Should I be taking Nexium with my fullness symptoms?

Question:

Hello, I recently visited my family physician with complaints about always having a feeling of fullness in my stomach. I’ve had no feeling of acid indigestion but have had severe bloating. Because of recurring headaches, I’ve been taking Excedrin almost daily for months. (I now find that just drinking caffeinated coffee takes care of my headaches). My doctor prescribed Nexium and I’m wondering if I’m taking the correct medication since I don’t seem to have any acid reflux symptoms. Anyone advice appreciated.

Response:

> Hello, > I recently visited my family physician with complaints about always having a > feeling of fullness in my stomach. I’ve had no feeling of acid indigestion > but have had severe bloating. Because of recurring headaches, I’ve been > taking Excedrin almost daily for months. (I now find that just drinking > caffeinated coffee takes care of my headaches). My doctor prescribed Nexium > and I’m wondering if I’m taking the correct medication since I don’t seem to > have any acid reflux symptoms. > Anyone advice appreciated.

Might the fullness really be gas?  Look at your diet and see if it happens more after certain kinds of foods.  Sugars and even artificial sweeteners frequently produce gas. Also, are you constipated?  This too can lead to a full feeling. To answer your question about nexium – does it help? Louise

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello, > I recently visited my family physician with complaints about always having a > feeling of fullness in my stomach. I’ve had no feeling of acid indigestion > but have had severe bloating. Because of recurring headaches, I’ve been > taking Excedrin almost daily for months. (I now find that just drinking > caffeinated coffee takes care of my headaches). My doctor prescribed Nexium > and I’m wondering if I’m taking the correct medication since I don’t seem to > have any acid reflux symptoms. > Anyone advice appreciated. > Might the fullness really be gas?  Look at your diet and see if it > happens more after certain kinds of foods.  Sugars and even artificial > sweeteners frequently produce gas. > Also, are you constipated?  This too can lead to a full feeling. > To answer your question about nexium – does it help?

But they don’t produce gas in the stomach…that is from swallowed air. The most common reason for air swallowing is reflux. Only about 40% of people with GERD have symptoms of heartburn or "acid indigestion". Having said that, I think it’s reasonable to continue the PPI if it helps your symptoms of bloating. If it doesn’t, I wouldn’t pay for another such pill until the diagnosis had been confirmed. HMc

Response:

If you do have gas in your stomach, you could try one of the preparations which contains simethicone (sp?), eg Myalanta.  The simethicone will help you burp and get rid of the gas. AB

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> > Hello, > > I recently visited my family physician with complaints about always > having a > > feeling of fullness in my stomach. I’ve had no feeling of acid > indigestion > > but have had severe bloating. Because of recurring headaches, I’ve been > > taking Excedrin almost daily for months. (I now find that just drinking > > caffeinated coffee takes care of my headaches). My doctor prescribed > Nexium > > and I’m wondering if I’m taking the correct medication since I don’t > seem to > > have any acid reflux symptoms. > > Anyone advice appreciated. > Might the fullness really be gas?  Look at your diet and see if it > happens more after certain kinds of foods.  Sugars and even artificial > sweeteners frequently produce gas. > Also, are you constipated?  This too can lead to a full feeling. > To answer your question about nexium – does it help? > But they don’t produce gas in the stomach…that is from swallowed air. The > most common reason for air swallowing is reflux. > Only about 40% of people with GERD have symptoms of heartburn or "acid > indigestion". > Having said that, I think it’s reasonable to continue the PPI if it helps > your symptoms of bloating. If it doesn’t, I wouldn’t pay for another such > pill until the diagnosis had been confirmed. > HMc

— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

excruciating heartburn / esophagitis

Question:

Developed after 10 days on Doxycycline as treatment for prostatitis. My gastroenterologist suspects the doxycycline is the cause.  I would tend to agree, but I always took it with a full meal, so can’t quite see how it could have worked its evil on my esophagus.  Anyway, assuming I have doxy induced esophagitis, my doc put me on 30mg prevacid 1x/day, and sucralfate 4x/day.  So far, after only 1 day’s treatment, I am still in agony.  I have slept virtually not at all the past two nights because of the pain, which is still excruciating even when fully upright.  Food or lack of it does little to affect the pain.  Tylenol seems to do nothing as well. Is there any medication I can take to relieve the pain so that I can sleep and let the other medicines do their work?  I’ve heard of a "GI cocktail" that has lidocain in it that is used in ERs.  Is there something similar OTC? TIA for any and all ideas — John.

Response:

In article <95556f1e.0402110805.5b5cc475 > Developed after 10 days on Doxycycline as treatment for prostatitis. > My gastroenterologist suspects the doxycycline is the cause.  I would > tend to agree, but I always took it with a full meal, so can’t quite > see how it could have worked its evil on my esophagus.  Anyway, > assuming I have doxy induced esophagitis, my doc put me on 30mg > prevacid 1x/day, and sucralfate 4x/day.  So far, after only 1 day’s > treatment, I am still in agony.  I have slept virtually not at all the > past two nights because of the pain, which is still excruciating even > when fully upright.  Food or lack of it does little to affect the > pain.  Tylenol seems to do nothing as well. Is there any medication I > can take to relieve the pain so that I can sleep and let the other > medicines do their work?  I’ve heard of a "GI cocktail" that has > lidocain in it that is used in ERs.  Is there something similar OTC? > TIA for any and all ideas — John.

First of all, one can take prevacid 30 mg twice a day.  It is a large dose, but not that infrequently done (I’m doing it for the last month and it’s helped a lot with acid burning my throat till I could barely talk).  If you’re in the US, and using our wonderful insurance plans…..your doctor will have to get special permission for the large dose, but it can be done and it will make a big difference. Also, OTC Gaviscon is different from other antacids in that it creates a barrier of foam so the acid has a harder time refluxing.  If you take too much, the magnesium in it might give you some diahrrea – but again, for a little while, no harm done. In the health food camp:  1 tsp of aloe vera juice (pure) a few times a day.  DGL (deglycerized licorice) tablets chewed 15 minutes before meals. Put some kind of blocks under the head of your bed so that it is at an angle – they usually recommend 6 to 8 inches.   DO NOT USE EXTRA PILLOWS – you need the blocks under the top of the boxspring to create the proper angle. There are other things, such as medicines available in other countries, but not here, but those will take weeks for you to get and you’ll probably be better by then. Hope this helps and that you’re feeling better soon. Louise

Response:

increasingly worse gastric reflux

Aciphex is a medication used to treat gestational acid reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers. Buy aciphex medication and feel better today!

Question:

> Alot of doctors suggest that peptic ulcers are caused by H pylori. Alot of > pharmaceutical companies dont really care. Antacids are big business.

Peptic ulcers have nothing to do with acid reflux, which is the cause of most "heartburn". Helicobacter pylori is indeed the cause of about 70% of peptic ulcers, but H pylori has nothing to do with acid reflux either. Antacids are indeed big business. But how do you think H. pylori-mediated peptic ulcers are treated? With anti-secretory medication (Prevacid, Prilosec, Zantac, Tagamet etc etc) and antibiotics (which the pharmaceutical companies also make, right?). Just treating with antibiotics alone doesn’t work. In fact, TAP Pharmaceuticals (makers of Prevacid) also markets a standard treatment for H pylori-mediated peptic ulcers called PrevPac, which is a single package that contains Prevacid and an antibiotic. Look at http://tinyurl.com/lq0l HMc

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Alot of doctors suggest that peptic ulcers are caused by H pylori. Alot of > pharmaceutical companies dont really care. Antacids are big business. > Peptic ulcers have nothing to do with acid reflux, which is the cause of > most "heartburn". > Helicobacter pylori is indeed the cause of about 70% of peptic ulcers, but H > pylori has nothing to do with acid reflux either. > Antacids are indeed big business. But how do you think H. pylori-mediated > peptic ulcers are treated? With anti-secretory medication (Prevacid, > Prilosec, Zantac, Tagamet etc etc) and antibiotics (which the pharmaceutical > companies also make, right?). Just treating with antibiotics alone doesn’t > work.

I have worked with some top notch doctors that beg to differ outside of their practice. A simple over the counter antacid can work just fine while treating it with anti biotics. Yes pharaceutical companies sell the antibiotics, but do you think they push the antibiotic for the treatment? How many doctors do you know suggest using the antibiotic to treat the ulcer? ALMOST NONE in the USA. WHY? Because there arent the big kickbacks they can get by continually prescribing antacids. I amnot suggesting the doctor is willfully trying to hurt the person but they see through green colored glasses sometimes… > In fact, TAP Pharmaceuticals (makers of Prevacid) also markets a standard > treatment for H pylori-mediated peptic ulcers called PrevPac, which is a > single package that contains Prevacid and an antibiotic. Look at > http://tinyurl.com/lq0l

I will check that out. If that is what they are doing then bravo! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> HMc

Response:

> Hmm…haven’t tried raisins lately.  Have to see if I can handle those; I > don’t guess they should be bad.  Haven’t tried the tums smooth dissolve yet. > I’ve used a lot of maalox max, though, and it seems to work well.

Try some tums smooth disolve if you get the chance. One of > the nice things about the liquid is that you can keep it in the fridge, and > the cold is nice.

Is the Malox mint flavored?  I also have a "GI cocktail," which is a prescription mix > of mylanta, benadryl, a numbing agent, and something else I can’t remember > right off.

