new member

[Guest guest]

" Why the toxic bags are still on the market simply cannot be explained, except

for greed. "

I call them " death devices "

M

[Guest guest]

Lynn

Welcome to this site. I know that you will find lots of support

here. I am so sorry to hear about all that you have been through

and about your son. I can't imagine how hard that must be for you

to feel the way you do and then have to cope with your son's special

needs also. Hopefully your explant will send you back on the road

to wellness. Do you have your explant scheduled yet? Is your

surgeon going to remove the implants including the entire capsule

too? That is very important. I know someone more knowledgeable

tham me will answer your question about contaminated implants, but I

would think at the very least that would be objective proof of the

implants making you sick and would make it easier for you to get the

surgery paid for by someone other than you...such as insurance, or

the implant manufacturer.

Hugs,kathy

>

> Hi there --I am new to the group, have saline implants in. I was

dx

> with MS 6 months after they were put in, after avery acute attack

> ofmy neuro-system. I was a fashion designer in New York (im live

in

> so. cal) on a business trip, and went from negotiating a deal with

> Bloomingdales, to speaking so slurred I had to bring my husband to

> interpret to the doctor for me, and I could not hold a glass of

> water for lack of stregth in my hand. I would walk right into

> walls, and was bedridden immediately. My career was over right

then

> and there. It has been 6.5 years and I am now 35 years old and

> cannot work, for I have to nap everyday from the severe fatigue

and

> eye crossing, I am dependent on ant-depressants, I get very

> irritable, angry and depressed without it! My whole life before I

> was NEVER sick NEVER depressed, only energetic, excited about my

> career and looking forward to getting married in the spring. He

> still married me, but it has been very hard dealing with my

disease.

> 2 years later my son was born autistic. Another unknown immune-

> system disorder. My neurologist is one of the very best nad he

now

> says that my MRI's do not folow Multiple Sclerosis, and he doesnt

> know why I have these MS-like symptoms.

> I saw a show about black implants being removed and found she had

> similar symptoms and was also mis-dx as having MS.

> I am having them removed and having the surgery filmd in case they

> do have dis-coloration I can use it in court. I ant to send them

> straight to pathology when they are removed and hire an attorney

> right away if there are any suspicious results. By the way, I

> somehow avoided signing an " arbitration agreement " with my

> implanting plastic surgeon, I just never signed it and they forgot

> to insist! If there is bacteria can the surgeon be at fault or

not

> using a closed system or any other reason? Lynn Milucky

[Guest guest]

Hi Deb, welcome to the group! I use to take Prednisone, but that is

one med that I wouldn't won't to stay on for long. I do the tapers

when needed, but that med makes me have terrible side effects.

It does work well with some, and that is what keeps them going. So,

meds work well for some, and not for others. I just feel whatever

helps, if it keeps you mobile.

I'm glad you got your disability, you can go to a good doctor, and

maybe he can try you on some newer meds, there is more options now.

I'm glad that you have Abbey, pets are remarkable. They are so

loving, and it seems like when your at the lowest they know, and can

make you feel better.

I had a black lab, that I recently had to give up. I couldn't take

care of him anymore, he was just too much for me. He weighed quite a

bit, and just couldn't handle him. I did give him to a very good

couple, who lives a few blocks away. I can visit him anytime, but

it's hard on both of us right now.

Were all here in need of support and good friends. Please feel free

to email me anytime, I'm always here if someone needs me. Tawny

--- In , " downtoearthdeb " <utahyooper@y...>

wrote:

>

>

> Hello everyone, I am new to this site, my name is Deb and I am 51

> years old. I was wondering if anyone out there has been on long

term

> Prednisone use for their RA. I was diagnosed 3 years ago, and have

> been taking it ever since. I was on 40 mg. a day for a long time,

> and have managed to get it down to 20-25 mg. a day depending on the

> pain. The side effects are sooooo much fun. NOT! I also take

> Methotrexate and Celebrex. It has taken me all this time to

finally

> get my SSI Disability, and Medicaid, so I am now scheduled to see a

> Rheumatologist in February, up until now I have only been seen in a

> Hospital Clinic. I also have Hypo-thyroidism, and the prednisone

> has caused Diabetes. Anyway, I was wodering if anyone knows of any

> specific drug that works as well as " the Magic Pill " Prednisone,

> without all these side effects, it sure would be a blessing to find

> one. I also would like to say that it sounds like most of you have

> a significant other or family members that help and support you

> all. I lost everything when I became sick, my sig. other left me,

> and I have no living family.But I do have my Dog, Abbey, she is a

> God send and good companion. She is deaf, but we have

> learned " Doggy Sign language " together, it keeps us busy. So, I

> mostly just stay in the house, afraid of getting sick from others,

> and it can be lonely. If it wasnt for the Computer and Abbey I

> would go crazy. I have good days and bad ones where I cant even

get

> out of bed, but I look at the alternative and am thankful for what

I

> do have. Any info any of you might have would be greatly

> appreciated.

