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dd

I heard a lot of good stuff about prednisone. I want some. Your letter was very

interesting. I seem to be going what you go through too. take care and pain go

away.

Clora May

 

From: dgd301@... <dgd301@...>

Subject: [ ] Prednisone, etc

Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took all the pain

away.

When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me on 6 MTX

pills.

Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg and the

pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really shoulders, a

little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but one reason is

that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit down if

I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and Friday.

When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he suggested

that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava -- one

pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or the drugs.

He

also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my knees and

possibly in my upper arms.

He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have no idea

what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what and where

it is, so I can describe it.

I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it down. That has

been

better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is borderline

hyperactive.

One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets really

hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my dentist

said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time going

to doctors and having tests.

I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do some

resting if I need to (64).

Thanks for reading,

dd

************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up for

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I also was lucky enough to wait until I was 62 to get RA. My children

were all grown and out of the house, and I was retired and able to rest

as much as I wanted to. Of course we would have been even luckier if we

had never gotten it, LOL. But I am extremely grateful that Enbrel keeps

the beast under great control.

Sue

On Saturday, July 19, 2008, at 10:49 PM, dgd301@... wrote:

>

> I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do some

> resting if I need to (64).

>

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In a message dated 7/20/2008 5:54:36 P.M. Central Daylight Time,

bcreedon@... writes:

I have had bad problems with my voice, and voice box. I have acid

reflux, take 2 Prilosec a day. I have Polops on my vocal cords, and

have had months of hoarseness, when I couldn't even talk. Have seen a

ENT specialist, throat scoped, biopsies done, and the conclusion was all

from GERD. The 2 Prilosec a day has taken care of this totally.

Haven't had any trouble since.

I also have Crohn's Disease and was on mass amounts of prednisone about 30

years ago for that. It is mostly in remission right now, but I've been on meds

for reflux for a long time. Most recently two Nexium a day. Prilosec quit

working, then we did Prevacid. This worked, but the insurance company wanted me

to try Nexium (2 a day). It was ok until I started taking the RA drugs. Then

the reflux was awful. So my doctor added Ranitidine (2 a day). And I still

have occasional reflux, but not nearly as bad.

I'm supposed to have a colonscopy and endoscopy, but they aren't scheduled

soon.

So right now, I'm dealing with RA, reflux, past Crohn's, borderline

hyperthyroid and some skin stuff I haven't even bothered to schedule.

But before I was started on Prednisone, I was unable to get out of a chair,

couldn't take a bath, could barely get out of my car -- mostly because I

couldn't open the door. I went to the clinic and pushed the button for the

elevator and the door opened. I couldn't get in the door before it closed. He

gave

me a prescription for 25 mg of prednisone that day. He wasn't sure which

thing I had, but said that the beginning treatment for all the possibilities was

prednisone. I took the pills at 3:30 and by 6:00, I could teach my line

dancing class. There was one woman who saw me the night before and after I took

the

pills. She said it was a miracle.

I know it's not good to stay on a high dose for a long time. Previously, we

were told that anything over 5 mg a day can cause your body to stop producing

natural cortisone. So I'm glad I'm down to 5 mg.

I'd also like my cheeks and back to get less swollen again. But that's

pretty much cosmetic.

I just would like to have energy. Although the fatigue is not as bad as it

was before I was diagnosed, it's bad enough.

dd

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FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

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Hi Clora May and DD:

Yes, Pred. is a wonderful drug, and I have been on it since my RA was

diagnosed, 5 1/2 years ago. At times, I have been on as high as 40mg.

a day. That was when I was in really bad shape, and unbearable pain. I

have had the steroid shots also, and they work so good too. I have had

them in my back, shoulders, knees, and bottom of my feet. I will do

anything to get that damn pain under control.

I had tried several times to get off the Pred., just to see how I felt

without it. I was not successful until now. I am doing this very

slowly, am down to 2.5mg. every other day. I have some pain in my

wrists, but is taken care of with Arthritis strength tylenol. If

needed, I take Tylenol w/codeine#3. I also have Tramadol and Vicodin.

I have never had any mental problems with Pred. Thank God for that.

I have had bad problems with my voice, and voice box. I have acid

reflux, take 2 Prilosec a day. I have Polops on my vocal cords, and

have had months of hoarseness, when I couldn't even talk. Have seen a

ENT specialist, throat scoped, biopsies done, and the conclusion was all

from GERD. The 2 Prilosec a day has taken care of this totally.

Haven't had any trouble since.

Wishing you both pain free days very soon. God Bless you.

Hugs,

Barbara

>

> From: dgd301@... dgd301@...

> Subject: [ ] Prednisone, etc

>

> Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

> It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

> rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took

all the pain away.

> When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me

on 6 MTX

> pills.

>

> Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg and

the

> pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really

shoulders, a

> little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but one

reason is

> that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

>

> I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit

down if

> I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and

Friday.

