Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi and welcome - You'll find a ton of useful information as well as lots of support here. My son, age 14, was diagnosed OCD at around age 12 - although the symptoms were there at a younger age. His first medication was Prozac. This made a night and day difference in his overall demeanor and lifting his depression almost instantaneously. Unfortunately, in trying to raise the dose high enough to touch the anxiety and obsessive thoughts the medication caused him to become aggressive, which was so out of character for him. It was scary for him as well as the family. He then was placed on Zoloft and did beautiful and about two months ago Abilify (small amt) was added in an attempt to get at the real hard obsessive thoughts (i.e. refusing to eat with anything other than paper products). The thoughts are still there, but the anxiety level is much improved. Medication is a hard decision and might not be for everyone, but many children have gained tremendous success through medication and therapy. Some children can't even attempt therapy until they are medicated. Good luck to your son and keep us updated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi Tabitha, welcome to the list. As you've experienced it's common for OCD to wax and wane, or sometimes play a game of peek-a-boo such as with your daughter. Then some big thing happens, maybe a good thing such as the birth of your second child, and then OCD is there, no kidding and probably to stay. Untreated, it will probably continue to wax and wane, albeit at this new, more intense level. Your daughter's obsessions are " normal " and common for OCD. In most OCD symptom lists I've read it's called fear of contamination, or fear/avoidance of substances. The way her fears and avoidances have spiraled, and contamination spreads, to where you think she may next be fearful of air is also " normal " in untreated OCD. The first treatment suggested for children with OCD is a certain type of behavior therapy called Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention. This is the only type of therapy (vs. art therapy, play therapy, and so on that is sometimes offered for young children) proved to reduce and eliminate OCD obsessions and compulsions. For some kids, this is the only treatment needed to reduce OCD to a livable level and give them the tools to deal with any new Os or Cs that pop up. Depending on your area, however, it may be difficult to find a child therapist expert in treating OCD. Your insurance provider list, your pediatrician, or even someone here (post your general area) may be good sources in locating someone. Some kids also need medication. The SSRI antidepressants, given in larger doses than typically for depression, work to resolve OCD symptoms. In " real life " , kids are sometimes started on antidepressants before therapy because of the difficulty in locating an appropriate therapist who will work with young kids, or because the child's anxiety is so high that she needs medication in order to benefit from the therapy. Has your daughter been formally diagnosed? If not, the place to start is an appointment with a child psychiatrist. Your daughter does not need to be experiencing severe symptoms at the time of the visit since most doctors will take a history from the parents. Once diagnosed, an effective treatment plan can be decided on. Most psychiatrists do not do therapy, but frequently can suggest someone or may even have appropriate therapists in practice with them. Take care, Kathy R. in Indiana ----- Original Message ----- From: " Tabitha " <hotjazzyjava99@...> >I have suspected my 6 yearold to have ocd for a couple of years. > However, everytime I was ready to get help the symptoms would > disappear, well I just had my 2nd child and a month before it came back > and just wouldn't go away. She is afraid of oil on the road, laundry > soap, dishwashing detergent...all is poison and everything gets > contaminated with everything, even me. I am just waiting for her to > fear airspace. I am a single mom and I haven't found much on poison. > If anyone has any ideas I would love to hear from you! > Tabitha Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi Tabitha, welcome to the list. As you've experienced it's common for OCD to wax and wane, or sometimes play a game of peek-a-boo such as with your daughter. Then some big thing happens, maybe a good thing such as the birth of your second child, and then OCD is there, no kidding and probably to stay. Untreated, it will probably continue to wax and wane, albeit at this new, more intense level. Your daughter's obsessions are " normal " and common for OCD. In most OCD symptom lists I've read it's called fear of contamination, or fear/avoidance of substances. The way her fears and avoidances have spiraled, and contamination spreads, to where you think she may next be fearful of air is also " normal " in untreated OCD. The first treatment suggested for children with OCD is a certain type of behavior therapy called Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention. This is the only type of therapy (vs. art therapy, play therapy, and so on that is sometimes offered for young children) proved to reduce and eliminate OCD obsessions and compulsions. For some kids, this is the only treatment needed to reduce OCD to a livable level and give them the tools to deal with any new Os or Cs that pop up. Depending on your area, however, it may be difficult to find a child therapist expert in treating OCD. Your insurance provider list, your pediatrician, or even someone here (post your general area) may be