Yeah a purple lady like they give in the doctors office for peptic ulcers. I am about to try something called active Manuka honey for my peptic ulcers which has an abundance of anti bacterial and anti oxidents in it. It is all natural but better than origonal honey. They use it in Australia for peptic ulcers and even doctors suggest it commonly. So I figure its not worth hurting to take a chance. Alot of doctors suggest that peptic ulcers are caused by H pylori. Alot of pharmaceutical companies dont really care. Antacids are big business. It litterally numbs your GI tract from the back of your tongue > down.  I’ve hardly had to use it since I’ve been on the AcipHex, though. > Maybe I’ll get some of those tums to have something I can keep in my

pocket. As I said they gave me a purple lady at the hospital… Great for an all out attack. I have been trying to limit my antacid intake to only when i really need it. I have been trying an all pure diet. It seems to be helping. Less meats and stuff help. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> > I’ve basically given up on fruit and fruit juice, except for bananas > when > > I’m having particularly bad stomach problems.  Those don’t really help, > but > > they’re about the only thing that doesn’t taste too bad coming back up. > :- > Well let me tell you something. Rasins are high in anti oxidents so I eat > them. I have no problem with them. I eat dole fruit cups for breakfast. It > all depends on your stomach though. > BTW have you tried tums smooth disolve? Seems to work with me. > > > > Tomatoes are ‘acidy’ do you find any problems with apples or citrus > > > fruits? > > > > Derek. > > > I dont find any problems with fresh citrus fruits like oranges or > anything > > > like that, but grapefruit yes, and an obvious yes to lemon or lime…. > > > Orange Juice is an obvious dont drink… > > > Choclate is very acidic… Mint should not be eaten either because it > > > relaxes the sphincter muscle which shouldnt be relaxed…. > > > > > Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my > > GERD. > > > > One > > > > > pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a > > > recliner > > > > > because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor > discomfort > > > once > > > > a > > > > > week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and > this > > is > > > a > > > > > little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something > about > > > > tomatos > > > > > can really irritate GERD. > > > > > Hope you and your son feel better. > > > > > Mike > > > > > > > It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic > symptoms > of > > > > > gerd… > > > > > > > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this > ofcourse > > can > > > > > give > > > > > > > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be > > > caused > > > > by > > > > > > > anxiety… > > > > > > > any questions > > > > > > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > > > > > > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > > > > > > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now > thinks > I > > > may > > > > > > have an ulcer as well. > > > > > > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty > food > > > has > > > > > > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have > been > > > given > > > > > an > > > > > > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take > together > > to > > > > ease > > > > > > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? > It > > > seems > > > > > > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > > > > > > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in > hospital > ( > > > > > > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been > > incredibly > > > > > > hectic…..

Response:

Hmm…haven’t tried raisins lately.  Have to see if I can handle those; I don’t guess they should be bad.  Haven’t tried the tums smooth dissolve yet. I’ve used a lot of maalox max, though, and it seems to work well.  One of the nice things about the liquid is that you can keep it in the fridge, and the cold is nice.  I also have a "GI cocktail," which is a prescription mix of mylanta, benadryl, a numbing agent, and something else I can’t remember right off.  It litterally numbs your GI tract from the back of your tongue down.  I’ve hardly had to use it since I’ve been on the AcipHex, though. Maybe I’ll get some of those tums to have something I can keep in my pocket.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I’ve basically given up on fruit and fruit juice, except for bananas when > I’m having particularly bad stomach problems.  Those don’t really help, > but > they’re about the only thing that doesn’t taste too bad coming back up. > :- > Well let me tell you something. Rasins are high in anti oxidents so I eat > them. I have no problem with them. I eat dole fruit cups for breakfast. It > all depends on your stomach though. > BTW have you tried tums smooth disolve? Seems to work with me. > > > Tomatoes are ‘acidy’ do you find any problems with apples or citrus > > fruits? > > > Derek. > > I dont find any problems with fresh citrus fruits like oranges or > anything > > like that, but grapefruit yes, and an obvious yes to lemon or lime…. > > Orange Juice is an obvious dont drink… > > Choclate is very acidic… Mint should not be eaten either because it > > relaxes the sphincter muscle which shouldnt be relaxed…. > > > > Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my > GERD. > > > One > > > > pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a > > recliner > > > > because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor > discomfort > > once > > > a > > > > week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and > this > is > > a > > > > little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something about > > > tomatos > > > > can really irritate GERD. > > > > Hope you and your son feel better. > > > > Mike > > > > > > It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms > of > > > > gerd… > > > > > > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse > can > > > > give > > > > > > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be > > caused > > > by > > > > > > anxiety… > > > > > > any questions > > > > > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > > > > > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > > > > > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks > I > > may > > > > > have an ulcer as well. > > > > > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty > food > > has > > > > > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been > > given > > > > an > > > > > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together > to > > > ease > > > > > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It > > seems > > > > > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > > > > > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital > ( > > > > > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been > incredibly > > > > > hectic…..

Response:

> I’ve basically given up on fruit and fruit juice, except for bananas when > I’m having particularly bad stomach problems.  Those don’t really help, but > they’re about the only thing that doesn’t taste too bad coming back up.

:- Well let me tell you something. Rasins are high in anti oxidents so I eat them. I have no problem with them. I eat dole fruit cups for breakfast. It all depends on your stomach though. BTW have you tried tums smooth disolve? Seems to work with me. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> > Tomatoes are ‘acidy’ do you find any problems with apples or citrus > fruits? > > Derek. > I dont find any problems with fresh citrus fruits like oranges or anything > like that, but grapefruit yes, and an obvious yes to lemon or lime…. > Orange Juice is an obvious dont drink… > Choclate is very acidic… Mint should not be eaten either because it > relaxes the sphincter muscle which shouldnt be relaxed…. > > > Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my > GERD. > > One > > > pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a > recliner > > > because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor discomfort > once > > a > > > week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and this > is > a > > > little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something about > > tomatos > > > can really irritate GERD. > > > Hope you and your son feel better. > > > Mike > > > > > It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of > > > gerd… > > > > > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse > can > > > give > > > > > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be > caused > > by > > > > > anxiety… > > > > > any questions > > > > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > > > > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > > > > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I > may > > > > have an ulcer as well. > > > > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food > has > > > > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been > given > > > an > > > > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together > to > > ease > > > > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It > seems > > > > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > > > > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( > > > > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been > incredibly > > > > hectic…..

Response:

I’ve basically given up on fruit and fruit juice, except for bananas when I’m having particularly bad stomach problems.  Those don’t really help, but they’re about the only thing that doesn’t taste too bad coming back up.  :-

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Tomatoes are ‘acidy’ do you find any problems with apples or citrus > fruits? > Derek. > I dont find any problems with fresh citrus fruits like oranges or anything > like that, but grapefruit yes, and an obvious yes to lemon or lime…. > Orange Juice is an obvious dont drink… > Choclate is very acidic… Mint should not be eaten either because it > relaxes the sphincter muscle which shouldnt be relaxed…. > > Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my GERD. > One > > pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a > recliner > > because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor discomfort > once > a > > week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and this is > a > > little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something about > tomatos > > can really irritate GERD. > > Hope you and your son feel better. > > Mike > > > > It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of > > gerd… > > > > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can > > give > > > > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be > caused > by > > > > anxiety… > > > > any questions > > > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > > > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > > > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I > may > > > have an ulcer as well. > > > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food > has > > > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been > given > > an > > > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together to > ease > > > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It > seems > > > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > > > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( > > > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been incredibly > > > hectic…..

Response:

> Tomatoes are ‘acidy’ do you find any problems with apples or citrus fruits? > Derek.

I dont find any problems with fresh citrus fruits like oranges or anything like that, but grapefruit yes, and an obvious yes to lemon or lime…. Orange Juice is an obvious dont drink… Choclate is very acidic… Mint should not be eaten either because it relaxes the sphincter muscle which shouldnt be relaxed…. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my GERD. > One > pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a recliner > because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor discomfort once > a > week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and this is a > little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something about > tomatos > can really irritate GERD. > Hope you and your son feel better. > Mike > > > It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of > gerd… > > > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can > give > > > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be caused > by > > > anxiety… > > > any questions > > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I may > > have an ulcer as well. > > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food has > > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been given > an > > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together  to > ease > > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It seems > > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( > > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been incredibly > > hectic…..

Response:

Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my GERD.  One pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a recliner because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor discomfort once a week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and this is a little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something about tomatos can really irritate GERD. Hope you and your son feel better. Mike

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of gerd… > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can give > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be caused by > anxiety… > any questions > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I may > have an ulcer as well. > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food has > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been given an > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together  to ease > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It seems > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been incredibly > hectic…..

Response:

Tomatoes are ‘acidy’ do you find any problems with apples or citrus fruits? Derek.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hey, just like to say that AcipHex has been a miracle drug for my GERD. One > pill every morning, and I’ve gone from sleeping a few hours in a recliner > because of the pain when I’d lie down to having only minor discomfort once a > week or so.  Might be worth asking your doctor about.  Also, and this is a > little odd, avoiding tomato products seems to help.  Something about tomatos > can really irritate GERD. > Hope you and your son feel better. > Mike > > It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of > gerd… > > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can > give > > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be caused by > > anxiety… > > any questions > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I may > have an ulcer as well. > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food has > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been given > an > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together  to ease > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It seems > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been incredibly > hectic…..

Response:

> It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of gerd… > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can give > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be caused by > anxiety… > any questions

Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? Anyway, thanks for replying…. Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I may have an ulcer as well. Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food has made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been given an a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together  to ease the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It seems stress does indeed  makes it worse…. I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been incredibly hectic…..

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of gerd… > gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can give > you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be caused by > anxiety… > any questions > Hey Douglas !! I see you on alt. religion Mormon..how are you??? > Anyway, thanks for replying…. > Yeah..it is gerd by the looks of it. Although my doctor now thinks I may > have an ulcer as well. > Wiping out  coffee from my diet  ( I weep!) and spicy and fatty food has > made a difference. The pain in my stomach is worse and I have been given an > a strong ant  acid and an anaesthetic suspension to take together  to ease > the discomfort. What are your symptoms, does it get any better? It seems > stress does indeed  makes it worse…. > I was meant to go for an endoscopy but my son has been in hospital ( > recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes) so life has been incredibly > hectic…..