>

> When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he

suggested

> that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava

-- one

> pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

>

> I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

> fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or

the drugs. He

> also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my knees

and

> possibly in my upper arms.

>

> He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have no

idea

> what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

>

> Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what and

where

> it is, so I can describe it.

>

> I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

> endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it

down. That has been

> better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is

borderline

> hyperactive.

>

> One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets

really

> hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my

dentist

> said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

>

> It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time

going

> to doctors and having tests.

>

> I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do some

> resting if I need to (64).

>

> Thanks for reading,

>

> dd

>

>

>

> ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up

for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

>

>

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Barbara,

My son was diagnosed with reflux laryngitis, his doctor wrote a book on it, that

comes from GERD. We were to 5 specialists over a year and a half period before

an ENT specialist diagnosed it. He's only 21. in PA

[ ] Prednisone, etc

>

> Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

> It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

> rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took

all the pain away.

> When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me

on 6 MTX

> pills.

>

> Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg and

the

> pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really

shoulders, a

> little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but one

reason is

> that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

>

> I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit

down if

> I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and

Friday.

>

> When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he

suggested

> that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava

-- one

> pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

>

> I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

> fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or

the drugs. He

> also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my knees

and

> possibly in my upper arms.

>

> He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have no

idea

> what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

>

> Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what and

where

> it is, so I can describe it.

>

> I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

> endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it

down. That has been

> better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is

borderline

> hyperactive.

>

> One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets

really

> hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my

dentist

> said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

>

> It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time

going

> to doctors and having tests.

>

> I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do some

> resting if I need to (64).

>

> Thanks for reading,

>

> dd

>

>

>

> ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up

for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

>

>

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Barbara and everyone;

 

I hate the thought of getting something good for my pain and then someone taking

it away. But I guess you can't stay on it forever. Some people say they been on

it for 13 years. In low doses though. Prednisone cause mental problems too. OMG.

That's OK I still want it. So you are trying to take it on lower doses. I am

glad its working. Sorry about your wrists.

 

I make supper on Sundays if I can. I put a chicken in the oven covered it with

allumin foil. a couple hours later I open 2 cans of green beans and put on the

stove on low heat. I am doing good.lol. While the green beans was simmering, I

peeled four medium potatoes. OMG my wrist were killing me. By the third tater I

could barely peel it. I got it done. I put them in cold water and rested. By the

time I quartered the taters my fingers was killing me. How do people live with

this affliction that don't have family to help them. My husband does laundry

cleans the house. Does the cooking. I can't. He works on Sunday. His last job

folded up. He hasn't found a job in 2 years. He worked a few but it didn't work

out. He is 50 years old.

He works on Sundays all day at a convience type gas station store.

 

The house will be a mess when he gets a permanent job. Unless the prednissone

works the rheumy said she will give me. Oh I almost forgot. Dinner was a

success. And I don't feel to bad. I still have pain but I can take it today. My

rheumy was giving me shots in my shoulder and in my hips. I don't know why she

stopped. I am going to ask her.

Tylenol with codeine sound good. I took that before for my headaches. I take a

prilosect every day too for my acid reflux. Sorry about the polyps. I got one in

my sinus cavity. The doctor said its not causing the head aches.

Well take care Barbara and all. Have a pain free day. Thanks for listening to

me.

Clora May

 

From: McNally <McNacks@...>

Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Prednisone, etc

Date: Sunday, July 20, 2008, 7:38 PM

Barbara,

My son was diagnosed with reflux laryngitis, his doctor wrote a book on it, that

comes from GERD. We were to 5 specialists over a year and a half period before

an ENT specialist diagnosed it. He's only 21. in PA

[ ] Prednisone, etc

> @gro ups.com

> Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

> It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

> rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took

all the pain away.

> When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me

on 6 MTX

> pills.

>

> Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg and

the

> pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really

shoulders, a

> little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but one

reason is

> that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

>

> I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit

down if

> I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and

Friday.

>

> When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he

suggested

> that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava

-- one

> pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

>

> I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

> fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or

the drugs. He

> also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my knees

and

> possibly in my upper arms.

>

> He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have no

idea

> what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

>

> Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what and

where

> it is, so I can describe it.

>

> I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

> endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it

down. That has been

> better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is

borderline

> hyperactive.

>

> One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets

really

> hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my

dentist

> said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

>

> It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time

going

> to doctors and having tests.

>

> I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do some

> resting if I need to (64).

>

> Thanks for reading,

>

> dd

>

>

>

> ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up

for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

>

>

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Hi DD,

I suffered horribly with Ulcerative Colitis, many hosp. stays, etc. Was

on the verge of a total Colostomy, etc. I finally got into remission

about 10 years ago. I know how awful you suffered with Crohn's and glad

you are in remission too. We really had to go on high doses of Pred. at

that time. I have no regrets at all.