good sources in locating someone. Some kids also need medication. The SSRI antidepressants, given in larger doses than typically for depression, work to resolve OCD symptoms. In " real life " , kids are sometimes started on antidepressants before therapy because of the difficulty in locating an appropriate therapist who will work with young kids, or because the child's anxiety is so high that she needs medication in order to benefit from the therapy. Has your daughter been formally diagnosed? If not, the place to start is an appointment with a child psychiatrist. Your daughter does not need to be experiencing severe symptoms at the time of the visit since most doctors will take a history from the parents. Once diagnosed, an effective treatment plan can be decided on. Most psychiatrists do not do therapy, but frequently can suggest someone or may even have appropriate therapists in practice with them. Take care, Kathy R. in Indiana ----- Original Message ----- From: " Tabitha " <hotjazzyjava99@...> >I have suspected my 6 yearold to have ocd for a couple of years. > However, everytime I was ready to get help the symptoms would > disappear, well I just had my 2nd child and a month before it came back > and just wouldn't go away. She is afraid of oil on the road, laundry > soap, dishwashing detergent...all is poison and everything gets > contaminated with everything, even me. I am just waiting for her to > fear airspace. I am a single mom and I haven't found much on poison. > If anyone has any ideas I would love to hear from you! > Tabitha Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Tony - Since you're right at the beginning of this " journey " I'll share something that helped my son tremendously. Just having the diagnosis and the validation that he wasn't " crazy " reduced his anxiety the week after leaving the psychiatrist's office. He didn't start medication until about six months or so after that, but it was almost as if actually having a name for what he was feeling/going through made the world of difference. Yes, it's emotionally tought right now, but you'll see - it'll get better. My son used to spend his time literally being scared to death - He used the phrase " I'm scared " approximately 40-50 times a day. We haven't heard this phrase in almost a year. Some of his " quirks " we're able to laugh about these days. It'll get easier - maybe therapy for the entire family might be in order - short term at least, to help everyone cope with what is happening now. Come on here and vent whenever the need strikes - we've all been where you are now at the beginning and know what it's like. In a message dated 10/31/2005 8:56:04 PM Eastern Standard Time, steve7496@... writes: Hi, Thanks so much for the reply. We are so worried about our son. We are trying to cope. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Tony - Since you're right at the beginning of this " journey " I'll share something that helped my son tremendously. Just having the diagnosis and the validation that he wasn't " crazy " reduced his anxiety the week after leaving the psychiatrist's office. He didn't start medication until about six months or so after that, but it was almost as if actually having a name for what he was feeling/going through made the world of difference. Yes, it's emotionally tought right now, but you'll see - it'll get better. My son used to spend his time literally being scared to death - He used the phrase " I'm scared " approximately 40-50 times a day. We haven't heard this phrase in almost a year. Some of his " quirks " we're able to laugh about these days. It'll get easier - maybe therapy for the entire family might be in order - short term at least, to help everyone cope with what is happening now. Come on here and vent whenever the need strikes - we've all been where you are now at the beginning and know what it's like. In a message dated 10/31/2005 8:56:04 PM Eastern Standard Time, steve7496@... writes: Hi, Thanks so much for the reply. We are so worried about our son. We are trying to cope. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 We are new to the group as well. Our soon to be 12 year old son began what seemed like overnight OCD symptoms 8 weeks ago.PANDAS ruled out strep. Intrusive thoughts that CBT alone can not manage. I have a history of OCD/panic disorder as well which I always contributed to environment. Am completely heartbroken and guilt ridden. Everytime I drop him at school I panic and worry. his episodes last for hours. He is depressed, exhausted and feels like a freak. Our family is... Tomorrow we will see a child psychiatrist for an assessment. I feel he needs medication but am so afraid of it as well. It seems like a life sentence and with side effects... Anyone out there have any success with meds. or alternative treatments? Also, we live in chicago if anyone knows of a great CBT or Child Psychiatrist? Thanks, toni Tabitha <hotjazzyjava99@...> wrote: I have suspected my 6 yearold to have ocd for a couple of years. However, everytime I was ready to get help the symptoms would disappear, well I just had my 2nd child and a month before it came back and just wouldn't go away. She is afraid of oil on the road, laundry soap, dishwashing detergent...all is poison and everything gets contaminated with everything, even me. I am just waiting for her to fear airspace. I am a single mom and I haven't found much on poison. If anyone has any ideas I would love to hear from you! Tabitha Our list archives, bookmarks, files, and chat feature may be accessed at: / . Our list advisors are Gail B. , Ed.D., Tamar Chansky, Ph.D.