[Guest guest]

Hello Deb,

Welcome to the group! I an 58, and while I don't have RA, I do have

Dercum's Disease, which is sort of like fibromyalgia plus hundreds of

painful fatty tumors throughout the body. I have been on a few short

courses of prednisone, both for the pain (until they found out what

was wrong with me) and for asthma. I can't take pred. now because it

aggravates the tumor growth. I take only diclofenac, Ultram, and

Remeron. That combination keeps me functioning without being a

zombie, and I am learning to live with the pain, though I'd just as

soon not have it! My husband is 67 and has Parkinson's, so we help

each other through our individual down days. sorry to hear your sig.

other couldn't hack the challenge, I don't know what I'd do without

Ron.

Keep the faith,

Judi in Indiana (by way of Illinois & California)

[Guest guest]

Hi Deb. My name is Marina. I was diagnosed a little over 2 years

ago at the age of 32 and have spent most of that time on

Prednisone. I started out with the lower doses, but, it would

eventually stop working and my dose would be bumped up. At one

point I was taking nearly 100mg a day. With Remicade, I was able to

taper down. At one point I was actually off of them. Then we tried

Enbrel. Still taking that and not the steroids, except when

needed. I have been tapering off of them again over the last few

weeks. The Enbrel was effective and it worked within the first 2

weeks. Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes and what fixes that

are out there have there consiquences. But, not to the extent of

long term steroid use. My rheumatologist told me he would rather me

take narcotics through out the day everyday than to take steroids.

This disease is hard on families as well. Especially when they

don't understand. It's difficult for anyone to " get it " when they

don't go through it. I am having that issue with my sister,

brother, and father. They try, and I appreciate their efforts, but

they don't get it. I'm afraid to get into any " real " relationship

because I don't want to wish this onto anyone else. My 2 cats have

been my saving grace, well, them and this group. We are all like

brothers and sisters in here, understanding what the other goes

through. For the first time since my diagnosis, I felt as though I

was liberated from it because I could talk about it freely and

others would listen and understand. That makes such a difference.

I hope you get hooked up with a good rheumatologist. That is of

utmost importance. Perhaps, once you get off the steroids, the

diabetes will reverse itself. I have been fortunate to not have had

the blood sugar issue. That sounds like a challenge, having a deaf

dog. Must make things interesting!! My 2 cats sure act deaf at

times!! But, a dog comes when called and a cat takes a message and

gets back with you later!! Welcome to the group. Feel free to ask

questions and even to just write to vent!! It helps!! Take

care.....Blessed Be........Marina in Ohio

>

>

> Hello everyone, I am new to this site, my name is Deb and I am 51

> years old. I was wondering if anyone out there has been on long

term

> Prednisone use for their RA. I was diagnosed 3 years ago, and

have

> been taking it ever since. I was on 40 mg. a day for a long time,

> and have managed to get it down to 20-25 mg. a day depending on

the

> pain. The side effects are sooooo much fun. NOT! I also take

> Methotrexate and Celebrex. It has taken me all this time to

finally

> get my SSI Disability, and Medicaid, so I am now scheduled to see

a

> Rheumatologist in February, up until now I have only been seen in

a

> Hospital Clinic. I also have Hypo-thyroidism, and the prednisone

> has caused Diabetes. Anyway, I was wodering if anyone knows of

any

> specific drug that works as well as " the Magic Pill " Prednisone,

> without all these side effects, it sure would be a blessing to

find

> one. I also would like to say that it sounds like most of you

have

> a significant other or family members that help and support you

> all. I lost everything when I became sick, my sig. other left me,

> and I have no living family.But I do have my Dog, Abbey, she is a

> God send and good companion. She is deaf, but we have

> learned " Doggy Sign language " together, it keeps us busy. So, I

> mostly just stay in the house, afraid of getting sick from others,

> and it can be lonely. If it wasnt for the Computer and Abbey I

> would go crazy. I have good days and bad ones where I cant even

get

> out of bed, but I look at the alternative and am thankful for what

I

> do have. Any info any of you might have would be greatly

> appreciated.