I tried a few meds. for my stomach, but Prilosec has worked so good for

me. I also have had Hypothyroid since I was 10 years old. My RA came

on suddenly, and I went from a totally functioning woman to a crippled,

swollen all over, pain crazed person in 5 days!! I couldn't get up out

of bed, stand on my feet, walk without screaming, dress myself, feed

myself, hold a glass, etc. I thought I had a brain tumor, and would be

dead very soon. My hands swelled so much, and both hands went into a

claw-like tightness, and I couldn't open them. I got a dr. appt. for

the next day, it took everything in me to get up on my feet. My hubby

dressed me, combed my hair, brushed my teeth, washed my face and hands,

put some creme on my face, and got me to the car. I thought I would die

from pain just getting into it. Plus, there was a foot of snow on Cape

Cod, and bitter cold.

My PCP was shocked when he saw me.....I saw him 2 weeks before. He

pretty much knew I had RA, did blood work, etc. I had never heard of it

before. He started me immediately on 60mg. of Pred., and got me an

appt. with a Rheumy the next day. The rest is history.

I was 64, and retired also. I never could have worked at that time. I

had to move from the Cape to S.W. Florida, as I couldn't take the

weather there anymore. I was almost in a wheelchair, house bound, and I

too thought my life was over. Boy, was I wrong. I had to really get

back my positive thinking, and go forward. I love life, and enjoy so

many things life has to offer.

I have always done so many hand crafts, making quilts all by hand,

crochet, needlepoint, stenciling, painting, wallpapering, sewing, etc.

I love all crafts, but knew I would have to find the one I cared about

the most, and could do. So, I do folk art painting. I am going to try

to paint tomorrow for a short time.

I guess we all come to the point when we can change our life, and try to

enjoy the things we can do. I had to get out of pain first, then I

focused on what I could do, and then, I had to learn to pace myself

every day. That was hard for me to do. I have always been a " doer " . It

was a big day when I could feed myself, another big day when I could

shower, etc. I never gave up hope. I prayed my heart out. I have come

a long way from the grim future I thought I had. Life is good no matter

what. I feel it is essential to try and stay positve, think of what you

can do, even if you hurt, which is hard to do. Good days come

eventually. It just takes time to find the right meds., right pain

meds. I never thought I would reach the day that I finally had managed

my pain and RA. I thank my wonderful Rheumy for that. I had to get my

RA in order, before I could get my life in order. I still deal with

being so tired all the time, so I rest as much as I can each day. My

Rheumy said it is so important to get as much rest as you can. I

totally agree.

I just take one day at a time, and when I have pain ridden days, I take

it minute by minute. I get overwhelmed so badly, that I can't do

anything. RA has taught me to draw from inside myself, so I can face

whatever my day has to offer.

I wish everyone here pain free days. You all deserve it, and need it so

badly. You are all truly a wonderful group of caring, loving, and

compassionate people. I am so happy to be a member.

Hugs,

Barbara

>

>

> In a message dated 7/20/2008 5:54:36 P.M. Central Daylight Time,

> bcreedon@... writes:

>

> I have had bad problems with my voice, and voice box. I have acid

> reflux, take 2 Prilosec a day. I have Polops on my vocal cords, and

> have had months of hoarseness, when I couldn't even talk. Have seen a

> ENT specialist, throat scoped, biopsies done, and the conclusion was

all

> from GERD. The 2 Prilosec a day has taken care of this totally.

> Haven't had any trouble since.

>

>

>

> I also have Crohn's Disease and was on mass amounts of prednisone

about 30

> years ago for that. It is mostly in remission right now, but I've been

on meds

> for reflux for a long time. Most recently two Nexium a day. Prilosec

quit

> working, then we did Prevacid. This worked, but the insurance company

wanted me

> to try Nexium (2 a day). It was ok until I started taking the RA

drugs. Then

> the reflux was awful. So my doctor added Ranitidine (2 a day). And I

still

> have occasional reflux, but not nearly as bad.

>

> I'm supposed to have a colonscopy and endoscopy, but they aren't

scheduled

> soon.

>

> So right now, I'm dealing with RA, reflux, past Crohn's, borderline

> hyperthyroid and some skin stuff I haven't even bothered to schedule.

>

> But before I was started on Prednisone, I was unable to get out of a

chair,

> couldn't take a bath, could barely get out of my car -- mostly because

I

> couldn't open the door. I went to the clinic and pushed the button for

the

> elevator and the door opened. I couldn't get in the door before it

closed. He gave

> me a prescription for 25 mg of prednisone that day. He wasn't sure

which

> thing I had, but said that the beginning treatment for all the

possibilities was

> prednisone. I took the pills at 3:30 and by 6:00, I could teach my

line

> dancing class. There was one woman who saw me the night before and

after I took the

> pills. She said it was a miracle.

>

> I know it's not good to stay on a high dose for a long time.

Previously, we

> were told that anything over 5 mg a day can cause your body to stop

producing

> natural cortisone. So I'm glad I'm down to 5 mg.

>

> I'd also like my cheeks and back to get less swollen again. But that's

> pretty much cosmetic.