( http://www.worrywisekids.org ), Dan Geller, M.D.,Aureen Pinto Wagner, Ph.D., ( http://www.lighthouse-press.com ). Our list moderators are Birkhan, Castle, Fowler, Kathy Hammes, Joye, Kathy Mac, Gail Pesses, and Kathy . Subscription issues or suggestions may be addressed to Louis Harkins, list owner, at louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 We are new to the group as well. Our soon to be 12 year old son began what seemed like overnight OCD symptoms 8 weeks ago.PANDAS ruled out strep. Intrusive thoughts that CBT alone can not manage. I have a history of OCD/panic disorder as well which I always contributed to environment. Am completely heartbroken and guilt ridden. Everytime I drop him at school I panic and worry. his episodes last for hours. He is depressed, exhausted and feels like a freak. Our family is... Tomorrow we will see a child psychiatrist for an assessment. I feel he needs medication but am so afraid of it as well. It seems like a life sentence and with side effects... Anyone out there have any success with meds. or alternative treatments? Also, we live in chicago if anyone knows of a great CBT or Child Psychiatrist? Thanks, toni Tabitha <hotjazzyjava99@...> wrote: I have suspected my 6 yearold to have ocd for a couple of years. However, everytime I was ready to get help the symptoms would disappear, well I just had my 2nd child and a month before it came back and just wouldn't go away. She is afraid of oil on the road, laundry soap, dishwashing detergent...all is poison and everything gets contaminated with everything, even me. I am just waiting for her to fear airspace. I am a single mom and I haven't found much on poison. If anyone has any ideas I would love to hear from you! Tabitha Our list archives, bookmarks, files, and chat feature may be accessed at: / . Our list advisors are Gail B. , Ed.D., Tamar Chansky, Ph.D.( http://www.worrywisekids.org ), Dan Geller, M.D.,Aureen Pinto Wagner, Ph.D., ( http://www.lighthouse-press.com ). Our list moderators are Birkhan, Castle, Fowler, Kathy Hammes, Joye, Kathy Mac, Gail Pesses, and Kathy . Subscription issues or suggestions may be addressed to Louis Harkins, list owner, at louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi, Steve, and welcome I'm sorry that you are going through this right now. You have come to the right place. In answer to your question, yes, my now-10yo daughter has had great success with meds. Specifically, Prozac has been her " wonder drug. " No, I would not have planned or wanted to put my 9yo on such heavy duty medications. But when daily living activities became so stressful for her and for us as a family, we knew we had to do something to help her. (To make a long story short, her onset was also relatively quick but not a " typical " presentation. They started off by looking for possible early onset dementia, because she acted like someone with Alzheimer's.) The good news, however, is that it was diagnosed as " just " OCD and with meds and therapy (including participation in a treatment study) she has come a LONG way in just over a year. Is the OCD still there? Absolutely. But can she function at a reasonable level now? Yes! P. steve doyle <steve7496@...> wrote: We are new to the group as well. Our soon to be 12 year old son began what seemed like overnight OCD symptoms 8 weeks ago.PANDAS ruled out strep. Intrusive thoughts that CBT alone can not manage. I have a history of OCD/panic disorder as well which I always contributed to environment. Am completely heartbroken and guilt ridden. Everytime I drop him at school I panic and worry. his episodes last for hours. He is depressed, exhausted and feels like a freak. Our family is... Tomorrow we will see a child psychiatrist for an assessment. I feel he needs medication but am so afraid of it as well. It seems like a life sentence and with side effects... Anyone out there have any success with meds. or alternative treatments? Also, we live in chicago if anyone knows of a great CBT or Child Psychiatrist? Thanks, toni Tabitha <hotjazzyjava99@...> wrote: I have suspected my 6 yearold to have ocd for a couple of years. However, everytime I was ready to get help the symptoms would disappear, well I just had my 2nd child and a month before it came back and just wouldn't go away. She is afraid of oil on the road, laundry soap, dishwashing detergent...all is poison and everything gets contaminated with everything, even me. I am just waiting for her to fear airspace. I am a single mom and I haven't found much on poison. If anyone has any ideas I would love to hear from you! Tabitha Our list archives, bookmarks, files, and chat feature may be accessed at: / . Our list advisors are Gail B. , Ed.D., Tamar Chansky, Ph.D.( http://www.worrywisekids.org ), Dan Geller, M.D.,Aureen Pinto Wagner, Ph.D., ( http://www.lighthouse-press.com ). Our list moderators are Birkhan, Castle, Fowler, Kathy Hammes, Joye, Kathy Mac, Gail Pesses, and Kathy . Subscription issues or suggestions may be addressed to Louis Harkins, list owner, at louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi, Steve, and welcome I'm sorry that you are going through this right now. You have come to the right place. In answer to your question, yes, my now-10yo daughter has had great success with meds. Specifically, Prozac has been her " wonder drug. " No, I would not have planned or wanted to put my 9yo on such heavy duty medications. But when daily living activities became so stressful for her and for us as a family, we knew we had to do something to help her. (To make a long story short, her onset was also relatively quick but not a " typical " presentation. They started off by looking for possible early onset dementia, because she acted like someone with Alzheimer's.) The good news, however, is that it was diagnosed as " just " OCD and with meds and therapy (including participation in a treatment study) she has come a LONG way in just over a year. Is the OCD still there? Absolutely. But can she function at a reasonable level now? Yes! P. steve doyle <steve7496@...