PS, Anti-anxiety and more

[Guest guest]

Hello,

I'm on my way to southern Florida for another week of work away from home.

Just wanted to chime in on a few things.

I've recently been prescribed Ativan. I am very sensitive to the Zoloft,

Paxil group of meds. Pre-WLS I tried to acclimate to both of those - taking

1/4 of a normal dose would make me shaky inside and out, dizzy, nauseated -

trying to work up to a normal dose took me 3 -4 wks of feeling lousy.

Didn't want to go there again.

Due to life issues, the anxiety attacks have resurfaced. I've been asking

too much of myself (I've always filled the emotionally strong, rational,

stoic role that has been my " place " since I was a young child) and finally

asked the Doc for help, but wanted nothing to do with those meds whose

side-effects are almost as bad as the attacks (for me anyway). I am now

taking Ativan 1 mg tabs., but only when I'm feeling like I need them. Within

20 min. (fast - a change since wls) I have a slight buzz, and the symptoms

are decreasing. For someone like me, who doesn't need to take a daily med

and has so much trouble with any that are taken on a schedule, this is a

viable solution at this time. I can only have 30/month, but as long as I

don't need them every day - that will suffice.

I've been reading about the dry skin issue. I've never had dry skin,

pre-wls - and since 8 wks pre-op I've been taking a vitamin supplement

called Hair Skin and Nails twice a day (you can find it at most health food

stores, GNC and Vitalady). I am sure this is what is helping my skin stay

supple and somewhat moisturized. Plus, I didn't lose any hair post-op. I

am convinced that the protein supplements and heavy-duty vitamin regime are

the reasons. Of course, I use a body lotion, but that isn't a change, I've

always done that.

Those of you who've had plastic surgery - how successful have you been in

having any of the costs paid by your ins. companies? I need to start

pursuing this - for next summer - and was curious. I've just joined the

OSSG-Plastic Surgery group and will ask there, as well.

Thanks in advance for any assistance you are inclined to provide.

Regards,

RNY 7/9/01

245/159 with 20 to go (I will I will I will make it)