Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 We moved to Virginia from Tennessee about 18 months ago. Our doctor in Memphis was wonderful and never questioned our decision not to vaccinate our other 5 five children after our oldest child was severely damaged from the Dpt vaccine. In Virginia, we have insurance through Kaiser Permanente and I was really dreading going through the whole immunization thing with an HMO. However, I have been very pleased with their attitude and the doctors here haven't question one time our decision not to vaccinate. Our youngest child will enter kindergarten this coming fall and we will see if they will sign the medical exemption form for school entrance; however, they haven't pushed immunizations at all since we have been here. My approach to doctors has been that immunizing isn't an issue. Our oldest child was left with a severe seizure disorder and profoundly retarded. Her apgar scores were 9 and 10. Then the ball is in their court to refute that and they never pick the ball up let alone toss it back! Hope this helps. Alice Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 my grandson was seeing an alternative practitioner who used chines medicine. she just went down to Miami to see our chinese doctor who we always used. well, don't ask. she attacked my daughter-in-law about not vaccinations. she told me she didn't need to breast feed anymore. told her he needed milk or goats milk. unfortuantely, my daughter-in-law is still vulnerable. she bought him goats milk and is giving him chinese herbs for his illness. that doctor lost me for good. we are looking for someone here in Central florida. i know of a great pediatrician in miami if anyone wants. he will treat with vaccinations if you want but will treat without. he will support no vaccinations. he does juice fasting and eats raw most of the time. it isn't easy. there is very little support out there. rhoda Finding a doctor >>Date: Tue, 30 Mar 1999 00:08:09 -0500 >> >>From: Reiss <lisa@...> >> >>Hi. >>I am wondering for those of you who have children how you have handled >>the situation with doctors? Do you use MDs or only Chiropractors or >>naturopathics? Have you been upfront and told them you are not going >to >>vaccinate? Did the MD know right from the start you were not going to >>vaccinate? (I am tired of doing the " politically correct " thing only >to >>find out later that we are going to be harassed.) Was anything required >>of you in order to be taken on by an MD since your child was not >>vaccinated? Did you have to sign forms stating your reason for >>exemption? Are you harassed when going to the MD about vaccinating? >> >>I am asking because we are having a difficult time finding a >>pediatrician or family dr. I would like to have one associated with a >>hospital, just in case of an emergency situation. >> >>I had one return a call tonight. He was ok with everything except, he >>was concerned because he is a " child advocate " . He respected our >>beliefs but was concerned for our daughter. Unfortunately, I got a >huge >>red flag up in my mind when he said he was a " child advocate " because >at >>the same time he is advocating vaccines, particularly if we have >another >>child. My red flag was because if anyone is my child's advocate it is >>us. >> >>What are your thoughts? I am concerned about a potential emergency >>situation and him trying to " advocate " for the child's rights and force >>vaccination. >> >>Any comments would be greatly appreciated. >> >> >> >>------------------------------------------------------------------------ >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 I don't tell anyone anything they do not need to know. I try to stay away from Dr.'s but there are times when I choose to go but I would not volunteer any information. It is your business and you do not need the doctors approval. JMO blessings debbie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 hi alice, my name is jacki and i live in nj. not much help doctor wise but i would really like you to join our new list vaccineinjuriesonelist . i have three children and my youngest was also severely damaged by his DTP vaccines. i created this list for victims like ourselves to share valuable info on therapies, doctors, treatments, etc. please write back and join!! jacki Re: Finding a doctor >From: ClintonVA@... > >We moved to Virginia from Tennessee about 18 months ago. Our doctor in >Memphis was wonderful and never questioned our decision not to vaccinate our >other 5 five children after our oldest child was severely damaged from the Dpt >vaccine. > >In Virginia, we have insurance through Kaiser Permanente and I was really >dreading going through the whole immunization thing with an HMO. However, I >have been very pleased with their attitude and the doctors here haven't >question one time our decision not to vaccinate. Our youngest child will >enter kindergarten this coming fall and we will see if they will sign the >medical exemption form for school entrance; however, they haven't pushed >immunizations at all since we have been here. > >My approach to doctors has been that immunizing isn't an issue. Our oldest >child was left with a severe seizure disorder and profoundly retarded. Her >apgar scores were 9 and 10. Then the ball is in their court to refute that >and they never pick the ball up let alone toss it back! > >Hope this helps. >Alice > >------------------------------------------------------------------------ > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 , Here in Alberta, (and maybe all of Canada?) vaccinations are handled through the community public health clinics. Our regular gp, who delivered our dd and who we go to for well baby checkups (also my gp) doesn't know that we haven't continued vaccinations past 6 months. When I was pregnant, I asked her what she thought about vaccinating, and she gave me the medical assoc. lines about how she must recommend them. That was the last time the topic was discussed. I keep expecting her to ask at our check ups if her shots are up to date, and I'm dreading having to defend my decision, although I am feeling stronger about my decision now through the info learned in this list. I do feel that we are being a little deceptive and devious by not being up front about it, but I figure if she really wants to know, she'll ask some day. I hope I'm ready to discuss it then. Luckily, we are allowed the choice here in Canada. It's not mandatory, so to read about all the hassles most of you have to go through, I feel so fortunate. Hang in there, stick to your guns! We do see a homeopath, I go to a naturopath, and we have gone to chiropractor as well. We're still breastfeeding (20 months) and I am sure that is why we have never really needed a doctor for anything serious. Amy You wrote........ I am wondering for those of you who have children how you have handled the situation with doctors? Do you use MDs or only Chiropractors or naturopathics? Have you been upfront and told them you are not going to vaccinate? Did the MD know right from the start you were not going to vaccinate? (I am tired of doing the " politically correct " thing only to find out later that we are going to be harassed.) Was anything required of you in order to be taken on by an MD since your child was not vaccinated? Did you have to sign forms stating your reason for exemption? Are you harassed when going to the MD about vaccinating? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 Hi . I know this is a tough issue in terms of arranging emergency care for your baby along with having your rights to not vaccinate adhered to. I had a home birth with a midwife so my whole introduction to birthing/childcare was 'alternative'/'natural' (no Vit. K shot, etc.). I did want to have a pediatrician lined up for my son for just that reason, in case of an emergency. I went to see a pediatrician and I liked him well enough. When I asked about his philosophy on vaccinating (I hadn't vaccinated my son at all and was still learning about the whole issue) he was pretty adamant about how he believes they are crucial and that the schedule was in place because that is when babies are most vulnerable to specific diseases (because I asked about delaying until my son was 2). I made an appointment for some weeks later and then after having had more time to do research I canceled and chose to never go back. I got the feeling he would not support my choice to not vaccinate my child and decided to pursue looking for a Naturopathic Dr. I liked him a lot and discussed my concerns for vaccinations and he agreed and I wanted to pursue homeopathic 'alternatives'.... which I am now administering to my son. I figure if there is ever an emergency situation I will call my Naturopath (for like a bad ear ache, sore throat, etc.) and wouldn't hesitate to take my son to the ER if it was needed - still standing by my convictions to not vaccinate. I do think most 'mainstream' dr.'s aren't even as educated on the vaccine issue as most of us. I'm sure most don't even know what's in them, they're just basically following orders from their AMA training. I don't trust dr.'s to 'know what is best' but rather trust them to know how to make that big fat payment on their yacht... or whatever. I would hope you can find a naturopath for routine situations. My son is 8 months old and has not even had one cold... I'm hoping the need for medical attention is limited. Sherri Reiss wrote: > From: Reiss <lisa@...> > > Hi. > I am wondering for those of you who have children how you have handled > the situation with doctors? Do you use MDs or only Chiropractors or > naturopathics? Have you been upfront and told them you are not going to > vaccinate? Did the MD know right from the start you were not going to > vaccinate? (I am tired of doing the " politically correct " thing only to > find out later that we are going to be harassed.) Was anything required > of you in order to be taken on by an MD since your child was not > vaccinated? Did you have to sign forms stating your reason for > exemption? Are you harassed when going to the MD about vaccinating? > > I am asking because we are having a difficult time finding a > pediatrician or family dr. I would like to have one associated with a > hospital, just in case of an emergency situation. > > I had one return a call tonight. He was ok with everything except, he > was concerned because he is a " child advocate " . He respected our > beliefs but was concerned for our daughter. Unfortunately, I got a huge > red flag up in my mind when he said he was a " child advocate " because at > the same time he is advocating vaccines, particularly if we have another > child. My red flag was because if anyone is my child's advocate it is > us. > > What are your thoughts? I am concerned about a potential emergency > situation and him trying to " advocate " for the child's rights and force > vaccination. > > Any comments would be greatly appreciated. > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 In response to the doctor who didn't want your unvaccinated child to be in the waiting room with vaccinated children because she might expose them to some horrible disease,if the vaccines are so great, wouldn't your unvaccinated child be the one at risk? Little things like that only reenforce my belief thaqt vaccines aren't as effective as doctors would like us to believe. They sure make money off of them, don't they? Also, good for you for breastfeeding on demand for as long as you feel comfortable! My oldest is 21/2 and my baby is almost 4 months. Although I don't nurse my oldest anymore, I only stopped a short while ago, and I still give him expressed milk. Stay strong! --- Rhoda <rhodaf@...> wrote: > From: " Rhoda " <rhodaf@...> > > my grandson was seeing an alternative practitioner > who used chines medicine. > she just went down to Miami to see our chinese doctor > who we always used. > well, don't ask. she attacked my daughter-in-law > about not vaccinations. she > told me she didn't need to breast feed anymore. told > her he needed milk or > goats milk. unfortuantely, my daughter-in-law is > still vulnerable. she > bought him goats milk and is giving him chinese herbs > for his illness. that > doctor lost me for good. we are looking for someone > here in Central florida. > i know of a great pediatrician in miami if anyone > wants. he will treat with > vaccinations if you want but will treat without. he > will support no > vaccinations. he does juice fasting and eats raw most > of the time. it isn't > easy. there is very little support out there. rhoda > Finding a doctor > >>Date: Tue, 30 Mar 1999 00:08:09 -0500 > >> > >>From: Reiss <lisa@...