Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 HI GAV, IF I WERE YOU AND HAD 36 WEEKS IN THERE IS NO WAY I WOULD STOP TREATMENT NOW. YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR DOCTOR, IF HE KNOWS, BUT AS YOU PROBABLY ALREADY KNOW WE EDUCATE THE DOCTORS WITH OUR SIDE EFFECTS, I HAVE BEEN ON TX FOR ABOUT 16 WEEKS AND HAVE BEEN THROUGH A LOT OF PAIN SO I CAN RELATE, DON'T TAKE THE TYLENOL, IT WOULD BE BETTER FOR YOU DOC TO GIVE YOU VICODIN,(WORKS FOR ME) IT HAS MUCH LESS TYLENOL AND A STRONGER PAIN KILLER, TAKING HUGE AMOUNTS OF TYLENOL IS SUPER BAD FOR YOUR LIVER, ALWAYS CHECK AND SEE HOW ANY MED IS PROCESSED BY YOUR BODY AND TRY TO GET AROUND ANY THAT WORK THRU YOUR LIVER, CONGRATS ON MAKING IT THIS FAR. GOOD LUCK DZ King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote: Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________Do You ?Tired of spam? has the best spam protection around http://mail. Music Unlimited - Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 After treatment my thyroid was permanently damaged and I have some blurred vision that gets worse as the day progresses. Although, I had some difficulty walking while on the treatment (lost of balance), four years post treatment my balance is restored. It's upsetting to have these side effects but if the treatment eradicates the virus for you then maybe it's worth it. Take care and good luck. FranZ King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote: Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 In a message dated 7/5/2006 1:50:59 PM Pacific Standard Time, denisa_dodd@... writes: BETTER FOR YOU DOC TO GIVE YOU VICODIN HAAAA and just how did you manage that one???? My doctor the other day basicly said no way to any kind of pain pill. I told him that just for one week I wish doctors could experiance the pain and how we feel...not just us but anyone in agony..he said he still wouldnt give it to me..yeah maybe how would he know unless he feels it..would love for a male doc to have a baby without anything either..or kidney stones...geri Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 THATS totally INHUMANE,, why wouldnt he give you any pain meds? I would fire him and get a new doc, YOU have A RIGHT to have your pain controlled.. That is obscene and I for one would never see a doc who treated ME like that!us4heavenbound@... wrote: In a message dated 7/5/2006 1:50:59 PM Pacific Standard Time, denisa_dodd@... writes: BETTER FOR YOU DOC TO GIVE YOU VICODIN HAAAA and just how did you manage that one???? My doctor the other day basicly said no way to any kind of pain pill. I told him that just for one week I wish doctors could experiance the pain and how we feel...not just us but anyone in agony..he said he still wouldnt give it to me..yeah maybe how would he know unless he feels it..would love for a male doc to have a baby without anything either..or kidney stones...geri Jackie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 In a message dated 7/5/2006 7:51:58 PM Pacific Standard Time, redjaxjm@... writes: THATS totally INHUMANE,, why wouldnt he give you any pain meds? I would fire him and get a new doc, YOU have A RIGHT to have your pain controlled.. That is obscene and I for one would never see a doc who treated ME like that! OH believe me I let him know. And you are right, I thought about it and they do work for us..here in Arkansas there is some sort of thing about prescribing pain meds...they are just scared to do so.. I have an appointment for my reg pcp, and I am going to ask him, he seems much more easy to talk to.. This guy seemed too big for his britches, if you know what I mean..I am in much pain tonight as I took my shot today, that is why I am still up..I have firinal (sp) for headaches but it doesnt help much and has tylenol in it. I have used up 20 of the pills since it is such a small dose of codene that it doesnt go far and I need to use about 6 per day sometimes.. I just dont understand, why dont docs think they cant control our use.. like only give us so much and no more for the month.. they are so worried about being turned into the DEA..gosh..geri oh thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 In a message dated 7/5/2006 8:06:08 PM Pacific Standard Time, redjaxjm@... writes: Gav Go immediately to the EYE doc and have your vision checked,, I ended up with sarcoidosis and cataracts from the INF... Please,, go now, do not wait! I would say yes to this too.. I had to have my eyes checked before they would even give me the meds..GO...geri Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 Hi you guys I developed Sarcoidosis in my right eye from INF,, have had to have 2 surgeries already and may need more in the future.. Typically sarcoidosis settles in the lungs but for me It ended up in my eye...Frances Abrams <frances.elise@...