Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Jack I think when it comes to the disease there are very few differences so I'll try to answer your questions. Question 1-Actually men are equally susceptible and there seems to be no difference percentage wise in men vs. women on getting the disease. Question 2-There are some diseases which may be more prevalent in women but on the whole, men are susceptible to the same autoimmune diseases. As to total conditions, I know my list is very long. Question 3-You said it in women being more open to discuss it. Men try to ignore it, continue to try to go too long before seeing the doctor, and then are very slow on the whole in discussing it. I think many men still see the openness as a sign of weakness. The other topics on the forum may seem more female oriented but just because more females here to start them. Question 4-The hormonal changes of childbirth provide both positives and negatives and much more research being done on that subject. On a personal note, I think men are missing the chance to share with friends and get support. You go to the caregiver board and you'll see more women there too. All their spouses with the disease could benefit if they could open up here. I also think those who were most active in physical activities (such as farming or construction) have more difficulty because they are giving up more it seems to them. As to multiple diseases, I have many but the others are all being managed and this is the only one that typically merits extensive conversation. However, many of the ones I have are quite common among PF'ers. I may or may not have autoimmune as there is suspicion but no one can confirm a diagnosis so, for the moment, I don't. Now, having an autoimmune may complicate or simplify or both. It complicates in giving you another condition to deal with. However, if it is believed to be the cause of the PF, then it provides a good clue and something to treat. > > After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I > understand some and remain ignorant of others. > > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men > to this disease? > > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men > seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? > > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to > admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? > > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that > gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my > sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. > > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. > Jack > 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Jack I think when it comes to the disease there are very few differences so I'll try to answer your questions. Question 1-Actually men are equally susceptible and there seems to be no difference percentage wise in men vs. women on getting the disease. Question 2-There are some diseases which may be more prevalent in women but on the whole, men are susceptible to the same autoimmune diseases. As to total conditions, I know my list is very long. Question 3-You said it in women being more open to discuss it. Men try to ignore it, continue to try to go too long before seeing the doctor, and then are very slow on the whole in discussing it. I think many men still see the openness as a sign of weakness. The other topics on the forum may seem more female oriented but just because more females here to start them. Question 4-The hormonal changes of childbirth provide both positives and negatives and much more research being done on that subject. On a personal note, I think men are missing the chance to share with friends and get support. You go to the caregiver board and you'll see more women there too. All their spouses with the disease could benefit if they could open up here. I also think those who were most active in physical activities (such as farming or construction) have more difficulty because they are giving up more it seems to them. As to multiple diseases, I have many but the others are all being managed and this is the only one that typically merits extensive conversation. However, many of the ones I have are quite common among PF'ers. I may or may not have autoimmune as there is suspicion but no one can confirm a diagnosis so, for the moment, I don't. Now, having an autoimmune may complicate or simplify or both. It complicates in giving you another condition to deal with. However, if it is believed to be the cause of the PF, then it provides a good clue and something to treat. > > After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I > understand some and remain ignorant of others. > > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men > to this disease? > > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men > seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? > > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to > admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? > > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that > gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my > sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. > > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. > Jack > 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 > > After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I > understand some and remain ignorant of others. > > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men > to this disease? > > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men > seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? > > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to > admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? > > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that > gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my > sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. > > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. > Jack > 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine > Jack, My name is and I am a " newbie " . I don't have any answers to your questions but I think you are the sweetest man and I wanted to tell you thank you, you made my day. Wishing you well. , 42 IPF 03, Bronchiectsis 03. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 > > After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I > understand some and remain ignorant of others. > > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men > to this disease? > > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men > seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? > > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to > admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? > > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that > gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my > sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. > > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. > Jack > 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine > Jack, My name is and I am a " newbie " . I don't have any answers to your questions but I think you are the sweetest man and I wanted to tell you thank you, you made my day. Wishing you well. , 42 IPF 03, Bronchiectsis 03. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Thank you for your observations Jack, it does seem that way. I think I really value what you and Bruce post because you are men and have a different "take" on all this **** we all go through. Helps to keep a little testosterone in the mix. LOL Besides My first question to the Good Lord when I see him is "Just exactly what did you have in mind when you made men the way they are, and women the way they are?" I really really wanta know >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis.� Of the other differences, I> understand some and�remain ignorant�of others.> > Question 1:� There are far more women than men on this board.� Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2:� Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men.� Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases.� Are women�in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3:� Women seem to be more open in�discussing their health than men.� Men seem�reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues.��Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4:� Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility?� If so, she pays a great price.� I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers.�> > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have.� It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity.� Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF�which fortunately�seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease.� So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you.� I am grateful to you.� I love you.� I share your pain.> �Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Thank you for your observations Jack, it does seem that way. I think I really value what you and Bruce post because you are men and have a different "take" on all this **** we all go through. Helps to keep a little testosterone in the mix. LOL Besides My first question to the Good Lord when I see him is "Just exactly what did you have in mind when you made men the way they are, and women the way they are?" I really really wanta know >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis.� Of the other differences, I> understand some and�remain ignorant�of others.> > Question 1:� There are far more women than men on this board.� Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2:� Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men.� Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases.� Are women�in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3:� Women seem to be more open in�discussing their health than men.� Men seem�reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues.��Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4:� Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility?� If so, she pays a great price.� I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers.�> > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have.� It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity.� Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF�which fortunately�seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease.� So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you.� I am grateful to you.� I love you.� I share your pain.> �Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Thank you, . I must say that men have a hard time accepting a compliment. Most likely he blushes, ducks his head down, scrapes his shoe against the ground and says, "Aw shucks. It weren't nothing." I just did that. Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine To: Breathe-Support Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 5:25:28 PMSubject: Re: Women and PF >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I> understand some and remain ignorant of others.> > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain.> Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine>Jack,My name is and I am a "newbie". I don't have any answers to your questions but I think you are the sweetest man and I wanted to tell you thank you, you made my day. Wishing you well., 42IPF 03, Bronchiectsis 03. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Thank you, . I must say that men have a hard time accepting a compliment. Most likely he blushes, ducks his head down, scrapes his shoe against the ground and says, "Aw shucks. It weren't nothing." I just did that. Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine To: Breathe-Support Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 5:25:28 PMSubject: Re: Women and PF >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I> understand some and remain ignorant of others.> > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain.> Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine>Jack,My name is and I am a "newbie". I don't have any answers to your questions but I think you are the sweetest man and I wanted to tell you thank you, you made my day. Wishing you well., 42IPF 03, Bronchiectsis 03. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 THANKS,JACK YOU ARE VERY SWEET TO SALUTE THE WOMEN ON THIS BOARD,, LOVE TO YOU BIG STRONG GUYS TOO. Kay R.52.ipf.09,gerd,ibs,severe sleep apnea,PA To: Breathe-Support Group <Breathe-Support >Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 4:37:48 PMSubject: Women and PF After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I understand some and remain ignorant of others. Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men to this disease? Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Aaaawe, geeze Jack, you warmed the 'cockles of m'eart ya did.... lovely sentiment... TAAAAA! Dunno any of the answers to your posings except that I think I saw on some web-site that Men are more likely to get IPF....correct me on that on Dr Bruce! Maybe women are more represented in various Autimmune diseases .. I'll keep an eye out for the stats on that! I also think it's pretty universal that, mostly, we women GAB... we're used to 'chewing the fat' with our women friends about anything & everything... why would illness be any different! My typing finger is just an extension of my well exercised TONGUE! MB could probably tell us the ration of Men to Women on this Forum.. the men may well be lurking! Is there a National Data Base of PF in the USA? There's talk of getting one started here in OZ. Anyways.. its great to have you amongst us Jack.. alonf with the other active Blokes....I love to read the 'fella' perspective..... Cheers, in Oz >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I> understand some and remain ignorant of others.> > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain.> Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Jack as one of the women here that has a multitude of diseases and surgeries I really appreciate your sweet remarks..But then thats what we get from you sweetness... Thanks. Love & Prayers, PeggyFlorida, IPF/UIP 2004"I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet, when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly." After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, Iunderstand some and remain ignorant of others. Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than mento this disease? Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Menseem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant toadmit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health thatgives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of mysanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more ofan annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 28, 2009 Report Share Posted April 28, 2009 Jack as one of the women here that has a multitude of diseases and surgeries I really appreciate your sweet remarks..But then thats what we get from you sweetness... Thanks. Love & Prayers, PeggyFlorida, IPF/UIP 2004"I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet, when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly." After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, Iunderstand some and remain ignorant of others. Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than mento this disease? Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Menseem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases? Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant toadmit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease? Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health thatgives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of mysanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more ofan annoyance than a fatal disease. So far. So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain. Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 29, 2009 Report Share Posted April 29, 2009 Hi Jack, Interesting post. Question 1, Men and women are equally susceptable to this disease, I think that women are more likely to look for support groups though. I need the support of others when I am down and the support from those who 'get it' is invaluable, and I get comfort from being able to help someone else who is in need of support. Not in a shaudenfroide sort of way, but in a remembering that I am NOT alone here. Question 2, Again, men and women are equally susceptable to inflamatory or immune diseases, although particular ones may be a bit more gender specific. I have dermatomyositis, which is more common in women, but there are others that are more common in men. Question 3. Women TALK! We will talk about how we are feeling both physically and mentally, and our girlfriends will give us a hug and listen. Although I don't think we necessarily realise that being able to ask for help when we need it is a strength, not a weakness. Question 4. I developed the dermatomyositis (the cause of most of my ills) a long time before I was a mother. I was diagnosed with the pf before I was a mother. Interestingly, the body's response to a baby is that of a parasite, especially if the child has a different blood group to you, so the baby spreads its own immune blockers so that the host body (otherwise known as the mother) doesn't reject the parasite (otherwise known as the baby). For me this meant that my dms was very much diminished while I was pg. Which was useful. I don't think I'd have been able to get through it otherwise. As it was I spent most of the time asleep! Thank you for your salute It's always good to be acknowledged Love Ze xx >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I> understand some and remain ignorant of others.> > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain.> Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 29, 2009 Report Share Posted April 29, 2009 Hi Jack, Interesting post. Question 1, Men and women are equally susceptable to this disease, I think that women are more likely to look for support groups though. I need the support of others when I am down and the support from those who 'get it' is invaluable, and I get comfort from being able to help someone else who is in need of support. Not in a shaudenfroide sort of way, but in a remembering that I am NOT alone here. Question 2, Again, men and women are equally susceptable to inflamatory or immune diseases, although particular ones may be a bit more gender specific. I have dermatomyositis, which is more common in women, but there are others that are more common in men. Question 3. Women TALK! We will talk about how we are feeling both physically and mentally, and our girlfriends will give us a hug and listen. Although I don't think we necessarily realise that being able to ask for help when we need it is a strength, not a weakness. Question 4. I developed the dermatomyositis (the cause of most of my ills) a long time before I was a mother. I was diagnosed with the pf before I was a mother. Interestingly, the body's response to a baby is that of a parasite, especially if the child has a different blood group to you, so the baby spreads its own immune blockers so that the host body (otherwise known as the mother) doesn't reject the parasite (otherwise known as the baby). For me this meant that my dms was very much diminished while I was pg. Which was useful. I don't think I'd have been able to get through it otherwise. As it was I spent most of the time asleep! Thank you for your salute It's always good to be acknowledged Love Ze xx >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I> understand some and remain ignorant of others.> > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain.> Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 29, 2009 Report Share Posted April 29, 2009 Hi Jack, Interesting post. Question 1, Men and women are equally susceptable to this disease, I think that women are more likely to look for support groups though. I need the support of others when I am down and the support from those who 'get it' is invaluable, and I get comfort from being able to help someone else who is in need of support. Not in a shaudenfroide sort of way, but in a remembering that I am NOT alone here. Question 2, Again, men and women are equally susceptable to inflamatory or immune diseases, although particular ones may be a bit more gender specific. I have dermatomyositis, which is more common in women, but there are others that are more common in men. Question 3. Women TALK! We will talk about how we are feeling both physically and mentally, and our girlfriends will give us a hug and listen. Although I don't think we necessarily realise that being able to ask for help when we need it is a strength, not a weakness. Question 4. I developed the dermatomyositis (the cause of most of my ills) a long time before I was a mother. I was diagnosed with the pf before I was a mother. Interestingly, the body's response to a baby is that of a parasite, especially if the child has a different blood group to you, so the baby spreads its own immune blockers so that the host body (otherwise known as the mother) doesn't reject the parasite (otherwise known as the baby). For me this meant that my dms was very much diminished while I was pg. Which was useful. I don't think I'd have been able to get through it otherwise. As it was I spent most of the time asleep! Thank you for your salute It's always good to be acknowledged Love Ze xx >> After reading posts for a few years and coming to know so many of you, I have come to wonder about the differences between men and women when it comes to pulmonary fibrosis. Of the other differences, I> understand some and remain ignorant of others.> > Question 1: There are far more women than men on this board. Are women more susceptible than men> to this disease?> > Question 2: Women seem to have many more other inflammatory diseases with their PF than men. Men> seem to have very few other related or even non-related diseases. Are women in general more susceptible to inflammatory dieases?> > Question 3: Women seem to be more open in discussing their health than men. Men seem reluctant to> admit to weaknesses, even in health issues. Or are men just less susceptitble to disease?> > Question 4: Is it possible that child birth in some way weakens or damages a woman's health that> gives her greater susceptibility? If so, she pays a great price. I just hope that we, her children, repay her with our gratitude and our love, not to just our mother but to all mothers. > > On a pesonal note, it just tears my heart apart to read of the many multiple diseases so many of the women have. It boggles my mind to consider myself dealing with so many problems and retain a shred of my> sanity. Even as old as I am (in years, not in heart) I have only the IPF which fortunately seems more of > an annoyance than a fatal disease. So far.