> wrote: We are new to the group as well. Our soon to be 12 year old son began what seemed like overnight OCD symptoms 8 weeks ago.PANDAS ruled out strep. Intrusive thoughts that CBT alone can not manage. I have a history of OCD/panic disorder as well which I always contributed to environment. Am completely heartbroken and guilt ridden. Everytime I drop him at school I panic and worry. his episodes last for hours. He is depressed, exhausted and feels like a freak. Our family is... Tomorrow we will see a child psychiatrist for an assessment. I feel he needs medication but am so afraid of it as well. It seems like a life sentence and with side effects... Anyone out there have any success with meds. or alternative treatments? Also, we live in chicago if anyone knows of a great CBT or Child Psychiatrist? Thanks, toni Tabitha <hotjazzyjava99@...> wrote: I have suspected my 6 yearold to have ocd for a couple of years. However, everytime I was ready to get help the symptoms would disappear, well I just had my 2nd child and a month before it came back and just wouldn't go away. She is afraid of oil on the road, laundry soap, dishwashing detergent...all is poison and everything gets contaminated with everything, even me. I am just waiting for her to fear airspace. I am a single mom and I haven't found much on poison. If anyone has any ideas I would love to hear from you! Tabitha Our list archives, bookmarks, files, and chat feature may be accessed at: / . Our list advisors are Gail B. , Ed.D., Tamar Chansky, Ph.D.( http://www.worrywisekids.org ), Dan Geller, M.D.,Aureen Pinto Wagner, Ph.D., ( http://www.lighthouse-press.com ). Our list moderators are Birkhan, Castle, Fowler, Kathy Hammes, Joye, Kathy Mac, Gail Pesses, and Kathy . Subscription issues or suggestions may be addressed to Louis Harkins, list owner, at louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... , louisharkins@... . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi, Thanks so much for the reply. We are so worried about our son. We are trying to cope. It is so emotionally and physically exhausting. I know I don't have to tell you this. As a mother, I feel so guilty and responsible for genetics. When I see how my son is now, and how/who he used to be, it breaks my heart. OCD breaks hearts and dreams. We will survive. We are grateful for this forum. Thanks, toni Nchaotic@... wrote: Hi and welcome - You'll find a ton of useful information as well as lots of support here. My son, age 14, was diagnosed OCD at around age 12 - although the symptoms were there at a younger age. His first medication was Prozac. This made a night and day difference in his overall demeanor and lifting his depression almost instantaneously. Unfortunately, in trying to raise the dose high enough to touch the anxiety and obsessive thoughts the medication caused him to become aggressive, which was so out of character for him. It was scary for him as well as the family. He then was placed on Zoloft and did beautiful and about two months ago Abilify (small amt) was added in an attempt to get at the real hard obsessive thoughts (i.e. refusing to eat with anything other than paper products). The thoughts are still there, but the anxiety level is much improved. Medication is a hard decision and might not be for everyone, but many children have gained tremendous success through medication and therapy. Some children can't even attempt therapy until they are medicated. Good luck to your son and keep us updated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 Hi, Thanks so much for the reply. We are so worried about our son. We are trying to cope. It is so emotionally and physically exhausting. I know I don't have to tell you this. As a mother, I feel so guilty and responsible for genetics. When I see how my son is now, and how/who he used to be, it breaks my heart. OCD breaks hearts and dreams. We will survive. We are grateful for this forum. Thanks, toni Nchaotic@... wrote: Hi and welcome - You'll find a ton of useful information as well as lots of support here. My son, age 14, was diagnosed OCD at around age 12 - although the symptoms were there at a younger age. His first medication was Prozac. This made a night and day difference in his overall demeanor and lifting his depression almost instantaneously. Unfortunately, in trying to raise the dose high enough to touch the anxiety and obsessive thoughts the medication caused him to become aggressive, which was so out of character for him. It was scary for him as well as the family. He then was placed on Zoloft and did beautiful and about two months ago Abilify (small amt) was added in an attempt to get at the real hard obsessive thoughts (i.e. refusing to eat with anything other than paper products). The thoughts are still there, but the anxiety level is much improved. Medication is a hard decision and might not be for everyone, but many children have gained tremendous success through medication and therapy. Some children can't even attempt therapy until they are medicated. Good luck to your son and keep us updated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 I feel so ashamed to tell my family, friends, and school about our son's OCD. Symptoms came suddenly about 8 weeks ago, ruled out PANDAS, We are crushed to say the least. I am afraid he will believe his OCD thoughts. We can't be with him 24, although I would if possible..... Broken hearted but not giving up- toni steve doyle <steve7496@...