> wrote: After treatment my thyroid was permanently damaged and I have some blurred vision that gets worse as the day progresses. Although, I had some difficulty walking while on the treatment (lost of balance), four years post treatment my balance is restored. It's upsetting to have these side effects but if the treatment eradicates the virus for you then maybe it's worth it. Take care and good luck. FranZ King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote: Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 5, 2006 Report Share Posted July 5, 2006 Gav Go immediately to the EYE doc and have your vision checked,, I ended up with sarcoidosis and cataracts from the INF... Please,, go now, do not wait!Z King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote: Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 6, 2006 Report Share Posted July 6, 2006 Jackie, I have to agree with you - it is more than inhumane, you can walk into any ER and there are rights of the patient that state: Every patient has the right to have their pain controlled... You definitely need to start looking for another Doctor who can help you. I have RA ( rhuemetiod arthritis ) and hep, getting ready to go a second round of treatment for the hep, and I guarantee you I couldn't bare all this pain that I am in now without pain medication, let alone while doing treatment. There are plenty of pain meds that don't have any trylenol. I am on a drug called oxycodone 15mg - it is pure narcotic, no Tylenol nor ibuprofen. It is very strong from what I understand but they have much lower doses. You shouldn't have to suffer because you have a pain freak for a Doc. Ask around online and see if there is someone in your area that knows of a good Doctor or just start calling around and find one that would be willing to control your pain for you. I will be praying for you - let us know how you are doing. May God bless you and be with you in your speedy search for a more compassionate Doctor. Love, hugs, prayers, and peace, Marie -- Re: Long-term damage from TX? THATS totally INHUMANE,, why wouldnt he give you any pain meds? I would fire him and get a new doc, YOU have A RIGHT to have your pain controlled.. That is obscene and I for one would never see a doc who treated ME like that!us4heavenbound@... wrote: In a message dated 7/5/2006 1:50:59 PM Pacific Standard Time, denisa_dodd@... writes: BETTER FOR YOU DOC TO GIVE YOU VICODIN HAAAA and just how did you manage that one???? My doctor the other day basicly said no way to any kind of pain pill. I told him that just for one week I wish doctors could experiance the pain and how we feel...not just us but anyone in agony..he said he still wouldnt give it to me..yeah maybe how would he know unless he feels it..would love for a male doc to have a baby without anything either..or kidney stones...geri Jackie Font: GeeohHmk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 6, 2006 Report Share Posted July 6, 2006 Treatment can cause permanent vision loss , brain atrophy , etc etc etc .. I will post the list of side effects and long term effects that are possible . Long-term damage from TX? Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 6, 2006 Report Share Posted July 6, 2006 Here is a list of possible long term,short term , and permanent side effects of treatment . My doctor made me sign a paper with this list stating my knowledge before he would treat me . SIDE EFFECTS OF INTERFERON, PEGYLATED INTERFERON, CONSENSUS INTERFERON AND RIBAVIRIN THERAPY General and miscellaneous: Fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, headache, dizziness, hearing loss, insomnia, fatigue, inflammation and pain in the joints, muscle aches, muscle contractions/cramps, numbness and tingling, nerve damage, thinning of hair, weight loss or gain, excessive sweating (especially at night), thyroid dysfunction, parathyroid dysfunction, increased or decreased level of potassium Any existing medical condition can be worsened by these medications. Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite, changes in taste, dry mouth, dry cough, diarrhea, initiation or worsening of inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease Cardiovascular Disorders: Chest pain, heart attack, congestive heart failure, stroke, low or high blood pressure any of which can lead to death Lung Disorders: Difficulty breathing, asthma, pneumonia, interstitial pneumonitis, bronchiolitis obliterans, lung infection and/or infiltrates, emphysema, pulmonary sarcoidosis (wide spread lesion forming in the lungs) Renal Dysfunction: Decrease in kidney function and failure leading to dialysis dependency Liver Toxicity: Jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, liver pain, decreased liver function Vision Disorders: Changes in vision which could be permanent, including blindness in one or both eyes Brain Disorders: Cerebral atrophy (brain size