> > >> > >>Hi. > >>I am wondering for those of you who have children > how you have handled > >>the situation with doctors? Do you use MDs or only > Chiropractors or > >>naturopathics? Have you been upfront and told them > you are not going > >to > >>vaccinate? Did the MD know right from the start > you were not going to > >>vaccinate? (I am tired of doing the " politically > correct " thing only > >to > >>find out later that we are going to be harassed.) > Was anything required > >>of you in order to be taken on by an MD since your > child was not > >>vaccinated? Did you have to sign forms stating > your reason for > >>exemption? Are you harassed when going to the MD > about vaccinating? > >> > >>I am asking because we are having a difficult time > finding a > >>pediatrician or family dr. I would like to have > one associated with a > >>hospital, just in case of an emergency situation. > >> > >>I had one return a call tonight. He was ok with > everything except, he > >>was concerned because he is a " child advocate " . He > respected our > >>beliefs but was concerned for our daughter. > Unfortunately, I got a > >huge > >>red flag up in my mind when he said he was a " child > advocate " because > >at > >>the same time he is advocating vaccines, > particularly if we have > >another > >>child. My red flag was because if anyone is my > child's advocate it is > >>us. > >> > >>What are your thoughts? I am concerned about a > potential emergency > >>situation and him trying to " advocate " for the > child's rights and force > >>vaccination. > >> > >>Any comments would be greatly appreciated. > >> > >> > >> > >>------------------------------------------------------------------------ > >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 1999 Report Share Posted March 30, 1999 In response to the doctor who didn't want your unvaccinated child to be in the waiting room with vaccinated children because she might expose them to some horrible disease,if the vaccines are so great, wouldn't your unvaccinated child be the one at risk? Little things like that only reenforce my belief thaqt vaccines aren't as effective as doctors would like us to believe. They sure make money off of them, don't they? Also, good for you for breastfeeding on demand for as long as you feel comfortable! My oldest is 21/2 and my baby is almost 4 months. Although I don't nurse my oldest anymore, I only stopped a short while ago, and I still give him expressed milk. Stay strong! --- Rhoda <rhodaf@...> wrote: > From: " Rhoda " <rhodaf@...> > > my grandson was seeing an alternative practitioner > who used chines medicine. > she just went down to Miami to see our chinese doctor > who we always used. > well, don't ask. she attacked my daughter-in-law > about not vaccinations. she > told me she didn't need to breast feed anymore. told > her he needed milk or > goats milk. unfortuantely, my daughter-in-law is > still vulnerable. she > bought him goats milk and is giving him chinese herbs > for his illness. that > doctor lost me for good. we are looking for someone > here in Central florida. > i know of a great pediatrician in miami if anyone > wants. he will treat with > vaccinations if you want but will treat without. he > will support no > vaccinations. he does juice fasting and eats raw most > of the time. it isn't > easy. there is very little support out there. rhoda > Finding a doctor > >>Date: Tue, 30 Mar 1999 00:08:09 -0500 > >> > >>From: Reiss <lisa@...> > >> > >>Hi. > >>I am wondering for those of you who have children > how you have handled > >>the situation with doctors? Do you use MDs or only > Chiropractors or > >>naturopathics? Have you been upfront and told them > you are not going > >to > >>vaccinate? Did the MD know right from the start > you were not going to > >>vaccinate? (I am tired of doing the " politically > correct " thing only > >to > >>find out later that we are going to be harassed.) > Was anything required > >>of you in order to be taken on by an MD since your > child was not > >>vaccinated? Did you have to sign forms stating > your reason for > >>exemption? Are you harassed when going to the MD > about vaccinating? > >> > >>I am asking because we are having a difficult time > finding a > >>pediatrician or family dr. I would like to have > one associated with a > >>hospital, just in case of an emergency situation. > >> > >>I had one return a call tonight. He was ok with > everything except, he > >>was concerned because he is a " child advocate " . He > respected our > >>beliefs but was concerned for our daughter. > Unfortunately, I got a > >huge > >>red flag up in my mind when he said he was a " child > advocate " because > >at > >>the same time he is advocating vaccines, > particularly if we have > >another > >>child. My red flag was because if anyone is my > child's advocate it is > >>us. > >> > >>What are your thoughts? I am concerned about a > potential emergency > >>situation and him trying to " advocate " for the > child's rights and force > >>vaccination. > >> > >>Any comments would be greatly appreciated. > >> > >> > >> > >>------------------------------------------------------------------------ > >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 1999 Report Share Posted March 31, 1999 Dee Anne, Hey, It's Nadine, I have that name of an MD off of hwy for you. She is wonderful. I replied to your last e-mail but am not sure if you ever got it??!! E-mail me directly and let me know. Hope all is well. Nadine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 1999 Report Share Posted March 31, 1999 Hi (and everyone else!) I have been blessed in that we found a wonderful doctor here in Houston. He is an M.D., but he believes in holistic medicine, and he doesn't recommend vaccinations at all. After we told him about my oldest son's reaction to his four month DPT, he signed a medical exemption for both him and my youngest. I had a home birth with my youngest, and there was only one doctor (pediatrician) who would support homebirth in my area. She is in a group practice, and although her personal beliefs run contrary to those of the practice/hospital that " own " her, she never asks me about vaccination, as she knows how I feel. It just isn't an issue. I would check at the health food store, herb stores, etc., for information on an " alternative medicine " doctor in your area. These are usually the ones that will support your decision to not vaccinate your child. > Reiss wrote: > >> From: Reiss <lisa@...