Downloads – 19 Servers =—–
Thanks for all the answers. Lee, sad thing is medication cost is an important decision maker on going to a doctor. Referring to the responses about the cost, I think we will see a doctor. I’ve never thought about self diagnose. Thanks for the warning. — – Deniz "Lee Babcock" <leebabc…@pathcom.com
wrote in message
news:3E451FD2.E9163DD4@pathcom.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
DenoxiS wrote: Hi, When we sleep with my girlfriend in the same bed, she kicks and sounds
like
she is going to cry. I hardly stop her and usually cannot have a good
night
sleep. I saw a program on TV about this sleep disorder and they said
there
are some medicine available for this. They didn’t give more specific information. Does anybody know anything about the medication? Does it
work?
Is it expensive? TIA — – Deniz Deniz…… before you start thinking of treatment with medicines, you have to diagnose the problem. She should go to a doctor and be tested. Self treatment is dangerous. Regards Lee in Toronto ———–== Posted via Newsfeed.Com – Uncensored Usenet News
==———-
http://www.newsfeed.com The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–= Over 100,000 Newsgroups – Unlimited Fast Downloads – 19 Servers
=—–
On Mon, 10 Feb 2003 21:13:59 GMT, "DenoxiS" <denoxisTHISPARTISFORS…@hotmail.com
wrote: Lee, sad thing is medication cost is an important decision maker on going to a doctor. Referring to the responses about the cost, I think we will see a doctor.
A lot of them (particularly now) seem to know a bit about the cost of meds. An almost foolproof rule is "available as a generic" means considerably cheaper than "not available as a generic." Another one is "available as a generic for more than six months" means cheaper than "available as a generic for less than six months." The one glaring exception in the USA: tamoxifen. It’s all made by AstraZeneca, even if it is in a Barr bottle. (This is expected to change by the end of the month.)
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Charlie Perrin wrote:
On Mon, 10 Feb 2003 21:13:59 GMT, "DenoxiS" <denoxisTHISPARTISFORS…@hotmail.com wrote: Lee, sad thing is medication cost is an important decision maker on going to a doctor. Referring to the responses about the cost, I think we will see a doctor. A lot of them (particularly now) seem to know a bit about the cost of meds. An almost foolproof rule is "available as a generic" means considerably cheaper than "not available as a generic." Another one is "available as a generic for more than six months" means cheaper than "available as a generic for less than six months." The one glaring exception in the USA: tamoxifen. It’s all made by AstraZeneca, even if it is in a Barr bottle. (This is expected to change by the end of the month.)
Charlie so true. In Canada, many doctors have their prescription pads printed with a statement to issue generics if available. But then, we have a lot more generics here than in the US. If Beth is watching, what is the status of generics in Australia? Regards Lee in Toronto ———–== Posted via Newsfeed.Com – Uncensored Usenet News ==———- http://www.newsfeed.com The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–= Over 100,000 Newsgroups – Unlimited Fast Downloads – 19 Servers =—–
In Canada, many doctors have their prescription pads printed with a statement to issue generics if available. But then, we have a lot more generics here than in the US. If Beth is watching, what is the status of generics in Australia?
oh, we definately have generic brands widely available, in fact, there’s a push to get people to use the generics now. Thing is, our medication is generally subsidised by the govt (not all, but a lot) and if the govt can get people to use cheaper brands, then they’re pushing people to do it. Which is fine by me, cause the generics are exactly the same save the packaging. — Beth in Australia =================== FAQ for alt.support.sleep-disorder can be found here http://www.anchorweb.com.au/sleepdisorders this site is a work in progress – feel free to submit info/articles
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Tal wrote:
In Canada, many doctors have their prescription pads printed with a statement to issue generics if available. But then, we have a lot more generics here than in the US. If Beth is watching, what is the status of generics in Australia? oh, we definately have generic brands widely available, in fact, there’s a push to get people to use the generics now. Thing is, our medication is generally subsidised by the govt (not all, but a lot) and if the govt can get people to use cheaper brands, then they’re pushing people to do it. Which is fine by me, cause the generics are exactly the same save the packaging. — Beth in Australia
Not quite true… The active ingredients are the same but colouring agents, preservatives, binders can be a little different. Regards Lee in Toronto ———–== Posted via Newsfeed.Com – Uncensored Usenet News ==———- http://www.newsfeed.com The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–= Over 100,000 Newsgroups – Unlimited Fast Downloads – 19 Servers =—–
On Tue, 11 Feb 2003 10:04:23 -0500, Lee Babcock <leebabc…@pathcom.com
wrote: In Canada, many doctors have their prescription pads printed with a statement to issue generics if available.
The way they do it in the USA varies from state to state, but here’s how they do it in Texas. The doctor has two lines on the prescription pad and signs one of them: Dispense As Written Product Selection Permitted Then, off to the pharmacy… where they then ask you if you want the generic (if there is one). In some states, they make them write out "Dispense as Written" (which the drug industry doesn’t like as much).
Hi, When we sleep with my girlfriend in the same bed, she kicks and sounds like she is going to cry. I hardly stop her and usually cannot have a good night sleep. I saw a program on TV about this sleep disorder and they said there are some medicine available for this. They didn’t give more specific information. Does anybody know anything about the medication? Does it work? Is it expensive? TIA — – Deniz
Deniz, There are several medicines. See the last link below for a description of what they can do for you. My husband and I have gotten a "California King" sized bed to prevent the injury problem (we BOTH kick). And I once had such a quick movement with my arm that I gave him a black eye (I woke up the instant my knuckles connected with his head ). And then there’s the time that I dreampt that someone was knocking on the door and no one would answer it. I woke to find that My hand, flung over my head, was shaking, and knocking against the headboard. The problem we are discussing is called either Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) if the movements are reflexive and repeated closely together. People who have this sometimes have an itchy or creepy-crawly sensation in their legs or arms before bed time (and sometimes in the day). I have that symptom (thought it was itchy varicose veins for a long time). My husband does not have that symptom. But he has another classic symptom: cramping at night, and legs that tighten up (toes curl upwards) and move up and down. It looks as if he were trying to ride a horse If it’s a single kick or an arm movement It’s Called Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). It happens at a certain time during the falling-asleep-process (thus the black-eye story, above). I have both these problems. My husband has PLMD as far as I can tell. Either way, your girlfriend will have to see a sleep doctor for a sleep test and treatment if it is causing big problems, something that sufferers are surprised about if the problem doesn’t wake THEM up. Most people find out about such problems from their sleep partners. My husband has always refused testing and treatment, thus the really big bed 
. All our cuddling happens while awake, because if we sleep "spooning," someone either gets woken in pain, or wakes up with bruises the next morning. Sleep disorders often come in groups. The sleep test is vital to discover if your friend had some other problems (such as a certain breathing problem while sleeping, called apnea, which is sometimes accompanied by these problems). If you have trouble convincing your friend that she needs to see a Doctor for a referral to a sleep doctor/center for a "sleep test," try filming her at night as she sleeps, with her permission. She might be surprised to see herself beating you up in her sleep. There are some things she can do to lessen her problems on her own, if this is indeed the problem I’m talking about. I’m going to list those things as I wrote them to another sufferer (who also got severe leg cramps) last week or so: 1. Melatonin works to induce sleep. This sometimes helps you sleep through cramps. It is fairly safe and non-addictive. Benadryl brand antihistimine (and the generic brands, too) can induce deep enough sleep to over-ride the symptoms. Many people are able to do this, and the next best drug is the clonezapam, it’s also a narcotic (highly addictive). 2. Move your body. Get walking or leg exercise during the day. If you have an attack at night, get up and move a round a bit, then try again to sleep. Experiment with exercise times, as it takes a different routine with different timing (in relation to bedtime) for each person who suffers from this disorder. 3. Lose weight if you need to. Attacks are fewer and less severe when we weigh less. 4. For some people, heat helps. Try a hot water bottle, bed socks, a heating pad or a hot bath before bed. 5. Do as much as you can to be very sleepy before you go to bed. Do as much as you can to fall asleep quickly. The longer it takes to fall asleep, the more likely it is that you’ll be woken by the cramping. So, take hot baths or showers to relax you. 6. Develop good "sleep hygiene," which means do not use your bed to do anything but sleep in (no TV, reading, exercising, radio, etc…). Go to bed on a rigid schedule. Develop a bedtime routine that you can take with you wherever you go. If you cannot sleep, get out of bed and do something quietly until you are sleepy again. This trains your body to go to sleep as soon as you are in bed, and not wait for something interesting to happen . 7.Learn meditation and relaxation skills. They help. 8.Check with a dietitian to see what you can do with your diet to lessen leg cramps (get lots of potassium, magnesium, calcium, etc.). 9. Get educated! Educate your Physician. There are some links on this page (same tips, but it saves me typing web addresses): http://www.anchorweb.com.au/sleepdisorders/RLS.htm And to add to those links, this is the Restless Leg Support Group homepage: http://www.rlshelp.org/ They are in Southern California, but there is a ton of really good informationon that page. I highly reccomend it. Good Luck! Lis "DenoxiS" <denoxisTHISPARTISFORS…@hotmail.com
wrote in message
news:KCY0a.43775$ce4.11927096@twister.socal.rr.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
Hi, When we sleep with my girlfriend in the same bed, she kicks and sounds
like
she is going to cry. I hardly stop her and usually cannot have a good
night
sleep. I saw a program on TV about this sleep disorder and they said there are some medicine available for this. They didn’t give more specific information. Does anybody know anything about the medication? Does it
work?
Is it expensive? TIA — – Deniz
I also brush my teeth after taking my flovent – I have yet to get Thrush Tim Washington State
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : yeah, but don’t you want to avaoid getting thrush? Using an extender tube has greatly reduced my problem in my mouth and stomach from inhaled steroids. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take." – Wayne Gretzky
Because it’s on the insurance company’s list and Flovent isn’t? More trouble to get you authorized for Flovent. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I f Flovent works better, then why would my doctor want me to switch to Pulmicort? : Flovent tastes like crap… I hate that stuff…but it works. Flovent causes me a lot less troubles than pulmacort and works better. The tast is not nears as bad as a lot of things I remember. Witicha Falls, Texas water stands out in my mind for bad tasting things. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take." – Wayne Gretzky : : -J : : Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to : Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike : Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short : of : an asthma attack) that you are getting the med? : : By the lack of asthma attacks. : : BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. : : : : "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink : from doing so (just) because you might not like what : you find." : General Colin Powell : :
Because it’s on the insurance company’s list and Flovent isn’t? More trouble to get you authorized for Flovent.