[Guest guest]

Hi Sherri, welcome to the group! It's a great place to be, lots of

information, and wonderful people, Tawny

>

> Hi All! My name is Sherri and I live in Rochester,. Pa. Was

diagnosed at the

> age of 34-while recovering from a total knee replacement-with RA.

It runs in

> the family, but thus far, I am the only one to get it fromthis

generation of

> kids!!!!! Lucky me! I am married and live with DH and 2 cats and 1

spoiled

> Yorkie., Work as a Registered Nurse in the OB/Gyne dept of a local

hospital.

> Currently taking Embril and pred.-plus Darvocet for the pain. Love

to chat

> and email!!!! sherri

>

>

>

> Stay strong and healthy

[Guest guest]

Hi and Welcome!

I'm a 40 year old mom of an 18 year old boy. I have RA also, and work full

time-I'm a registered nurse. I take Plaquenil, also Remicade, Bextra and right

now, Prednisone due to a long unrelenting flare for about the last 6 months.

This list is full of wonderful support and info, and as I neglected to tell the

fellow I replied to a moment ago, there are even a few men on the list! Take

care, rest and Happy New Year. Cary

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group. Sorry that you have RA at such a young age.

Luckily, I didn't get it until I was 60. I'm glad that the plaquenil is

working well for you. Hopefully it will continue to do so, but if not,

there are plenty of other drugs to try.

You will find that this is a wonderful group to belong to. We usually

do know what to say, because we know how you feel. a and , our

moderators, post lots of articles to keep us informed about autoimmune

diseases. I think you'll like it here.

Sue

On Thursday, December 30, 2004, at 10:57 PM, millerfamily44 wrote:

>

> Hi, I am a new member looking for support.....and to learn something

> about RA and how to deal........

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group! I'm glad you found us, but sorry for your dx.

There are many RA patients that don't have a RF. I'm glad your doc

has put you on Plaquenil, is it working for you?

You will find support, and people that understand what your going

through, so count on us if you need us. God Bless, Tawny

>

>

> Hi, I am a new member looking for support.....and to learn

something

> about RA and how to deal........I am 36, mother of a 2 year old son

> and a 1 year old daughter. I do not have the RF factor, but my

> rheumatologist believes that it is RA. She has ruled out Lupus, and

> has done a million other tests. I have been on plaquenil for 4

months

> now and it has finally kicked in, and I have been able to get off

of

> prednisone completely. Anyone have luck with plaquenil? I don't

know

> anyone with RA, and I am not sure what lies ahead.......I think

that

> is the scariest part for me. My husband doesn't know what to say,

> and neither do my parents or friends. I am a guidance counselor,

and

> my boss and colleagues are wonderful, and have been very

accomodating

> when I have dr visits. I could not ask for more flexible working

> conditions. Well, hopefully I will get the hang of this online

group

> (never did this before) and will be able to find the support I am

> looking for!

[Guest guest]

Welcome Cheryl,

You found your way to Saline Support! It's a good

place to be if you need help after getting breast

implants.

Hugs,

Rogene

[Guest guest]

You may have seronegative RA. It is just a serious at seropositive

RA, but your labs do not reveal the typical RA markers.

The treatment is the same for both types of RA. Recent research shows

that about 35% of RA is seronegative. Talk with your Rheumy, and if

you don't like what your hear, go to another Rheumy until you get the

best care possible.

--- In , " Debbie " <dthomasathome@c...>

wrote:

>

>

> Hi all. I am new to this group after doing some online research

> into probable/possible causes for why I have been feeling so

> crummy. Forgive me if this seems lengthy...but I have joint

> pain/stiffness/slight swelling in feet and hands every morning (no

> deformity or redness)for about 30-45 mins after rising...lots of

> other joint aches/pains off and on throughout the day most days.

> Feel tired and achy all the time...sometimes think I must be

getting

> the flu the way everything hurts...but never do. ANA titer is

> positive at 1:320 but not enough that it caused great concern with

> first rheumatologist I saw. C-Reactive Protein is elevated quite

> high...something like 8 times what it should be normally. Other

> blood screening panels for RA and lupus were unremarkable...so I

> have no clear diagnosis. Seeing another rheumatologist next month

> (took 12 weeks for appt)for second opinion on advice of my GP. My

> question...did any of you have trouble getting a diagnosis of your

> RA, Lupus or Fibromyalgia? I know I have OA...had knee surgery last

> year to repair torn meniscus and clean out all the crud from the

> arthritis...other one will need to be done at some point too. It's

> just pretty frustrating to only be treating symptoms and not trying

> to get to the root of the problem.