> >> >> Hi. >> I am wondering for those of you who have children how you have handled >> the situation with doctors? Do you use MDs or only Chiropractors or >> naturopathics? Have you been upfront and told them you are not going to >> vaccinate? Did the MD know right from the start you were not going to >> vaccinate? (I am tired of doing the " politically correct " thing only to >> find out later that we are going to be harassed.) Was anything required >> of you in order to be taken on by an MD since your child was not >> vaccinated? Did you have to sign forms stating your reason for >> exemption? Are you harassed when going to the MD about vaccinating? >> >> I am asking because we are having a difficult time finding a >> pediatrician or family dr. I would like to have one associated with a >> hospital, just in case of an emergency situation. >> >> I had one return a call tonight. He was ok with everything except, he >> was concerned because he is a " child advocate " . He respected our >> beliefs but was concerned for our daughter. Unfortunately, I got a huge >> red flag up in my mind when he said he was a " child advocate " because at >> the same time he is advocating vaccines, particularly if we have another >> child. My red flag was because if anyone is my child's advocate it is >> us. >> >> What are your thoughts? I am concerned about a potential emergency >> situation and him trying to " advocate " for the child's rights and force >> vaccination. >> >> Any comments would be greatly appreciated. >> >> >> >> ------------------------------------------------------------------------ >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 1999 Report Share Posted March 31, 1999 Dill, I am in the Houston area, Cleveland. Can you please share with me this Dr. you have found? blessings debbie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 15, 2001 Report Share Posted March 15, 2001 Thank you Marinda. Appreciate your input. MonaB Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 15, 2001 Report Share Posted March 15, 2001 Hi MonaB, I "NEVER" get to talk to my doctor on the phone, and only during my regular visit that I get to see and talk to him. He is always on the go... to the next patient. I am okay with it. I am just need to be monitored, and I need to get tests done through him and medications from him. I have been hyper since 1987, and whenever my thyroid is acting up, I would see him every 2 months. Once it gets better, it would go from every 2 mos to every 6 mos to every 12 mos. This is my 2nd reoccurrence since my initial diagnostic in 1987, and now I am back to every 2 mos. If you ever get to see your endo every 6-12 mos, pay attention to your thyroid and look for sign of enlargement. I noticed mine was enlarged when 5 mos "after" my 12-month visit. Even though things might seem to be fine, but within months, it could come back. I hope this helps, Marinda MarindaAs of 03/10/2001: 40 Weeks 'Til Graduation!!! (Less than 9 months to go!!!)Between Tomorrow's Dreams And Yesterday's Regrets, Are Today's Opportunities. Finding a doctor We came from Connecticut and had in Internist (for years) who specialized in cardiac things. At that time (and up till this moment) do not have a heart problem. He was the one who discovered my Hashimoto disease and got my levels stable. We moved to Florida and also wanted an internist. Checked out and found a doctor who is an internist who specializes in Endocrinology. Thought this would be good with my thyroid problem. I like him but have reservations. A small thing I don't like is when I call with a question I cannot talk with him but through the nurse. When I have had a test, the message comes through the nurse. When we go for our office visits, checkups we are never rushed and he takes unlimited time. We are not on an HMO. Don't know if I am out of line, but is it in order to want to speak directly to the doctor to hear results of a test. Also, if I do decide to change would a regular internist be okay. I take my TSH tests regularly (2 times a year). This doctor wanted to do it every 3 months until I bucked him as my levels have been stable for a while. Am I out of order? MonaB Yes, my name is Mona, however, in my area is another Mona. I am known as MonaB and will use this for the group. Mona1 is still, "the Mona." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 16, 2001 Report Share Posted March 16, 2001 Hi Marinda, So, you're still hyper and taking meds? Have you ever been in remission? Mona Re: Finding a doctor Hi MonaB, I " NEVER " get to talk to my doctor on the phone, and only during my regular visit that I get to see and talk to him. He is always on the go... to the next patient. I am okay with it. I am just need to be monitored, and I need to get tests done through him and medications from him. I have been hyper since 1987, and whenever my thyroid is acting up, I would see him every 2 months. Once it gets better, it would go from every 2 mos to every 6 mos to every 12 mos. This is my 2nd reoccurrence since my initial diagnostic in 1987, and now I am back to every 2 mos. If you ever get to see your endo every 6-12 mos, pay attention to your thyroid and look for sign of enlargement. I noticed mine was enlarged when 5 mos " after " my 12-month visit. Even though things might seem to be fine, but within months, it could come back. I hope this helps, Marinda Marinda As of 03/10/2001: 40 Weeks 'Til Graduation!!! (Less than 9 months to go!!!) Between Tomorrow's Dreams And Yesterday's Regrets, Are Today's Opportunities. Finding a doctor We came from Connecticut and had in Internist (for years) who specialized in cardiac things. At that time (and up till this moment) do not have a heart problem. He was the one who discovered my Hashimoto disease and got my levels stable. We moved to Florida and also wanted an internist. Checked out and found a doctor who is an internist who specializes in Endocrinology. Thought this would be good with my thyroid problem. I like him but have reservations. A small thing I don't like is when I call with a question I cannot talk with him but through the nurse. When I have had a test, the message comes through the nurse. When we go for our office visits, checkups we are never rushed and he takes unlimited time. We are not on an HMO. Don't know if I am out of line, but is it in order to want to speak directly to the doctor to hear results of a test. Also, if I do decide to change would a regular internist be okay. I take my TSH tests regularly (2 times a year). This doctor wanted to do it every 