It is debatable which is better. Pulmicort has less systemic exposure due to rapid metabolism in the liver. Also the delivery device eliminates the need for a spacer. Personally, I use Flovent more because I think my patients are more used to the MDI and I try to get them to use the spacer for the other MDI’s as well. There doesn’t have to be an insidious reason for the recommendation to switch. If it is due to formulary reasons I think the doctor should be excused for not fighting a switch to a drug that is as good, if not better. — CBI, M.D. Please note: It is impossible to accurately diagnose medical problems without seeing the patient and reviewing the entire history. These posts are intended to be helpful and informative. Always check with your doctor before following any advice given.
yes, that works, but does it work with Pulmicort?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : yeah, but don’t you want to avaoid getting thrush? Using an extender tube has greatly reduced my problem in my mouth and stomach from inhaled steroids. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take." – Wayne Gretzky
I used Maxair and Asthmacort successfully for 12 years. Last year at this time, my asthma started causing me trouble. And this has gotten steadily worse over the year. Question 1: Do these drugs become ineffective after long-term use?
Typically, no. However if your asthma changes then they may no longer be adequate. Question 2: If Asthmacort is no longer effective for me, will Pulmicort do any good?
I stopped using Azmacort a long time ago. I have been on Pulmicort for about a year now and have had great success. "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find." General Colin Powell
I used Maxair and Asthmacort successfully for 12 years. Last year at this time, my asthma started causing me trouble. And this has gotten steadily worse over the year. Question 1: Do these drugs become ineffective after long-term use? Question 2: If Asthmacort is no longer effective for me, will Pulmicort do any good? -Daniel Before you buy.
Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short of an asthma attack) that you are getting the med?
By the lack of asthma attacks. BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find." General Colin Powell
Flovent tastes like crap… I hate that stuff…but it works. -J
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short of an asthma attack) that you are getting the med? By the lack of asthma attacks. BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find." General Colin Powell
Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short of an asthma attack) that you are getting the med? By the lack of asthma attacks. BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. When I was on Pulmicort I knew that I was receiving med. because I had
thrush. think about it. Pam – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find." General Colin Powell
yeah, but don’t you want to avaoid getting thrush?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short of an asthma attack) that you are getting the med? By the lack of asthma attacks. BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. When I was on Pulmicort I knew that I was receiving med. because I had thrush. think about it. Pam "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find." General Colin Powell
: yeah, but don’t you want to avaoid getting thrush? Using an extender tube has greatly reduced my problem in my mouth and stomach from inhaled steroids. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take." – Wayne Gretzky
: Flovent tastes like crap… I hate that stuff…but it works. Flovent causes me a lot less troubles than pulmacort and works better. The tast is not nears as bad as a lot of things I remember. Witicha Falls, Texas water stands out in my mind for bad tasting things. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take." – Wayne Gretzky : : -J
: : Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to : Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike : Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short : of : an asthma attack) that you are getting the med? : : By the lack of asthma attacks. : : BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. : : : : "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink : from doing so (just) because you might not like what : you find." : General Colin Powell : :
I f Flovent works better, then why would my doctor want me to switch to Pulmicort?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : Flovent tastes like crap… I hate that stuff…but it works. Flovent causes me a lot less troubles than pulmacort and works better. The tast is not nears as bad as a lot of things I remember. Witicha Falls, Texas water stands out in my mind for bad tasting things. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take." – Wayne Gretzky : : -J : : Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to : Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike : Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short : of : an asthma attack) that you are getting the med? : : By the lack of asthma attacks. : : BTW, sometimes I can detect a faint taste of the medication. : : : : "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink : from doing so (just) because you might not like what : you find." : General Colin Powell : :
Hey, I’m using Flovent right now, but my doc wants me to switch over to Pulmicort, but I don’t feel comfortable with it. With Pulmicort, unlike Flovent, you don’t taste the medicine. How do you know for sure (short of an asthma attack) that you are getting the med?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I used Maxair and Asthmacort successfully for 12 years. Last year at this time, my asthma started causing me trouble. And this has gotten steadily worse over the year. Question 1: Do these drugs become ineffective after long-term use? Typically, no. However if your asthma changes then they may no longer be adequate. Question 2: If Asthmacort is no longer effective for me, will Pulmicort do any good? I stopped using Azmacort a long time ago. I have been on Pulmicort for about a year now and have had great success. "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find." General Colin Powell
Advair is a combo drug and you may have better luck with something else. I use Pulmicort and a rescue inhaler and it work well for me as I can adjust the Pulmicort steroid independently. Lane
My son takes the 500/50 dose every day for a year now and is LOSING weight…what gives? Good question. My Brother-In-Law is taking Serevent and having the same problem and so am I. Just wondering if it is the Serevent.
There are some lung diseases that tend to have weight loss as a side effect, like NTM. See: http://www.ntminfo.com/ Nontuberculous Micobacteria "Common Symptoms of NTM: Loss of Weight and Loss of Appetite – It is not uncommon to lose weight and therefore it is important to be aware of weight changes. Please consult with your doctor and/or a nutritionist to determine how to modify and augment your diet so that you get enough calories to maintain your weight at an ideal level that helps your body fight the illness and keep up your strength. Eat, eat, eat. The mycobacteria may compete with your body for calories. "
My son takes the 500/50 dose every day for a year now and is LOSING weight…what gives?
Good question. My Brother-In-Law is taking Serevent and having the same problem and so am I. Just wondering if it is the Serevent.
My son takes the 500/50 dose every day for a year now and is LOSING weight…what gives?
Steroids should be used in the minimum dose to control the problem.
[Side effects are a function of the dose] National asthma guidelines recommend that a Patient Action plan
be followed, to adjust doses of asthma drugs according to symptoms and peak flow readings. Typically the steroid inhaler dose is doubled and bronchodilator used as needed when peak flow drops into the Yellow Zone [50-80% personal best] http://www.vh.org/Providers/ClinGuide/AsthmaIM/comp1/AssessmentB.html
Periodic Assessment and Monitoring http://www.NationalJewish.org/medfacts/asthma_action_plan.html Ellis
Are peak flow readings really dependable enough to determine when to use steroid inhaler and bronchodilator? I think the way the person feels is more dependable. My first peak flow meter had strange highs, up to 770. Sometimes I felt chest tightness above 600 or might feel good at 300. I called the tollfree product information phone number, and after several steps, they offered a free peak flow meter of a new model, which of course I accepted. That newer peak flow meter is not prone to unreasonable highs, but still is not the whole story. I don’t use it regularly.
I have adult onset asthma (come from family where childhood asthma was frequent, usually outgrown) diagnosed 15 years ago. I am 61 and have been on a variety of medications over the years. Right now I am on Uniphyl, singular and about a year ago I switched from two different inhaled medicines (one steroid) to Advair Discus –cut– I was on 500/50 dosage until about a month ago. About a month ago I asked my doctor to reduce the dosage and went down to the 250/50 About 10 days ago I went to the 100 and do not have any significant changes. Two days ago I decided to skip several days to see if I could do without. I can tell no difference (I expected to wake up wheezing in the middle of the night and have to use my Ventolin).
Steroids should be used in the minimum dose to control the problem. [Side effects are a function of the dose] National asthma guidelines recommend that a Patient Action plan be followed, to adjust doses of asthma drugs according to symptoms and peak flow readings. Typically the steroid inhaler dose is doubled and bronchodilator used as needed when peak flow drops into the Yellow Zone [50-80% personal best] http://www.vh.org/Providers/ClinGuide/AsthmaIM/comp1/AssessmentB.html Periodic Assessment and Monitoring http://www.NationalJewish.org/medfacts/asthma_action_plan.html Ellis
If your other medications control your asthma well – and please do check with your doctor to see that your symptoms are under control to his/her satisfaction as well – then the fact that you can do without an inhaled steroid is good news, indeed. If I were you, I would spend a month or two on the 100/50 Advair before getting off it completely, just to ease the transition, or at least be prepared to go back on it if the need arises. Singulair is a miracle medicine, in my opinion. My son, who suffers from mild asthma, takes Singulair every day of his life now but no other asthma medication on a regular basis. He does use a Serevent diskus beforehand when he knows he’ll have an active day and that does seem to help, and you might consider that option as well. Although I have noticed it is a distinctly unpopular opinion to hold on this newsgroup, there are some people, my son among them, for whom the Serevent component without the Flovent steroid provides effect treatment. (For what it’s worth, I, too, tried Serevent without Flovent but I seem to need them both.) Best of luck with it all. -S- – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have adult onset asthma (come from family where childhood asthma was frequent, usually outgrown) diagnosed 15 years ago. I am 61 and have been on a variety of medications over the years. Right now I am on Uniphyl, singular and about a year ago I switched from two different inhaled medicines (one steroid) to Advair Discus — which is a combined medicine, definitely including an inhaled steroid. It has controlled the asthma very well. However I started gaining weight and am now 35 lbs heavier — all in my stomach, neck and face (funny pouches of fat on the sides of my neck) — definitely cushingoid effects (I have no official diagnosis, only read about it on the internet) Also bruising red easily. I was on 500/50 dosage until about a month ago. I was on a pretty rigorous exercise/diet program for 6 weeks and lost not a lb. I finally determined that the steroids were the cause — though I have been told that the inhaled steroids did not have side effects. About a month ago I asked my doctor to reduce the dosage and went down to the 250/50 About 10 days ago I went to the 100 and do not have any significant changes. Two days ago I decided to skip several days to see if I could do without. I can tell no difference (I expected to wake up wheezing in the middle of the night and have to use my Ventolin). I am calling my allergist tomorrow to make an appointment with him. Maybe my pretty serious asthma is better (have been doing a lot of breath work and yoga) and maybe I can stop the steroids. I feel like I have a bowling ball instead of a stomach and my waistline has disappeared. On the otherhand I have pretty serious asthma — had to be hospitalized 4 years ago with an attack and have had pneumonia twice in the last 3 years. I surely don’t want to lose control of the asthma, but am hoping there is some alternative to the daily use of inhaled steroids. Sorry this is so long. My first chance to talk to my peers about our common bond — asthma. . — Judy Turnipseed
I have adult onset asthma (come from family where childhood asthma was frequent, usually outgrown) diagnosed 15 years ago. I am 61 and have been on a variety of medications over the years. Right now I am on Uniphyl, singular and about a year ago I switched from two different inhaled medicines (one steroid) to Advair Discus — which is a combined medicine, definitely including an inhaled steroid. It has controlled the asthma very well. However I started gaining weight and am now 35 lbs heavier — all in my stomach, neck and face (funny pouches of fat on the sides of my neck) — definitely cushingoid effects (I have no official diagnosis, only read about it on the internet) Also bruising red easily. I was on 500/50 dosage until about a month ago. I was on a pretty rigorous exercise/diet program for 6 weeks and lost not a lb. I finally determined that the steroids were the cause — though I have been told that the inhaled steroids did not have side effects. About a month ago I asked my doctor to reduce the dosage and went down to the 250/50 About 10 days ago I went to the 100 and do not have any significant changes. Two days ago I decided to skip several days to see if I could do without. I can tell no difference (I expected to wake up wheezing in the middle of the night and have to use my Ventolin). I am calling my allergist tomorrow to make an appointment with him. Maybe my pretty serious asthma is better (have been doing a lot of breath work and yoga) and maybe I can stop the steroids. I feel like I have a bowling ball instead of a stomach and my waistline has disappeared. On the otherhand I have pretty serious asthma — had to be hospitalized 4 years ago with an attack and have had pneumonia twice in the last 3 years. I surely don’t want to lose control of the asthma, but am hoping there is some alternative to the daily use of inhaled steroids. Sorry this is so long. My first chance to talk to my peers about our common bond — asthma. . — Judy Turnipseed