> > So to the mothers on this board and those ladies who may not be a mother, I salute you. I am grateful to you. I love you. I share your pain.> Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2009 Report Share Posted April 30, 2009 Hi Donna, I'm one of the overweight ones too. However mine is as a result of the steroids that I take for my treatment. I've been on steroids for many years and if the dose goes up I mainline sugar! Although I have always had a propensity to gain weight, so maybe this is where the idea of a 'stress barrel' comes in. I don't know if you've heard of this idea, but first you need to think that pf is possibly and auto-immune response. The second thing to imagine is that we all have a barrel in us where we put our stress. Unfortunately for some of us either the stress is more, or the barrel is smaller, so when the barrel overflows, this is when our immune systems get overloaded and go haywire. One of my conditions is dermatomyositis, many people with dms (or other forms of myositis) have found that their symptoms started after a particularly stressful time in their life. So many situations are dealt with by the immune system, not just illness. Too much fat will stress your system and can send your immune system down the wrong track. Think type 2 diabetes, but we all know overweight people who haven't, and probably never will, developed it. So I've rambled on enough to say that perhaps being overwieght can be a factor, probably one of many, but a factor none the less. Love Ze xx >> Bruce ...> Are there any stats on BMI and PF?> In my PH support group (IRL) I couldn't help but notice that all the members were overweight or obese.> I have also picked up the same determination reading the posts here on the board. It appears that the majority have admitted to having excess pounds. I also am in that group. I have been obese most of my life. > I was just wondering if you had seen anything regarding this in your research?> > ~ Donna ~> Yesterday I dared to struggle .....> Today I dare to win!!!> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2009 Report Share Posted April 30, 2009 Hi Donna, I'm one of the overweight ones too. However mine is as a result of the steroids that I take for my treatment. I've been on steroids for many years and if the dose goes up I mainline sugar! Although I have always had a propensity to gain weight, so maybe this is where the idea of a 'stress barrel' comes in. I don't know if you've heard of this idea, but first you need to think that pf is possibly and auto-immune response. The second thing to imagine is that we all have a barrel in us where we put our stress. Unfortunately for some of us either the stress is more, or the barrel is smaller, so when the barrel overflows, this is when our immune systems get overloaded and go haywire. One of my conditions is dermatomyositis, many people with dms (or other forms of myositis) have found that their symptoms started after a particularly stressful time in their life. So many situations are dealt with by the immune system, not just illness. Too much fat will stress your system and can send your immune system down the wrong track. Think type 2 diabetes, but we all know overweight people who haven't, and probably never will, developed it. So I've rambled on enough to say that perhaps being overwieght can be a factor, probably one of many, but a factor none the less. Love Ze xx >> Bruce ...> Are there any stats on BMI and PF?> In my PH support group (IRL) I couldn't help but notice that all the members were overweight or obese.> I have also picked up the same determination reading the posts here on the board. It appears that the majority have admitted to having excess pounds. I also am in that group. I have been obese most of my life. > I was just wondering if you had seen anything regarding this in your research?> > ~ Donna ~> Yesterday I dared to struggle .....> Today I dare to win!!!> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2009 Report Share Posted April 30, 2009 Donna No stats that I'm aware of. Definitely there is a tendency toward being overweight but it doesn't appear to me to be at all tied toward getting the disease. Many who have it do not have a history of weight issues. However, if you looked at this group for instance, you would see the overweight tendency for three reasons: 1-Our general population tends to be at our ages. 2-The shortness of breath slowed us down even before diagnosis and has made us less mobile since. We are less active than the general population. 3-A large number have been on prednisone with it's side effect of weight gain. > > Bruce ... > Are there any stats on BMI and PF? > In my PH support group (IRL) I couldn't help but notice that all the members were overweight or obese. > I have also picked up the same determination reading the posts here on the board. It appears that the majority have admitted to having excess pounds. I also am in that group. I have been obese most of my life. > I was just wondering if you had seen anything regarding this in your research? > > ~ Donna ~ > Yesterday I dared to struggle ..... > Today I dare to win!!! > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2009 Report Share Posted April 30, 2009 Donna, We do have many members here who struggle with weight but it is by no means all. Many members here have had a weight problem induced by the treatment with steroids after they've been diagnosed and with certain forms of pulmonary fibrosis a presenting symptom is often rapid weight loss. The pulmos I've been to both here in NC at Duke and in NY at Columbia have told me that being overweight is not a risk factor for pulmonary fibrosis and I've not really ever read anything that convinces me otherwise. Beth Moderator Fibrotic NSIP 06/06 Dermatomyositis 11/08 To: Breathe-Support Sent: Thursday, April 30, 2009 2:34:56 AMSubject: Women and PF Bruce ...Are there any stats on BMI and PF?In my PH support group (IRL) I couldn't help but notice that all the members were overweight or obese.I have also picked up the same determination reading the posts here on the board. It appears that the majority have admitted to having excess pounds. I also am in that group. I have been obese most of my life. I was just wondering if you had seen anything regarding this in your research? ~ Donna ~ Yesterday I dared to struggle ..... Today I dare to win!