>

> I just would like to have energy. Although the fatigue is not as bad

as it

> was before I was diagnosed, it's bad enough.

>

> dd

>

>

>

> **************Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse.com/fantasyaffair?ncid=aolspr00050000000020)

>

>

>

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Hi :

     Sorry your son has this at such a young age,  Yes, it took me about that

long to find out too.  I thought the ENT dr. had rocks in his head, as I

couldn't imagine acid reflux doing all that.  I was diag. 15 years ago.  I hope

you son is doing good now.  Thank God for Prilosec, or any refux meds. that

work!!

Hugs,

Barbara

From: McNally <McNacks@...>

Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Prednisone, etc

Date: Sunday, July 20, 2008, 4:38 PM

Barbara,

My son was diagnosed with reflux laryngitis, his doctor wrote a book on it, that

comes from GERD. We were to 5 specialists over a year and a half period before

an ENT specialist diagnosed it. He's only 21. in PA

[ ] Prednisone, etc

> @gro ups.com

> Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

> It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

> rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took

all the pain away.

> When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me

on 6 MTX

> pills.

>

> Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg and

the

> pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really

shoulders, a

> little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but one

reason is

> that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

>

> I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit

down if

> I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and

Friday.

>

> When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he

suggested

> that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava

-- one

> pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

>

> I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

> fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or

the drugs. He

> also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my knees

and

> possibly in my upper arms.

>

> He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have no

idea

> what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

>

> Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what and

where

> it is, so I can describe it.

>

> I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

> endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it

down. That has been

> better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is

borderline

> hyperactive.

>

> One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets

really

> hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my

dentist

> said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

>

> It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time

going

> to doctors and having tests.

>

> I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do some

> resting if I need to (64).

>

> Thanks for reading,

>

> dd

>

>

>

> ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up

for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

>

>

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Hi and Barbara,

GERD is a really bad thing. It is another one of those problems that

people don't understand. I fist knew that I had problems when it

felt like a golf ball stuck in my throat and after a week I went to

my doctor. He put me on Prilosec first but after a while had to

change me to Prevacid. A few years later I had to change doctors and

that doc let my insurance change me to Nexium. It did not work at

all for me. After a fight, I got it changed back.

I found out about 8 years ago that I have Barrett's Esphogus, so now

I have to get my esphogus stretched periodically. This can lead to

cancer of the stomach. This is caused by GERD.

I just wanted folks to know that if heart burn or digestion is a

constant problem, don't let it go. Please, discuss it with your

doctor.

Shirley

--- In , Barbara Creedon <bcreedon@...>

wrote:

>

> Hi :

>      Sorry your son has this at such a young age,  Yes, it took me

about that long to find out too.  I thought the ENT dr. had rocks in

his head, as I couldn't imagine acid reflux doing all that.  I was

diag. 15 years ago.  I hope you son is doing good now.  Thank God

for Prilosec, or any refux meds. that work!!

> Hugs,

> Barbara

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Shirley and the others;

 

Oh wow thanks for telling us about Gerd. I take prevacid now for it. My food

gets stuck when it goes down, I am going to ask my doctor about that. And to

give me some test for it. Barrettes Esophagus. Wow. I a so sorry Shirley. It

fells like a marble is stuck in my throat Shirley. Digestion is not a problem

Shirley , but I will get this throat checked out. Good thing I have you guys to

talk to or I wouldn't know half of what I should know. I will let you know what

the test reveal and what the doctor does as time goes on.

Hugs everyone, Have a pain free day.

Clora May

 

From: nana2livi <s.p5315@...>

Subject: [ ] Re: Prednisone, etc

Date: Monday, July 21, 2008, 6:48 AM

Hi and Barbara,

GERD is a really bad thing. It is another one of those problems that

people don't understand. I fist knew that I had problems when it

felt like a golf ball stuck in my throat and after a week I went to

my doctor. He put me on Prilosec first but after a while had to

change me to Prevacid. A few years later I had to change doctors and

that doc let my insurance change me to Nexium. It did not work at

all for me. After a fight, I got it changed back.

I found out about 8 years ago that I have Barrett's Esphogus, so now

I have to get my esphogus stretched periodically. This can lead to

cancer of the stomach. This is caused by GERD.

I just wanted folks to know that if heart burn or digestion is a

constant problem, don't let it go. Please, discuss it with your

doctor.

Shirley

--- In @gro ups.com, Barbara Creedon <bcreedon@.. .>

wrote:

>

> Hi :

>      Sorry your son has this at such a young age,  Yes, it took me

about that long to find out too.  I thought the ENT dr. had rocks in

his head, as I couldn't imagine acid reflux doing all that.  I was

diag. 15 years ago.  I hope you son is doing good now.  Thank God

for Prilosec, or any refux meds. that work!!