> wrote: Hi, Thanks so much for the reply. We are so worried about our son. We are trying to cope. It is so emotionally and physically exhausting. I know I don't have to tell you this. As a mother, I feel so guilty and responsible for genetics. When I see how my son is now, and how/who he used to be, it breaks my heart. OCD breaks hearts and dreams. We will survive. We are grateful for this forum. Thanks, toni Nchaotic@... wrote: Hi and welcome - You'll find a ton of useful information as well as lots of support here. My son, age 14, was diagnosed OCD at around age 12 - although the symptoms were there at a younger age. His first medication was Prozac. This made a night and day difference in his overall demeanor and lifting his depression almost instantaneously. Unfortunately, in trying to raise the dose high enough to touch the anxiety and obsessive thoughts the medication caused him to become aggressive, which was so out of character for him. It was scary for him as well as the family. He then was placed on Zoloft and did beautiful and about two months ago Abilify (small amt) was added in an attempt to get at the real hard obsessive thoughts (i.e. refusing to eat with anything other than paper products). The thoughts are still there, but the anxiety level is much improved. Medication is a hard decision and might not be for everyone, but many children have gained tremendous success through medication and therapy. Some children can't even attempt therapy until they are medicated. Good luck to your son and keep us updated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 31, 2005 Report Share Posted October 31, 2005 I feel so ashamed to tell my family, friends, and school about our son's OCD. Symptoms came suddenly about 8 weeks ago, ruled out PANDAS, We are crushed to say the least. I am afraid he will believe his OCD thoughts. We can't be with him 24, although I would if possible..... Broken hearted but not giving up- toni steve doyle <steve7496@...> wrote: Hi, Thanks so much for the reply. We are so worried about our son. We are trying to cope. It is so emotionally and physically exhausting. I know I don't have to tell you this. As a mother, I feel so guilty and responsible for genetics. When I see how my son is now, and how/who he used to be, it breaks my heart. OCD breaks hearts and dreams. We will survive. We are grateful for this forum. Thanks, toni Nchaotic@... wrote: Hi and welcome - You'll find a ton of useful information as well as lots of support here. My son, age 14, was diagnosed OCD at around age 12 - although the symptoms were there at a younger age. His first medication was Prozac. This made a night and day difference in his overall demeanor and lifting his depression almost instantaneously. Unfortunately, in trying to raise the dose high enough to touch the anxiety and obsessive thoughts the medication caused him to become aggressive, which was so out of character for him. It was scary for him as well as the family. He then was placed on Zoloft and did beautiful and about two months ago Abilify (small amt) was added in an attempt to get at the real hard obsessive thoughts (i.e. refusing to eat with anything other than paper products). The thoughts are still there, but the anxiety level is much improved. Medication is a hard decision and might not be for everyone, but many children have gained tremendous success through medication and therapy. Some children can't even attempt therapy until they are medicated. Good luck to your son and keep us updated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2005 Report Share Posted November 3, 2005 Hi Toni, We were able to get my sons intrusive thoughts under control with CBT and Inositol. Inositol is in the Vitamin B family. We ordered the pure powder form on line at bioalternatives. I don't know if this will work for your son or not but if you want to you can give it a try before meds. I give him 1 tsp in the morning and 1 tsp at night. He weighs 52 lbs so I am sure you will have to look into the dosage for your son. Maybe someone on the site can advise you. was 5 when we started. He went from mild OCD symptoms and moderate anxiety to sever OCD in a matter of a day. He was crying hysterical for days that he was having thoughts of killing me (who he is most attched to due to mediacl issues). He also kept having thoughts of sticking knives in his neck and eyes. I can't tell you how freaked out I was because he is a very loving, caring little boy. Then I found out that 2 boys in his class were telling him they were going to do this to him (Kindergarten!! Do you believe it?) and it triggered something in him. After 3-4 days of Inositol, itslowed down. In a week, it stopped. I recently took him off for 3 days and on the third day, he came uo to me and said he was thinking about me dying again and he didn't know why! Also, really making face his fears, helped them go away faster. I would make him think the bad thought all the way through. Then the thought no longer had control of him. Good luck to your family. I hope you get relief fast!, Jodi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2005 Report Share Posted November 3, 2005 Hi Toni, We were able to get my sons intrusive thoughts under control with CBT and Inositol. Inositol is in the Vitamin B family. We ordered the pure powder form on line at bioalternatives. I don't know if this will work for your son or not but if you