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2009 Report Share Posted April 30, 2009 Zena and Bruce ...Thanks for your replies. I want to say first that I had no intentions of stepping on toes with my question. LOL I too was on a mega dose of prednisone for about 8 months, and I am still on 10MG daily. I suppose I am grasping at straws still trying to find the cause of my PF.I could definitely see weight being a factor for my PH, but was not sure how it would contribute to lung SCARRING or PF!!. The doctors have assured me that they are separate to each other, so ... while I may be able to put a reason to the PH, the PF still alludes me. Additionally, while on this subject I have another question. Am I correct in saying that Pred is usually prescribed when there is an flamatory disease such as RA being identified as base? If the disease is Idiopathic, why then would Pred be the drug of choice?Sometimes I do not express myself correctly ... tiz why I tend to lurk rather than post and embarres myself. ROFLIf this makes no sense, just ignore me and I will continue to read and hopefully let something sink in to my feeble mind. Thank you all for being here!~ Donna ~Yesterday I dared to struggle .....Today I dare to win!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2009 Report Share Posted April 30, 2009 Prednisone is prescribed in the following situations:When the nature of the PF isn't known or confirmedWhen there is an underlying autoimmune disease that responds to prednisone.For nearly all ILD's or forms of PF's other than UIP.For UIP when accompanied by alveolitis which some doctors then believe it will slow progression while others believe it will relieve symptoms a bit for a while.For UIP by doctors who believe it may work in a small percentage of cases or who don't trust the accuracy of the diagnosis.For UIP by doctors who don't believe its likely to work but have nothing else to prescribe.>> Zena and Bruce ...> Thanks for your replies. I want to say first that I had no intentions of stepping on toes with my question. LOL I too was on a mega dose of prednisone for about 8 months, and I am still on 10MG daily. I suppose I am grasping at straws still trying to find the cause of my PF.> > I could definitely see weight being a factor for my PH, but was not sure how it would contribute to lung SCARRING or PF!!. The doctors have assured me that they are separate to each other, so ... while I may be able to put a reason to the PH, the PF still alludes me. > > Additionally, while on this subject I have another question. Am I correct in saying that Pred is usually prescribed when there is an flamatory disease such as RA being identified as base? If the disease is Idiopathic, why then would Pred be the drug of choice?> > Sometimes I do not express myself correctly ... tiz why I tend to lurk rather than post and embarres myself. ROFL> If this makes no sense, just ignore me and I will continue to read and hopefully let something sink in to my feeble mind. > Thank you all for being here!> > ~ Donna ~> Yesterday I dared to struggle .....> Today I dare to win!!!> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 1, 2009 Report Share Posted May 1, 2009 Hi Donna, I hope nothing in my reply implied that you'd stepped on anyones toes, it certainly wasn't meant to. I don't think weight has a huge amount to do with PH. Mine's because I have PF. The scar tissue causes both the aveoli and the blood vessals to stiffen up and the PH is the heart is working harder trying to pump the blood through the stiffness. Your arterial blood pressure (the one they take with a cuff on your arm) has nothing to do with, and will not give any indication of, PH. I think pred tends to be a default med. I'm on it because of an auto immune disease. It's was discovered that it kept the pf at bay by accident really. And I started on the pred when I was naive of both my condition and steroids. As far as I was concerned the steroid took away the horrible symptoms that I had been suffering with and that was good enough for me. Keep posting Donna, we will learn as much from you as you will from us Love Ze xx >> Zena and Bruce ...> Thanks for your replies. I want to say first that I had no intentions of stepping on toes with my question. LOL I too was on a mega dose of prednisone for about 8 months, and I am still on 10MG daily. I suppose I am grasping at straws still trying to find the cause of my PF.> > I could definitely see weight being a factor for my PH, but was not sure how it would contribute to lung SCARRING or PF!!. The doctors have assured me that they are separate to each other, so ... while I may be able to put a reason to the PH, the PF still alludes me. > > Additionally, while on this subject I have another question. Am I correct in saying that Pred is usually prescribed when there is an flamatory disease such as RA being identified as base? If the disease is Idiopathic, why then would Pred be the drug of choice?