decreases), aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain without evidence of infection), Bell’s palsy or other facial palsy (temporary partial paralysis involving the eyelid and cheek), decreased short term memory, decreased cognitive abilities. Some of these side effects may not resolve after therapy is completed. SIDE EFFECTS OF INTERFERON, PEGYLATED INTERFERON, CONSENSUS INTERFERON AND RIBAVIRIN THERAPY Autoimmune Disorders: Initiation of or worsening of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, Sjogren’s disease (dry mouth and eyes). These side effects may or may not resolve with completion of therapy. Blood Disorders: Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), low red (anemia) and white blood cell count (neutropenia and leukopenia), decreased clotting time, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (autoimmune disorder which causes destruction of platelets), blood clot formation (thrombosis) in extremities or lungs Skin Reactions: Rashes, lichen planus, dry or itchy skin, lupus erythematous (skin infection), psoriasis (skin disorder causing red patches with white scales), s Syndrome (lesions and redness of the skin produced by congestion/broken capillaries), injection sites reactions or redness, injections site infections, transient erythema (redness), eczema, depilation (hair loss), skin necrosis, vasculitis, initiation or worsening of vitiligo Drug Addiction: Relapse of sobriety or IV drug use dependence, overdose of alcohol or drugs Psychiatric, Psychological, Mood and Behavioral Problems: Depression, anxiety, irritability, lack of concentration, insomnia, mental confusion, hallucinations, mania, bipolar disorders, suicidal thoughts and attempts, homicidal thoughts, psychosis, paranoia, neurosis, disorders of psychomotor activity, vegetative symptoms. Organic personality syndrome characterized by irritability and short temper. An organic effective disorder marked by extreme lability, depression and tearfulness. Delirium marked by clouding of consciousness, agitation, paranoia, and suicide potential. There are known cases of completed suicide and homicide while taking this medication. Women’s Health Issues: Menstrual disorders, inability to have children, spontaneous abortions and birth defects. SOME OF THESE SIDE EFFECTS MAY BE SEVERE ENOUGH TO CAUSE DEATH. SOME OF THESE SIDE EFFECTS MAY BE IRREVERSIBLE. Most side effects (with the possible exception of thyroid dysfunction) will generally reverse with discontinuation of these medications. It can take up to 8 weeks for the medications to completely leave body tissue. Long-term damage from TX? Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 6, 2006 Report Share Posted July 6, 2006 And I would advise you to see an eye doctor immediately , especially since treatment can cause blindness that is irreversible Long-term damage from TX? Does anyone know or have info on long-term orpermanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin?My vision has gone completely blurred within the past6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallennumerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found amedicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberousmigraine meds, tylenol, etc.I often wonder with the interferon, since it is abrain altering protein, if it could lead to some typeof brain damage or permanent muscle damage.I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stoppingtreatment. I'm too close to the end.Gav__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 6, 2006 Report Share Posted July 6, 2006 I have an appt. with the ophthamologist on Monday July 10. I'll keep you guys posted. As for " Wooly Cotton Spots " can you actually see these in your eyes if it develops. Besides the blurred vision, my eyes burn 24/7 like someone stuck a hot poker in them. They also feel totally dried out too. Can't even squeeze a good blink to pop some moisture into them. I'm hoping the dr. can give some rx eyedrops or something, so I can finish my tx. I've come too far to quit now. For now, I'll just continue to wear my sunglasses and pamper the peepers. Gav __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2006 Report Share Posted July 7, 2006 yeah, Geri should NOT have to have untreated pain,, I couldnt have done tx without pain meds,, I took norco which has a lowered dose of tylenol in it,, and it worked great,, Davies <lisamariedavies@...