>

> Thanks for any insight...DT

[Guest guest]

Welcome - I hate to discourage you Debbie- but it took almost 12 years before I

had a positive rheumatoid factor-and diagnosis- and there was a discussion of

rheumatoid or lupus a couple of years prior to those first visits with a

rheumatologist. Now, understand, I have been diagnosed since 1988- and tests are

far more sophisticated then they were back in the old days. I was told initially

that many of the diseases were treated the same - so a definitive diagnosis was

not paramount if they could treat anyway. I had a good working relationship with

my family doctor and the rheumatologist I went to when I was away at school- and

they also worked together. We were very careful about infections and quick

treatment of same. Drug therapies were much different then- anyone here- even

hear of butisolidin? I also took alot of coated aspirin. Fortunately for me- I

have been lucky and the disease- in terms of permanent damage has been very

slowly progressive- I am still working- as an attorney. I am currently on

prednisone, MTX,

and remicade for the RA. I take aciphex, a variety of vitamin

supplement-including folic acid- and other things to treat side effects. I am 50

now and in many ways - have grown up with my arthritis. I really don't have many

memories pre stiffness and pain. Hope they are able to diagnose quickly and

effectively for you - and treat quickly. Welcome again.

Big Hugs,

-------------- Original message ----------------------

From: " Debbie " <dthomasathome@...>

>

>

>

> Hi all. I am new to this group after doing some online research

> into probable/possible causes for why I have been feeling so

> crummy. Forgive me if this seems lengthy...but I have joint

> pain/stiffness/slight swelling in feet and hands every morning (no

> deformity or redness)for about 30-45 mins after rising...lots of

> other joint aches/pains off and on throughout the day most days.

> Feel tired and achy all the time...sometimes think I must be getting

> the flu the way everything hurts...but never do. ANA titer is

> positive at 1:320 but not enough that it caused great concern with

> first rheumatologist I saw. C-Reactive Protein is elevated quite

> high...something like 8 times what it should be normally. Other

> blood screening panels for RA and lupus were unremarkable...so I

> have no clear diagnosis. Seeing another rheumatologist next month

> (took 12 weeks for appt)for second opinion on advice of my GP. My

> question...did any of you have trouble getting a diagnosis of your

> RA, Lupus or Fibromyalgia? I know I have OA...had knee surgery last

> year to repair torn meniscus and clean out all the crud from the

> arthritis...other one will need to be done at some point too. It's

> just pretty frustrating to only be treating symptoms and not trying

> to get to the root of the problem.

>

> Thanks for any insight...DT

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group Debbie! You will find some great information

here, support, and friends. Tawny

--- In , " Debbie " <dthomasathome@c...>

wrote:

>

>

> Hi all. I am new to this group after doing some online research

> into probable/possible causes for why I have been feeling so

> crummy. Forgive me if this seems lengthy...but I have joint

> pain/stiffness/slight swelling in feet and hands every morning (no

> deformity or redness)for about 30-45 mins after rising...lots of

> other joint aches/pains off and on throughout the day most days.

> Feel tired and achy all the time...sometimes think I must be

getting

> the flu the way everything hurts...but never do. ANA titer is

> positive at 1:320 but not enough that it caused great concern with

> first rheumatologist I saw. C-Reactive Protein is elevated quite

> high...something like 8 times what it should be normally. Other

> blood screening panels for RA and lupus were unremarkable...so I

> have no clear diagnosis. Seeing another rheumatologist next month

> (took 12 weeks for appt)for second opinion on advice of my GP. My

> question...did any of you have trouble getting a diagnosis of your

> RA, Lupus or Fibromyalgia? I know I have OA...had knee surgery last

> year to repair torn meniscus and clean out all the crud from the

> arthritis...other one will need to be done at some point too. It's

> just pretty frustrating to only be treating symptoms and not trying

> to get to the root of the problem.

>

> Thanks for any insight...DT

[Guest guest]

Hi :

Yes, I have heard of Butazolidin - I call it Bute for

short and give it to my horses for their arthritis

lol. They are gigantic pills - hope yours weren't

that large. Glad to hear that you are doing well with

your medications now and still enjoying your work as a

lawyer.

Kathe in CA

--- k.j.choate@... wrote:

> Welcome - I hate to discourage you Debbie- but it

> took almost 12 years before I had a positive

> rheumatoid factor-and diagnosis- and there was a

> discussion of rheumatoid or lupus a couple of years

> prior to those first visits with a rheumatologist.