> > Sometimes I do not express myself correctly ... tiz why I tend to lurk rather than post and embarres myself. ROFL> If this makes no sense, just ignore me and I will continue to read and hopefully let something sink in to my feeble mind. > Thank you all for being here!> > ~ Donna ~> Yesterday I dared to struggle .....> Today I dare to win!!!> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 1, 2009 Report Share Posted May 1, 2009 Hi Donna, I hope nothing in my reply implied that you'd stepped on anyones toes, it certainly wasn't meant to. I don't think weight has a huge amount to do with PH. Mine's because I have PF. The scar tissue causes both the aveoli and the blood vessals to stiffen up and the PH is the heart is working harder trying to pump the blood through the stiffness. Your arterial blood pressure (the one they take with a cuff on your arm) has nothing to do with, and will not give any indication of, PH. I think pred tends to be a default med. I'm on it because of an auto immune disease. It's was discovered that it kept the pf at bay by accident really. And I started on the pred when I was naive of both my condition and steroids. As far as I was concerned the steroid took away the horrible symptoms that I had been suffering with and that was good enough for me. Keep posting Donna, we will learn as much from you as you will from us Love Ze xx >> Zena and Bruce ...> Thanks for your replies. I want to say first that I had no intentions of stepping on toes with my question. LOL I too was on a mega dose of prednisone for about 8 months, and I am still on 10MG daily. I suppose I am grasping at straws still trying to find the cause of my PF.> > I could definitely see weight being a factor for my PH, but was not sure how it would contribute to lung SCARRING or PF!!. The doctors have assured me that they are separate to each other, so ... while I may be able to put a reason to the PH, the PF still alludes me. > > Additionally, while on this subject I have another question. Am I correct in saying that Pred is usually prescribed when there is an flamatory disease such as RA being identified as base? If the disease is Idiopathic, why then would Pred be the drug of choice?> > Sometimes I do not express myself correctly ... tiz why I tend to lurk rather than post and embarres myself. ROFL> If this makes no sense, just ignore me and I will continue to read and hopefully let something sink in to my feeble mind. > Thank you all for being here!> > ~ Donna ~> Yesterday I dared to struggle .....> Today I dare to win!!!> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 1, 2009 Report Share Posted May 1, 2009 Donna it makes sense, but it doesn't have to, you need a place to express yourself and this is the place Pink Joyce IPF 3/06 Pennsylvania Donate Life Listed 1/09 inactive 4/09 www.transplantfund.org--- Subject: Re: Women and PFTo: Breathe-Support Date: Thursday, April 30, 2009, 9:56 PM Zena and Bruce ...Thanks for your replies. I want to say first that I had no intentions of stepping on toes with my question. LOL I too was on a mega dose of prednisone for about 8 months, and I am still on 10MG daily. I suppose I am grasping at straws still trying to find the cause of my PF.I could definitely see weight being a factor for my PH, but was not sure how it would contribute to lung SCARRING or PF!!. The doctors have assured me that they are separate to each other, so ... while I may be able to put a reason to the PH, the PF still alludes me. Additionally, while on this subject I have another question. Am I correct in saying that Pred is usually prescribed when there is an flamatory disease such as RA being identified as base? If the disease is Idiopathic, why then would Pred be the drug of choice?Sometimes I do not express myself correctly ... tiz why I tend to lurk rather than post and embarres myself. ROFLIf this makes no sense, just ignore me and I will continue to read and hopefully let something sink in to my feeble mind. Thank you all for being here! ~ Donna ~ Yesterday I dared to struggle ..... Today I dare to win!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 1, 2009 Report Share Posted May 1, 2009 Donna it makes sense, but it doesn't have to, you need a place to express yourself and this is the place Pink Joyce IPF 3/06 Pennsylvania Donate Life Listed 1/09 inactive 4/09 www.transplantfund.org--- Subject: Re: Women and PFTo: Breathe-Support Date: Thursday, April 30, 2009, 9:56 PM Zena and Bruce ...Thanks for your replies. I want to say first that I had no intentions of stepping on toes with my question. LOL I too was on a mega dose of prednisone for about 8 months, and I am still on 10MG daily. I suppose I am grasping at straws still trying to find the cause of my PF.I could definitely see weight being a factor for my PH, but was not sure how it would contribute to lung SCARRING or PF!!. The doctors have assured me that they are separate to each other, so ... while I may be able to put a reason to the PH, the PF still alludes me. Additionally, while on this subject I have another question. Am I correct in saying that Pred is usually prescribed when there is an flamatory disease such as RA being identified as base? If the disease is Idiopathic, why then would Pred be the drug of choice?Sometimes I do not express myself correctly ... tiz why I tend to lurk rather than post and embarres myself. ROFLIf this makes no sense, just ignore me and I will continue to read and hopefully let something sink in to my feeble mind. Thank you all for being here! ~ Donna ~ Yesterday I dared to struggle ..... Today I dare to win!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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