want to you can give it a try before meds. I give him 1 tsp in the morning and 1 tsp at night. He weighs 52 lbs so I am sure you will have to look into the dosage for your son. Maybe someone on the site can advise you. was 5 when we started. He went from mild OCD symptoms and moderate anxiety to sever OCD in a matter of a day. He was crying hysterical for days that he was having thoughts of killing me (who he is most attched to due to mediacl issues). He also kept having thoughts of sticking knives in his neck and eyes. I can't tell you how freaked out I was because he is a very loving, caring little boy. Then I found out that 2 boys in his class were telling him they were going to do this to him (Kindergarten!! Do you believe it?) and it triggered something in him. After 3-4 days of Inositol, itslowed down. In a week, it stopped. I recently took him off for 3 days and on the third day, he came uo to me and said he was thinking about me dying again and he didn't know why! Also, really making face his fears, helped them go away faster. I would make him think the bad thought all the way through. Then the thought no longer had control of him. Good luck to your family. I hope you get relief fast!, Jodi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2005 Report Share Posted November 3, 2005 Hi Toni, and welcome to the list. I imagine your son got his OCD from the same place you did--his genetic background. Your own disorder did not cause OCD in your son. OCD is a " no fault " biochemical brain disorder that you can not cause in your child if he is not genetically susceptable. A difficult environment or life situation can exacerbate the symptoms perhaps, but not cause the disorder. Medication and CBT/ERP combo was necessary to bring my child's symptoms under good control and give her her normal life back. If the doctor prescribed medication for your son, please keep in mind that it is not at all a life sentence. Some kids, with medication on board, are able to make great gains in therapy and later be medication free. Though my child still takes meds (overnight onset at four, will turn 12 in January), it's not true for all that once on meds, always on meds. A number of parents here have children who took medication for awhile, and then later were able to function well without it. Write again and let us know how you and your son are getting on. Kathy R. in Indiana ----- Original Message ----- From: " steve doyle " <steve7496@...> > We are new to the group as well. Our soon to be 12 year old son began what > seemed like overnight OCD symptoms 8 weeks ago.PANDAS ruled out strep. > Intrusive thoughts that CBT alone can not manage. I have a history of > OCD/panic disorder as well which I always contributed to environment. > Am completely heartbroken and guilt ridden. Everytime I drop him at school > I panic and worry. > his episodes last for hours. He is depressed, exhausted and feels like a > freak. Our family is... > Tomorrow we will see a child psychiatrist for an assessment. I feel he > needs medication but am so afraid of it as well. It seems like a life > sentence and with side effects... > Anyone out there have any success with meds. or alternative treatments? > Also, we live in chicago if anyone knows of a great CBT or Child > Psychiatrist? > Thanks, > toni Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2005 Report Share Posted November 3, 2005 Hi Toni, and welcome to the list. I imagine your son got his OCD from the same place you did--his genetic background. Your own disorder did not cause OCD in your son. OCD is a " no fault " biochemical brain disorder that you can not cause in your child if he is not genetically susceptable. A difficult environment or life situation can exacerbate the symptoms perhaps, but not cause the disorder. Medication and CBT/ERP combo was necessary to bring my child's symptoms under good control and give her her normal life back. If the doctor prescribed medication for your son, please keep in mind that it is not at all a life sentence. Some kids, with medication on board, are able to make great gains in therapy and later be medication free. Though my child still takes meds (overnight onset at four, will turn 12 in January), it's not true for all that once on meds, always on meds. A number of parents here have children who took medication for awhile, and then later were able to function well without it. Write again and let us know how you and your son are getting on. Kathy R. in Indiana ----- Original Message ----- From: " steve doyle " <steve7496@...> > We are new to the group as well. Our soon to be 12 year old son began what > seemed like overnight OCD symptoms 8 weeks ago.PANDAS ruled out strep. > Intrusive thoughts that CBT alone can not manage. I have a history of > OCD/panic disorder as well which I always contributed to environment. > Am completely heartbroken and guilt ridden. Everytime I drop him at school > I panic and worry. > his episodes last for hours. He is depressed, exhausted and feels like a > freak. Our family is... > Tomorrow we will see a child psychiatrist for an assessment. I feel he > needs medication but am so afraid of it as well. It seems like a life > sentence and with side effects... > Anyone out there have any success with meds. or alternative treatments? > Also, we live in chicago if anyone knows of a great CBT or Child > Psychiatrist? > Thanks, > toni Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2005 Report Share Posted November 4, 2005 At 07:16 AM 11/4/2005, you wrote: >I'm new here and new to natural perfumery in general. >I'm really looking forward to learning from you all. >I live in