> Now, understand, I have been diagnosed since 1988-

> and tests are far more sophisticated then they were

> back in the old days. I was told initially that many

> of the diseases were treated the same - so a

> definitive diagnosis was not paramount if they could

> treat anyway. I had a good working relationship with

> my family doctor and the rheumatologist I went to

> when I was away at school- and they also worked

> together. We were very careful about infections and

> quick treatment of same. Drug therapies were much

> different then- anyone here- even hear of

> butisolidin? I also took alot of coated aspirin.

> Fortunately for me- I have been lucky and the

> disease- in terms of permanent damage has been very

> slowly progressive- I am still working- as an

> attorney. I am currently on prednisone, MTX,

> and remicade for the RA. I take aciphex, a variety

> of vitamin supplement-including folic acid- and

> other things to treat side effects. I am 50 now and

> in many ways - have grown up with my arthritis. I

> really don't have many memories pre stiffness and

> pain. Hope they are able to diagnose quickly and

> effectively for you - and treat quickly. Welcome

> again.

>

> Big Hugs,

> -------------- Original message

> ----------------------

> From: " Debbie " <dthomasathome@...>

> >

> >

> >

> > Hi all. I am new to this group after doing some

> online research

> > into probable/possible causes for why I have been

> feeling so

> > crummy. Forgive me if this seems lengthy...but I

> have joint

> > pain/stiffness/slight swelling in feet and hands

> every morning (no

> > deformity or redness)for about 30-45 mins after

> rising...lots of

> > other joint aches/pains off and on throughout the

> day most days.

> > Feel tired and achy all the time...sometimes think

> I must be getting

> > the flu the way everything hurts...but never do.

> ANA titer is

> > positive at 1:320 but not enough that it caused

> great concern with

> > first rheumatologist I saw. C-Reactive Protein is

> elevated quite

> > high...something like 8 times what it should be

> normally. Other

> > blood screening panels for RA and lupus were

> unremarkable...so I

> > have no clear diagnosis. Seeing another

> rheumatologist next month

> > (took 12 weeks for appt)for second opinion on

> advice of my GP. My

> > question...did any of you have trouble getting a

> diagnosis of your

> > RA, Lupus or Fibromyalgia? I know I have OA...had

> knee surgery last

> > year to repair torn meniscus and clean out all the

> crud from the

> > arthritis...other one will need to be done at some

> point too. It's

> > just pretty frustrating to only be treating

> symptoms and not trying

> > to get to the root of the problem.

> >

> > Thanks for any insight...DT

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I was actually dancing in a musical in college when they gave me - bute. I was

told it was useful for race horses. What a nice comparison huh? Glad there are

more choices now. Thanks, kathe.

( in MI)

-------------- Original message ----------------------

From: Kathe Sabetzadeh <lv2ryd@...>

>

> Hi :

>

> Yes, I have heard of Butazolidin - I call it Bute for

> short and give it to my horses for their arthritis

> lol. They are gigantic pills - hope yours weren't

> that large. Glad to hear that you are doing well with

> your medications now and still enjoying your work as a

> lawyer.

>

> Kathe in CA

>

> --- k.j.choate@... wrote:

>

> > Welcome - I hate to discourage you Debbie- but it

> > took almost 12 years before I had a positive

> > rheumatoid factor-and diagnosis- and there was a

> > discussion of rheumatoid or lupus a couple of years

> > prior to those first visits with a rheumatologist.

> > Now, understand, I have been diagnosed since 1988-

> > and tests are far more sophisticated then they were

> > back in the old days. I was told initially that many

> > of the diseases were treated the same - so a

> > definitive diagnosis was not paramount if they could

> > treat anyway. I had a good working relationship with

> > my family doctor and the rheumatologist I went to

> > when I was away at school- and they also worked

> > together. We were very careful about infections and

> > quick treatment of same. Drug therapies were much

> > different then- anyone here- even hear of

> > butisolidin? I also took alot of coated aspirin.

> > Fortunately for me- I have been lucky and the

> > disease- in terms of permanent damage has been very

> > slowly progressive- I am still working- as an

> > attorney. I am currently on prednisone, MTX,

> > and remicade for the RA. I take aciphex, a variety

> > of vitamin supplement-including folic acid- and

> > other things to treat side effects. I am 50 now and

> > in many ways - have grown up with my arthritis. I

> > really don't have many memories pre stiffness and

> > pain. Hope they are able to diagnose quickly and

> > effectively for you - and treat quickly. Welcome

> > again.