> Hugs,

> Barbara

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Barbara and All

 

Wow Barbara you been through a lot. It is something how we bounce back. I am

glad you was thinking positive. That is so hard to do sometimes when one is

suffering. I have heard of people that has been in awful car accidents. I am

glad you recovered, you are such a positive and great writer to us here.

Doctors have seen me in shocking conditions before. For instance when i moved to

South Carolina I broke out in hives on my entire body. The dermatologist was in

shock when she saw me. lol.... My eyes lids was even swollen like little

balloons. lol What a sight. OMG The itching was unbelievable. She gave me lots

of prednisone. Thus I learned of the wonderful feeling of prednisone. Goodness

Gracious I felt like I was starving on it. Food even tasted better haaaaaaaa. I

became very swollen. I return to normal in a few months, but never knew what

caused the allergic reaction. Unless it was a move to a new state. New water,

new atmosphere. I have no idea what caused the allergic reaction.

 

My husband has to help me dress and wash sometimes. I feel so bad that he has to

do everything and he is so sweet about it. Yes, there was times I thought I had

a brain tumor to Barbara, Not knowing is sometimes worse than the symptoms. I

heard of ulcerated colitis. No thanks I thank God I never have that. And I pray

I never do. What is a PCP. Is that a primary doctor??? Thanks Barbara Again you

have given us informative information from your life's experiences. Everyone

have pain free days.

hugs

Clora May

 

From: Barbara <bcreedon@...>

Subject: [ ] Re: Prednisone, etc

Date: Sunday, July 20, 2008, 11:35 PM

Hi DD,

I suffered horribly with Ulcerative Colitis, many hosp. stays, etc. Was

on the verge of a total Colostomy, etc. I finally got into remission

about 10 years ago. I know how awful you suffered with Crohn's and glad

you are in remission too. We really had to go on high doses of Pred. at

that time. I have no regrets at all.

I tried a few meds. for my stomach, but Prilosec has worked so good for

me. I also have had Hypothyroid since I was 10 years old. My RA came

on suddenly, and I went from a totally functioning woman to a crippled,

swollen all over, pain crazed person in 5 days!! I couldn't get up out

of bed, stand on my feet, walk without screaming, dress myself, feed

myself, hold a glass, etc. I thought I had a brain tumor, and would be

dead very soon. My hands swelled so much, and both hands went into a

claw-like tightness, and I couldn't open them. I got a dr. appt. for

the next day, it took everything in me to get up on my feet. My hubby

dressed me, combed my hair, brushed my teeth, washed my face and hands,

put some creme on my face, and got me to the car. I thought I would die

from pain just getting into it. Plus, there was a foot of snow on Cape

Cod, and bitter cold.

My PCP was shocked when he saw me.....I saw him 2 weeks before. He

pretty much knew I had RA, did blood work, etc. I had never heard of it

before. He started me immediately on 60mg. of Pred., and got me an

appt. with a Rheumy the next day. The rest is history.

I was 64, and retired also. I never could have worked at that time. I

had to move from the Cape to S.W. Florida, as I couldn't take the

weather there anymore. I was almost in a wheelchair, house bound, and I

too thought my life was over. Boy, was I wrong. I had to really get

back my positive thinking, and go forward. I love life, and enjoy so

many things life has to offer.

I have always done so many hand crafts, making quilts all by hand,

crochet, needlepoint, stenciling, painting, wallpapering, sewing, etc.

I love all crafts, but knew I would have to find the one I cared about

the most, and could do. So, I do folk art painting. I am going to try

to paint tomorrow for a short time.

I guess we all come to the point when we can change our life, and try to

enjoy the things we can do. I had to get out of pain first, then I

focused on what I could do, and then, I had to learn to pace myself

every day. That was hard for me to do. I have always been a " doer " . It

was a big day when I could feed myself, another big day when I could

shower, etc. I never gave up hope. I prayed my heart out. I have come

a long way from the grim future I thought I had. Life is good no matter

what. I feel it is essential to try and stay positve, think of what you

can do, even if you hurt, which is hard to do. Good days come

eventually. It just takes time to find the right meds., right pain

meds. I never thought I would reach the day that I finally had managed

my pain and RA. I thank my wonderful Rheumy for that. I had to get my

RA in order, before I could get my life in order. I still deal with

being so tired all the time, so I rest as much as I can each day. My

Rheumy said it is so important to get as much rest as you can. I

totally agree.

I just take one day at a time, and when I have pain ridden days, I take

it minute by minute. I get overwhelmed so badly, that I can't do

anything. RA has taught me to draw from inside myself, so I can face

whatever my day has to offer.

I wish everyone here pain free days. You all deserve it, and need it so

badly. You are all truly a wonderful group of caring, loving, and

compassionate people. I am so happy to be a member.

Hugs,

Barbara

>

>

> In a message dated 7/20/2008 5:54:36 P.M. Central Daylight Time,

> bcreedon@... writes:

>

> I have had bad problems with my voice, and voice box. I have acid

> reflux, take 2 Prilosec a day. I have Polops on my vocal cords, and

> have had months of hoarseness, when I couldn't even talk. Have seen a

> ENT specialist, throat scoped, biopsies done, and the conclusion was

all

> from GERD. The 2 Prilosec a day has taken care of this totally.