Well yes I am a "Mormon". I dont really go to the newsgroup anymore because so many bashers. Well yeah I figured you probablly had gerd, and peptic ulcers are usual with it. I am about to read a book soon called the PH miracle (you can get it on amazon for like 4 bucks). One lady who had the same symtpoms suggested it and said she is cured from her problems. I know her very well.. As far as the coffee and so forth is concerned the "Mormon" religion is really strict on dieting. For instance limiting the meats you eat, not drinking hot drinks, and staying away from any herb you dont need are just a few suggestions. I can only assume the reason this country has more problems with GERD than any other is because of the amount of chemicals and perservatives we take in. Caffine is horrible for the stomach, and especially sodas. I have gone back to a more pure diet involving fruits, grains, and very little meat. I have noticed some major changes but it will take time for my body to adapt…. I drink water and pure apple juice such as (langers). I figure not only will this cure my body from alot of illnesses but will give me longer life and less stress as it has shown so far. Will I miss foods? Sure but I can indulge everyonce in a blue moon. However I have learned to enjoy moderation more than I enjoyed the food. It is a hard habit to break but it can be done certainly.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hi all. > I have been having shocking reflux and stomach pain for over two years on > and off. > I went for an endoscopy eighteen months ago and was told I had very inflamed > stomach lining. No follow up. > All was fine for a while but a about five moths ago I felt like there was a > particle of food stuck in my throat ( after eating some spicy Thai food) I > went to a throat specialist who had a look and said my throat was irritated > due to reflux. Since then I have been getting increasingly worse reflux with > knife like pain under my breast bone. The pain radiated into my arm and > shoulder so my doctor ordered blood works and an ECG and of course did basic > obs.( pulse, BP and respiratory ) all normal. Yet I still get  a tad panicky > and think the pain is related to my heart even though the ECG was normal. > The pain on my left side ( under the ribs) is quite crippling at times and > when ever I bend over my reflux  gets much  worse.as does the pain in my > sternum and under the breast bone.My doctor palpated my stomach and said it > is extremely tender and has refereed me to a gastro specialist with the idea > to also do another endoscopy. Any one else here been through this?  Can you > tell me what to expect , is stress making it worse,any chance it is a cardio > vascular  thing?Can anxiety exacerbate   the  symptoms? > Much obliged for any replies……. > Helen

It can feel like it is your heart but you have classic symptoms of gerd… gerd can feel like a heart problem when it isnt… this ofcourse can give you panic attack feelings… and anxiety… or the gerd can be caused by anxiety… any questions

Response:

Hi all. I have been having shocking reflux and stomach pain for over two years on and off. I went for an endoscopy eighteen months ago and was told I had very inflamed stomach lining. No follow up. All was fine for a while but a about five moths ago I felt like there was a particle of food stuck in my throat ( after eating some spicy Thai food) I went to a throat specialist who had a look and said my throat was irritated due to reflux. Since then I have been getting increasingly worse reflux with knife like pain under my breast bone. The pain radiated into my arm and shoulder so my doctor ordered blood works and an ECG and of course did basic obs.( pulse, BP and respiratory ) all normal. Yet I still get  a tad panicky and think the pain is related to my heart even though the ECG was normal. The pain on my left side ( under the ribs) is quite crippling at times and when ever I bend over my reflux  gets much  worse.as does the pain in my sternum and under the breast bone.My doctor palpated my stomach and said it is extremely tender and has refereed me to a gastro specialist with the idea to also do another endoscopy. Any one else here been through this?  Can you tell me what to expect , is stress making it worse,any chance it is a cardio vascular  thing?Can anxiety exacerbate   the  symptoms? Much obliged for any replies……. Helen

Response:

Personal preference

Question:

From Guy Williams I was put on metaformin and it was a disaster.  It has since been proven that it was not needed.  It was a combination ignorance of it’s action and a speil be a drug salesmen. It is indicated in many cases, but this should NOT be WAG decision. Like ALL drugs it has pluses and minuses.  Any drug  should be used with good reasons.   Most drugs harm someone. Anyone that had a job where productivity is their job requirement should not be expected to publicize the negatives of their product.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> From Guy Williams > I was put on metaformin and it was a disaster.  It has > since been proven that it was not needed.  It was > a combination ignorance of it’s action and a speil > be a drug salesmen. > It is indicated in many cases, but this should NOT be > WAG decision. > Like ALL drugs it has pluses and minuses.  Any > drug  should be used with good reasons.   Most > drugs harm someone. > Anyone that had a job where productivity is their > job requirement should not be expected to publicize > the negatives of their product.

I also had a very nasty experience with metformin. It is still being urged on me by well meaning doctors. The account of my experience is viewed with suspicion. My only defence is a stubborn refusal to ever use this medication again. Annette

Response:

>It is still being urged on me by well meaning doctors. The account >of my experience is viewed with suspicion. >My only defence is a stubborn refusal to ever use this medication >again.

Annette, I feel the same way about Actos.  Even though my blood sugar was EXCELLENT with Actos, I’m convinced  the side effects themselves would have killed me eventually.   First visit with a new PCP last year, she said, "I’m thinking about Actos for you."  I told her not to bother, I wouldn’t be taking that again anytime soon, after experiencing a rapid weight gain of 30lbs, constant pressure in my head, feeling unable to breathe, and pitted edema so bad I sprang a leak that wouldn’t dry up till I abruptly quit taking the Actos and went on Lasix. My experience with Avandia wasn’t much better, although the side effects were limited to edema, a 20lb weight gain and frequent headaches. Glucophage is my only reasonable option at this point.  I cannot exceed 850mg regular Glucophage per day, or I become ill.  I cannot take Glucophage XR at all, as it seems to cause me MORE gastric upset, (heartburn, nausea) than the regular. My husband is on XR, and has had pretty good results with it.  I don’t know why it doesn’t work for me.  I just consider myself lucky that I can now buy generic metformin at a cheaper copay……lol.. Bev Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

In my opinion for the many that glucophage has an adverse affect, I feel that the scale towards the postiive aspects of this drug outweigh the negatives.  It is a case of YMMV  and for my mileage Glucophage is doing great.  I hope as I condinue to lose weight that I can reduce the amount of meds.  i have already reduced six mgs of amaryl. Loretta In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a world filled with strife and terrorism.

Response:

Weaning off prilosec?

Question:

I’ve been on Prilosec since 2000. It started when I was 400lbs., ate horrible and had a horrible lifestyle. The horrible GERD I began to suffer from (so bad it felt like a heart attack on a number of occassions and caused months of almost constant nausea and lots of dry heaving) caused me to reevaluate my life. Since that time I’ve gotten down to 250lbs. by becoming a vegetarian and by exercising regularly; cycling 10-20 miles a day. Everything is going pretty well. Cholesterol is way down, far below normal. My heart is great and overall my health is great. I’d like to kick Prilosec, though. Part of this process of getting healthier, has been to take charge of my life and to fix my problems by doing things the right way. Eating the right foods, exercising, etc. Thus I’d like to get off Prilosec if I can, because I don’t want to take any medication that isn’t necessary. Problem is, when I tried to take pills only sporadically about 7 months ago, I had REALLY had heartburn. So my question is this. #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my body’s natural ability to regulate acid production? #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that would help this process? Zantac? Thanks for any help or advice. Preston

Response:

> #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible > to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there > a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my > body’s natural ability to regulate acid production?

That’s *exactly* what it is doing, which in general means that if you go off it, you’ll have some difficulty with acid levels, since the regulatory mechanisms are all fouled up. I’ve been trying to wean myself off Nexium for similar reasons.  I’m a very healthy individual, and right now it takes a combination of Nexium and careful diet to keep my acid level under control.  I’m slowly trying to get to the point where I’m not popping pills all the time, and since I’ve found that Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid, and Zantac all give me intestinal indigestion. > #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right > now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that > would help this process? Zantac?

The only thing I’ve really been able to do is substitute one med for another.  I can take Zantac instead of Nexium, for example, but the doses are huge[1], and talking with my GI specialist he believes that Nexium is probably causing less problems in the long run than Zantac. I’d be *very* careful with antacids.  While I was undergoing pre-surgical screening for my Nissen I had to go completely off acid control meds, and had to take large amounts of antacid to function. As I discovered, too much tums taken habitually can really mess you up, too. (I won’t complain, I’m *way* better off than a year ago, when I had *bad* GERD starting after a car accident.  After a Nissen with Hiatal Hernia repair, the acid isn’t eroding my esophagus any more, but I still have problems with high acid levels and gastritis and the occasional bout of heartburn.  But each month is an improvement) It sounds like you’re on the right track, you’ve got your lifestyle changed for the better.  Just take it slowly, and talk with specialists if you can. [1] As an aside, at least generic Zantac is *cheap* now.  I can get 120 75 mg tablets at the local walmart for $9.50, so when I was taking that I didn’t even both with my insurance. — Richard W Kaszeta http://www.kaszeta.org/rich

Response:

I’ve been on Prevacid since July of 1999.  And I figure that I am hooked forever.  When I began to have horrible heartburn, the doctor recommened Zantac 75.  It helped slightly, but I felt that my mind was in a fog.  When I returned to the doctor in several weeks, he prescribed Prevacid.  Suddenly, the fog lifted and the heartburn was not nearly so terrible.  Almost three years later, my heartburn is pretty well under control, but if I skip a pill, I am totally miserable.  I’ve tried Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix – but I’m dependent on Prevacid.  The doctor said I’d probably be on that pill forever. Even before my heartburn, I was in excellent shape, thin, ate a very, very healthy diet, exercised very regularly.  Now I am even in better shape.  The point is – life style changes DO help.  But they don’t always eliminate GERD. They may make GERD a lot more manageable. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I’ve been on Prilosec since 2000. It started when I was 400lbs., ate > horrible and had a horrible lifestyle. The horrible GERD I began to suffer > from (so bad it felt like a heart attack on a number of occassions and > caused months of almost constant nausea and lots of dry heaving) caused me > to reevaluate my life. > Since that time I’ve gotten down to 250lbs. by becoming a vegetarian and > by exercising regularly; cycling 10-20 miles a day. Everything is going > pretty well. Cholesterol is way down, far below normal. My heart is great > and overall my health is great. > I’d like to kick Prilosec, though. Part of this process of getting > healthier, has been to take charge of my life and to fix my problems by > doing things the right way. Eating the right foods, exercising, etc. Thus > I’d like to get off Prilosec if I can, because I don’t want to take any > medication that isn’t necessary. > Problem is, when I tried to take pills only sporadically about 7 months > ago, I had REALLY had heartburn. So my question is this. > #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible > to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there > a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my > body’s natural ability to regulate acid production? > #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right > now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that > would help this process? Zantac? > Thanks for any help or advice. > Preston