> >

> > Big Hugs,

> > -------------- Original message

> > ----------------------

> > From: " Debbie " <dthomasathome@...>

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > Hi all. I am new to this group after doing some

> > online research

> > > into probable/possible causes for why I have been

> > feeling so

> > > crummy. Forgive me if this seems lengthy...but I

> > have joint

> > > pain/stiffness/slight swelling in feet and hands

> > every morning (no

> > > deformity or redness)for about 30-45 mins after

> > rising...lots of

> > > other joint aches/pains off and on throughout the

> > day most days.

> > > Feel tired and achy all the time...sometimes think

> > I must be getting

> > > the flu the way everything hurts...but never do.

> > ANA titer is

> > > positive at 1:320 but not enough that it caused

> > great concern with

> > > first rheumatologist I saw. C-Reactive Protein is

> > elevated quite

> > > high...something like 8 times what it should be

> > normally. Other

> > > blood screening panels for RA and lupus were

> > unremarkable...so I

> > > have no clear diagnosis. Seeing another

> > rheumatologist next month

> > > (took 12 weeks for appt)for second opinion on

> > advice of my GP. My

> > > question...did any of you have trouble getting a

> > diagnosis of your

> > > RA, Lupus or Fibromyalgia? I know I have OA...had

> > knee surgery last

> > > year to repair torn meniscus and clean out all the

> > crud from the

> > > arthritis...other one will need to be done at some

> > point too. It's

> > > just pretty frustrating to only be treating

> > symptoms and not trying

> > > to get to the root of the problem.

> > >

> > > Thanks for any insight...DT

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Welcome ,

You have found the right place for great information, and wonderful

people. I'm sorry about your dx, but it's so good to learn all you

can, and treat it early, Tawny

>

>

> Hi all;

> I just joined this group to educate myself and learn all i can

about

> this disease. i am 23 and have been preliminary diagnosed. the

worst

> is my knees and feet, but it also affects my shoulders, elbows neck

> and fingers...wrists, ankles. pretty much everything at some point

> or another! its so frustrating, i cannot even get out of bed in the

> morning. so i guess i am just looking for any info or insight re:

> treatment, coping, day to day tips, etc., medication, exersise...

> i just joined a gym and have been using the eliptical machine as it

> does not put as much pressure on my knees. my aunt has RA terrible

in

> her legs, and while i am not a size 0 i wouldnt say i am terribly

> overweight...

> so thats my story...looking forward to meeting all of you and

sharing

> experiences.

> thanks for listening!

>

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

Welcome to the group! I am so glad you are here to find information,

and support. Are you going to a rheumatologist, and are you on any RA

meds right now? It's very important to be on something to stop the

progression of RA. Glad your here, Tawny

--- In , " kelly donovan " <jamymad@c...>

wrote:

>

> Hi I am new here. My name is kelly I live in nj. I have RA/stills

> disease.I have had many different opinions on that. I am on lexapro

and

> wellbutrin XL,. Along with others. I am 35 yrs old mother of 2 and

> happily married 15 yrs. I love to knit,bead,read,sew,cook. glad to

join

> the group!

>

>

>

> http://knittingandthings.blogspot.com

> http://kellyscreativejewelry.blogspot.com

> http://davesnewsandreviews.blogspot.com

> AVON

> http://www.youravon.com/kellydonovan

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hello Kenda...and Welcome!

You should give yourself a pat on the back for doing such thorough research and finding this wonderful support group.

I was in your situation in 2003. I researched implants and the pros and cons of them. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into. The plastic surgeons have a way of making everything sound so safe. The warning signs are all there but, "It will never happen to you" the saline implants are so safe. WRONG!

I do hope you take the time to read some of the posts from some of the women on this site. If only I had found this site before my surgery last May, I would have saved myself a lot of heart ache...not to mention a lot of Hair!

You see Kenda, I would consider myself one of the lucky ones. My only symptom is chronic hair loss. It is stated in the disclaimer you have to sign, but who would have thought it would happen to me. I have about 50% of the hair on my head that I had before implants.

I had my implants in for only 9 Months and I had them removed. I put two and two together and knew that the implants were making my hair fall out. I also knew that if they were doing this to me this early on, what would my symptoms be like in a few months or a year from now?

I am just trying to save you some grief. The implants only last between 7-12 years before you have to have them replaced.

They don't feel real while they are in your chest.

They make you very self conscience.

You have to massage them all of the time so you don't get capsular contraction.

Most likely you will have to have more than just one surgery.

You can't sleep on your stomach because you feel like you are balancing on two balls.

The list goes on and on!

The most important thing is that you are taking a chance with your health. You might not get sick...or you might be just like one of us fighting for your health, and wishing you had those little boobs you had before the surgery.

If your breasts are saggy from having babies, than I would highly recommend getting JUST a lift. It has done wonders for my breasts as they are as perky as a teenagers...just smaller.

I love the way my breasts look now that I don't have those foreign objects tugging at my skin. I love that they are soft and fall like they are supposed to be.

Save yourself the worry and not to mention the pain of implants. Love your body the way God made it. My vote would be NOT to get the implants!

Do as you may, and know that we are all here for you. Ask as many questions as you need to before you make this decision. Best of Luck to you!

Marie

New member

Hi everyone, my name is Kenda and I am new to your list. I had aninitial consultation with a plastic surgeon regarding breast implants. I am44 years old and have wanted them for years. I am thin, 5'4", 100 pounds, and havewhat I call 1/2 breasts. After two pregnancies and breastfeeding, the upper outerpart of my breasts are sunken. I went to three different plastic surgeons forconsults and all were surprised that at my size I had as much breast tissue as I did-- a perfect candidate for implants! Excitedly I booked my surgery for 4/22. Iwas happy about my decision for less than a day and have been researching implantsfor hours on end ever since.The reason I am here is that I want your opinions regarding salineimplant safety. All of the doctors tell me there is NO risk and that the materialused is inert and the fluid inside is saline water and will simply be absorbed by my bodyif one should rupture. After seeing your photos, I can't say that I'd want my bodyto absorb that fluid! I spoke with my ND and he said that if I ever had a positiveANA test, I should not have the surgery because I would be at a higher risk forautoimmune diseases. My current ANA is negative but two tests 12 and 10 yearsago I believe were positive and speckled -- I'll have to have my ND interpret the tests for me when I see him tomorrow. My health is not something I am willing to gamble for cosmetic gain. I had fibromyalgia about 10 years ago and was very sick for about 5 years. I beat it 5 years ago and don't ever want to feel that way again. Has anyone here ever had their ANA tested either prior to implantation or following? At this point in my life I am either going to go for it or put theidea away permanently. I am definitely leaning toward not having the surgerybut need the kick in the butt from you who have already been there. I believe the doctors are lying to me but also wonder if I am being paranoid.Thank you so much for your help.KendaOpinions expressed are NOT meant to take the place of advice given by licensed health care professionals. Consult your physician or licensed health care professional before commencing any medical treatment. "Do not let either the medical authorities or the politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts are, and make your own decisions about how to live a happy life and how to work for a better world." - Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner (1954, Chemistry; 1963, Peace)

[Guest guest]

Welcome Kenda. I'm so glad you are exploring different ideas than

the doctors who do implant surgeries. I'm flying to Dallas tomorrow

to have an explant surgery on Wed. The surgeon I chose is well-

known for his ability to reconstruct or lift the breast tissue.

I've heard nothing but rave reviews. Have you considered a breast

lift instead of implants?

While there are women on both side of the fence, unfortunately, I

have had major health problems since getting saline implants in

1998. I am certain that the problems are related to the implants.

Doctors told me again and again that the physical problems were in

my head. It was such a relief to find this site, and other women

who had been through the nightmare I had lived through.

So, may I recommend that you read this site daily, and perhaps you

will gain some insight into the horrors we have put ourselves into

because of our bodies' rejection of the implants. While the odds

may be with you to have a safe implant surgery, there is the chance

that your experience will be like ours. I would hope that some day

there will be proper testing and there will be a safe implant for

the breast, but today, I would give anything to go back in time and

recapture all the lost joys and family times that my diseased body

took away...God bless you in your search...I will post after the

explant surgery....J

[Guest guest]

Kenda,

Welcome . . . I'm sure you already know you won't be

encouraged to get implants here! Our ladies have had

ban experiences and stay around to help inform others.

The most important, most powerful voice is that one in

your head that's telling you what you SHOULD do. . .

Most of us heard it, and disregarded it.

The nightmares that go with implants are too many to

list. Suicide is 4X's that among implanted women as

other plastic surgery patients . . . Is that enough to

know?

Hugs and prayers,

Rogene

[Guest guest]

Kenda, hello and welcome.

I am really glad you came to this site before you get implants.

If you have had fibromyalgia you know how bad it is, I have fibro and its implant related, many of the women on this site have it just to name one complications you can get.

They are honestly not worth the illness they cause.

I hope you really think about things, read all the info you can get.

Sue.

[Guest guest]

Hi Sue,

Thank you. The three surgeons I saw had me convinced that there was less than a

1% chance that I would have any health problems. I guess I believed what I

wanted to believe. My ND told me that autoimmune problems do develop and that I

should undergo testing to see if I have a greater risk with autoimmune disease.

I

knew then if he was concerned, I needed to be be. After reading some of the

posts

on this site last night and chatting with Dr. Melmed via email, that larger

breasts

aren't worth the risk to my health.

I am so glad I found this site.

For those of you who do have fibromyalgia, cleaning up your diet and detoxing

does

help tremendously. It took several months before I was symptom free but it did

happen. If anyone wants the name of a great ND, I'll give you mine. He's in

Tulsa,

Oklahoma but does treat by phone consult for those who can't come to him.

Kenda

> Kenda, hello and welcome.

>

> I am really glad you came to this site before you get implants.

> If you have had fibromyalgia you know how bad it is, I have fibro and its

> implant related, many of the women on this site have it just to name one

> complications you can get.

> They are honestly not worth the illness they cause.

>

> I hope you really think about things, read all the info you can get.

> Sue.

[Guest guest]

Hi Rogene,

You are right, the voice in my head has been screaming at me to stop. I knew I

wouldn't get support to get implants here, I wanted the truth because it seems

few

plastic surgeons give it. After reading here and talking to Dr. Melmed, I am

totally

convinced NOT to get implants. Since kicking fibro years ago and all the

diseases I

had along with it, I place much value in my health. Too much value to risk it

for the

sake of rounder breasts.

Thank you for saving me from what so many of you are going through. You will

never know how much I appreciate it.

Kenda

> Welcome . . . I'm sure you already know you won't be

> encouraged to get implants here! Our ladies have had

> ban experiences and stay around to help inform others.

>

> The most important, most powerful voice is that one in

> your head that's telling you what you SHOULD do. . .

>

> Most of us heard it, and disregarded it.

>

> The nightmares that go with implants are too many to

> list. Suicide is 4X's that among implanted women as

> other plastic surgery patients . . . Is that enough to

> know?

>

> Hugs and prayers,

>

> Rogene

[Guest guest]

Thank you, J. Believe me, I'm not having the surgery. I would have to be crazy

to

go forward after reading all of your experiences. I don't think I am any

different than

any of you, therefore a poor outcome for me is extremely possible -- if not

probable,

given my past with fibro.

Are you going to Dr. Melmed? I found him on the internet under Cindi's story

and

wrote him. Much to my surprise, he wrote me back with his honest opinion

regarding implants. He also suggested a lift but it really isn't lift that I

wanted or

needed, it was volume so I will stay the way I am.

Good luck on your explantation. I hope your body heals quickly and you are free

from the hell you have lived soon.

Kenda

> Welcome Kenda. I'm so glad you are exploring different ideas than

> the doctors who do implant surgeries. I'm flying to Dallas tomorrow

> to have an explant surgery on Wed. The surgeon I chose is well-

> known for his ability to reconstruct or lift the breast tissue.

> I've heard nothing but rave reviews. Have you considered a breast

> lift instead of implants?

> While there are women on both side of the fence, unfortunately, I

> have had major health problems since getting saline implants in

> 1998. I am certain that the problems are related to the implants.

> Doctors told me again and again that the physical problems were in

> my head. It was such a relief to find this site, and other women

> who had been through the nightmare I had lived through.

> So, may I recommend that you read this site daily, and perhaps you

> will gain some insight into the horrors we have put ourselves into

> because of our bodies' rejection of the implants. While the odds

> may be with you to have a safe implant surgery, there is the chance

> that your experience will be like ours. I would hope that some day

> there will be proper testing and there will be a safe implant for

> the breast, but today, I would give anything to go back in time and

> recapture all the lost joys and family times that my diseased body

> took away...God bless you in your search...I will post after the

> explant surgery....J

[Guest guest]

Dear Kendra,

Thanks for the reply its really kind of you to mention your ND, I live in England so its impossible for me but some of the ladies will find it useful, THANKYOU.

I am so glad you have decided against implants, you are both lucky and clever to have researched things so well, if only 20 years ago I had the same opportunity to look into everything as you have done I would have my health.

Keep well Kendra, I intend to keep dettoxing as much as I can.

Keep intouch

Sue.