> wrote: Jackie, I have to agree with you - it is more than inhumane, you can walk into any ER and there are rights of the patient that state: Every patient has the right to have their pain controlled... You definitely need to start looking for another Doctor who can help you. I have RA ( rhuemetiod arthritis ) and hep, getting ready to go a second round of treatment for the hep, and I guarantee you I couldn't bare all this pain that I am in now without pain medication, let alone while doing treatment. There are plenty of pain meds that don't have any trylenol. I am on a drug called oxycodone 15mg - it is pure narcotic, no Tylenol nor ibuprofen. It is very strong from what I understand but they have much lower doses. You shouldn't have to suffer because you have a pain freak for a Doc. Ask around online and see if there is someone in your area that knows of a good Doctor or just start calling around and find one that would be willing to control your pain for you. I will be praying for you - let us know how you are doing. May God bless you and be with you in your speedy search for a more compassionate Doctor. Love, hugs, prayers, and peace, Marie -- Re: Long-term damage from TX? THATS totally INHUMANE,, why wouldnt he give you any pain meds? I would fire him and get a new doc, YOU have A RIGHT to have your pain controlled.. That is obscene and I for one would never see a doc who treated ME like that!us4heavenbound@... wrote: In a message dated 7/5/2006 1:50:59 PM Pacific Standard Time, denisa_dodd@... writes: BETTER FOR YOU DOC TO GIVE YOU VICODIN HAAAA and just how did you manage that one???? My doctor the other day basicly said no way to any kind of pain pill. I told him that just for one week I wish doctors could experiance the pain and how we feel...not just us but anyone in agony..he said he still wouldnt give it to me..yeah maybe how would he know unless he feels it..would love for a male doc to have a baby without anything either..or kidney stones...geri Jackie Font: GeeohHmkJackie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2006 Report Share Posted July 7, 2006 yeah, Geri should NOT have to have untreated pain,, I couldnt have done tx without pain meds,, I took norco which has a lowered dose of tylenol in it,, and it worked great,, Davies <lisamariedavies@...> wrote: Jackie, I have to agree with you - it is more than inhumane, you can walk into any ER and there are rights of the patient that state: Every patient has the right to have their pain controlled... You definitely need to start looking for another Doctor who can help you. I have RA ( rhuemetiod arthritis ) and hep, getting ready to go a second round of treatment for the hep, and I guarantee you I couldn't bare all this pain that I am in now without pain medication, let alone while doing treatment. There are plenty of pain meds that don't have any trylenol. I am on a drug called oxycodone 15mg - it is pure narcotic, no Tylenol nor ibuprofen. It is very strong from what I understand but they have much lower doses. You shouldn't have to suffer because you have a pain freak for a Doc. Ask around online and see if there is someone in your area that knows of a good Doctor or just start calling around and find one that would be willing to control your pain for you. I will be praying for you - let us know how you are doing. May God bless you and be with you in your speedy search for a more compassionate Doctor. Love, hugs, prayers, and peace, Marie -- Re: Long-term damage from TX? THATS totally INHUMANE,, why wouldnt he give you any pain meds? I would fire him and get a new doc, YOU have A RIGHT to have your pain controlled.. That is obscene and I for one would never see a doc who treated ME like that!us4heavenbound@... wrote: In a message dated 7/5/2006 1:50:59 PM Pacific Standard Time, denisa_dodd@... writes: BETTER FOR YOU DOC TO GIVE YOU VICODIN HAAAA and just how did you manage that one???? My doctor the other day basicly said no way to any kind of pain pill. I told him that just for one week I wish doctors could experiance the pain and how we feel...not just us but anyone in agony..he said he still wouldnt give it to me..yeah maybe how would he know unless he feels it..would love for a male doc to have a baby without anything either..or kidney stones...geri Jackie Font: GeeohHmkJackie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 13, 2006 Report Share Posted July 13, 2006 I was getting excrutiating headaches - vico didn't even work. i got accupuncture and it helped a thousand-fold > > Does anyone know or have info on long-term or > permanent damage from the interferon/ribabirin? > > My vision has gone completely blurred within the past > 6 weeks, major muscle weakness that I've almost fallen > numerous times, and a constant headache for almost 12 > weeks. As for the headaches, I haven't found a > medicine to get rid of it. I've tried numberous > migraine meds, tylenol, etc. > > I often wonder with the interferon, since it is a > brain altering protein, if it could lead to some type > of brain damage or permanent muscle damage. > > I'm 36 weeks into treatment. I'm not stopping > treatment. I'm too close to the end. > > Gav > > __________________________________________________ > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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