((((((Deirdre)))))) I wish I had the right words, any words to say right now to you. I’m so very sorry about what happened to you and how you are feeling. Do you have a therapy session or pdoc’s appointment soon. It would do you good to talk with a professional about how you are feeling. Please vent all you need to us. We are here for you. smiles, Elise
I’m close to crashing and burning. Anybody wants to know more check the blog home.earthlink.net/~deirdre1952 THanks for caring Anne – it feels really good. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Thank you Anne, Jackie, Diane, and Elise — and the others who have given me such kind support. I’m still struggling, but I’m doing the best I can. My brother is coming by today on his way to a gig – he’s going to help me gather up all the trash bags and get them to the dumpster. That he’s doing it for Mom rather than for me is expected. That doesn’t matter a lot to me — just a little — but any assistance at all is a gift. I wish I the equivalent of 7 dwarves who could come into my house and whistle while they work, doing all the things I am currently incapable of doing. (Yuck. I hate Disney imagery.) Anyway, thank you all again. I’m still around, just very wobbly both physically and emotionally. Medications help somewhat. I am finding it difficult to meditate: sometimes my brain is racing too fast and furiously, sometimes I just sit and cry. There are three things that keep me going: 1. Mom (she loves me and needs me) 2. the knowledge that I’ve been in this state before and survived 3. my support system, of which ASAP-M is a major part. Thanks again to all, Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
One day at a time. love Meryl – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you Anne, Jackie, Diane, and Elise — and the others who have given me such kind support. I’m still struggling, but I’m doing the best I can. My brother is coming by today on his way to a gig – he’s going to help me gather up all the trash bags and get them to the dumpster. That he’s doing it for Mom rather than for me is expected. That doesn’t matter a lot to me — just a little — but any assistance at all is a gift. I wish I the equivalent of 7 dwarves who could come into my house and whistle while they work, doing all the things I am currently incapable of doing. (Yuck. I hate Disney imagery.) Anyway, thank you all again. I’m still around, just very wobbly both physically and emotionally. Medications help somewhat. I am finding it difficult to meditate: sometimes my brain is racing too fast and furiously, sometimes I just sit and cry. There are three things that keep me going: 1. Mom (she loves me and needs me) 2. the knowledge that I’ve been in this state before and survived 3. my support system, of which ASAP-M is a major part. Thanks again to all, Deirdre
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Just wondering how you’re doing… Sending good thoughts your way. xxoo Anne — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
I’m close to crashing and burning. Anybody wants to know more check the blog home.earthlink.net/~deirdre1952 THanks for caring Anne – it feels really good. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi Deirdre: I had just read your blog before I posted. :-( Please tell us how we can help. Do you have AIM or Yahoo Messenger? xxoo Anne — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
~*~I’m close to crashing and burning. Anybody wants to know more check the Dear Deirdre, I wish I could say or do something to make you feel better. Everything I want heart-breaking and brutally honest. I don`t know if you realize it but you are an incredibly strong, courageous woman, one I admire and care for very much. Good thoughts being sent your way. Hoping you will heal from both your physical and emotional pain one day soon…. (((((Deirdre))))) P.S. Never forget farts in the barn. I still laugh to this day when I think about that ) Jackie ~*~Advice is like snow – the softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind~*~ ~~By Samuel Taylor Coleridge.~~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Sorry for top posting, but I agree with Jackie. {{{{{Deirdre}}}}} Love, Di
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ~*~I’m close to crashing and burning. Anybody wants to know more check the Dear Deirdre, I wish I could say or do something to make you feel better. Everything I want heart-breaking and brutally honest. I don`t know if you realize it but you are an incredibly strong, courageous woman, one I admire and care for very much. Good thoughts being sent your way. Hoping you will heal from both your physical and emotional pain one day soon…. (((((Deirdre))))) P.S. Never forget farts in the barn. I still laugh to this day when I think about that ) Jackie
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
It’s nice to see you here again, Deirdre. Glad things are pretty much normal for you and your Mom. Just wanted to hear something from you, that’s all. {{{{{Deirdre}}}}}
Thanks, Di — I appreciate that. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Philip, and everyone, The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. Peace to all, Deirdre Hi Deirdre. It is good to read your posts again!! Please can you teach us a little about your meditation methods? I would be very interested in hearing about this!
Hi TJ, I posted about my meditation practice — it has links to downloads and some other info. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi, Deirdre, Good to hear from you. Glad the meditation is helping with the anxiety. Take care and you know where we are… smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip Hi Philip, and everyone, It’s nice to be missed — sorry if I worried anyone. I just haven’t been motivated to post anything. Mostly I feel I have nothing to contribute about anxiety and panic. The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving. So, make of that what you will. It feels like depression without sadness. Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old. Lots of reference books and very little real experience. That’s what we po’ folks get. I’m currently taking 60 mg fluoxetine (Prozac) and 150 mg venlafaxine (Effexor) daily. I have clonazepam (Klonopin) on hand but haven’t needed it in quite a while. Same with the trazodone for insomnia. Since pdoc added the Effexor, the only apparent change is an increase in exhaustingly bizarre dreams. I’ve always had wild dreams, but these are way off the charts. I wake up shaking my head in amazement. OTOH, maybe meditation is stripping away layers of the mental onion, so to speak, and I’m getting down to the deeper levels of me. Whatever the case, there’s another unshakable (irrational?) thought: I am just really good at masking total madness. Raging psychosis under the quiet exterior. Once again, pdoc du jour is too green to understand me. I’ll be getting the next pdoc (a new one every summer) in a month or two. We’ll see what the psych professors have dreamed up during the past 12 months. Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally snuggly. I guess that’s my report for now. I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything. Peace to all, Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
"Deirdre" wrote : The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving.
Interesting! I’d expect that it would make you more alert. I need to meditate more myself. You said you’d posted on your meditation practices. Where might we find that? Do you still have your blog? Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally snuggly.
I’m glad family is going relatively well. ;-) Do you have a boyfriend currently? Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Deirdre schreef:
<snip Mostly I feel I have nothing to contribute about anxiety and panic. Anything you write is worth reading.
Sweet talker <lol. The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving. Hehe. What kind of meditation do you practice?
see my post "my meditation practice" also — Basically two types of meditation practice that enhance each other. These increase concentration and insight: –mindfulness of the breath –mindfulness of the body –mindfulness of feelings –mindfulness of thoughts And metta meditation, also called lovingkindness meditation. I usually begin each sitting with standard relaxation exercises. In terms of psychiatric benefits, I’m starting to realize that the mindfulness meditations are more suited to combatting anxiety and panic, and the metta meditation is most beneficial against depression. Looks like I need to do more metta:-) You don’t need anxiety in the pathological sense, no one does. But maybe you need other kinds of stimuli?
I download movies a lot. But that’s just really high-tech escapism. I have heaps of books but my attention span isn’t what it used to be. And Mom is still saying "no" when I express my wish for a motorcycle. <sigh It feels like depression without sadness. It sounds like depression to me, some kind of dissociated depression maybe (hm, that sounds *deep*, I wonder what I mean by that).
I think you’re on the right track. "Dissociated" seems accurate. Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old. A child prodigy in psychiatry! Psychiatry needs its very own Mozart.
In musical terms, this guy is more Manilow than Mozart. Well-meaning, but little substance. <snip Did your child pdoc give a reason for prescribing Effexor together with 60 mg of Prozac or is he just trying the next cvombo he can think of?
You win a gold star. He went over the long list of the drugs I’ve had previously, and we decided "Hey, maybe Effexor will be fun." <shrug It doesn’t seem to do much for me. I just dread the inevitable weaning-off, whenever that comes. Lots of horror stories out there. <snip Keep us posted please, maybe this one will be a drooling octogenarian?
<LOL Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. I want to learn it too!
It’s so simple. It requires patience and dedication to practice, but it really is simple. If you can sit and breathe, you can meditate. See my post about my practice for suggestions on how to start. <snip I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything. It’s not an *obligation*. We’re happy when you post because we *like* you a lot so it’s good to know how you are and you’ve been a lot worse.
Thanks, Philip. I like you, I like this group. I still think you hit the nail squarely on the head with "dissociation". I’m here and not-here. That’s too Zen for me, but still. :-) Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
"Deirdre" wrote : The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had
<snip You said you’d posted on your meditation practices. Where might we find that?
"my meditation practice" is the subject line Do you still have your blog?
Yes. I write stuff there from time to time http://360.yahoo.com/deirdre_faithnomore I write about meditation there, among other topics. Do you have a boyfriend currently?
I honestly don’t know. He who might be the boyfriend is an enigma. He remains in poor health 3000 miles away. I care about him and his wellbeing, but there’s nothing I can do for him other than wish good things for him. In fact, that’s the only thing resembling help that he accepts from me. Anyway, I have my own wellbeing to tend to, and that of my mother, and that’s a lot of tending. I’m all about decreasing suffering, so dwelling on a doomed love relationship is something I avoid. I hope you are well. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
<gently snipped ::Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has ::significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, ::in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily ::changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing ::down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally ::snuggly. Dear Deirdre, It’s nice to see you again. Sorry to hear your Mom is slowing down but glad there have been no crises. Hope you stick around. (((((Deirdre))))) Jackie ~*~"What I cannot love, I overlook."~*~ ~~ Anais Nin — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – <gently snipped ::Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has ::significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, ::in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily ::changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing ::down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally ::snuggly. Dear Deirdre, It’s nice to see you again. Sorry to hear your Mom is slowing down but glad there have been no crises. Hope you stick around. (((((Deirdre)))))
Thanks, Jackie ! Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Deirdre schreef: You don’t need anxiety in the pathological sense, no one does. But maybe you need other kinds of stimuli? I download movies a lot. But that’s just really high-tech escapism. I have heaps of books but my attention span isn’t what it used to be. And Mom is still saying "no" when I express my wish for a motorcycle. <sigh
Well, you *are* an adult… you don’t need your mother’s approval. And a motorcycle may just be what the doctor ordered (maybe your insurance company will pay for it 
because it’s *outside*, adventurous, into the world! I didn’t mean movies or books (love them too) but rather interaction with the outside world. It feels like depression without sadness. It sounds like depression to me, some kind of dissociated depression maybe (hm, that sounds *deep*, I wonder what I mean by that). I think you’re on the right track. "Dissociated" seems accurate.
So focussing on everyday practical things seems beneficial. But it takes work and *motivation*. And motivation will never come if you wait for it. You have to act first and the the motivation will follow. As they say "Depression hates a moving target". Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old. A child prodigy in psychiatry! Psychiatry needs its very own Mozart. In musical terms, this guy is more Manilow than Mozart. Well-meaning, but little substance.