Response:

Im on Nexium  no problems…I was on Prilosec.but it was affecting my Coumadin levels in my blood….Nexium has cause no evil with me and y GERD is well under control. I love it. Barbara Behan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I’ve been on Prevacid since July of 1999.  And I figure that I am hooked > forever.  When I began to have horrible heartburn, the doctor recommened > Zantac 75.  It helped slightly, but I felt that my mind was in a fog. When I > returned to the doctor in several weeks, he prescribed Prevacid. Suddenly, > the fog lifted and the heartburn was not nearly so terrible.  Almost three > years later, my heartburn is pretty well under control, but if I skip a pill, > I am totally miserable.  I’ve tried Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix – but I’m > dependent on Prevacid.  The doctor said I’d probably be on that pill forever. > Even before my heartburn, I was in excellent shape, thin, ate a very, very > healthy diet, exercised very regularly.  Now I am even in better shape. The > point is – life style changes DO help.  But they don’t always eliminate GERD. > They may make GERD a lot more manageable. > I’ve been on Prilosec since 2000. It started when I was 400lbs., ate > horrible and had a horrible lifestyle. The horrible GERD I began to suffer > from (so bad it felt like a heart attack on a number of occassions and > caused months of almost constant nausea and lots of dry heaving) caused me > to reevaluate my life. > Since that time I’ve gotten down to 250lbs. by becoming a vegetarian and > by exercising regularly; cycling 10-20 miles a day. Everything is going > pretty well. Cholesterol is way down, far below normal. My heart is great > and overall my health is great. > I’d like to kick Prilosec, though. Part of this process of getting > healthier, has been to take charge of my life and to fix my problems by > doing things the right way. Eating the right foods, exercising, etc. Thus > I’d like to get off Prilosec if I can, because I don’t want to take any > medication that isn’t necessary. > Problem is, when I tried to take pills only sporadically about 7 months > ago, I had REALLY had heartburn. So my question is this. > #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible > to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there > a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my > body’s natural ability to regulate acid production? > #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right > now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that > would help this process? Zantac? > Thanks for any help or advice. > Preston

Response:

Weaning off prilosec?

Question:

I’ve been on Prilosec since 2000. It started when I was 400lbs., ate horrible and had a horrible lifestyle. The horrible GERD I began to suffer from (so bad it felt like a heart attack on a number of occassions and caused months of almost constant nausea and lots of dry heaving) caused me to reevaluate my life. Since that time I’ve gotten down to 250lbs. by becoming a vegetarian and by exercising regularly; cycling 10-20 miles a day. Everything is going pretty well. Cholesterol is way down, far below normal. My heart is great and overall my health is great. I’d like to kick Prilosec, though. Part of this process of getting healthier, has been to take charge of my life and to fix my problems by doing things the right way. Eating the right foods, exercising, etc. Thus I’d like to get off Prilosec if I can, because I don’t want to take any medication that isn’t necessary. Problem is, when I tried to take pills only sporadically about 7 months ago, I had REALLY had heartburn. So my question is this. #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my body’s natural ability to regulate acid production? #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that would help this process? Zantac? Thanks for any help or advice. Preston

Response:

> #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible > to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there > a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my > body’s natural ability to regulate acid production?

That’s *exactly* what it is doing, which in general means that if you go off it, you’ll have some difficulty with acid levels, since the regulatory mechanisms are all fouled up. I’ve been trying to wean myself off Nexium for similar reasons.  I’m a very healthy individual, and right now it takes a combination of Nexium and careful diet to keep my acid level under control.  I’m slowly trying to get to the point where I’m not popping pills all the time, and since I’ve found that Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid, and Zantac all give me intestinal indigestion. > #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right > now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that > would help this process? Zantac?

The only thing I’ve really been able to do is substitute one med for another.  I can take Zantac instead of Nexium, for example, but the doses are huge[1], and talking with my GI specialist he believes that Nexium is probably causing less problems in the long run than Zantac. I’d be *very* careful with antacids.  While I was undergoing pre-surgical screening for my Nissen I had to go completely off acid control meds, and had to take large amounts of antacid to function. As I discovered, too much tums taken habitually can really mess you up, too. (I won’t complain, I’m *way* better off than a year ago, when I had *bad* GERD starting after a car accident.  After a Nissen with Hiatal Hernia repair, the acid isn’t eroding my esophagus any more, but I still have problems with high acid levels and gastritis and the occasional bout of heartburn.  But each month is an improvement) It sounds like you’re on the right track, you’ve got your lifestyle changed for the better.  Just take it slowly, and talk with specialists if you can. [1] As an aside, at least generic Zantac is *cheap* now.  I can get 120 75 mg tablets at the local walmart for $9.50, so when I was taking that I didn’t even both with my insurance. — Richard W Kaszeta http://www.kaszeta.org/rich

Response:

I’ve been on Prevacid since July of 1999.  And I figure that I am hooked forever.  When I began to have horrible heartburn, the doctor recommened Zantac 75.  It helped slightly, but I felt that my mind was in a fog.  When I returned to the doctor in several weeks, he prescribed Prevacid.  Suddenly, the fog lifted and the heartburn was not nearly so terrible.  Almost three years later, my heartburn is pretty well under control, but if I skip a pill, I am totally miserable.  I’ve tried Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix – but I’m dependent on Prevacid.  The doctor said I’d probably be on that pill forever. Even before my heartburn, I was in excellent shape, thin, ate a very, very healthy diet, exercised very regularly.  Now I am even in better shape.  The point is – life style changes DO help.  But they don’t always eliminate GERD. They may make GERD a lot more manageable. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I’ve been on Prilosec since 2000. It started when I was 400lbs., ate > horrible and had a horrible lifestyle. The horrible GERD I began to suffer > from (so bad it felt like a heart attack on a number of occassions and > caused months of almost constant nausea and lots of dry heaving) caused me > to reevaluate my life. > Since that time I’ve gotten down to 250lbs. by becoming a vegetarian and > by exercising regularly; cycling 10-20 miles a day. Everything is going > pretty well. Cholesterol is way down, far below normal. My heart is great > and overall my health is great. > I’d like to kick Prilosec, though. Part of this process of getting > healthier, has been to take charge of my life and to fix my problems by > doing things the right way. Eating the right foods, exercising, etc. Thus > I’d like to get off Prilosec if I can, because I don’t want to take any > medication that isn’t necessary. > Problem is, when I tried to take pills only sporadically about 7 months > ago, I had REALLY had heartburn. So my question is this. > #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible > to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there > a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my > body’s natural ability to regulate acid production? > #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right > now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that > would help this process? Zantac? > Thanks for any help or advice. > Preston

Response:

Im on Nexium  no problems…I was on Prilosec.but it was affecting my Coumadin levels in my blood….Nexium has cause no evil with me and y GERD is well under control. I love it. Barbara Behan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I’ve been on Prevacid since July of 1999.  And I figure that I am hooked > forever.  When I began to have horrible heartburn, the doctor recommened > Zantac 75.  It helped slightly, but I felt that my mind was in a fog. When I > returned to the doctor in several weeks, he prescribed Prevacid. Suddenly, > the fog lifted and the heartburn was not nearly so terrible.  Almost three > years later, my heartburn is pretty well under control, but if I skip a pill, > I am totally miserable.  I’ve tried Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix – but I’m > dependent on Prevacid.  The doctor said I’d probably be on that pill forever. > Even before my heartburn, I was in excellent shape, thin, ate a very, very > healthy diet, exercised very regularly.  Now I am even in better shape. The > point is – life style changes DO help.  But they don’t always eliminate GERD. > They may make GERD a lot more manageable. > I’ve been on Prilosec since 2000. It started when I was 400lbs., ate > horrible and had a horrible lifestyle. The horrible GERD I began to suffer > from (so bad it felt like a heart attack on a number of occassions and > caused months of almost constant nausea and lots of dry heaving) caused me > to reevaluate my life. > Since that time I’ve gotten down to 250lbs. by becoming a vegetarian and > by exercising regularly; cycling 10-20 miles a day. Everything is going > pretty well. Cholesterol is way down, far below normal. My heart is great > and overall my health is great. > I’d like to kick Prilosec, though. Part of this process of getting > healthier, has been to take charge of my life and to fix my problems by > doing things the right way. Eating the right foods, exercising, etc. Thus > I’d like to get off Prilosec if I can, because I don’t want to take any > medication that isn’t necessary. > Problem is, when I tried to take pills only sporadically about 7 months > ago, I had REALLY had heartburn. So my question is this. > #1 – Is it possible that being on Prilosec can make you MORE susceptible > to heartburn if you quit it? I hope that makes sense. Essentially is there > a weaning period of some kind? Does Prilosec somehow interfere with my > body’s natural ability to regulate acid production? > #2 – Are there any drugs that can be taken if I want to wean myself. Right > now I take 20mg of Prilosec daily. Is there anything that’s effective that > would help this process? Zantac? > Thanks for any help or advice. > Preston

Response:

Just in case anyone can offer info or suggestions?

Question:

>oh. honey…. sorry…. don’t know what to say for you…. it’s that darn t2 >difference that has me confused >but i do hope you work this out soon….. take care

Thanks, Kate.  I really feel more positive today, like I actually have something to work with.  This morning was the first time I’ve had a FBS below it, I guess. Keep your fingers crossed, ‘k? Bev Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

>I hope he’s doesn’t blame you for being "non-compliant"! You know, if >the program doesn’t work it must be our fault for not toeing the line >properly.