> Haven't had any trouble since.

>

>

>

> I also have Crohn's Disease and was on mass amounts of prednisone

about 30

> years ago for that. It is mostly in remission right now, but I've been

on meds

> for reflux for a long time. Most recently two Nexium a day. Prilosec

quit

> working, then we did Prevacid. This worked, but the insurance company

wanted me

> to try Nexium (2 a day). It was ok until I started taking the RA

drugs. Then

> the reflux was awful. So my doctor added Ranitidine (2 a day). And I

still

> have occasional reflux, but not nearly as bad.

>

> I'm supposed to have a colonscopy and endoscopy, but they aren't

scheduled

> soon.

>

> So right now, I'm dealing with RA, reflux, past Crohn's, borderline

> hyperthyroid and some skin stuff I haven't even bothered to schedule.

>

> But before I was started on Prednisone, I was unable to get out of a

chair,

> couldn't take a bath, could barely get out of my car -- mostly because

I

> couldn't open the door. I went to the clinic and pushed the button for

the

> elevator and the door opened. I couldn't get in the door before it

closed. He gave

> me a prescription for 25 mg of prednisone that day. He wasn't sure

which

> thing I had, but said that the beginning treatment for all the

possibilities was

> prednisone. I took the pills at 3:30 and by 6:00, I could teach my

line

> dancing class. There was one woman who saw me the night before and

after I took the

> pills. She said it was a miracle.

>

> I know it's not good to stay on a high dose for a long time.

Previously, we

> were told that anything over 5 mg a day can cause your body to stop

producing

> natural cortisone. So I'm glad I'm down to 5 mg.

>

> I'd also like my cheeks and back to get less swollen again. But that's

> pretty much cosmetic.

>

> I just would like to have energy. Although the fatigue is not as bad

as it

> was before I was diagnosed, it's bad enough.

>

> dd

>

>

>

> ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

>

>

>

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Hi Shirley and Clora May:

Amazing what GERD can do to us. Every day I learn something new

here. I have never heard of Barrett's Esophagus. Thank goodness the

GERD meds. work so well on these bad stomach's. Cancer is always a

concern. Good advice to seek help for any digestive problems.

Wishing everyone pain free days.

Hugs,

Barbara

> >

> > Hi :

> > Sorry your son has this at such a young age, Yes, it took me

> about that long to find out too. I thought the ENT dr. had rocks in

> his head, as I couldn't imagine acid reflux doing all that. I was

> diag. 15 years ago. I hope you son is doing good now. Thank God

> for Prilosec, or any refux meds. that work!!

> > Hugs,

> > Barbara

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

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Hi Clora May: I will be happy when you see your Rheumy, and hope she

really helps you out. Too much pain and suffering for you to deal with

everyday.

That was so good you were able to cook a fine chicken dinner, even

peeling those potato's!! No wonder your wrists had so much pain. I can

only do a few, so hubby does them for me. That's what team work is all

about. I do feel bad sometimes, as he has had to take on so much since

the RA arrived. I did a little vac. and he had to do the rest. Just

happy it got done.

I love your letters, they give me a smile or chuckle---- feels good to

laugh!!! We all need that in our daily life. Sure brightens my day.

Hope your day was better, and wishing you and everyone pain free days.

Hugs,

Barbara

> >

> > From: dgd301@ dgd301@

> > Subject: [ ] Prednisone, etc

> > @gro ups.com

> > Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

> > rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took

> all the pain away.

> > When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me

> on 6 MTX

> > pills.

> >

> > Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg

and

> the

> > pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really

> shoulders, a

> > little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but

one

> reason is

> > that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

> >

> > I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit

> down if

> > I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and

> Friday.

> >

> > When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he

> suggested

> > that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava

> -- one

> > pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

> >

> > I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

> > fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or

> the drugs. He

> > also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my

knees

> and

> > possibly in my upper arms.

> >

> > He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have

no

> idea

> > what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

> >

> > Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what

and

> where

> > it is, so I can describe it.

> >

> > I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

> > endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it

> down. That has been

> > better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is

> borderline

> > hyperactive.

> >

> > One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets

> really

> > hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my

> dentist

> > said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

> >

> > It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time

> going

> > to doctors and having tests.

> >

> > I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do

some

> > resting if I need to (64).

> >

> > Thanks for reading,

> >

> > dd

> >

> >

> >

> > ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up

> for

> > FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> > (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

> >

> >

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May I make a suggestion....

Tennis balls - preferably used -have become dear friends.

I put them on vacuums, brooms, mops, toothbrushes etc....Makes many tasks much

easier....

Barbara <bcreedon@...> wrote:

Hi Clora May: I will be happy when you see your Rheumy, and hope she

really helps you out. Too much pain and suffering for you to deal with

everyday.