LOL. Hate Manilow. Now Mozart is quite a different proposition. <snip Did your child pdoc give a reason for prescribing Effexor together with 60 mg of Prozac or is he just trying the next cvombo he can think of? You win a gold star. He went over the long list of the drugs I’ve had previously, and we decided "Hey, maybe Effexor will be fun." <shrug It doesn’t seem to do much for me. I just dread the inevitable weaning-off, whenever that comes. Lots of horror stories out there.
YMMV, as they say. Did you ever try a TCA? And proper CBT? (Lesse,, how many other abbr. do I know? Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. I want to learn it too! It’s so simple. It requires patience and dedication to practice, but it really is simple. If you can sit and breathe, you can meditate. See my post about my practice for suggestions on how to start.
I did and I think it’s about time for me to go and practice some serious meditation.I did it off and on but that doesn’t work (stoy of my lazy life Thanks for sharing, it sounds inspirational. I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything. It’s not an *obligation*. We’re happy when you post because we *like* you a lot so it’s good to know how you are and you’ve been a lot worse. Thanks, Philip. I like you, I like this group. I still think you hit the nail squarely on the head with "dissociation". I’m here and not-here. That’s too Zen for me, but still. :-)
One of my favourite Zen text: "Before I was enlightened the trees were trees and the mountains were mountains. When I started to become enlightened the trees weren’t trees and the mountains weren’t mountains. Now that I am enlightened the trees are trees and the mountains are mountains." One of the most profound statements I know. Not that it helps with anxiety/panic/depression Philip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi, Deirdre, Good to hear from you. Glad the meditation is helping with the anxiety. Take care and you know where we are… smiles, Elise
Thanks, Elise D. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Deirdre schreef: I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip Hi Philip, and everyone,
Well HELLOOOOOOOOOOooooooo! It’s nice to be missed — sorry if I worried anyone. I just haven’t been motivated to post anything. Mostly I feel I have nothing to contribute about anxiety and panic.
Anything you write is worth reading. Anxiety and panic are overrated anyway The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving.
Hehe. What kind of meditation do you practice? You don’t need anxiety in the pathological sense, no one does. But maybe you need other kinds of stimuli? So, make of that what you will. It feels like depression without sadness.
It sounds like depression to me, some kind of dissociated depression maybe (hm, that sounds *deep*, I wonder what I mean by that). Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old.
A child prodigy in psychiatry! Psychiatry needs its very own Mozart. I’m currently taking 60 mg fluoxetine (Prozac) and 150 mg venlafaxine (Effexor) daily. I have clonazepam (Klonopin) on hand but haven’t needed it in quite a while. Same with the trazodone for insomnia. Since pdoc added the Effexor, the only apparent change is an increase in exhaustingly bizarre dreams. I’ve always had wild dreams, but these are way off the charts. I wake up shaking my head in amazement. OTOH, maybe meditation is stripping away layers of the mental onion, so to speak, and I’m getting down to the deeper levels of me.
I don’t know if we consist of deeper and more superficial levels. I also doubt that dreams mean anything except what we interpret them to mean (which can be good material, not only for psychodynamic therapy nut for cognitive therapy as well). Did your child pdoc give a reason for prescribing Effexor together with 60 mg of Prozac or is he just trying the next cvombo he can think of? Whatever the case, there’s another unshakable (irrational?) thought: I am just really good at masking total madness. Raging psychosis under the quiet exterior.
That thought indeed sounds quite irrational to me. I don’t subscribe to this concept of the onion either. I do think we can have many different and contradictory thoughts and feelings (when we are awake and when we are dreaming) but I don’t think we’re like vulcanos (which is somewhat like you describe yourself: psychosis raging under the quiet exterior). I think you may sometimes have psychotic episodes and when they’re over they’re over and not somewhere "down there" waiting for th next chance to erupt. I don’t think that way about panic atacks either and I wonder if you do… Once again, pdoc du jour is too green to understand me. I’ll be getting the next pdoc (a new one every summer) in a month or two. We’ll see what the psych professors have dreamed up during the past 12 months.
Keep us posted please, maybe this one will be a drooling octogenarian? Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure.
I want to learn it too! Mom is doing fine, in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally snuggly.
Sounds good to me. I guess that’s my report for now. I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything.
It’s not an *obligation*. We’re happy when you post because we *like* you a lot so it’s good to know how you are and you’ve been a lot worse. . Peace to all,
Yeah, baby. Philip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi Philip, and everyone, The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. Peace to all, Deirdre
Hi Deirdre. It is good to read your posts again!! Please can you teach us a little about your meditation methods? I would be very interested in hearing about this! — _TJ_ <TJ_IREL at YAHOO dot IE — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip Hi Philip, and everyone, It’s nice to be missed — sorry if I worried anyone. I just haven’t been motivated to post anything. Mostly I feel I have nothing to contribute about anxiety and panic. The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving. So, make of that what you will. It feels like depression without sadness. Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old. Lots of reference books and very little real experience. That’s what we po’ folks get. I’m currently taking 60 mg fluoxetine (Prozac) and 150 mg venlafaxine (Effexor) daily. I have clonazepam (Klonopin) on hand but haven’t needed it in quite a while. Same with the trazodone for insomnia. Since pdoc added the Effexor, the only apparent change is an increase in exhaustingly bizarre dreams. I’ve always had wild dreams, but these are way off the charts. I wake up shaking my head in amazement. OTOH, maybe meditation is stripping away layers of the mental onion, so to speak, and I’m getting down to the deeper levels of me. Whatever the case, there’s another unshakable (irrational?) thought: I am just really good at masking total madness. Raging psychosis under the quiet exterior. Once again, pdoc du jour is too green to understand me. I’ll be getting the next pdoc (a new one every summer) in a month or two. We’ll see what the psych professors have dreamed up during the past 12 months. Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally snuggly. I guess that’s my report for now. I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything. Peace to all, Deirdre
Thanks for chiming in Deirdre. We just want to know you’re alive. kili — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
It’s nice to see you here again, Deirdre. Glad things are pretty much normal for you and your Mom. Just wanted to hear something from you, that’s all. {{{{{Deirdre}}}}} Love, Di
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip Hi Philip, and everyone, It’s nice to be missed — sorry if I worried anyone. I just haven’t been motivated to post anything. Mostly I feel I have nothing to contribute about anxiety and panic. The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving. So, make of that what you will. It feels like depression without sadness. Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old. Lots of reference books and very little real experience. That’s what we po’ folks get. I’m currently taking 60 mg fluoxetine (Prozac) and 150 mg venlafaxine (Effexor) daily. I have clonazepam (Klonopin) on hand but haven’t needed it in quite a while. Same with the trazodone for insomnia. Since pdoc added the Effexor, the only apparent change is an increase in exhaustingly bizarre dreams. I’ve always had wild dreams, but these are way off the charts. I wake up shaking my head in amazement. OTOH, maybe meditation is stripping away layers of the mental onion, so to speak, and I’m getting down to the deeper levels of me. Whatever the case, there’s another unshakable (irrational?) thought: I am just really good at masking total madness. Raging psychosis under the quiet exterior. Once again, pdoc du jour is too green to understand me. I’ll be getting the next pdoc (a new one every summer) in a month or two. We’ll see what the psych professors have dreamed up during the past 12 months. Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally snuggly. I guess that’s my report for now. I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything. Peace to all, Deirdre
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Thanks for chiming in Deirdre. We just want to know you’re alive. kili
I’m alive. At least I think so. I’m glad your latest health report looks so good. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Deirdre, where are you? I hope everything is alright. {{{{{Deirdre}}}}} Post, if you can. Love, Di
I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip
Hi Philip, and everyone, It’s nice to be missed — sorry if I worried anyone. I just haven’t been motivated to post anything. Mostly I feel I have nothing to contribute about anxiety and panic. The good news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I haven’t had any anxiety at all. The weird news is: since I’ve been meditating regularly I have been lethargic and uninterested in most things. I can’t quite shake the (irrational?) thought that maybe I need a little anxiety to keep me moving. So, make of that what you will. It feels like depression without sadness. Is that possible? My pdoc du jour is not a lot of help. He’s nice and earnest and looks to be about 14 years old. Lots of reference books and very little real experience. That’s what we po’ folks get. I’m currently taking 60 mg fluoxetine (Prozac) and 150 mg venlafaxine (Effexor) daily. I have clonazepam (Klonopin) on hand but haven’t needed it in quite a while. Same with the trazodone for insomnia. Since pdoc added the Effexor, the only apparent change is an increase in exhaustingly bizarre dreams. I’ve always had wild dreams, but these are way off the charts. I wake up shaking my head in amazement. OTOH, maybe meditation is stripping away layers of the mental onion, so to speak, and I’m getting down to the deeper levels of me. Whatever the case, there’s another unshakable (irrational?) thought: I am just really good at masking total madness. Raging psychosis under the quiet exterior. Once again, pdoc du jour is too green to understand me. I’ll be getting the next pdoc (a new one every summer) in a month or two. We’ll see what the psych professors have dreamed up during the past 12 months. Other than mental health issues, I’m fairly healthy. Meditation has significantly lowered and stabilized my blood pressure. Mom is doing fine, in that there have been no crises. She’s weaker and slower — the daily changes are imperceptible, but over a few months I can tell she’s slowing down. My brother is fine, my nephew is grand. My cat is occasionally snuggly. I guess that’s my report for now. I’ll try to post more often, but I can’t promise anything. Peace to all, Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
I may have missed something but I am wondering where Deirdre is. I miss her here. Anyone know? Philip
Good question, Philip. I haven’t heard from her either. kili — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i have to agree they all tell me that zoloft isn’t addicting either, but screw them all i go off it for 2 days and then have to start it again they say hardly any of the newer drugs are addicting, well i say, that they should try them themselves and then they will see Zoloft Withdrawal–The Darkest Period of my Life Antidepressants "I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine."
Well, in my experience, if you taper off of the drug, much the same as you slowly build up to a dose perscribed by your pdoc, you will experience less side effects. The reason why it seems like you are addicted is because your nervous system has become dependant on the drug, and if you were to just stop it, you will experience severe side effects for several months afterwards, which happened to me a few years ago. However, it’s not anywhere near as severe of an *addiction* as heroine or alcohol. Frost
i have to agree they all tell me that zoloft isn’t addicting either, but screw them all i go off it for 2 days and then have to start it again they say hardly any of the newer drugs are addicting, well i say, that they should try them themselves and then they will see
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Zoloft Withdrawal–The Darkest Period of my Life Antidepressants "I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine." My name is Virginia and I just finished seeing a segment on 2020 regarding withdrawal symptoms after getting off of an antidepressant. THANK GOD!!! There are other people out there that have experienced the same symptoms I have experienced! Every doctor in the past, (3), I have told about my withdrawal symptoms have told me that it’s not possible or that they’ve never heard of anyone having these
symptoms months after – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – attempting to get off Zoloft. I even got very upset at one of the doctor’s and told him that the symptoms I was experiencing were "real" and that I was not crazy! To make a long story short– The six months I was off the Zoloft was the darkest period of my life. I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine. For three weeks straight, I had dry heaves, nausea, dizziness, panic attacks so severe I thought I was having a heart attack, cold sweats, a weird sound in my head, like breaking glass every time I’d blink my eyes, the disconnection of your brains ability to catch up with your vision when you look sharply to the left or right (almost like the old slide projectors that take a second and then click to the next picture), severe paranoia, and continual suicidal thoughts. If it were not for my husband taking time of from work to watch over me, I would not be here today! Unfortunately, I lost my job, and ended up having to get back on the Zoloft in order to live a so-called "normal life". And I can honestly say, it was like a miracle how quickly my nausea and dry heaves went away. I only wish that the first doctor I saw would have informed me about the possibility of becoming addicted to this drug, and given me the choice of alternative treatment or a life long commitment to Zoloft. Now the only symptoms I have are dry mouth and a stiff jaw…Oh, and paranoia about ever losing my health insurance. Virginia — Psychiatry is to Science as Astrology is to Astronomy
They still do not know for sure if Ecstasy even cause brain damage.
Yes it does!! Go to Medscape and use the key words "Ecstasy and brain damage", and see all the info there is. We`ve had two posters at this newsgroup that know of people that have devastating brain damage from using Ecstasy. In many case, the brain damage is a fate worse than death. Not to mention that people have died after using Ecstasy just ONE time. Jackie Here is a small sample of what is at Medscape: [Clinical and toxicologic aspects of the use of Ecstasy (see comments)] [Klinische en toxicologische aspecten van ecstasygebruik.] Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 1998 Aug 29;142(35):1942-6 (ISSN: 0028-2162) Pennings EJ; Konijn KZ; de Wolff FA [Find other articles with these Authors] Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, afd. Klinische Chemie, Leiden. Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, the active compound of ecstacy (XTC) tablets) is a psychoactive amphetamine congener which in humans has a stimulatory effect and enhances feelings of openness and solidarity. MDMA is neurotoxic in animals. It depletes axonal serotonin stores, it inhibits serotonin synthesis by inhibiting tryptophan hydroxylase, and it inhibits the reuptake of serotonin into the neuron. These events lead to destruction of serotonergic axon terminals in animal brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors protect against the neurotoxic effects of MDMA. Binding of (+)[11C]McN-5652, a selective neuroligand for the serotonin transporter, is decreased in the brains of XTC-users. This indicates that XTC damages serotonergic axon terminals in human brain, also. We strongly advise against the use of XTC as the long-term clinical consequences are not known. In man, somatic life-threatening complications after XTC use include hyperthermia, hyponatraemia and liver failure. Psychiatric complications include psychosis, depression, panic disorder, and impulsive behaviour. The chronic psychosis responds poorly to therapy. Comment in: Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 1998 Oct 17; 142(42):2321-2 [Ecstasy: psychostimulant, hallucinogen and toxic substance] [L'ecstasy: psychostimulant, hallucinogene et toxique.] Presse Med 1996 Sep 14;25(26):1208-12 (ISSN: 0755-4982) Burnat P; Le Brumant-Payen C; Huart B; Ceppa F; Pailler FM [Find other articles with these Authors] Laboratoire de Biochimie et de Toxicologie cliniques, Hopital d’Instruction des Armees Begin, Saint-Mande. MDMA or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, more commonly called "ecstasy", is a drug classified as a stupefiant and increasingly used by young people for its stimulant and hallucinogen effects. This popular designer drug is often used in techno or rave parties and perceived by users as relatively harmless. It has however been associated with disorders of thermoregulation and has been the cause of several deaths. In addition, the drug has been shown to destroy serotonin receptors in the brain in the monkey and leads to serious physchiatric disorders and liver damage in man. Adverse reactions with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ‘ecstasy’). Drug Saf 1996 Aug;15(2):107-15 (ISSN: 0114-5916) McCann UD; Slate SO; Ricaurte GA [Find other articles with these Authors] Unit on Anxiety Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ‘ecstasy’) is an increasingly popular recreational drug in the US, Western Europe and Australia. In animals, including nonhuman primates, MDMA is known to damage brain serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) neurons. It is not known whether MDMA damages serotonin neurons in the human brain but there is some indication that it may. Although the large majority of individuals who have used MDMA recreationally do not develop acute complications, as the popularity of MDMA has increased, so have reports of adverse nonpsychiatric and psychiatric consequences associated with use of the drug. Further, since manifestations of MDMA-induced serotonin injury might only become apparent with age, or under periods of stress, it is possible that some individuals with no apparent abnormalities might develop complications over time. High intensity dependence of auditory evoked dipole source activity indicates decreased serotonergic activity in abstinent ecstasy (MDMA) users. Neuropsychopharmacology 2000 Jun;22(6):608-17 (ISSN: 0893-133X) Tuchtenhagen F; Daumann J; Norra C; Gobbele R; Becker S; Pelz S; Sass H; Buchner H; Gouzoulis-Mayfrank E [Find other articles with these Authors] Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty of the University of Technology, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany. Neurotoxic damage of central serotonergic systems has been demonstrated in numerous animal studies after exposure to methylenedioxyamphetamines (ecstasy). A high intensity dependence of auditory evoked potentials and, particularly, of the tangential N1/P2 source activity has been associated with low levels of serotonergic neurotransmission in humans. We performed an auditory evoked potentials study in 28 abstinent recreational ecstasy users and two equally sized groups of cannabis users and nonusers. The ecstasy users exhibited an increase of the amplitude of the tangential N1/P2 source activity with higher stimulus intensities; whereas, both control groups failed to exhibit this feature. These data are in line with the hypothesis that abstinent ecstasy users present with diminished central serotonergic activity. This feature of information processing is probably related to the well-recognized neurotoxic potential of ecstasy. Our data indicate that recreational ecstasy use may cause long-term alterations in the function (and possibly structure) of the human brain.
Hi, I was
here before talking about worries I had about SSRI’s. I am not a doctor. I do
have a degree in Sociology (a B.A.), but this whole informal study of mine was
due to some concerns I had about restarting taking SSRIs. It seemed to some
of you that I thought they were awful, but that really was not the case. I’d
like to start posting non-related concerns, posts, etc., so I thought I should
clear up this old one first. Ok, here goes…. My Conclusion as of Now
(conclusions can always change): #1 – In light of the fact that panic and
anxiety can be debilitating and these meds have shown positive effects in
people, they are worth a shot and have few concerns attached to them. They are
almost totally harmless to the point that I would almost say they are not
harmless at all. *see note #1* #2 – It is my opinion and the opinion of many
doctors(at least I get the impression) that these meds are best used to "pick you up" out of a period of stress/depression and not for a lifetime. I say this mostly because one cannot always count on a medicine to work or to be available. There may be some very small long term concerns with the meds as
well. They are very small but worth a little "concern". In my opinion and from
what I have gathered, the best way to use an SSRI, Effexor, or Buspar is for a
short period of time to help you to overcome the problems. It is best to
actually overcome one’s problems by oneself and it is my belief that the meds
act as aides in your OWN recovery process, which when fully complete will see you medicine free. #3 – While I do not wish to put down these meds, I believe from experience that one should go about solving one’s problems with stress in
the following manner (a) Therapy of any sort in which no medicine is administered (b) Medicine with therapy (c) However one chooses to go when
one is "better" (relatively speaking- I am an optimist so I DO – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -think one can get 100% better). #4 – This might be a bit of a rehash of another point, but it only makes logical sense to first try everything besides medication for the anxiety unless the anxiety becomes somewhat debilitating. Then, it makes sense to take a med for a period of time while working on the causes of the anxiety. This may seem like common sense so far. What I am REALLY trying to say is that there are SLIGHT risks associated with these meds and SIDE EFFECTS, so obviously the best approach possible would be to take no
meds at all. I say this because some of us have not tried everything out there
yet. EXAMPLE: Some of my major problems are specific phobias that grip me in
certain situations. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming is supposed
to work for this. Also, Reiki or "the Healing Touch" has been proven
scientifically legitimate as a method of relieving stress. Some of us rush to
the medication without trying enough of the alternatives. I think it is wise to
FIRST try to deal with it without the meds or at least use the meds as a
"helper" while doing other therapy that will ultimately bring you to a stage of being as well as possible. #5 – When calculating the risks of the meds, one
should factor in what having the stress itself could possibly cause. In my case, I came to the conclusion that taking an SSRI again might be worth it to me because stress can cause heart attacks. Even if the SSRI itself may cause some minor physical problems (if they do they would be minor), the effect of taking away the stress would outweight the bad parts. #6 – The actual
concerns I still have to a small degree: Heart- Although, many medical
studies concluded that SSRI’s have no effect on the heart, I did find a couple
noting some problems in some people and in animals in the cardio area. One
noted that SSRIs affected Calcium and Sodium in some manner related to the heart – I don’t remember but the effect was related to Calcium and Sodium. I did not fully understand the significance of this, but I believe it is small. I also found some articles in which EKG’s were affected SLIGHTLY due to SSRIs.
HOWEVER, it should be noted that even people who have had heart attacks have
taken SSRIs and MOST do not have any problems. MOST of the elderly who take
these meds do not have cardio problems because of the meds. SO, what I would
say to do here is periodically get your heart checked to ensure that you do not
have any cardio problems. My main fear here comes from the fact that Trycyclics
and drugs such as Phen-Fen DID have effects on the heart that were
significantly bad. Studies show that the SSRIs are almost completely safe, but
*personally* I would periodically get my heart checked to ensure nothing was developing. Blood Pressure – Effexor does cause an elevation in blood pressure. For this reason, I will not even take Effexor. My blood pressure is perfect so, *personally* I will not take Effexor unless nothing helps at all. OR, I would perhaps try Effexor and see if it did not do this… If it did not, I might go with it. Brain – The study I noted about rats and
SSRIs and brain damage was not fully completed. That particular study showed
that rat brain cells shrunk and also took on "corkscrew-like" shapes. This was with a high dosage. I have since been alerted that my logic was wrong in this regard. Taking lower doses of the meds over time will not likely have this effect. However, the study did say "this raises concerns". For myself, I am considering the usage of the medicine a short term aide that
is part of a bigger plan. I wish there were more studies on the effect of SSRIs on the brain in the long term. I do not think they will cause serious problems unless one notices them during treatment. Most of the problems, such as tics, go away when the medicine is discontinued. Liver – There was some
literature that found that there were some concerns with liver enzymes but
these were again just concerns. They did not seem enough to make someone not
take the medicine. I believe the concerns were based on Prozac more than any other SSRI. Mental/Emotional Effects – I would like to further research this area. Sometimes and for some people, these meds can cause negative mental events, such as mania .04% in Sertraline (too much for me personally). Does anyone know if this is something that will either happen right away or could these pop up all of sudden??? I would hate to be taking an SSRI and then after 2 years or so on the med have an episode of mania. Is this
possible? I just don’t know right now. I tend to believe if the medicine does
not cause these effects after it is started that it will not cause them in the
future. Can anyone validify that??? Anyway, the point here is, as with anything
uncertain, the better path would be to use the meds to cope until one could get off of them. The actual risk of "going crazy" is really low. I apologize that I do not fully understand this aspect. Does anyone know if the people who "flip out" have it happen right away or if that can happen out of the blue once treatment is well underway????? Note: It is not unfair to say that these effects have happened. In some people they have. Parkinson’s –
They are not sure, but they believe the drug Ecstasy may cause Parkinson’s.
They found in the infamous rat study that the effects of SSRIs were similar to
that of Ecstasy. However, these studies did not have any definitive answers and
it should be noted that Ecstasy is a lot more potent of a medicine with a
different chemistry. I only used it here for comparison. So far, there is no
evidence linking SSRIs to Parkinson’s or brain damage. They still do not know for sure if Ecstasy even cause brain damage. Other: Some people get movement
disorders (small %). Circulatory problems have been noted as a possibility
(nothing life threatening I believe and in a small % people). The normal side effects have been reported as "not worth it" by some. How I have decided to
deal with these concerns: (a) Consider the treatment with an SSRI to be a short term solution. (b) Consider the small risk of mostly minor problems (most of the concerns- even minor brain damage can be overcome) to be insignificant in
comparison of the help the meds may bring to me. (c) Realize that the
percentages of people reporting any problems of any magnitude is very small. (d) Realize that right now it is all speculation, as it is possible that any long term "side effect" could be due to something else in that person’s life. Ex: Someone having a heart attack while on an SSRI does not necessarily mean they cause heart attacks. The most important
realization I have had: My psychiatrist(I hate the term "pdoc" -sorry) told
me that taking these meds is like taking Aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil. You can choose which to take and you can choose to stop them. I feel this is the best attitude. I still would heartily recommend checking oneself medically more frequently than other people may. I do not say this to cause anxiety in anyone. I say this because there are SLIGHT issues that are still being looked into regarding these medicines. I can show anyone who wants to see it the article on the actual effect on the heart (sounds minor- would
have to look up what this effect actually means/ it could mean really nothing at all). Also, I used to take Paxil and I think it did help me. It is very hard to tell for me as regular life can sometimes cause things to get better and worse. Anyway, I believe it did help and I know that the only real annoying problem was that if I took an entire 20mg pill before bed I would wake up exactly 6 hours later. I am considering going back on Paxil
or trying Zoloft. I don’t think I gave Paxil enough of a chance because I drank
coffee while taking it, so – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I will perhaps go with it again.
… read more »
NOTE: I lumped Effexor and Buspar in here. Effexor had many of the same effects of an SSRI. There really wasn’t too much info on Buspar. I read somewhere that they think Buspar might actually *help* people with Parkinson’s (read this in "Beyond Prozac") so that’s kind of encouraging as far as the safety issue.
Before you take an SSRI I think you should read about this. You won’t likely get it from taking too much of one SSRI (allegedly impossible to get it from just taking a lot of one SSRI), but you can get it when you mix certain meds. They think it only applies with MAO-Inhibitors and SSRIs. I could have sworn I read that it’s possible to get from mixing two different SSRIs, but that may not be true. Nonetheless, you should at least be aware of it as a phenomenon.
Hi, I was here before talking about worries I had about SSRI’s. I am not a doctor. I do have a degree in Sociology (a B.A.), but this whole informal study of mine was due to some concerns I had about restarting taking SSRIs. It seemed to some of you that I thought they were awful, but that really was not the case. I’d like to start posting non-related concerns, posts, etc., so I thought I should clear up this old one first. Ok, here goes…. My Conclusion as of Now (conclusions can always change): #1 – In light of the fact that panic and anxiety can be debilitating and these meds have shown positive effects in people, they are worth a shot and have few concerns attached to them. They are almost totally harmless to the point that I would almost say they are not harmless at all. *see note #1* #2 – It is my opinion and the opinion of many doctors(at least I get the impression) that these meds are best used to "pick you up" out of a period of stress/depression and not for a lifetime. I say this mostly because one cannot always count on a medicine to work or to be available. There may be some very small long term concerns with the meds as well. They are very small but worth a little "concern". In my opinion and from what I have gathered, the best way to use an SSRI, Effexor, or Buspar is for a short period of time to help you to overcome the problems. It is best to actually overcome one’s problems by oneself and it is my belief that the meds act as aides in your OWN recovery process, which when fully complete will see you medicine free. #3 – While I do not wish to put down these meds, I believe from experience that one should go about solving one’s problems with stress in the following manner (a) Therapy of any sort in which no medicine is administered (b) Medicine with therapy (c) However one chooses to go when one is "better" (relatively speaking- I am an optimist so I DO think one can get 100% better). #4 – This might be a bit of a rehash of another point, but it only makes logical sense to first try everything besides medication for the anxiety unless the anxiety becomes somewhat debilitating. Then, it makes sense to take a med for a period of time while working on the causes of the anxiety. This may seem like common sense so far. What I am REALLY trying to say is that there are SLIGHT risks associated with these meds and SIDE EFFECTS, so obviously the best approach possible would be to take no meds at all. I say this because some of us have not tried everything out there yet. EXAMPLE: Some of my major problems are specific phobias that grip me in certain situations. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming is supposed to work for this. Also, Reiki or "the Healing Touch" has been proven scientifically legitimate as a method of relieving stress. Some of us rush to the medication without trying enough of the alternatives. I think it is wise to FIRST try to deal with it without the meds or at least use the meds as a "helper" while doing other therapy that will ultimately bring you to a stage of being as well as possible. #5 – When calculating the risks of the meds, one should factor in what having the stress itself could possibly cause. In my case, I came to the conclusion that taking an SSRI again might be worth it to me because stress can cause heart attacks. Even if the SSRI itself may cause some minor physical problems (if they do they would be minor), the effect of taking away the stress would outweight the bad parts. #6 – The actual concerns I still have to a small degree: Heart- Although, many medical studies concluded that SSRI’s have no effect on the heart, I did find a couple noting some problems in some people and in animals in the cardio area. One noted that SSRIs affected Calcium and Sodium in some manner related to the heart – I don’t remember but the effect was related to Calcium and Sodium. I did not fully understand the significance of this, but I believe it is small. I also found some articles in which EKG’s were affected SLIGHTLY due to SSRIs. HOWEVER, it should be noted that even people who have had heart attacks have taken SSRIs and MOST do not have any problems. MOST of the elderly who take these meds do not have cardio problems because of the meds. SO, what I would say to do here is periodically get your heart checked to ensure that you do not have any cardio problems. My main fear here comes from the fact that Trycyclics and drugs such as Phen-Fen DID have effects on the heart that were significantly bad. Studies show that the SSRIs are almost completely safe, but *personally* I would periodically get my heart checked to ensure nothing was developing. Blood Pressure – Effexor does cause an elevation in blood pressure. For this reason, I will not even take Effexor. My blood pressure is perfect so, *personally* I will not take Effexor unless nothing helps at all. OR, I would perhaps try Effexor and see if it did not do this… If it did not, I might go with it. Brain – The study I noted about rats and SSRIs and brain damage was not fully completed. That particular study showed that rat brain cells shrunk and also took on "corkscrew-like" shapes. This was with a high dosage. I have since been alerted that my logic was wrong in this regard. Taking lower doses of the meds over time will not likely have this effect. However, the study did say "this raises concerns". For myself, I am considering the usage of the medicine a short term aide that is part of a bigger plan. I wish there were more studies on the effect of SSRIs on the brain in the long term. I do not think they will cause serious problems unless one notices them during treatment. Most of the problems, such as tics, go away when the medicine is discontinued. Liver – There was some literature that found that there were some concerns with liver enzymes but these were again just concerns. They did not seem enough to make someone not take the medicine. I believe the concerns were based on Prozac more than any other SSRI. Mental/Emotional Effects – I would like to further research this area. Sometimes and for some people, these meds can cause negative mental events, such as mania .04% in Sertraline (too much for me personally). Does anyone know if this is something that will either happen right away or could these pop up all of sudden??? I would hate to be taking an SSRI and then after 2 years or so on the med have an episode of mania. Is this possible? I just don’t know right now. I tend to believe if the medicine does not cause these effects after it is started that it will not cause them in the future. Can anyone validify that??? Anyway, the point here is, as with anything uncertain, the better path would be to use the meds to cope until one could get off of them. The actual risk of "going crazy" is really low. I apologize that I do not fully understand this aspect. Does anyone know if the people who "flip out" have it happen right away or if that can happen out of the blue once treatment is well underway????? Note: It is not unfair to say that these effects have happened. In some people they have. Parkinson’s – They are not sure, but they believe the drug Ecstasy may cause Parkinson’s. They found in the infamous rat study that the effects of SSRIs were similar to that of Ecstasy. However, these studies did not have any definitive answers and it should be noted that Ecstasy is a lot more potent of a medicine with a different chemistry. I only used it here for comparison. So far, there is no evidence linking SSRIs to Parkinson’s or brain damage. They still do not know for sure if Ecstasy even cause brain damage. Other: Some people get movement disorders (small %). Circulatory problems have been noted as a possibility (nothing life threatening I believe and in a small % people). The normal side effects have been reported as "not worth it" by some. How I have decided to deal with these concerns: (a) Consider the treatment with an SSRI to be a short term solution. (b) Consider the small risk of mostly minor problems (most of the concerns- even minor brain damage can be overcome) to be insignificant in comparison of the help the meds may bring to me. (c) Realize that the percentages of people reporting any problems of any magnitude is very small. (d) Realize that right now it is all speculation, as it is possible that any long term "side effect" could be due to something else in that person’s life. Ex: Someone having a heart attack while on an SSRI does not necessarily mean they cause heart attacks. The most important realization I have had: My psychiatrist(I hate the term "pdoc" -sorry) told me that taking these meds is like taking Aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil. You can choose which to take and you can choose to stop them. I feel this is the best attitude. I still would heartily recommend checking oneself medically more frequently than other people may. I do not say this to cause anxiety in anyone. I say this because there are SLIGHT issues that are still being looked into regarding these medicines. I can show anyone who wants to see it the article on the actual effect on the heart (sounds minor- would have to look up what this effect actually means/ it could mean really nothing at all). Also, I used to take Paxil and I think it did help me. It is very hard to tell for me as regular life can sometimes cause things to get better and worse. Anyway, I believe it did help and I know that the only real annoying problem was that if I took an entire 20mg pill before bed I would wake up exactly 6 hours later. I am considering going back on Paxil or trying Zoloft. I don’t think I gave Paxil enough of a chance because I drank coffee while taking it, so I will perhaps go with it again. As far as other meds, I have not found anything really worrisome about Clonazepam except that some believe one can become addicted to it. I definitely have not become addicted to it. Anyway, I hope everyone realizes that I do think taking … read more »
I have taken Effexor along with Phentermine before and had no ill effects. However, some people have experienced "seratonin syndrome" when taking Phentermine along with these types of antidepressants. * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!
I take wellbutrin and trazadone (for sleep). I’m thinking about going to a weight loss clinic…they give phentermine. Has anybody taken this combo. or know if it’s ok. I don’t want to waste going to the clinic if this stuff doesn’t
I agree. I would get off the Trazodone. There must be somthing else you can take. I and some of my friends have taken phentermine and wellbutrin for weight loss and it worked pretty well. I do not suggest doing all those drugs at once. If you are taking drugs for weight loss – try a natural method for sleeping — or visa versa. Sandra – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is a pretty odd combo you are taking. Trazodone is one of the old syile SSRIs, jacking up your Serotonine levels. Welbutrin, amongst other things increases dopamine levels. Trazodone will make you sleep (with a bad hangover usually since the halftime is 18 hrs). In a varity of cases it will aggravate your exhaustion. (Sleep, be sleepy all day, wake up in the evening, take Trazodone to sleep, be sleepy all day and so on). Trazodone has been demonstrated to noticeably increase weight. Wellbutrin is a stimulant in a sense. Your head is being pulled both ways it appears. Phentermine will increase your dopamine levels as well. Combined with Wellbutrin this sounds like a pretty bad idea. I take it you are diagnosed as depressed. Phentermine has shown interaction here and from what I have heard is contraindicated. Besides all of that, if you already have problems sleeping Phentermine will make this situation only worse. Anyhow, from the sound of it your shrink is really out of ideas as to what to prescribe to you and throws all sorts of neurotransmitter manipulators at you. I have been in a situation like yours and dropped the guy and went looking for someone that had better sense. For eample newer antidepressants such as Serzone will let you sleep similar to Trazodone but apparently causes no weight gain. Before you go into a pharmaceutically based weight program look at what you are doing to your body and mind today. Making modifications there may already have the desired effect instead of pumping even more chemicals into you. I am not a licensed psychiatrist, medical doctor of any sort, a layperson in every sense of the word. Nothing I state should be construed as medical advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed physician. Just a disclaimer. I take wellbutrin and trazadone (for sleep). I’m thinking about going to a weight loss clinic…they give phentermine. Has anybody taken this combo. or know if it’s ok. I don’t want to waste going to the clinic if this stuff doesn’t
Before you buy.
I started taking phentermine with Trazadone and Wellbutrin but quickly stopped the Trazadone. I didn’t like the way I felt in the morning and I was also concerned about the combination with the other two drugs. Now I just take 300 mg of Wellbutrin and 37.5 of Adipex. I have really been amazed at the results so far. I have a long time problem with depression and it has practically gone away since I started. All my obsessive and compulsive behavior about food has also disappeared. To me this is magic. I do have a problem sometimes getting to sleep considering that both drugs are stimulants but I am not working right now so it’s not a big deal. I would not advise taking all three meds. Debbie
Tetris I would be very interested in what you find out about 5 htp from your new doctor. I noticed a lead from Barbara’s obesity site for a Md. ( dietmedications.com/)who has supposedly worked out a good formulation for 5 htp. Supposedly he say’s to combine it with the drug you mentioned (caridopa) and possible pendolol . the purpose is to slow the absorption of the 5 HTP. It is expensive about ($2.50) cents a day the best I can figure. If you find out anything about this or anything that can replace part of fen/phen that is banned we all would be really grateful. Thanks Roy
I too have been searching for a combination diet drug therapy since phen-fen went away. I’ve tried phentermine by itself, phen-prozac (it made me extremely drowsy even at low doses), Meridia, and Xenical. None of these worked very well. My current doctor refuses to prescribe any combination of medications. He is afraid. I can’t say I blame him all that much with all the paranoia over lawsuits. However, I am still 100 pounds overweight and desperate. After doing some research, I think that phentermine/5-HTP just might be the answer that I’m looking for. The kind of 5-HTP I’m thinking of is the pharmaceutical grade (USP – United States Pharmacopoeia), available only by prescription at certain compounding pharmacies. The USP 5-HTP is more expensive (but still much cheaper than Meridia or Xenical) and is synthetic. The over the counter variety is derived naturally from the seeds of the Griffonia plant. I’m thinking that the USP 5-HTP would be free of the Peak-X and Peak-E contaminants that the Mayo Clinic made such a fuss about a year or two ago in six unidentified brands of over the counter 5-HTP. I have experimented with over the counter 5-HTP and tyrosine. The 5-HTP (100 mg), takes the place of fenfluramine and the tyrosine (500 mg) takes the place of phentermine. This combination reasonably imitates the effect of phen-fen for me without unpleasant side effects, except dry mouth and occasional headaches. The only drawback is the short half-life of the 5-HTP. The appetite suppressing effect lasts only about two and half hours. Obviously this is not enough to be a practical weight loss solution. Next week, I will see a new doctor. He has a good reputation for being very progressive. I plan to discuss 5-HTP/phentermine with him. I will ask if there is any way to extend its very short lived effect. I have heard that the prescription medication carbidopa might help with this. I will post the results of my visit if anyone is interested. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I agree. I would get off the Trazodone. There must be somthing else you can take. I and some of my friends have taken phentermine and wellbutrin for weight loss and it worked pretty well. I do not suggest doing all those drugs at once. If you are taking drugs for weight loss – try a natural method for sleeping — or visa versa. Sandra This is a pretty odd combo you are taking. Trazodone is one of the old syile SSRIs, jacking up your Serotonine levels. Welbutrin, amongst other things increases dopamine levels. Trazodone will make you sleep (with a bad hangover usually since the halftime is 18 hrs). In a varity of cases it will aggravate your exhaustion. (Sleep, be sleepy all day, wake up in the evening, take Trazodone to sleep, be sleepy all day and so on). Trazodone has been demonstrated to noticeably increase weight. Wellbutrin is a stimulant in a sense. Your head is being pulled both ways it appears. Phentermine will increase your dopamine levels as well. Combined with Wellbutrin this sounds like a pretty bad idea. I take it you are diagnosed as depressed. Phentermine has shown interaction here and from what I have heard is contraindicated. Besides all of that, if you already have problems sleeping Phentermine will make this situation only worse. Anyhow, from the sound of it your shrink is really out of ideas as to what to prescribe to you and throws all sorts of neurotransmitter manipulators at you. I have been in a situation like yours and dropped the guy and went looking for someone that had better sense. For eample newer antidepressants such as Serzone will let you sleep similar to Trazodone but apparently causes no weight gain. Before you go into a pharmaceutically based weight program look at what you are doing to your body and mind today. Making modifications there may already have the desired effect instead of pumping even more chemicals into you. I am not a licensed psychiatrist, medical doctor of any sort, a layperson in every sense of the word. Nothing I state should be construed as medical advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed physician. Just a disclaimer. I take wellbutrin and trazadone (for sleep). I’m thinking about going to a weight loss clinic…they give phentermine. Has anybody taken this combo. or know if it’s ok. I don’t want to waste going to the clinic if this stuff doesn’t Before you buy.
This is a pretty odd combo you are taking. Trazodone is one of the old syile SSRIs, jacking up your Serotonine levels. Welbutrin, amongst other things increases dopamine levels. Trazodone will make you sleep (with a bad hangover usually since the halftime is 18 hrs). In a varity of cases it will aggravate your exhaustion. (Sleep, be sleepy all day, wake up in the evening, take Trazodone to sleep, be sleepy all day and so on). Trazodone has been demonstrated to noticeably increase weight. Wellbutrin is a stimulant in a sense. Your head is being pulled both ways it appears. Phentermine will increase your dopamine levels as well. Combined with Wellbutrin this sounds like a pretty bad idea. I take it you are diagnosed as depressed. Phentermine has shown interaction here and from what I have heard is contraindicated. Besides all of that, if you already have problems sleeping Phentermine will make this situation only worse. Anyhow, from the sound of it your shrink is really out of ideas as to what to prescribe to you and throws all sorts of neurotransmitter manipulators at you. I have been in a situation like yours and dropped the guy and went looking for someone that had better sense. For eample newer antidepressants such as Serzone will let you sleep similar to Trazodone but apparently causes no weight gain. Before you go into a pharmaceutically based weight program look at what you are doing to your body and mind today. Making modifications there may already have the desired effect instead of pumping even more chemicals into you. I am not a licensed psychiatrist, medical doctor of any sort, a layperson in every sense of the word. Nothing I state should be construed as medical advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed physician. Just a disclaimer. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I take wellbutrin and trazadone (for sleep). I’m thinking about going to a weight loss clinic…they give phentermine. Has anybody taken this combo. or know if it’s ok. I don’t want to waste going to the clinic if this stuff doesn’t
PS……if you couldn’t tell by the X-File sig.
NIK! You’re not Gizzie from the X-Files newsgroup, are you?! I haven’t read that group for a long time, but I sure remember Giz! — Bunny
NIK! You’re not Gizzie from the X-Files newsgroup, are you?! I haven’t read that group for a long time, but I sure remember Giz!
No hon…….haven’t really posted there (although I have lurked). I just had changed from NikNik7 to MycatGiz cuz I was getting tired of 50 spam e-mails and 1 personal one. Plus I got paranoid that people might find me here and use it against me. Of course, now that I have made it common knowledge and got over my little incident of paranoia I can say….. NIKNIK7 is also MYCATGIZ. Nik They say, "she’s crazy as anyone can be" That’s what they say, they say of me…….Sheryl Crow "On the Outside"
Gee, can you say…….Frivolous Lawsuits. I’m not sure, let me try… Frivvawassa roosuts.
You’re singing backup for Baba Wawa these days? — Bunny
Did I hear you say law suit? Don’t just stand by and do nothing about it. You know what it takes for evil to prosper … oh, give me a break! I went thru it too but I hardly think it warrants a friggin lawsuit. Gee, can you say…….Frivolous Lawsuits. Nik
o.k., granted this *would* be a frivolous lawsuit, imho… but just barely. i don’t know how bad your withdrawal was, but with mine had i had a steady job at the time (i was a student, and still am, actually) i would have missed about a week’s worth of work…and i like to think of myself as pretty hardy. anyway, comisseration to any who have had to deal with coming off effexor. not anything i’d ever want to do again…i actually still have the occasional side effect (did something get permenantly fucked in my brain?) even though i’ve been off the stuff for over 2 years. fun, fun, fun. -m.
PS……if you couldn’t tell by the X-File sig. Hope it isn’t too long for you Mark…..I tried to keep it short just for you but am thinking of adding the entire lyrics to Stairway to Heaven and the 13 think? Nik They say, "she’s crazy as anyone can be" That’s what they say, they say of me…….Sheryl Crow "On the Outside"
Hey, Nik, you’re not "niknik" of old, are you?
Nik They say, "she’s crazy as anyone can be" That’s what they say, they say of me…….Sheryl Crow "On the Outside"
Did I hear you say law suit? Don’t just stand by and do nothing about it. You know what it takes for evil to prosper …
oh, give me a break! I went thru it too but I hardly think it warrants a friggin lawsuit. Gee, can you say…….Frivolous Lawsuits. Nik They say, "she’s crazy as anyone can be" That’s what they say, they say of me…….Sheryl Crow "On the Outside"
I could go on and on about the interesting and and accute withdrawal symptoms I have been experiencing, but if you are taking Effexor, or thinking about it you should try to search AltaVista for "effexor withrdrawal" and look at the nearly 200,000 hits that come up. No you won’t find any warning listed with your prescription. Most of the doctors who prescibe this stuff don’t know about this side effect. Did I hear you say law suit? Don’t just stand by and do nothing about it. You know what it takes for evil to prosper … These statements are my personal opinions, and should not be considered medical advice or a call for any illegal or improper actions.
Don’t start taking this drug, you will be *sorry* when you stop.
It isn’t like that for most people that take the drug, for most it has very few side effects and withdrawal only has minor ones if any. The three weeks of suffering you will go through are not worth it.
I had a lot more than three weeks. I had trouble all the while I took it and then coming off I had to go so slow that it took eight weeks just to get off it and some of the side effects persisted for six more weeks after that. Still though, for a lot of people Effexor is an effective drug with few side effects. I think that the difference in people’s reactions to it may indicate differing etiologies or pathologies or both for clinical depression. — bev . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . http://members.tripod.com/~Veb
Don’t start taking this drug, you will be *sorry* when you stop. The three weeks of suffering you will go through are not worth it. Find and ask someone better informed that the doctor who gave you this idea.
Don’t start taking this drug, you will be *sorry* when you stop. The three weeks of suffering you will go through are not worth it. Find and ask someone better informed that the doctor who gave you this idea.
I didn’t have any joy going thru the withdrawal of Effexor however I would hardly say I regret being on it for 2 1/2 years. It *did* work and the only thing I told my pdoc was that I wished I had known how bad the withdrawal was….something he didn’t know of yet, either. If Effexor works for you or your doc thinks it might…don’t judge the medication just because of what it is like to go off of it. Some people may be fortunate enough to find it works for them and even if for a couple years….isn’t that better than being depressed for a couple more years….even if it mean a couple months of being uncomfortable? Nik They say, "she’s crazy as anyone can be" That’s what they say, they say of me…….Sheryl Crow "On the Outside"
Effexor is a mood elevator. When you go off this drug,
I got dangerous side effects while on the drug. Hell, we even increased the dose after they started; thought it had more to do with a situational problem than internal workings of the neural system. The side effects worsened during withdrawal but were present before withdrawal. — bev . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . http://members.tripod.com/~Veb
Some questions: How much does Effexor cost in California if you have to buy it yourself?
I paid $80.95 for one months supply of Effxor ER 150 mG at a store called "The Medicine Shoppe" in California. Prices vary, call around to different stores. Welcome to California, the land of fruits, nuts, and flakes. Charles
I have very mixed feelings about Effexor…it was very helpful to me while on it, but insurance problems prevented me from continuing on the medication, and not having anything to fall back on I had to quit taking it. I did this in a phased withdrawl but it was still very difficult. I would only recomenned Effexor if a person knows that they will be covered by insurance and will always have access to it. Otherwise go with something that is cheaper (it’s VERY expensive) and you know you can get with no problem.
Oh dear. Effexor has been an absolute life-saver for me (literally). In the UK, we pay the same whatever our medication, so that’s okay. But I’m now moving to the US (getting married), and I’ve no idea what my insurance situation will be. I can get 3 months worth of Effexor from my GP to take with me. I am sure I can safely halve my dose and make that last for 6 months. But I don’t know what I’ll do then. Some questions: How much does Effexor cost in California if you have to buy it yourself? Does anyone by any chance have an insurance company they can recommend, who will cover ADs? Has anyone mixed Effexor with any herbal ADs? Christine Christine Daae on the Web http://easyweb.easynet.co.uk/~cdaae/
Effexor withdrawal Hello there. You guys talk a lot about effexor and withdrawal but provide few details, and I am CURIOUS… Could you please enlighten me? Thanks
Sorry…several of us have been through it and you forget there are others here whom are unfamiliar with the drug. Effexor is a mood elevator. When you go off this drug, and this is especially true if it happens suddenly (though in a phased withdrawl bad things can happen too), you can drop into some very frightening and VERY dangerous depression. If you have already had problems with suicidal thoughts they come back with a vengeance, and in my case I spent entire days either weeping or unable to do anything apart from lie in bed and feel terrorized. I have very mixed feelings about Effexor…it was very helpful to me while on it, but insurance problems prevented me from continuing on the medication, and not having anything to fall back on I had to quit taking it. I did this in a phased withdrawl but it was still very difficult. I would only recomenned Effexor if a person knows that they will be covered by insurance and will always have access to it. Otherwise go with something that is cheaper (it’s VERY expensive) and you know you can get with no problem. Jeff (Drop the x to e-mail)
Hi gang. My Mother-in-law called today as she read an article about Taco Neck offending those with ST in Baton Rouge, LA. There was a local phone number & I called and found there exists a number of people with dystonia living in my area. They have a "group" but it doesn’t meet due to the fact that many members cannot get there as they are homebound. Most of the members have ST, however, which differs from me as I am generalized. I did find out that the head of the local group presented ST info to a local neurologist and that physician made a point to go to Houston and learn how to give BOTOX injections. He has saved several people the long drive and it sounds as if he has done a lot of good. I had heard of this physician when people thought I had MS and almost contacted him to see if he would like to take a shot at helping my dystonia, but I was afraid he’d look at my records and think I was crazy again…he is in the same clinic with one of the neuros who sent me home with a bag of depression meds; later he said I had a benign essential tremor with "some rigidity". Not!!! After talking with the head of the group, I learned that none of them accessed info on the computer and he was surprised at how many of us correspond with one another with such frequency. He asked the cutest question, "Well, tell me, have you been able to find very many people with dystonia by looking in your computer?" He was blown away by my answer!!! Now he wants to try to "rejuvenate" the group and try to meet again to set up a way to meet regularly. He wants me to tell them about our newsgroup and all the friends we’ve all made, how we keep each other from feeling misunderstood, alone. It was a good time to talk to him because I feel like I’ve been losing the battle against dystonia lately…I’m sure it’s temporary as I’ve never been hit this hard for long since I got on the meds. He said there’s no one in the group who has it all over them this way, but he said that regardless of what happens, I’m going to win anyway, he said he heard it in my voice. (What if I lose my voice!<g) I’m scared to death, but I’m thinking about making an appointment with that physician. He’s even on my PPO so it will only be $10. I haven’t seen a doctor since last September and I was there to get a letter that said I was doing great so our group insurance could be moved to a less expensive carrier. I will be hurt if I subject myself to this man and he comes up with some oddball stress and anxiety diagnosis. Then he’d probably send that to my primary care physician and mess up the only reasonable avenue I have for help here. Okay, I’m out of the closet now…the Slipper is scared of being called a nut (well at least by doctors). —Gene, don’t you dare jump on that statement!!!<g The other good news is that our nine-parish newspaper printed the short article about Taco Neck and ST and the phone number. Perhaps it will get the attention of someone like me. Okay, so that’s that. I’m no longer an alien life form here in this town. (—I’m warning you Gene..don’t say it!!!<g) Love yaw, Slipper
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi gang. My Mother-in-law called today as she read an article about Taco Neck offending those with ST in Baton Rouge, LA. There was a local phone number & I called and found there exists a number of people with dystonia living in my area. They have a "group" but it doesn’t meet due to the fact that many members cannot get there as they are homebound. Most of the members have ST, however, which differs from me as I am generalized. I did find out that the head of the local group presented ST info to a local neurologist and that physician made a point to go to Houston and learn how to give BOTOX injections. He has saved several people the long drive and it sounds as if he has done a lot of good. I had heard of this physician when people thought I had MS and almost contacted him to see if he would like to take a shot at helping my dystonia, but I was afraid he’d look at my records and think I was crazy again…he is in the same clinic with one of the neuros who sent me home with a bag of depression meds; later he said I had a benign essential tremor with "some rigidity". Not!!! After talking with the head of the group, I learned that none of them accessed info on the computer and he was surprised at how many of us correspond with one another with such frequency. He asked the cutest question, "Well, tell me, have you been able to find very many people with dystonia by looking in your computer?" He was blown away by my answer!!! Now he wants to try to "rejuvenate" the group and try to meet again to set up a way to meet regularly. He wants me to tell them about our newsgroup and all the friends we’ve all made, how we keep each other from feeling misunderstood, alone. It was a good time to talk to him because I feel like I’ve been losing the battle against dystonia lately…I’m sure it’s temporary as I’ve never been hit this hard for long since I got on the meds. He said there’s no one in the group who has it all over them this way, but he said that regardless of what happens, I’m going to win anyway, he said he heard it in my voice. (What if I lose my voice!<g) I’m scared to death, but I’m thinking about making an appointment with that physician. He’s even on my PPO so it will only be $10. I haven’t seen a doctor since last September and I was there to get a letter that said I was doing great so our group insurance could be moved to a less expensive carrier. I will be hurt if I subject myself to this man and he comes up with some oddball stress and anxiety diagnosis. Then he’d probably send that to my primary care physician and mess up the only reasonable avenue I have for help here. Okay, I’m out of the closet now…the Slipper is scared of being called a nut (well at least by doctors). —Gene, don’t you dare jump on that statement!!!<g The other good news is that our nine-parish newspaper printed the short article about Taco Neck and ST and the phone number. Perhaps it will get the attention of someone like me. Okay, so that’s that. I’m no longer an alien life form here in this town. (—I’m warning you Gene..don’t say it!!!<g) Love yaw, Slipper
Slipper: Sorry to hear you’re on a downer — these slides are tough. In my case it has been deemed too risky for me to see a neurologist as my case got botched so much it became almost political with a large "P". Anyway, it has not escaped my attention what happened after I simply wandered by and posted that "Library Neck" story. Well, well, seems you, Gene and Catherine just jumped on my innocent question about the source of Gene’s humour — er, I mean printed jokes <<g. Boy did you three run with that one! Proving to us all that the three of you are sorta, kinda, somewhat, grudgingly, in an offhanded way, indirectly, less than obviously pals . SO glad <<g I could help!!! Gotta watch those innocent questions of mine! Hi to all John
writes: ..just send flowers to Gaby, you will know what happened…..<<g Send flowers to Gaby anyway!!! <g Gene, Gene listen, listen to me…behave.
You know I always behave, don’t ya? <g <<<<<<<<<<<<<<G -Slip
OK! OK! Slipper you win, you win….<g It is true, Slipper and I are good friends and we don’t fight off line. It’s a nice sunny day out and it reminds me to wish everyone (including a special someone:-) a great summer. I am taking a break but will be checking my e-mail sporadically and responding to anyone who writes. Gene
. Boy did you three run with that one! Proving to us all that the three of you are sorta, kinda, somewhat, grudgingly, in an offhanded way, indirectly, less than obviously pals .
Actually John, and don’t repeat this, we fight all the time off line. You haven’t seen my eyes….and bruises here and there, I am a mess…. Now Slipper has instructed the whole gang to.."go get him." Yikes!!!!!! If you stop hearing from me….just send flowers to Gaby, you will know what happened…..<<g
writes: ..just send flowers to Gaby, you will know what happened…..<<g
Send flowers to Gaby anyway!!! <g Gene, Gene listen, listen to me…behave. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<G -Slip