December.  I tried to get my blood pressure lowered all year last year, doubled this, tripled that, tried a new one, tried another one, etc. The last one they tried threw me into tachycardia, in direct opposition to the Lopressor I have taken since 93 to control it.  I had no choice but to cut it, and I couldn’t get anyone to return my calls or call me in something different.  I finally just added another 50mg a day to my daily dose (I knew from past research that I was far from the max dose) to last me till I could get one of the "group" to see me. Some doctor I had never seen comes in and chews my backside for going against doctor’s orders like my blood pressure being 176/117 is MY fault.  He demanded that I do as I was instructed.  I told him if they’d return my phone calls and not wait two friggin weeks to get me some medication, I’d have never gotten into that mess.  He shut up. I now am going to another member of the group, a new guy.  He’s a furriner, heavy accent hard for my southern ears to understand (he laughs when I ask him to please repeat;)  but he actually CARES.  Imagine my surprise when he was concerned that the Clonodine made me sleepy!  "My goal is to control your blood pressure with as few side effects as possible"  Hell, I’m just glad he’s willing to control it without blowing my heart clean out of my chest My motto is, if they can’t deal with you, find another one.  They’s tons of ‘em Bev Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

oh. honey…. sorry…. don’t know what to say for you…. it’s that darn t2 difference that has me confused but i do hope you work this out soon….. take care — kate – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > To make a long story short, I got an Rx for Lantus called in today by my PCP. > I was sick, and didn’t get to talk to him about it, so I’m on my own for the > weekend. of > NPH, 30/30.  When I went to bed last night, my Bg was 137 (around 11pm). At > 2am, it was 144…..I thought that was very little difference, and I thought I > was ok. > When I got up at 7:52am, imagine my surprise at finding a Bg of 212.  I felt > shaky and sick, like my heart was beating faster than activity called for. My > fasting Bg has been from the low to mid 200’s for weeks, and I cannot seem to > get control no matter what I do or eat. > As an update, I started on 4mg Avandia mid January, Went to 8mg end of > February.  I’ve tried everything from splitting the dose, to taking the full > 8mg in the am and adding an 850mg Glucophage at night ( did well on Glucophage > for years, but had a problem with it all of a sudden in January and had to make > a fast change.  So far no problems with one a day). > I’m on twice the H I used to take when I was on 850mg Glucophage twice a > day(gone from an absolute max of 15u per meal to 20-25), gained 15lbs, from a > dosage of 25/20 N to 30/30) and from a normal fasting of 90-120 to up to an all > time high of 268.  I’ve just about had it. > I have an appt with my endo on Tuesday (and he’s gonna be ticked, I was in > control when last he saw me in December) , but I absolutely HAVE to survive the > weekend in order to make the appt, so my question is: > The PCP called in the Lantus with a dosage of 10u at bedtime.  Considering that > I have been taking 30/30 N, does a dosage of 10u Lantus sound comparable? I > cannot take a chance on things getting any worse or I am going to end up in the > hospital before Monday. > Yeah, I know I should call my doctor, but to be honest, I have more faith in > practical experience.   I’m sitting here trying to decide whether I should just > increase the N to 35, or take the 10 of Lantus.  Any thoughts? > Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.

Response:

>night, > I feel pretty much ok, and my bg is 160, with just the 10u of Lantus. >However, > I took 25u of H with dinner last night.  Used to be I would have taken 12 >to > 15u for what I ate and I would have come out at a max FBS of 130.

My fasting BG on 25/20 N, and 10-15 H per meal with a dosage of Glucophage 850mg twice daily usually ran an avg of 105, so you can see why I’m freaking out. >Bev, >I couldn’t really follow your first post.  

Not surprising, Marilyn.  I was in a bit of a "state" Were you taking the Lantus  "When >I went to bed last night, my Bg was 137 (around 11pm).  At >2am, it was 144… When I got up at 7:52am…Bg of 212) or was this after >taking 30 units of N?

This was before I had the Lantus.  It was on 30u of N. >Lantus should be taken once a day and should provide you with stable blood >sugars if you don’t eat anything.  You then take H to cover what you eat. >The H will take care of the food but is long out of your system and has no >affect on your FBS.

Is Lantus supposed to overcome the problem of Dawn Phenomenon?  I have never had too much problem with it when I was on Glucophage full time.  It seems to have kicked in with a vengance.  Within 50 minutes while sitting at the computer this morning I went up to 181 from 160.  While that doesn’t sound so bad, a week ago I went up over 50 points in half an hour, same circumstances.   This morning, I ate a small container of pudding and took 13u H, and went back to bed.  (Hey, I know, but it was handy and I was sleepy)  I figured this would stop the DP, anyway.  When I got up again later on and took my Bg at 10:51, it was 132.   I usually don’t eat (due to medicating problems) until about 3 hours after I get up during the week.  On the weekends, I can wait an hour after my med to eat and it’s ok. The wait isn’t negotiable, so getting the DP under control is an absolute must. I’m hoping that once I get used to the Glucophage being in my system, eventually taking the full dose I was on before December, that the DP problem will decrease. >What was you bG before you went to bed?  If it was 160 and you woke with >160, changes are good that the Lantus will keep you around this number all >day.  Do you tend to go high if you do not eat anything for an extended >period of time (liver dumps)?

Well, I do NOW.  I didn’t use to have such a problem when I was on Glucophage. Now I’m taking 8mg Avandia in the AM, and 850mg Glucophage in the PM with dinner (usually close to 8pm) for the sole purpose of desperation since my blood sugar has been so out of control.  Something HAS to be done.  I asked to switch to Lantus to try to at least hold things stable once I got them down with H.   If not, the best way to check your Lantus is >to fast for as long as you can and test frequently to ensure that your bG is >remaining constant.  If it is constant but a bit too high (as the 160 is) >then add a unit or two of Lantus and wait three days.  If this does not get >things where you want them, do this again.

That is what I was thinking.   >Once you have your Lantus dosage correct, it is easier to figure the H >dosages based upon the amount of carbs you eat and your bG at the time. >Hang in there!  I am amazed that your PGP made this change and not your >endo.  My endo would be furious with the PGP for doing something like this.

Well, it’s hard to get in to see my Endo, and he really isn’t familiar with my case, as I’ve only seen him once.  When I got sick on the Glucophage back in January, I couldn’t wait to get a referral, make an appt, etc.  I had to do something THAT DAY, so I did what I knew had to be done.  I had to find an alternative to Glucophage (this has happened before) and get it in motion ASAP.  I told my PCP’s NP what was going on, and she seemed to realize I wasn’t shooting blind, so she gave me the Rx for Avandia.  I guess they assumed that if I didn’t have side effects like on Actos that it would work for me.  It brings my numbers down during the day, but it does’t hold me 24 hours, and if I split the dose, the night dose doesn’t seem to have any effect.   *I explored the possibility that Clonodine was interfering somehow, and I eliminated the dose a couple of times.  I couldn’t tell a real change, but because the Clonodine knocks me out, I take the Glucophage with dinner and the Clonidine at bedtime now* when you try to get a doctor to work all of them out for you, they get this blank look, a kind of stupified stare.  I had a smartass PCP not too long ago who ticked me off.  I wrote down a list of all the health problems I needed help with, and he just sat and stared at it.  He told me he was overwhelmed.  I am asking for is a little help.  I don’t have that doc anymore. I try to handle as much of the load as I can, and usually as long as I can get the doc to give me what I want, I do allright.  I’m agressive when it comes to my healthcare, and I don’t mind making suggestions.  If I hadn’t, I would be DEAD by now, without a doubt. Thanks for your imput Marilyn.  You’ve been very helpful. Bev >– >Marilyn >Type 1 for 35 years, pumping for the last 14

Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

> I have an appt with my endo on Tuesday (and he’s gonna be ticked, I

was in control when last he saw me in December) , > …

I hope he’s doesn’t blame you for being "non-compliant"! You know, if the program doesn’t work it must be our fault for not toeing the line properly. bj

Response:

Bev, Lantus is great if you give it the time to start working. My personal experience is that it takes 1-2 days to get going and give you a good number. But I’m different also. and yes 10u sounds mighty low for Lantus if you were taking a total of 60u per day of NPH. You might want to experiement a bit with it, and figure out what 80% of the total NPH was and start from there. But remember – it takes 3 days for most to see a change .. because Lantus is so flat, it doesn’t peak to lower you like NPH or UL. Good Luck Bev… I know how you feel, had my own agravations of late. — RK [T1 that was smarter then her previous Doctors!][dx'd 5/00][Lantus Lover w/Novolog] http://www.diabeticnet.com – Main alt.support.diabetes website – Be fooled by no other imitations! http://www.zerolimit.net/files/zl-mirc.exe (#diabeticnet chatroom software)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> To make a long story short, I got an Rx for Lantus called in today by my PCP. > I was sick, and didn’t get to talk to him about it, so I’m on my own for the > weekend. of > NPH, 30/30.  When I went to bed last night, my Bg was 137 (around 11pm). At > 2am, it was 144…..I thought that was very little difference, and I thought I > was ok. > When I got up at 7:52am, imagine my surprise at finding a Bg of 212.  I felt > shaky and sick, like my heart was beating faster than activity called for. My > fasting Bg has been from the low to mid 200’s for weeks, and I cannot seem to > get control no matter what I do or eat. > As an update, I started on 4mg Avandia mid January, Went to 8mg end of > February.  I’ve tried everything from splitting the dose, to taking the full > 8mg in the am and adding an 850mg Glucophage at night ( did well on Glucophage > for years, but had a problem with it all of a sudden in January and had to make > a fast change.  So far no problems with one a day). > I’m on twice the H I used to take when I was on 850mg Glucophage twice a > day(gone from an absolute max of 15u per meal to 20-25), gained 15lbs, from a > dosage of 25/20 N to 30/30) and from a normal fasting of 90-120 to up to an all > time high of 268.  I’ve just about had it. > I have an appt with my endo on Tuesday (and he’s gonna be ticked, I was in > control when last he saw me in December) , but I absolutely HAVE to survive the > weekend in order to make the appt, so my question is: > The PCP called in the Lantus with a dosage of 10u at bedtime.  Considering that > I have been taking 30/30 N, does a dosage of 10u Lantus sound comparable? I > cannot take a chance on things getting any worse or I am going to end up in the > hospital before Monday. > Yeah, I know I should call my doctor, but to be honest, I have more faith in > practical experience.   I’m sitting here trying to decide whether I should just > increase the N to 35, or take the 10 of Lantus.  Any thoughts? > Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.