That was so good you were able to cook a fine chicken dinner, even

peeling those potato's!! No wonder your wrists had so much pain. I can

only do a few, so hubby does them for me. That's what team work is all

about. I do feel bad sometimes, as he has had to take on so much since

the RA arrived. I did a little vac. and he had to do the rest. Just

happy it got done.

I love your letters, they give me a smile or chuckle---- feels good to

laugh!!! We all need that in our daily life. Sure brightens my day.

Hope your day was better, and wishing you and everyone pain free days.

Hugs,

Barbara

> >

> > From: dgd301@ dgd301@

> > Subject: [ ] Prednisone, etc

> > @gro ups.com

> > Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 10:49 PM

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > It's been about three months since I was diagnosed with RA. My

> > rheumatologist put me on 25 mg of Prednisone right away, which took

> all the pain away.

> > When he got the blood work back with the positive RA test, he put me

> on 6 MTX

> > pills.

> >

> > Every two weeks, I lower the prednisone 5 mg. So I am now on 5 mg

and

> the

> > pain is starting to come back. Knees and upper arms (not really

> shoulders, a

> > little below that). I haven't had a problem with weight gain, but

one

> reason is

> > that when I am fatigued, I dont' have much of an appetite.

> >

> > I asked for a FLMA because I don't work at a job where I can go sit

> down if

> > I get really tired, but I have to go back to work next Thursday and

> Friday.

> >

> > When I told him that I still feel ill from the MTX on Thursday, he

> suggested

> > that I cut down to 4 pills. When I saw him last week, he added Arava

> -- one

> > pill a day. (I take Mtx on Monday)

> >

> > I have had a few days that I have felt really good. Most day, I feel

> > fatigued, weak - -have achy legs. I'm never clear if it's the RA or

> the drugs. He

> > also gave me the option to go in and have a cortisone shot in my

knees

> and

> > possibly in my upper arms.

> >

> > He gave me a choice of every kind of treatment there is, but I have

no

> idea

> > what is right for me. That's when he decided to try Arava.

> >

> > Of course, when I go there, the pain is gone. So I write down what

and

> where

> > it is, so I can describe it.

> >

> > I've also gone through thyroid tests. My heartbeat is fast and the

> > endocrinologist has given me a beta blocker (Atenolol) to slow it

> down. That has been

> > better. I find out Thursday what the tests revealed. I know it is

> borderline

> > hyperactive.

> >

> > One symptom I have forgotten to tell him about is my voice. It gets

> really

> > hoarse sometimes. I've read that you can get RA in your larynx or my

> dentist

> > said she has heard of reflux causing voice problems.

> >

> > It's a good thing I only work part time because I spend so much time

> going

> > to doctors and having tests.

> >

> > I'm grateful that I was diagnosed with RA at an age when I can do

some

> > resting if I need to (64).

> >

> > Thanks for reading,

> >

> > dd

> >

> >

> >

> > ************ **Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up

> for

> > FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> > (http://www.fanhouse .com/fantasyaffa ir?ncid=aolspr00 050000000020)

> >

> >

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Guest guest

hi barb, i hope u feel better soon.

it's so hard when u have to deal with pain on a daily

basis. i know it sux! but we have to keep going no matter what!!

here's wishing u PAIN FREE DAYS. god bless,melyndagamez

[ ] Re: Prednisone, etc

Hi DD,

I suffered horribly with Ulcerative Colitis, many hosp. stays, etc.  Was

on the verge of a total Colostomy, etc.  I finally got into remission

about 10 years ago.  I know how awful you suffered with Crohn's and glad

you are in remission too.  We really had to go on high doses of Pred. at

that time.  I have no regrets at all.

I tried a few meds. for my stomach, but Prilosec has worked so good for

me.  I also have had Hypothyroid since I was 10 years old.  My RA came

on suddenly, and I went from a totally functioning woman to a crippled,

swollen all over, pain crazed person in 5 days!!  I couldn't get up out

of bed, stand on my feet, walk without screaming, dress myself, feed

myself, hold a glass, etc.  I thought I had a brain tumor, and would be

dead very soon.  My hands swelled so much, and both hands went into a

claw-like tightness, and I couldn't open them.  I got a dr. appt. for

the next day, it took everything in me to get up on my feet.  My hubby

dressed me, combed my hair,  brushed my teeth, washed my face and hands,

put some creme on my face, and got me to the car.  I thought I would die

from pain just getting into it.  Plus, there was a foot of snow on Cape

Cod, and bitter cold.

My PCP was shocked when he saw me.....I saw him 2 weeks before.  He

pretty much knew I had RA, did blood work, etc.  I had never heard of it

before.  He started me immediately on 60mg. of Pred., and got me an

appt. with a Rheumy the next day.  The rest is history.