3 months until I bucked him as my levels have been stable for a while. Am I out of order? MonaB Yes, my name is Mona, however, in my area is another Mona. I am known as MonaB and will use this for the group. Mona1 is still, " the Mona. " Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 16, 2001 Report Share Posted March 16, 2001 Hi Mona, I was extremely Hyper with T3 or T4 (can't remember which one) above 380+ when I was about 20-22, then I went into remission. My first reoccurrence was at age 24-25 and went into remission again. Then my second reoccurrence was at 29 to now, and I am 32. A year after my 2nd reoccurrence, my T3 and T4 are normal, but my TSH is extremely low - below measurable range. So, my endo put me on 1 PTU (50) and 1 Synthroid (25) a day, and I have been on both since then and it has been 2 years now. Other than my TSH being too low, I developed knee problems for a year and it went away. Now, I have allergy which causes dizziness, headaches, red eyes, and dry eyes, and the allergy medication and eye drops take care of that. My sugar level and white blood cell counts fluctuate. Early this year, I changed my diet and my white blood cell shoots right back into the normal range - yeah. I haven't had a chance to call my doctor to check on my TSH level. If you are experiencing eye problems, don't want for the Endo to send you to a ophthalmologist... go and have it check out. I also went to a Hematologist to have my blood check. I have learned to take control of your health. Good luck and hope this helps. MarindaAs of 03/10/2001: 40 Weeks 'Til Graduation!!! (Less than 9 months to go!!!)Between Tomorrow's Dreams And Yesterday's Regrets, Are Today's Opportunities. Finding a doctorWe came from Connecticut and had in Internist (for years) who specialized incardiac things. At that time (and up till this moment) do not have aheart problem. He was the one who discovered my Hashimoto disease and got my levels stable. We moved to Florida and also wanted an internist. Checkedout and found a doctor who is an internist who specializes in Endocrinology. Thought this would be good with my thyroid problem. I like him but have reservations. A small thing I don't like is when I call with a question I cannot talk with him but through the nurse. When I have had a test, the message comes through the nurse. When we go for our office visits, checkupswe are never rushed and he takes unlimited time. We are not on an HMO. Don't know if I am out of line, but is it in order to want to speak directlyto the doctor to hear results of a test. Also, if I do decide to change would a regular internist be okay. I take my TSH tests regularly (2 times ayear). This doctor wanted to do it every 3 months until I bucked him as my levels have been stable for a while. Am I out of order? MonaB Yes, my name is Mona, however, in my area is another Mona. I am known as MonaB and will use this for the group. Mona1 is still, "the Mona." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 16, 2001 Report Share Posted March 16, 2001 Hi Marinda...how did you change your diet. By the way, I'm the first Mona not the new Mona which goes by MonaB. I eliminated sodas, added vitamins, eliminated salt, reduced stress level (ongoing effort) and work at getting more sleep, otherwise I'm a zombie at work. This is the first time I've gone into remission since diagnosed in 1996. My next blood test is next week (8 weeks without meds). I was on 1/4 PTU/day for several months and holding steady so doc and I decided to give it a go. Why did the doc decide to add Synthroid? My right eyelid is a slight problem and I will discuss this with the doc next Friday. I took control of my health 1 1/2 years ago. Finally found a decent Endo!!! Take care, Mona Re: Finding a doctor Hi Mona, I was extremely Hyper with T3 or T4 (can't remember which one) above 380+ when I was about 20-22, then I went into remission. My first reoccurrence was at age 24-25 and went into remission again. Then my second reoccurrence was at 29 to now, and I am 32. A year after my 2nd reoccurrence, my T3 and T4 are normal, but my TSH is extremely low - below measurable range. So, my endo put me on 1 PTU (50) and 1 Synthroid (25) a day, and I have been on both since then and it has been 2 years now. Other than my TSH being too low, I developed knee problems for a year and it went away. Now, I have allergy which causes dizziness, headaches, red eyes, and dry eyes, and the allergy medication and eye drops take care of that. My sugar level and white blood cell counts fluctuate. Early this year, I changed my diet and my white blood cell shoots right back into the normal range - yeah. I haven't had a chance to call my doctor to check on my TSH level. If you are experiencing eye problems, don't want for the Endo to send you to a ophthalmologist... go and have it check out. I also went to a Hematologist to have my blood check. I have learned to take control of your health. Good luck and hope this helps. Marinda As of 03/10/2001: 40 Weeks 'Til Graduation!!! (Less than 9 months to go!!!) Between Tomorrow's Dreams And Yesterday's Regrets, Are Today's Opportunities. Finding a doctor We came from Connecticut and had in Internist (for years) who specialized in cardiac things. At that time (and up till this moment) do not have a heart problem. He was the one who discovered my Hashimoto disease and got my levels stable. We moved to Florida and also wanted an internist. Checked out and found a doctor who is an internist who specializes in Endocrinology. Thought this would be good with my thyroid problem. I like him but have reservations. A small thing I don't like is when I call with a question I cannot talk with him but through the nurse. When I have had a test, the message comes through the nurse. When we go for our office visits, checkups we are never rushed and he takes unlimited time. We are not on an HMO. Don't know if I am out of line, but is it in order to want to speak directly to the doctor to hear results of a test. Also, if I do decide to change would a regular internist be okay. I take my TSH tests regularly (2 times a year). This doctor wanted to do it every 3 months until I bucked him as my levels have been stable for a while. Am I out of order? MonaB Yes, my name is Mona, however, in my area is another Mona. I am known as MonaB and will use this for the group. Mona1 is still, " the Mona. " Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 16, 2001 Report Share Posted March 16, 2001 Hi Mona B, Things vary from office to office, but it's typical today for doctors to have designated nurses who handle all phone calls. Usually, they're pretty adept at this and much easier to get through to. The docs who still call their patients generally do so at a certain time each day, usually the end of the day. If it's a busy day they may run out of time to make their calls. You have a right to ask to speak to the doc, but if it's not customary for this office, you'll likely get the nurse. Choose a doctor you feel good about. Most internists are excellent, and an endo isn't essential. The best doc I had for treating my hypothyroidism was an internist who specialized in allergies. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2004 Report Share Posted October 25, 2004 Cyn wrote; > Try that to start with or call your insurance > company to see who's covered in Orthapedics. Also, it may be helpful to remember that some of the leading scoliosis specialists are neurosurgeons (finally admitted to the SRS, somewhat belatedly, about one year ago.) In the course of eight spinal fusions/flatbck revisions, I have received expert and excellent care from surgeons with expertise in either or both of the two specialties, i.e, orthopedics and neurological surgery. Best, Harrington rod? Concerns arising from previous scoliosis surgery? For information, group support, ongoing discussion with others: ===== Rasche , J.D. Medical/Legal Writing & Editorial Services 6541 N. Francisco, #2 Chicago, IL 60645 (773) 508-1507 Harrington rod? Concerns arising from previous scoliosis surgery? For information, group support, ongoing discussion with others: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2004 Report Share Posted October 25, 2004 To Mharb, Just wanted to drop you a little note. You are in very good hands with Dr. Boachie. I am coming up on my 4 year anniversary November 1st in which Dr. Boachie did my anterior/posterior revision surgery. I am happy to say I am still standing tall. He had to remove part of my titanium rod system and replaced it with the same but smaller version. I am very petite and he felt the original was too big for my frame. He also fused me higher. I was originally fused from T4 to L4. He went to T1. He is the best. I am not going to kid you it is a rough surgery but well worth it. The revision got back my correction to the first surgery and going in anteriorally and cutting down the ribs corrected some of the rib hump. Good luck. He is currently handling my daughter who is in a brace and hopefully will not have to go through any of this. In fact we are going November 29th. Everytime we go I say a prayer that her curve has not progress. No one other than us who deal with this disease understands the constant worry that goes along with it. Everytime I go for my check up it is the same nerves hoping that nothing has changed. I am rambling now, had a bad day with my daughter not wanting to put the brace on today. Constant battle. Anyway good luck with your decision. Kathy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2004 Report Share Posted October 25, 2004 Hi Mharb, I know exactly how you are feeling. Anxious and depressed. I have been there. I too had my first surgery at 37. The doctor only did posterior only. I also gained 2 inches. My curve was 78 degrees thoracic and 68 degrees lumbar. I also enjoyed looking straight for the first time in my life even though I still had a 38 degree curve top & bottom. But that was nothing compared to before. After about a year the top part of the rod felt as if it was starting to stick out and I was getting a lot of pain in that area. They tried antiinflammatories, etc. nothing helped. So he went in a cut down the top portion of the rod feeling that the fusion was good. Got instant relief but after about 3 months the top of the rod was sticking out the middle of my back and I had a terrible kyphosis, and my curve increased to 85 degrees - worst than when I started. The top part of my fusion fractured. Make a long story short I found Dr. Boachie and he did the revision surgery, extending the fusion higher. Two theories why this happens is first that I might have been curving above the initial fusion putting pressure on the rod and that is why I was getting the pain. Also he explained to me when you are only fused through the back, there is still movement in the front part of your discs. Like a paper clip after it keeps bending back and forth, it can fracture. That doesn't happen to all people fused posteriorally but for some of us it is not enough. After the surgery I am 42 degrees top and 38 degrees bottom. With the rib hump being gone this time, I actually wore tight fitting shirts for the first time that I can remember. I wasn't even embarrassed by the scares in a bathing suit. I finally was comfortable wearing a bathing suit. I am still not perfect. About a year after this surgery I felt like I was slightly twisted around. Hard to explain. Like one breast is in further than the other. I was told that this is settling and was normal. Never got any worst. I hope this helps. If you need anything or need to e-mail me directly don't hesitate. It always helps to talk to someone. By the way for your info Dr. Boachie will be gone the whole month of December. He leaves about 2 or 3 times and year for about a month and goes to Ghana and other third world countries and does complex spinal surgeries on hundreds of people pro bono. He usually brings a staff of about 30. They did an article on him in People Magazine a while back. Kathy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 11, 2011 Report Share Posted April 11, 2011 Hi, My name is Dena and am a 42 year old woman and I am not diagnosed with hypothyroidism but have many of the symptoms and some test results that were within the range but on the low end. I have Multiple Sclerosis, and am on disoability because of that, and I also have thyroid nodgules on both thyroids which are not cancerous.I take a medication that helps my fatigue and until around 10 months agsince had not had that fatigue that overcomes me to the point that I literally cannot stay awake.I also have been retaining water my face is puffy and I cannot get my rings off or heck even move them unless I take a diuretic a few times a day. My hair is also thinning,and next to starving myself I cannot seem to loose wieght. I try to stick to a 1300 calorie day, have lots of fiber,veggies,fruit and mainly eat beans,chicken or fish for my protien. I can safely loose 20lbs at the most, but it seems I am growing out of my cloths. Last year my cholesteral was right on the edge of having that discussion with the dr about taking something for that. Heart disease is not a problem in my family so it seemed odd to me to have that. In the past my cortisol level has been off, but when they do the other test it would end up fine. I have constipation to where I have had to go to the hospital and have x-rays that show I am all full, and end up taking the prescription laxative, the thing is that can be from the MS but it started when that overwhelming fatigue started again. I had a Free T4 and a TSH test done a week ago, they still use the scale that goes to 4 not 3, TSH was 126 so i was not concerened about that, but my Free T4 was at 0.07 which that scale is 0.07-4. I live in southwest Minnesota, and am looking for a referal to a dr that looks outside the box that I could go to and get some help. I have no problem driving to a dr who goes by the symptoms and the results and does not put all patients in a box. If anyone could refer me to a dr in Minnesota, South Dakota, or Iowa I sure would appreciate it. Thanks so much for listening! Dena Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 I suggest you post your complete lab results here and be sure to include ranges. There are a few people here with a lot of experience in interpreting them [not me]. A TSH reading of 126 is very high in all the ranges I've seen. Is that a typo perhaps with a decimal left out? It doesn't seem possible that you could be judged to not be hypothyroid with that reading. There are a number of ailments that can have some/many of the symptoms you list. If you have multiple ailments it can be a real challenge to determine which symptom is caused by what ailment. Luck, .. .. > > Posted by: " denamarieg " maraul@... > <mailto:maraul@...?Subject=%20Re%3A%20Finding%20a%20Doctor> > denamarieg <denamarieg> > > > Tue Apr 12, 2011 9:08 pm (PDT) > > > > Hi, > My name is Dena and am a 42 year old woman and I am not diagnosed with > hypothyroidism but have many of the symptoms and some test results > that were within the range but on the low end. > I have Multiple Sclerosis, and am on disoability because of that, and > I also have thyroid nodgules on both thyroids which are not > cancerous.I take a medication that helps my fatigue and until around > 10 months agsince had not had that fatigue that overcomes me to the > point that I literally cannot stay awake.I also have been retaining > water my face is puffy and I cannot get my rings off or heck even move > them unless I take a diuretic a few times a day. My hair is also > thinning,and next to starving myself I cannot seem to loose wieght. I > try to stick to a 1300 calorie day, have lots of fiber,veggies, > fruit and mainly eat beans,chicken or fish for my protien. I can > safely loose 20lbs at the most, but it seems I am growing out of my > cloths. Last year my cholesteral was right on the edge of having that > discussion with the dr about taking something for that. Heart disease > is not a problem in my family so it seemed odd to me to have that. > In the past my cortisol level has been off, but when they do the other > test it would end up fine. I have constipation to where I have had to > go to the hospital and have x-rays that show I am all full, and end up > taking the prescription laxative, the thing is that can be from the MS > but it started when that overwhelming fatigue started again. I had a > Free T4 and a TSH test done a week ago, they still use the scale that > goes to 4 not 3, TSH was 126 so i was not concerened about that, but > my Free T4 was at 0.07 which that scale is 0.07-4. > I live in southwest Minnesota, and am looking for a referal to a dr > that looks outside the box that I could go to and get some help. I > have no problem driving to a dr who goes by the symptoms and the > results and does not put all patients in a box. If anyone could refer > me to a dr in Minnesota, South Dakota, or Iowa I sure would appreciate it. > Thanks so much for listening! > Dena Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 Hi and All, This is how my results are shown and I did miss a decimal. Component Your Value Standard Range Units T4 Free 0 .7 .07 - 1.5 ng/dL TSH 1.26 0.35 - 4.94 uIU/mL Does your TSH have be off also to be having issues with your thyroid? Thank You so much and I am looking forward to any information for all of you. Dena .. .. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 I have all the ones you listed, except the cold thing comes and goes, I will just be freezing and then get hot as heck, the heat thing is from my Multiple Sclerosis. I have had to go to the hospital for my constipation and also have to get a prescription to get things going, I take over the counter fiber everyday, and eat fiber rich foods and also, take colace morning and night and the GI dr said to take miralax everyday also, so constipation right now is driving me nuts. And I retain water and have been taking diuretics a few times a day so my rings can move, and loosing weight has been a battle. But thank you for the link I am going to check it out at a later time! Dena Rick & Dena Gustaf Trinity Boer Goats www.trinityboergoats.com maraul@... Maraul Bulldogs www.maraulbulldogs.com maraul@... From: hypothyroidism [mailto:hypothyroidism ] On Behalf Of Roni Molin Sent: Wednesday, April 13, 2011 11:55 AM hypothyroidism Subject: Re: Re: Finding a Doctor Some of the classic symptoms of hypothyroid are feeling very cold, hair thinning, being very tired, constipation, gaining weight and having great difficulty losing weight. There are others. If you go to stopthethyroidmadness.com, you will find lots more information. <>Roni Immortality exists! It's called knowledge! Just because something isn't seen doesn't mean it's not there<> From: <res075oh@... <mailto:res075oh%40verizon.net> > Subject: Re: Finding a Doctor hypothyroidism <mailto:hypothyroidism%40> Date: Wednesday, April 13, 2011, 8:23 AM I suggest you post your complete lab results here and be sure to include ranges. There are a few people here with a lot of experience in interpreting them [not me]. A TSH reading of 126 is very high in all the ranges I've seen. Is that a typo perhaps with a decimal left out? It doesn't seem possible that you could be judged to not be hypothyroid with that reading. There are a number of ailments that can have some/many of the symptoms you list. If you have multiple ailments it can be a real challenge to determine which symptom is caused by what ailment. Luck, .. .. > > Posted by: " denamarieg " maraul@... <mailto:maraul%40frontiernet.net> > <mailto:maraul@... <mailto:maraul%40frontiernet.net> ?Subject=%20Re%3A%20Finding%20a%20Doctor> > denamarieg <denamarieg> > > > Tue Apr 12, 2011 9:08 pm (PDT) > > > > Hi, > My name is Dena and am a 42 year old woman and I am not diagnosed with > hypothyroidism but have many of the symptoms and some test results > that were within the range but on the low end. > I have Multiple Sclerosis, and am on disoability because of that, and > I also have thyroid nodgules on both thyroids which are not > cancerous.I take a medication that helps my fatigue and until around > 10 months agsince had not had that fatigue that overcomes me to the > point that I literally cannot stay awake.I also have been retaining > water my face is puffy and I cannot get my rings off or heck even move > them unless I take a diuretic a few times a day. My hair is also > thinning,and next to starving myself I cannot seem to loose wieght. I > try to stick to a 1300 calorie day, have lots of fiber,veggies, > fruit and mainly eat beans,chicken or fish for my protien. I can > safely loose 20lbs at the most, but it seems I am growing out of my > cloths. Last year my cholesteral was right on the edge of having that > discussion with the dr about taking something for that. Heart disease > is not a problem in my family so it seemed odd to me to have that. > In the past my cortisol level has been off, but when they do the other > test it would end up fine. I have constipation to where I have had to > go to the hospital and have x-rays that show I am all full, and end up > taking the prescription laxative, the thing is that can be from the MS > but it started when that overwhelming fatigue started again. I had a > Free T4 and a TSH test done a week ago, they still use the scale that > goes to 4 not 3, TSH was 126 so i was not concerened about that, but > my Free T4 was at 0.07 which that scale is 0.07-4. > I live in southwest Minnesota, and am looking for a referal to a dr > that looks outside the box that I could go to and get some help. I > have no problem driving to a dr who goes by the symptoms and the > results and does not put all patients in a box. If anyone could refer > me to a dr in Minnesota, South Dakota, or Iowa I sure would appreciate it. > Thanks so much for listening! > Dena ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 You can fix the constipation thing with magnesium. I started with 250 mgs 2xd, then 3xd then 4xd. The 4xd turned out to be too much so I backed it up to 3xd and it's working just fine. I eat whole grains when I eat breads or cereals, low sugar fruits like berries and cantaloupe and don't have to take any medication for constipation. The magnesium was suggested to me by my Cardiologist, and he works with many people like me that are sensitive to pharmacological medications.   <>Roni Immortality exists! It's called knowledge!  Just because something isn't seen doesn't mean it's not there<> From: <res075oh@... <mailto:res075oh%40verizon.net> > Subject: Re: Finding a Doctor hypothyroidism <mailto:hypothyroidism%40> Date: Wednesday, April 13, 2011, 8:23 AM I suggest you post your complete lab results here and be sure to include ranges. There are a few people here with a lot of experience in interpreting them [not me]. A TSH reading of 126 is very high in all the ranges I've seen. Is that a typo perhaps with a decimal left out? It doesn't seem possible that you could be judged to not be hypothyroid with that reading. There are a number of ailments that can have some/many of the symptoms you list. If you have multiple ailments it can be a real challenge to determine which symptom is caused by what ailment. Luck, .. .. > >     Posted by: " denamarieg " maraul@... <mailto:maraul%40frontiernet.net> >     <mailto:maraul@... <mailto:maraul%40frontiernet.net> ?Subject=%20Re%3A%20Finding%20a%20Doctor> >     denamarieg <denamarieg> > > >      Tue Apr 12, 2011 9:08 pm (PDT) > > > > Hi, > My name is Dena and am a 42 year old woman and I am not diagnosed with > hypothyroidism but have many of the symptoms and some test results > that were within the range but on the low end. > I have Multiple Sclerosis, and am on disoability because of that, and > I also have thyroid nodgules on both thyroids which are not > cancerous.I take a medication that helps my fatigue and until around > 10 months agsince had not had that fatigue that overcomes me to the > point that I literally cannot stay awake.I also have been retaining > water my face is puffy and I cannot get my rings off or heck even move > them unless I take a diuretic a few times a day. My hair is also > thinning,and next to starving myself I cannot seem to loose wieght. I > try to stick to a 1300 calorie day, have lots of fiber,veggies, > fruit and mainly eat beans,chicken or fish for my protien. I can > safely loose 20lbs at the most, but it seems I am growing out of my > cloths. Last year my cholesteral was right on the edge of having that > discussion with the dr about taking something for that. Heart disease > is not a problem in my family so it seemed odd to me to have that. > In the past my cortisol level has been off, but when they do the other > test it would end up fine. I have constipation to where I have had to > go to the hospital and have x-rays that show I am all full, and end up > taking the prescription laxative, the thing is that can be from the MS > but it started when that overwhelming fatigue started again. I had a > Free T4 and a TSH test done a week ago, they still use the scale that > goes to 4 not 3, TSH was 126 so i was not concerened about that, but > my Free T4 was at 0.07 which that scale is 0.07-4. > I live in southwest Minnesota, and am looking for a referal to a dr > that looks outside the box that I could go to and get some help. I > have no problem driving to a dr who goes by the symptoms and the > results and does not put all patients in a box. If anyone could refer > me to a dr in Minnesota, South Dakota, or Iowa I sure would appreciate it. > Thanks so much for listening! > Dena ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.