Response:

night, > I feel pretty much ok, and my bg is 160, with just the 10u of Lantus. However, > I took 25u of H with dinner last night.  Used to be I would have taken 12 to > 15u for what I ate and I would have come out at a max FBS of 130.

Bev, I couldn’t really follow your first post.  Were you taking the Lantus  "When I went to bed last night, my Bg was 137 (around 11pm).  At 2am, it was 144… When I got up at 7:52am…Bg of 212) or was this after taking 30 units of N? Lantus should be taken once a day and should provide you with stable blood sugars if you don’t eat anything.  You then take H to cover what you eat. The H will take care of the food but is long out of your system and has no affect on your FBS. What was you bG before you went to bed?  If it was 160 and you woke with 160, changes are good that the Lantus will keep you around this number all day.  Do you tend to go high if you do not eat anything for an extended period of time (liver dumps)?  If not, the best way to check your Lantus is to fast for as long as you can and test frequently to ensure that your bG is remaining constant.  If it is constant but a bit too high (as the 160 is) then add a unit or two of Lantus and wait three days.  If this does not get things where you want them, do this again. Once you have your Lantus dosage correct, it is easier to figure the H dosages based upon the amount of carbs you eat and your bG at the time. Hang in there!  I am amazed that your PGP made this change and not your endo.  My endo would be furious with the PGP for doing something like this. — Marilyn Type 1 for 35 years, pumping for the last 14

Response:

>Well Bev I am not an insulin guy but I hope you get the answers you >need and I hope you feel better… >Ronnie Ruff

Thanks, Ronnie, me too Bev Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

Bev, As you know, I don’t use insulin. But others have said here that their Lantus doses were running somewhere around 80% of their former basal. If this is true, then it looks like your doc has erred on the side of conservatism with the new doseage. I hope you get some answers on Monday. Jim

Response:

>But others have said here that their >Lantus doses were running somewhere around 80% of their former basal. If >this is true, then it looks like your doc has erred on the side of >conservatism with the new doseage.

I feel pretty much ok, and my bg is 160, with just the 10u of Lantus. However, I took 25u of H with dinner last night.  Used to be I would have taken 12 to 15u for what I ate and I would have come out at a max FBS of 130.   It’s clear the Avandia is not working for me, and my only option is to try to work back up to the Glucophage dosage I was on before.  I’ve started back taking my Pepcid twice a day, and it seems to combat the heartburn from the  But deal-with-able at this point.  I may add the second dose in next week and see how it goes……and drop the Avandia.  I’ll talk to the endo and get his imput. I’m just relieved that I don’t feel like I did yesterday morning, so bad I was actually afraid to get out of bed.  I tried to sleep an extra couple of hours, and still when I had to leave home, I could hardly make it to the car, I was so sick.  It’s over an hour commute, and I ate breakfast and took my meds and insulin before I left, so I started feeling better by the end of the drive, but during the day, that feeling kept coming back.  I was expecting I’d have to make a visit to the PCP this morning, but maybe not….. Thanks for the info, Jim.  You know how it goes, some of us just don’t retain info that doesn’t pertain to us UNTIL we get in a tight, then we start scrambling.  Glad SOMEBODY was paying attention Bev Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

To make a long story short, I got an Rx for Lantus called in today by my PCP. I was sick, and didn’t get to talk to him about it, so I’m on my own for the weekend. NPH, 30/30.  When I went to bed last night, my Bg was 137 (around 11pm).  At 2am, it was 144…..I thought that was very little difference, and I thought I was ok. When I got up at 7:52am, imagine my surprise at finding a Bg of 212.  I felt shaky and sick, like my heart was beating faster than activity called for.  My fasting Bg has been from the low to mid 200’s for weeks, and I cannot seem to get control no matter what I do or eat. As an update, I started on 4mg Avandia mid January, Went to 8mg end of February.  I’ve tried everything from splitting the dose, to taking the full 8mg in the am and adding an 850mg Glucophage at night ( did well on Glucophage for years, but had a problem with it all of a sudden in January and had to make a fast change.  So far no problems with one a day). I’m on twice the H I used to take when I was on 850mg Glucophage twice a day(gone from an absolute max of 15u per meal to 20-25), gained 15lbs, from a dosage of 25/20 N to 30/30) and from a normal fasting of 90-120 to up to an all time high of 268.  I’ve just about had it. I have an appt with my endo on Tuesday (and he’s gonna be ticked, I was in control when last he saw me in December) , but I absolutely HAVE to survive the weekend in order to make the appt, so my question is: The PCP called in the Lantus with a dosage of 10u at bedtime.  Considering that I have been taking 30/30 N, does a dosage of 10u Lantus sound comparable?  I cannot take a chance on things getting any worse or I am going to end up in the hospital before Monday.   Yeah, I know I should call my doctor, but to be honest, I have more faith in practical experience.   I’m sitting here trying to decide whether I should just increase the N to 35, or take the 10 of Lantus.  Any thoughts? Remove the "SpamFree" for email, please.  

Response:

med question? (neurontin)

Question:

I have read that you are not supposed to take an antacid within two hours of taking neurontin.  I take prilosec (for a hiatal hernia) which although it is not an antacid, it does deal with similar problems.  Does anyone know if you should also space two hours between neurontin and prilosec? Thanks, Bonnie

Response:

> I have read that you are not supposed to take an antacid within two hours of > taking neurontin.  I take prilosec (for a hiatal hernia) which although it > is not an antacid, it does deal with similar problems.  Does anyone know if > you should also space two hours between neurontin and prilosec? > Thanks, > Bonnie

As Lynda has suggested, you should discuss this with your pharmacist. It will be fully explained in his reference materials. The issue is really one of binding between the antacid (e.g. chalk, also known as calcium carbonate), and the gabapentin. Some of it just gets caught up in the antacid gorp, and doesn’t have a chance to get absorbed. Prilosec is a proton-pump inhibitor, which is a totally different sort of medication. Yes, they are similar in how they are perceived by the patient (less reflux-induced pain), but there should not be any similar interaction on the physical level, as with antacids. Larry

Response:

Hi Bonnie, > I have read that you are not supposed to take an antacid within two hours of > taking neurontin.  I take prilosec (for a hiatal hernia) which although it > is not an antacid, it does deal with similar problems.  Does anyone know if > you should also space two hours between neurontin and prilosec?

Antacids may decrease the absorption of gabapentin and lover the blood level by 20% Gabapentin may increase the concentration of some oral contraceptives by 13%. This probably is not clinically significant. I suggest you talk with your pahmacist about this. take care. Yours, Lynda

Response:

celebrex question

Question:

How long does Celebrex take to have an effect? My doc’s trying me on it to see if it helps with my back (DDD), but I haven’t noticed any improvement. It’s been a couple of weeks now. — Katharine Shade Maxwell spamblock in action.

Response:

>How long does Celebrex take to have an effect? My doc’s trying me on it to >see if it helps with my back (DDD), but I haven’t noticed any improvement. >It’s been a couple of weeks now. >– >Katharine Shade Maxwell

Hi Katerine. Celebrex is not like certain anti depressants that can take a few weeks to get working. It should become effective in a couple of hours. Going a couple of weeks with no positive effect means it isn’t going to help you. Inform your doc of this. I’d quit taking it then, since it doesn’t seem to work, and the only things that may happen now are side effects. It’s non addicting, and doesn’t build a tolerence, and is safe to just discontinue without tapering. Just my non medical 2 cents. ~alex      

Response:

 Is the same thing true for Vioxx? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Celebrex is not like certain anti depressants that can take a few weeks to get >working. It should become effective in a couple of hours. Going a couple of >weeks with no positive effect means it isn’t going to help you.

Response:

Alex, My doctor told me that it would take at least 2 weeks before the medication would become effective.  That is about the length of time it took to work. Sharon

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->How long does Celebrex take to have an effect? My doc’s trying me on it to >see if it helps with my back (DDD), but I haven’t noticed any improvement. >It’s been a couple of weeks now. >– >Katharine Shade Maxwell > Hi Katerine. > Celebrex is not like certain anti depressants that can take a few weeks to get > working. It should become effective in a couple of hours. Going a couple of > weeks with no positive effect means it isn’t going to help you. Inform your doc > of this. > I’d quit taking it then, since it doesn’t seem to work, and the only things > that may happen now are side effects. It’s non addicting, and doesn’t build a > tolerence, and is safe to just discontinue > without tapering. Just my non medical 2 cents. > ~alex

Response:

Celebrex is an NSAID!  Just a newer one, like Vioxx.  the latest ulcer making, liver eating, non steroidal anti inflammatory med.! It is NOT a anti depressant! Yes, it should start to work within a week, IMO, I took it for about a week…no go…my body is different, it has had to many years of every single NSAID that has come down the pike! My entire biliary system is toasted.  But, I am still alive….so…did I win the battle?  Not too sure about the war, it is still going on full force! LOL Anti-inflammatories DO work to relieve the inflammation.  That is the job they were developed to do, but, like all medications, you pay a price.  It is up to you to decide it the price is too high. You know, that old cost=benefit conundrum! If you have not been taking NSAID’s over a long period of time, give this one a chance.  It is one of the new Cox II inhibitors, if I am not wrong…Dr. Work will be along to give you the real scoop. I have found, over all these years, that there is not a opiate in the world that will take ALL the pain away.  Of course, you can titrate them up until you are in much less pain, but…your brain goes into fog-ville..big time. It is always a trade off, isn’t it?  After all these years I have finally learned to use ALL the tricks in my little bag.  Some laugh at some of them or all of them, but I am living proof that using other modalities work!  It takes time, patience, preparing, and most of all a very open mind to get there.  But..it works for a lot of people!  My friend was dx’d with Pancreatic Cancer, had a Full Whipple done two years ago as of last Dec. 14!  Went through 24/7 of chemo, full course of radiation.  She is cancer free…..for now…BUT, during all the trauma of going through the above she used alliterative medicine with her Western medicine.  She has a herbalist, an acuputurist,  uses, as I do, Imaging, Breathing technics, biofeedback, diet.  We eat very little red meat. But, back to your question…( I am so wordy!  Geesh, sorry!), give the Celebrex a chance, but look into some other methods of treatment too. Sincerely,  Jo – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Alex, >My doctor told me that it would take at least 2 weeks before the medication >would become effective.  That is about the length of time it took to work. >Sharon > >How long does Celebrex take to have an effect? My doc’s trying me on it >to > >see if it helps with my back (DDD), but I haven’t noticed any >improvement. > >It’s been a couple of weeks now. > >– > >Katharine Shade Maxwell > Hi Katerine. > Celebrex is not like certain anti depressants that can take a few weeks to >get > working. It should become effective in a couple of hours. Going a couple >of > weeks with no positive effect means it isn’t going to help you. Inform >your doc > of this. > I’d quit taking it then, since it doesn’t seem to work, and the only >things > that may happen now are side effects. It’s non addicting, and doesn’t >build a > tolerence, and is safe to just discontinue > without tapering. Just my non medical 2 cents. > ~alex

Response:

>Celebrex is an NSAID!  Just a newer one, like Vioxx.  the latest >ulcer making, liver eating, non steroidal anti inflammatory med.! >It is NOT a anti depressant!

Noone said it was an anti-depressant..someone said that it wasnt LIKE on in the fact that it can take weeks for improvement…Celebrex/Vioxx usually work within a week, sometimes less. Oh, and technically it is a COX-2 inhibitor…and for alot of people that couldnt take NSAIDS before, can take this. I am one of them. It targets the COX 2 enzyme, which is supposed to make things like ulcers a bit more rare than with conventional NSAIDS. Nikki "… lost in the darkness of my own circumstance, criticizing echoes leaving me awake in the night… the barrier and blockades that keep me safe and in control while I pretend that I am okay… "

Response:

>  Is the same thing true for Vioxx? >Celebrex is not like certain anti depressants that can take a few weeks to get >working. It should become effective in a couple of hours. Going a couple of >weeks with no positive effect means it isn’t going to help you.

Yes. Jon Miller

Response:

> >Celebrex is an NSAID!  Just a newer one, like Vioxx.  the latest >ulcer making, liver eating, non steroidal anti inflammatory med.! >It is NOT a anti depressant! > Noone said it was an anti-depressant..someone said that it wasnt LIKE on in the > fact that it can take weeks for improvement…Celebrex/Vioxx usually work > within a week, sometimes less. Oh, and technically it is a COX-2 > inhibitor…and for alot of people that couldnt take NSAIDS before, can take > this. I am one of them. It targets the COX 2 enzyme, which is supposed to make > things like ulcers a bit more rare than with conventional NSAIDS.

It’s supposed to make them a lot more rare.  It’s supposed to target the COX-2 enzyme (pain receptor) and leave the COX-1 enzyme (which tells the stomach lining to produce more acid or less protective coating, I forget which) alone. My recollection (you have to look it up for yourself if you need to be sure, try Medline) is that users don’t have significantly fewer digestive system problems. Given the cost, you probably shouldn’t switch to a COX-2 inhibitor unless you have problems with the older NSAIDs (or free drugs with your insurance, haha!). Jon Miller

Response:

Thanks, Nikki, you are right, of course…I just didn’t pay enough attention to the post.  Very bad habit, I am working on it!!  :) Jo

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Celebrex is an NSAID!  Just a newer one, like Vioxx.  the latest >ulcer making, liver eating, non steroidal anti inflammatory med.! >It is NOT a anti depressant! >Noone said it was an anti-depressant..someone said that it wasnt LIKE on in the >fact that it can take weeks for improvement…Celebrex/Vioxx usually work >within a week, sometimes less. Oh, and technically it is a COX-2 >inhibitor…and for alot of people that couldnt take NSAIDS before, can take >this. I am one of them. It targets the COX 2 enzyme, which is supposed to make >things like ulcers a bit more rare than with conventional NSAIDS. >Nikki >"… lost in the darkness of my own circumstance, criticizing echoes leaving me >awake in the night… the barrier and blockades that keep me safe and in >control while I pretend that I am okay… "

Response:

I have a friend that I joke with that Celebrex is the "wonder drug". docs love to give out samples of this and I have tried it and have found that it does not work. No matter how long I tried it. It had no effect on me. Hope that you have better luck… karra

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->How long does Celebrex take to have an effect? My doc’s trying me on it to >see if it helps with my back (DDD), but I haven’t noticed any improvement. >It’s been a couple of weeks now. >– >Katharine Shade Maxwell >spamblock in action.

Response:

> I have a friend that I joke with that Celebrex is the "wonder drug". docs > love to give out samples of this and I have tried it and have found that it > does not work. No matter how long I tried it. It had no effect on me. Hope > that you have better luck… > karra

Kara ,   It may not work , but at least it won’t hurt your stomach . Peace , Richard

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I have a friend that I joke with that Celebrex is the "wonder drug". docs > love to give out samples of this and I have tried it and have found that > it > does not work. No matter how long I tried it. It had no effect on me. Hope > that you have better luck… > karra > Kara , >   It may not work , but at least it won’t hurt your stomach . > Peace , > Richard

It hurts mine Richard — so does the Vioxx.

Response:

> I have a friend that I joke with that Celebrex is the "wonder drug". docs > love to give out samples of this and I have tried it and have found that it > does not work. No matter how long I tried it. It had no effect on me. Hope > that you have better luck… > karra

Karra, It is a shame that Celebrex didn’t work for you.  I have been taking it for awhile now and am doing pretty good, so I thought maybe I didn’t need it.  I stopped taking it and in a few days I felt arthritis pain in places I didn’t know I had it. It hasn’t stopped the pain entirely, but it sure helps me.  So far, I haven’t had any stomach problems.  I guess I have just been lucky. Sharon

Response:

Richard, me too.  Major problems with Celebrex!!  I’m back on the ulcer watch, taking those ridiculously high drugs, all because my stomach.  HA,   Jo BTW Ruada, sorry you had trouble too.  Wouldn’t it be nice if we could really Find a drug that worked without playing major havoc with the rest of our system?   Jo – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> > I have a friend that I joke with that Celebrex is the "wonder >drug". docs > > love to give out samples of this and I have tried it and have >found that > it > > does not work. No matter how long I tried it. It had no effect on >me. Hope > > that you have better luck… > > karra > Kara , >   It may not work , but at least it won’t hurt your stomach . > Peace , > Richard >It hurts mine Richard — so does the Vioxx.

Response:

> Newsgroups: alt.support.chronic-pain > Richard, me too.  Major problems with Celebrex!!  I’m back on the > ulcer watch, taking those ridiculously high drugs, all because my > stomach.  HA,   Jo > BTW Ruada, sorry you had trouble too.  Wouldn’t it be nice if we > could really Find a drug that worked without playing major havoc > with the rest of our system?   Jo

I don’t have stomach problems from Celebrex. If I had to give up one or the other I’d give up the morphine first! The Celebrex does cause my ankles to swell so I have to take extra diuretics for it. But it really makes a difference with pain. On the other hand I also don’t need anything for "opiate bowel" either! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->> > I have a friend that I joke with that Celebrex is the "wonder >drug". docs >> > love to give out samples of this and I have tried it and have >found that >> it >> > does not work. No matter how long I tried it. It had no effect > on >me. Hope >> > that you have better luck… >> > karra >> Kara , >>   It may not work , but at least it won’t hurt your stomach . >> Peace , >> Richard >It hurts mine Richard — so does the Vioxx.

– *** http://medstuff.ftn.org – for the sake of your health *** *** http://www.ftn.org  Fight the creatures of The Night ****

Response:

Alex, I have tried both celebrex and vioxx.  They don’t do anything beneficial for me so I have resumed taking 1000 mg Relefen.  I feel some relief from joint swelling but not enough.  I tried taking the Relefen in the morning and found that this causes terrible heartburn all day.  I take it at night now and don’t suffer from heartburn and sleep much better.  I was wondering if you know of any other NSAID’s that might work?  My last appointment on Jan 30th revealed that there is significant damage to my knees and joint replacement may be viable in the near future.  My lower back was the main reasons for seeing this DR and the pain clinic.  I guess this all goes along with DDD and DJD.  I was not ready for these diseases to affect me so rapidly.  I am approaching 40 and was a welder/fabricator/millwright for many years and blame the knee damage on the goofy positions I placed myself in, only to get the job done.  I thought the many years of martial arts would’ve slowed down the process, maybe it did. Maybe the added stress to my body made it weaker instead, who knows?  I don’t know why I am dumping this shit on you so forgive the intrusion if it bothers you.  I’m just looking for an anti-inflammatory that might give me some more time.  The only other drug of this king that I have tried is Naproxen and I think it is pretty much the same as the Relefen. Best to you and your family. Rob H