I was 64, and retired also.  I never could have worked at that time.  I

had to move from the Cape to S.W. Florida, as I couldn't take the

weather there anymore.  I was almost in a wheelchair, house bound, and I

too thought my life was over.  Boy, was I wrong.  I had to really get

back my positive thinking, and go forward.  I love life, and enjoy so

many things life has to offer..

I have always done so many hand crafts, making quilts all by hand,

crochet, needlepoint, stenciling, painting, wallpapering, sewing, etc.

I love all crafts, but knew I would have to find the one I cared about

the most, and could do.  So, I do folk art painting.  I am going to try

to paint tomorrow for a short time.

I guess we all come to the point when we can change our life, and try to

enjoy the things we can do.  I had to get out of pain first, then I

focused on what I could do, and then, I had to learn to pace myself

every day.  That was hard for me to do.  I have always been a " doer " . It

was a big day when I could feed myself, another big day when I could

shower, etc.  I never gave up hope. I prayed my heart out.  I have come

a long way from the grim future I thought I had.  Life is good no matter

what.  I feel it is essential to try and stay positve, think of what you

can do, even if you hurt, which is hard to do.  Good days come

eventually.  It just takes time to find the right meds., right pain

meds.  I never thought I would reach the day that I finally had managed

my pain and RA.  I thank my wonderful Rheumy for that.  I had to get my

RA in order, before I could get my life in order.  I still deal with

being so tired all the time, so I rest as much as I can each day.  My

Rheumy said it is so important to get as much rest as you can.  I

totally agree.

I just take one day at a time, and when I have pain ridden days, I take

it minute by minute.  I get overwhelmed so badly, that I can't do

anything.  RA has taught me to draw from inside myself, so I can face

whatever my day has to offer.

I wish everyone here pain free days.  You all deserve it, and need it so

badly.  You are all truly a wonderful group of caring, loving, and

compassionate  people.  I am so happy to be a member.

Hugs,

Barbara

>

>

> In a message dated 7/20/2008 5:54:36 P.M. Central Daylight Time,

> bcreedon@... writes:

>

> I have had bad problems with my voice, and voice box. I have acid

> reflux, take 2 Prilosec a day. I have Polops on my vocal cords, and

> have had months of hoarseness, when I couldn't even talk. Have seen a

> ENT specialist, throat scoped, biopsies done, and the conclusion was

all

> from GERD. The 2 Prilosec a day has taken care of this totally.

> Haven't had any trouble since.

>

>

>

> I also have Crohn's Disease and was on mass amounts of prednisone

about 30

> years ago for that. It is mostly in remission right now, but I've been

on meds

> for reflux for a long time. Most recently two Nexium a day. Prilosec

quit

> working, then we did Prevacid. This worked, but the insurance company

wanted me

> to try Nexium (2 a day). It was ok until I started taking the RA

drugs. Then

> the reflux was awful. So my doctor added Ranitidine (2 a day). And I

still

> have occasional reflux, but not nearly as bad.

>

> I'm supposed to have a colonscopy and endoscopy, but they aren't

scheduled

> soon.

>

> So right now, I'm dealing with RA, reflux, past Crohn's, borderline

> hyperthyroid and some skin stuff I haven't even bothered to schedule.

>

> But before I was started on Prednisone, I was unable to get out of a

chair,

> couldn't take a bath, could barely get out of my car -- mostly because

I

> couldn't open the door. I went to the clinic and pushed the button for

the

> elevator and the door opened. I couldn't get in the door before it

closed. He gave

> me a prescription for 25 mg of prednisone that day. He wasn't sure

which

> thing I had, but said that the beginning treatment for all the

possibilities was

> prednisone. I took the pills at 3:30 and by 6:00, I could teach my

line

> dancing class. There was one woman who saw me the night before and

after I took the

> pills. She said it was a miracle.

>

> I know it's not good to stay on a high dose for a long time.

Previously, we

> were told that anything over 5 mg a day can cause your body to stop

producing

> natural cortisone. So I'm glad I'm down to 5 mg.

>

> I'd also like my cheeks and back to get less swollen again. But that's

> pretty much cosmetic.

>

> I just would like to have energy. Although the fatigue is not as bad

as it

> was before I was diagnosed, it's bad enough.

>

> dd

>

>

>

> **************Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up for

> FanHouse Fantasy Football today.

> (http://www.fanhouse.com/fantasyaffair?ncid=aolspr00050000000020)

>

>

>

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Hi Melynda:

I am doing good, still decreasing the Pred., still plugging along. I know you

haven't been feeling good with your stomach, and I am sorry to hear that. When

do you get the results of that test?

I am praying for you, and hope you get a break from all that pain. It makes for

long days and nights.

God Bless you, and hang in there.

Hugs,

Barbara

From: Melynda Gamez <melyndagamez@...>

Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Prednisone, etc

Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2008, 3:50 PM

hi barb, i hope u feel better soon.

it's so hard when u have to deal with pain on a daily

basis. i know it sux! but we have to keep going no matter what!!

here's wishing u PAIN FREE DAYS. god bless,melyndagamez

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