South Florida and was wondering who here >lives in that area and also to see if anyone knows of >a school in this area for natural perfume. Thanks! > >Macha02012 Hi Macha I'm in SoFla, and no, there aren't any natural perfume schools here. I think you'll either have to travel for a class, or take an online one, or buy a workbook. We have a lot of new members, including someone from the West Coast of Fla. It would be lovely if you all could introduce yourself, just a note to let us know about you. I'd spend more time welcoming everyone, but I'm still on a generator for power, so I can't even spend much time reading or replying to the past 10 days of messages. A special welcome to all our new members from oils_herbs group ;-) Anya http://.com The premier site on the Web to discover the beauty of Natural Perfume " The Age of the Foodie is passé. It is now the Age of the Scentie. " Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 6, 2006 Report Share Posted January 6, 2006 jjindra2002 wrote: 73 warts on his feet from Dale, , my non-pid son had an invasion of multiple warts on his feet the summer before he left for college. We decided that maybe stress had lowered his immune system enough to let them attack. Anyway -- he was scheduled to have them frozen off -- but spent a weekend away and played beach volleyball all weekend. When he got home -- he had sanded them all off!!! I don't know whether you have a beach close by -- but if you do -- running barefoot might be an option! Then again -- I don't know how safe some beaches are. Maybe a play gorund that has sand??? Anyway -- once off - they didn't return. Don't know whether that will help you or not. In His service, Dale Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 9, 2006 Report Share Posted January 9, 2006 In a message dated 1/9/2006 2:40:21 PM Pacific Standard Time, screising@... writes: We have used bug juice, freezing, surgical removal, and Aldara. , Is Aldara the cream?? I have used a cream that my Bro uses in his practice with excellent results. had up to 15 warts on his fingers at one point. After being treated with the cream and the pads--they have never grown back. Sandi, Mom to age 12, CVID Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 9, 2006 Report Share Posted January 9, 2006 In a message dated 1/9/2006 2:40:21 PM Pacific Standard Time, screising@... writes: We have used bug juice, freezing, surgical removal, and Aldara. , Is Aldara the cream?? I have used a cream that my Bro uses in his practice with excellent results. had up to 15 warts on his fingers at one point. After being treated with the cream and the pads--they have never grown back. Sandi, Mom to age 12, CVID Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 10, 2006 Report Share Posted January 10, 2006 Sandi Yes, the Aldara is a cream that comes in tiny foil packs perscribed by my Dermotologist. I wish it came in a big tube, the individual packets are a pain when I practically use a whole packet on his knee b/c he has so many warts. It has worked for my planters wart , but my son's knee has been resistant. Do you know of any other treatment or cream that works? Re: New to group In a message dated 1/9/2006 2:40:21 PM Pacific Standard Time, screising@... writes: We have used bug juice, freezing, surgical removal, and Aldara. , Is Aldara the cream?? I have used a cream that my Bro uses in his practice with excellent results. had up to 15 warts on his fingers at one point. After being treated with the cream and the pads--they have never grown back. Sandi, Mom to age 12, CVID Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 24, 2006 Report Share Posted January 24, 2006 Hi Kayleen, Welcome! You'll find lots of warmth and support here. You'll also find that EACH child is very different. Remember that scoliosis in young children is not common. It is rare. Many in the medical world have never seen an infant/toddler with scoliosis. It is very important to be seeing a PEDIATRIC orthopedist who has extensive experience treating a child similar to your own. That said, there is much more information you need to have before continuing with any treatment, brace included. I'm assuming you know these things, since she's nearly 3, but just in case... You need to know if her scoliosis is congenital (meaning there is at least one vertebrae that is malformed contributing to the curve) or idiopathic (meaning there is no known cause, the bone structure of the spine is formed correctly, just curved) or has a neuromuscular cause (i.e., spina bifida, arthrogryposis, CP, etc.). Why are they doing another MRI? Does she have symptoms of re-tethering? Or does the ortho want to make sure there are no other spinal cord issues? I'm not completely sure why the neurosurgeon is involved at this point. Waiting 4 more months seems too long, IMHO. I would suggest you find another ped. ortho for another opinion. Shriners is a great suggestion, however, I'm not completely certain the Shriners nearest you is fluent in treating toddlers with scoliosis. You are right - surgery at this age is not an ideal option. Surgery should never be taken lightly. Surgery (and even fusion) does have its time and place, but that should be a last resort for children this age (in general). Please keep us posted. Feel free to ask more questions! There are lots of experiences here. Carmell mom to Kara 19, idiopathic scoliosis, Blake 15, GERD and Braydon 10, VACTERL, GERD, DGE, Titanium Rib Project patient #137 (dbl implant 8/01), thoracic insufficiency, rib anomalies, congenital scoliosis (fusion surgery 5/96), missing coccyx, fatty filum/TC (released 4/99), anal stenosis, chronic constipation, horseshoe (cross-fused) kidney, dbl ureter in left kidney, ureterocele (excized 6/95), kidney reflux (reimplant surgery 1/97), neurogenic bladder, bilateral hip dysplasia, right leg/foot dyplasia, tibial torsion, clubfoot with 8 toes (reconstructed 2/96, 3/96, 1/97, 3/04), pes cavus, single umblilical artery, tonsil-adnoidectomy and ear tubes (3/98), etc. http://carmellb-ivil.tripod.com/myfamily/ __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 25, 2006 Report Share Posted January 25, 2006 On Wed, 25 Jan 2006 19:42:31 -0000, brianholtzsuncom wrote... Melisse, You are very lucky to have a diagnosis so early. It took almost 3 years for my five year old daughter to get the diagnosis. with regard to sores in the mouth, that was one of the last symptoms my daughter developed they did not start until almost 2 years into her illness. That's why they finally diagnosed her. My daughters sed rate and white blood count are always up when she has an episode. Has your daughters blood been looked at like that? Best of luck and know that we have all gone through the worry and sleepness nights. I feel for all these innocent little children and all that they go through. Kris (mom of 5 years) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 25, 2006 Report Share Posted January 25, 2006 Hi Melisse - I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say that we have also seen Dr. Gans at Stanford. We were referred to Stanford 1.5 years ago when my daughter (now 2.5) started having cyclical fevers. We saw Dr. Gans, as well as the Rheumatology doctors at Stanford. We still see the Rheumatology doctors since the most plausible diagnosis they have at this point is Systemic JRA (my daughter had one episode where she had an enlarged spleen and liver, which are symptoms of systemic JRA, but since she hasn't developed arthritis yet, as far as we can tell, we still don't have a diagnosis). About the genetic testing - we had the testing done and the doctors at Stanford were supportive of doing it (all I had to do was ask and the test is easy - just a swab in the mouth). They sent it to GeneDx and it was covered by our insurance without any questions. We also applied for the NIH study with the help of the doctors at Stanford and went for our appointment in November, which was inconclusive and we were told to wait and see, which is the same thing the doctors at Stanford told us. So anyhow, we are waiting and seeing and luckily my daughter has been doing really well lately - we are hoping its a new trend Overall I've been pleased with the doctors at Stanford - they have all been responsive and genuinly concerned. Good luck with your daughter and please let me know if you have any questions I can help with. am (mom to Layla, 2.5 years, undiagnosed periodic fever syndrome) > > Hi, my name is Melisse, and my 5-1/2 year old daughter Zoe has > possible . She started getting fevers last June, and has been > having fevers approximately every three weeks since then. She's had > about a dozen episodes to date. The episodes usually last about 48 > hours. She usually starts out with a low fever and often a tummy > ache that progresses to a higher fever (102-104F). She's never had > sores in her mouth. Sometimes her throat is red. She often will > feel nauseous and will vomit. After vomiting, she always feels much > better. > > She usually responds very well to Motrin and will be back to normal > for a few hours until the Motrin starts wearing off and so she will > go through a six hour cycle with each Motrin dose. Her appetite is > very low during episodes. She hasn't really gained much weight in > the past six months. Our doctor has now prescribed Prednisone - but > we haven't given it to her yet. She had cold symptoms with her last > two episodes so we weren't sure if they were truly episodes. > We're nervous about the steroid treatment but will probably give it a > try with her next episode. She actually had an ear infection back in > December and was given antibiotics - and that threw off her 3 week > cycle a bit, but then it came back. > > Our pediatrician has given the diagnosis of . Zoe's had about 5 > blood draws where they've tested for spider bites, lyme disease, as > well as testing her blood count and immunoglobulin levels. She's > been referred to Dr. Gans, an Infectious Disease & Immunology > specialist at Stanford, and we've seen her twice. She's also leaning > towards as the diagnosis, but did not recommend any genetic > testing. She's still trying to rule out autoimmune diseases. We > never had the testing to rule cyclic nutropenia...but the doctors > didn't think her symptoms warranted putting her through the 24 blood > draws. > > ly, I was relieved with the probable diagnosis as > initially I was so concerned about more dangerous disorders like > blood cancers, etc. We really haven't had enough testing to give a > definitive diagnosis of - so I don't know how much I should > push for more testing. We'll wait to see if Zoe responds well to the > Prenisone. I'm worried about her fever cycle becoming shorter. > Also, I'm also worried about a bad reaction. The specialist was > optimistic that if we started using the steroid, that that might > break the cycle of fevers. That would be great as Zoe has been > missing a lot of school this year. We'll see how it goes. > > I've been reading the posts to this group for the past month or two > and have learned a lot. My heart goes out to all the kids and > parents who are coping with this syndrome. > > - Melisse > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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