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Just an FYI. > In today’s USA Today (Tues, Feb 6, 2001) > there is a cover artlcle in the LIFE section. > For some strange reason, this artcle is not included in the USAToday.com > website: > http://www.usatoday.com > I was gonna post a link, but seeing that the artcle isn’t there, I guess it’s > no go. > Basically, it talks about Celebrex and Vioxx > and how their actions haven’t been proven to be any more effective than > aspirin, or ibuprofen. > It also states that these 2 NSAIDS and Cox-2 inhibitors may make GI problems > less severe than their counterpar NSAIDS like relefen. > Also, the makers are going before the FDA tomorrow to see if they can take away > the warnings that other NSAID drugs must contain about the strong possibility > of GI problems such as ulcers, bleeding and perferation. > It also states that sales of Vioxx and Celebrex combined, have topped $3.2 > billion  from Jan-Nov 2000. > Celebrex sales were $1.9 billion in this period (up 55% from the previous > year)) > while Vioxx sales were $1.2 billion (up 376% from the previous year) > They say that sales of these 2 products still have much more room to increase, > especially if the FDA approves removal of the GI warnings that both must > include. > Just thought some of you may be interested > in this info. > ~alex

Response:

Rob, I agree with you, the  cost of the Celebrex and Vioxx is outrageous and they do not do much to relive the pain anyway, do they? You spoke of seeing a joint replacement down the road.  I hope that you will consider it!  I don’t know what the stats are for someone as young as you but I am here to tell you that getting my rt. knee replacement is Sept., even with the slowdown in healing because of my diabetes and auto-immune problems. was worth every single pain the rehab cost! I would never tell you that it wasn’t hard to go thru, the pain the first days is at a 14+, and the first few days were hell, BUT, I was walking down the hall within days and up and down stairs, (just like a normal person LOL) within a week!  I have absolutely NO pain in the joint!  My problems with the healing process notwithstanding, I am going to see if they will do the other knee, maybe next year! You can only go so long on any NSAID before you develop gastric and biliary problems.  That is just the facts!  They all, even the Cox 2’s cause those problems.  It frightens me that so many people are wolfing down all those OTC NSAID’s thinking they are so safe!  When we all know that they are dangerous! Jo – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Alex, I have tried both celebrex and vioxx.  They don’t do anything >beneficial for me so I have resumed taking 1000 mg Relefen.  I feel some >relief from joint swelling but not enough.  I tried taking the Relefen in >the morning and found that this causes terrible heartburn all day. I take >it at night now and don’t suffer from heartburn and sleep much better.  I >was wondering if you know of any other NSAID’s that might work?  My last >appointment on Jan 30th revealed that there is significant damage to my >knees and joint replacement may be viable in the near future.  My lower back >was the main reasons for seeing this DR and the pain clinic.  I guess this >all goes along with DDD and DJD.  I was not ready for these diseases to >affect me so rapidly.  I am approaching 40 and was a >welder/fabricator/millwright for many years and blame the knee damage on the >goofy positions I placed myself in, only to get the job done.  I thought the >many years of martial arts would’ve slowed down the process, maybe it did. >Maybe the added stress to my body made it weaker instead, who knows?  I >don’t know why I am dumping this shit on you so forgive the intrusion if it >bothers you.  I’m just looking for an anti-inflammatory that might give me >some more time.  The only other drug of this king that I have tried is >Naproxen and I think it is pretty much the same as the Relefen. >Best to you and your family. >Rob H > Just an FYI. > In today’s USA Today (Tues, Feb 6, 2001) > there is a cover artlcle in the LIFE section. > For some strange reason, this artcle is not included in the USAToday.com > website: > http://www.usatoday.com > I was gonna post a link, but seeing that the artcle isn’t there, I guess >it’s > no go. > Basically, it talks about Celebrex and Vioxx > and how their actions haven’t been proven to be any more effective than > aspirin, or ibuprofen. > It also states that these 2 NSAIDS and Cox-2 inhibitors may make GI >problems > less severe than their counterpar NSAIDS like relefen. > Also, the makers are going before the FDA tomorrow to see if they can take >away > the warnings that other NSAID drugs must contain about the strong >possibility > of GI problems such as ulcers, bleeding and perferation. > It also states that sales of Vioxx and Celebrex combined, have topped $3.2 > billion  from Jan-Nov 2000. > Celebrex sales were $1.9 billion in this period (up 55% from the previous > year)) > while Vioxx sales were $1.2 billion (up 376% from the previous year) > They say that sales of these 2 products still have much more room to >increase, > especially if the FDA approves removal of the GI warnings that both must > include. > Just thought some of you may be interested > in this info. > ~alex

Response:

   Jo, I really hope that the knee thing can be put off for a long while.  I have no doubt that the replacement would be successful but when it comes to my knees, I’m a big baby!  Even the thought of being given the cortisone and other injections causes my teeth to itch!  I can move my knee caps all over the place and sometimes without warning, they lock and down I go.  I usually have to climb my cane to get vertical again.  The pain is so severe sometimes I can’t keep my legs still, trying to find the sweet spot that will alleviate the pounding.  I have had some major surgery before and have never been afraid but find myself scared stupid for some reason.   I realize intellectually that replacements would be less painful than going through the paces to put off surgery but it hasn’t really hit home yet.  What was the worst scenario the DR’s gave you to think about and the odds on successful surgery?  Either way the worst being not able to walk.    I know I can’t keep eating NSAID’s for the rest of my life.  I don’t think they are doing anything special now, just giving me heartburn.  I eat 300 mg’s of MS Contin now and this isn’t touching the knee pain, this is a major factor contributing to my fear, I think!  My back pain is being fairly well taken care of though and that is questionable at times.  I have a fairly high tolerance to pain and fear the day when I just can’t take anymore.  Thanks for the shoulder to cry on and I wish you the best in clearing up that nasty infection.  I think maybe you should retire from the caregiver position and pass the torch to someone else.  You must take care of yourself so you can be their for her.  In the least, get some kind of outside help to assist you and your sister, three days a week.  Easier said than done but you are a resourceful lady and if anyone can pull this off, you can! Be well!! Rob H

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Rob, I agree with you, the  cost of the Celebrex and Vioxx is > outrageous and they do not do much to relive the pain anyway, do > they? > You spoke of seeing a joint replacement down the road.  I hope that > you will consider it!  I don’t know what the stats are for someone > as young as you but I am here to tell you that getting my rt. knee > replacement is Sept., even with the slowdown in healing because of > my diabetes and auto-immune problems. was worth every single pain > the rehab cost! > I would never tell you that it wasn’t hard to go thru, the pain the > first days is at a 14+, and the first few days were hell, BUT, I was > walking down the hall within days and up and down stairs, (just like > a normal person LOL) within a week!  I have absolutely NO pain in > the joint!  My problems with the healing process notwithstanding, I > am going to see if they will do the other knee, maybe next year! > You can only go so long on any NSAID before you develop gastric and > biliary problems.  That is just the facts!  They all, even the Cox > 2’s cause those problems.  It frightens me that so many people are > wolfing down all those OTC NSAID’s thinking they are so safe!  When > we all know that they are dangerous! > Jo

<SNIP>

Response:

Vomiting while being depressed

Question:

I am absolutely sure that it is not a  medication side effect and no gastroenterologic disorder. It comes from my brain and always disappears when the depression is over. Robert – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > It’s a symptom of anxiety or a medication side effect (try chewing on a slice > of fresh ginger), or you could have a gastroenterologic disorder. > Viscount of ASDM >Does anybody know a bipolar person who feels sick and is vomiting while >being in  the depressive state. >That`s what often happens to me and I would like to know whether this is >a common symptom of depression or not.

Response:

If you want to vomit talk to Fred Davis he makes everybody in this group sick. He is aka Visecount ,   Manic Fantasy among others.   He morphs a lot because everybody has him on filter. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Does anybody know a bipolar person who feels sick and is vomiting while >being in  the depressive state. >That`s what often happens to me and I would like to know whether this is >a common symptom of depression or not.

Response:

Robert,   I think you have brought up an interesting topic. I found that as the years went by, there seemed to be a definite correlation between my bipolar cycles and my acid reflux/ irregularity. Sometimes I feel superb, with no problems either emotional or physical. Then other times the dual symptoms appear. It should be noted that the gastrointestinal distress often occurs first, while I am possessed of a wholesome attitude.    Unfortunately, the bipolar meds which are able to normalize my attitude, haven’t affected the physical symptoms which preceeded my depressions. Mark of the Forest Mark

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Does anybody know a bipolar person who feels sick and is vomiting while > being in  the depressive state. > That`s what often happens to me and I would like to know whether this is > a common symptom of depression or not.

Response:

> I am absolutely sure that it is not a  medication side effect and no > gastroenterologic disorder. > It comes from my brain and always disappears when the depression is over.

this exactly happens to me… but it could be from the meds too…. but i hate it!!! and ginger doesnt help ) > Robert

– "if you hear that same sweet song again, well you know why anyone who sings a tune so sweet is passing by… laugh in the sunshine, sing, cry in the dark, fly through the night….. dont cry now…. dont you cry…. -hunter/garcia "blessed am i to dwell in this beautiful temple"

Response:

> Does anybody know a bipolar person who feels sick and is vomiting while > being in  the depressive state. > That`s what often happens to me and I would like to know whether this is > a common symptom of depression or not.

ps people are asking about marijuana, it helps me with nausea more than anything. i have -debilitating- nausea. pots the only thing that really touches it sometimes. — "if you hear that same sweet song again, well you know why anyone who sings a tune so sweet is passing by… laugh in the sunshine, sing, cry in the dark, fly through the night….. dont cry now…. dont you cry…. -hunter/garcia "blessed am i to dwell in this beautiful temple"

Response:

>  i have -debilitating- nausea.

~~~~ I have debilitating boredom. Weed is good for that too. m

Response:

Does anybody know a bipolar person who feels sick and is vomiting while being in  the depressive state. That`s what often happens to me and I would like to know whether this is a common symptom of depression or not.

Response:

It’s a symptom of anxiety or a medication side effect (try chewing on a slice of fresh ginger), or you could have a gastroenterologic disorder. Viscount of ASDM – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Does anybody know a bipolar person who feels sick and is vomiting while >being in  the depressive state. >That`s what often happens to me and I would like to know whether this is >a common symptom of depression or not.

Response: