Re: If it's not one thing it's another

[Guest guest]

Hey Janie,

I took Effexor XR for 4yrs. it kept the depression away, I was up to

200mg a day. I'm not sure if it had any effects against my thyroid meds! I

stopped taking it, I started weaning myself off of it for a month before I

totally stopped and let me tell you the withdrawals were like nothing I have

ever been through, It was badddddddddd! When I was taking it I didn't have

as many migrains not sure if that was from the meds mellowing me out more

and keeping the stress at bay. Whatever you do, take more then a month to

wean yourself off of it if you decide to take it. Right now I'm not on

anything but I'm seeing Dr. Launius in ville now (he's great), I think

he is going to be a big asset to me getting better and hopefully I won't

have to be on any more anti-depressants, I just want to feel better! the

song girls just wanna have fun, not me I just wanna feel better! LOL

okay enough of this

I'm not sure if I answered your ? on effexor or not but that is just some of

my history with it!

Roxanne

[Guest guest]

Hey Jan

How are you doing? I want to thank everyone in the group for being here!

I have been to see Dr. Launius twice now and he put me on Armour, I'm up to 2 and half g's now and I will probably have more blood work in a few more weeks, but at this point I will do anything to feel better! You know the feeling and then some.

Take care

roxanne

[Guest guest]

He started me on 2g's and then about 6wks later he put me on 2 1/2 that has just been about a week ago. I'm still having the brain fog and all the other things but I'm taking less naps during the days..lol that is the good part so far..

Roxanne

[Guest guest]

Janie,

If you don't mind my asking, what is the Effexor supposed to do to

help with your migraines? Isn't Effexor an antidepressant? Are

your thyroid meds optimized? I know when I am hypo, I sometimes

have excruciating pain in my neck, shoulders, collarbone, chest

muscles, teeth, and even pelvic pain. Sheesh. One doctor told me

once she suspected osteo-arthritis in my neck but she was wrong.

A rheumatotologist would not be a bad idea. Just ask if they can

determine if you have rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom just got

dianognosed with R.A. She woke up one morning with her wrist and

thumb swollen and bruised. Don't feel bad about feeling sorry for

yourself. Check out all your options. Hang in there and keep

pushing. It's awful tough sometimes, I know.

Take care.

> {{{sigh}}}

>

> Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one

doc I

> can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have

never had any

> problems with him.

>

> Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK -

so the

> Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here -

and

> he is adding

> Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only

take so

> much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway -

So I

> suffer.

>

> Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my

neck,

> shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have

had off

> and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have

had it

> for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved

sometimes

> it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band

resized,

> my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting

them

> back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs

and they

> were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more

> interested in keeping pilots flying.

>

> Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for

RA or

> Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of

the

> results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a

> rhmeunologist (sp?).

>

> I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.

>

> So anyone here have any experience with Effexor

>

> RA?

>

> Lupus?

>

> What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to

spell

> that)

>

> What should I ask

>

> Ack more research to do.

>

> I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it.

>

> Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead

of one

> more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.

>

> Janie

[Guest guest]

When I lost my sight last November, I went to the emergency room.

They said migraine. I then went to a neurologist who did test me for

RA and Lupus.

I am not sure if he tested me because that's a normal thing they do,

OR if it is because it runs in my family.

My Mom has lupus, and my Grandmother on Dad's side had RA (bad).

My Mom is in remission, and my Grandmother has since died from

Alzheimer's.

Yeah, I bet you are all saying, she's doomed. I have such bad family

medical history. And now my 12 year daughter has a cough that just

wont go away. Asthma? Who knows, but I think she is going to go

thru the same things.

Check to see what tests they run for Lupus. I know there are certain

tests. I can ask my Mom and make sure they run the correct tests

on you. Same with RA. Guess with having Hashimotos, your tests

can show different results.

LYNN

At 07:20 PM 11/3/2004, you wrote:

>{{{sigh}}}

>

>Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I

>can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any

>problems with him.

>

>Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the

>Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here - and

>he is adding

>Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so

>much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I

>suffer.

>

>Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck,

>shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off

>and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it

>for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes

>it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized,

>my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them

>back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they

>were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more

>interested in keeping pilots flying.

>

>Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or

>Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the

>results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a

>rhmeunologist (sp?).

>

>I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.

>

>So anyone here have any experience with Effexor

>

>RA?

>

>Lupus?

>

>What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell

>that)

>

>What should I ask

>

>Ack more research to do.

>

>I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it.

>

>Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one

>more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.

>

>Janie

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

When I lost my sight last November, I went to the emergency room.

They said migraine. I then went to a neurologist who did test me for

RA and Lupus.

I am not sure if he tested me because that's a normal thing they do,

OR if it is because it runs in my family.

My Mom has lupus, and my Grandmother on Dad's side had RA (bad).

My Mom is in remission, and my Grandmother has since died from

Alzheimer's.

Yeah, I bet you are all saying, she's doomed. I have such bad family

medical history. And now my 12 year daughter has a cough that just

wont go away. Asthma? Who knows, but I think she is going to go

thru the same things.

Check to see what tests they run for Lupus. I know there are certain

tests. I can ask my Mom and make sure they run the correct tests

on you. Same with RA. Guess with having Hashimotos, your tests

can show different results.

LYNN

At 07:20 PM 11/3/2004, you wrote:

>{{{sigh}}}

>

>Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I

>can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any

>problems with him.

>

>Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the

>Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here - and

>he is adding

>Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so

>much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I

>suffer.

>

>Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck,

>shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off

>and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it

>for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes

>it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized,

>my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them

>back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they

>were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more

>interested in keeping pilots flying.

>

>Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or

>Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the

>results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a

>rhmeunologist (sp?).

>

>I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.

>

>So anyone here have any experience with Effexor

>

>RA?

>

>Lupus?

>

>What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell

>that)

>

>What should I ask

>

>Ack more research to do.

>

>I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it.

>

>Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one

>more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.

>

>Janie

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I am on Topamax to control migraines - I am having a lot of "break through" migraines.

I am also under alot of stress, work, martial problems (we are in counseling and it is working), but my

stress level right now is tremendous.

I do not know if the stress is causing the migraines or if the Topamax is no longer working.

The Effexor is to help with the stress level, it will help determine if the Topamax is still working or not. If we can get my stress level down and I still get the migrianes - then the Topamax isn't working and I will need a med change there. If I don't get migraines once the stress is better controlled, then the Topamax is still working. And the stress was causing them.

I had two aunts with rheumatoid arthritis. I did have one doctor when I was a kid say I probably had "some kind of arthritis" or it could be just growing pains, but nothing was done further, but this was also an Air Force doc and they all had other priorities in the '60's. I have for years learned to "live" with it and have several coping mechanisms in place - they just aren't working anymore. I have also gotten where I mention it once to a "new" doc and then not again, if they don't response - why I mentioned it to my neuro when I've seen him for years - I have no clue. Maybe because the pain is finally beyond what I can cope with? I do have a very high tolerance for pain. Who knows.

I told my husband last time it all may be nothing but fibro despite my family history. Time will tell. I am not trying to borrow trouble.

On thyroid meds - the last two endos claim I am overtreated - I do not concur.

Janie

Re: If it's not one thing it's another Janie,If you don't mind my asking, what is the Effexor supposed to do to help with your migraines? Isn't Effexor an antidepressant? Are your thyroid meds optimized? I know when I am hypo, I sometimes have excruciating pain in my neck, shoulders, collarbone, chest muscles, teeth, and even pelvic pain. Sheesh. One doctor told me once she suspected osteo-arthritis in my neck but she was wrong.A rheumatotologist would not be a bad idea. Just ask if they can determine if you have rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom just got dianognosed with R.A. She woke up one morning with her wrist and thumb swollen and bruised. Don't feel bad about feeling sorry for yourself. Check out all your options. Hang in there and keep pushing. It's awful tough sometimes, I know.Take care. > {{{sigh}}}> > Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I > can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any> problems with him.> > Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the > Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here -and > he is adding> Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so > much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I > suffer.> > Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck, > shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off > and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it > for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes > it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized, > my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them > back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they > were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more > interested in keeping pilots flying. > > Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or > Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the > results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a > rhmeunologist (sp?). > > I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.> > So anyone here have any experience with Effexor> > RA?> > Lupus?> > What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell > that)> > What should I ask> > Ack more research to do.> > I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it. > > Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one > more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.> > Janie

[Guest guest]

I am on Topamax to control migraines - I am having a lot of "break through" migraines.

I am also under alot of stress, work, martial problems (we are in counseling and it is working), but my

stress level right now is tremendous.

I do not know if the stress is causing the migraines or if the Topamax is no longer working.

The Effexor is to help with the stress level, it will help determine if the Topamax is still working or not. If we can get my stress level down and I still get the migrianes - then the Topamax isn't working and I will need a med change there. If I don't get migraines once the stress is better controlled, then the Topamax is still working. And the stress was causing them.

I had two aunts with rheumatoid arthritis. I did have one doctor when I was a kid say I probably had "some kind of arthritis" or it could be just growing pains, but nothing was done further, but this was also an Air Force doc and they all had other priorities in the '60's. I have for years learned to "live" with it and have several coping mechanisms in place - they just aren't working anymore. I have also gotten where I mention it once to a "new" doc and then not again, if they don't response - why I mentioned it to my neuro when I've seen him for years - I have no clue. Maybe because the pain is finally beyond what I can cope with? I do have a very high tolerance for pain. Who knows.

I told my husband last time it all may be nothing but fibro despite my family history. Time will tell. I am not trying to borrow trouble.

On thyroid meds - the last two endos claim I am overtreated - I do not concur.

Janie

Re: If it's not one thing it's another Janie,If you don't mind my asking, what is the Effexor supposed to do to help with your migraines? Isn't Effexor an antidepressant? Are your thyroid meds optimized? I know when I am hypo, I sometimes have excruciating pain in my neck, shoulders, collarbone, chest muscles, teeth, and even pelvic pain. Sheesh. One doctor told me once she suspected osteo-arthritis in my neck but she was wrong.A rheumatotologist would not be a bad idea. Just ask if they can determine if you have rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom just got dianognosed with R.A. She woke up one morning with her wrist and thumb swollen and bruised. Don't feel bad about feeling sorry for yourself. Check out all your options. Hang in there and keep pushing. It's awful tough sometimes, I know.Take care. > {{{sigh}}}> > Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I > can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any> problems with him.> > Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the > Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here -and > he is adding> Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so > much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I > suffer.> > Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck, > shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off > and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it > for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes > it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized, > my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them > back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they > were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more > interested in keeping pilots flying. > > Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or > Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the > results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a > rhmeunologist (sp?). > > I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.> > So anyone here have any experience with Effexor> > RA?> > Lupus?> > What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell > that)> > What should I ask> > Ack more research to do.> > I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it. > > Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one > more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.> > Janie

[Guest guest]

He just ran 3 blood tests and indicated that these were just the initial tests, that a rheumatologist would run more.

While I don't want to spend tons of time on this and "convince" myself ahead of time I have it - I want to know when I do see someone - I am seeing a good doc or a dud. I am so tried of seeing duds, I don't want to waste anymore time with one. So if I know ahead of time what to expect I will know right off it they are good or not, ya know.

Janie Re: If it's not one thing it's another When I lost my sight last November, I went to the emergency room.They said migraine. I then went to a neurologist who did test me forRA and Lupus.I am not sure if he tested me because that's a normal thing they do,OR if it is because it runs in my family.My Mom has lupus, and my Grandmother on Dad's side had RA (bad).My Mom is in remission, and my Grandmother has since died fromAlzheimer's.Yeah, I bet you are all saying, she's doomed. I have such bad familymedical history. And now my 12 year daughter has a cough that justwont go away. Asthma? Who knows, but I think she is going to gothru the same things.Check to see what tests they run for Lupus. I know there are certaintests. I can ask my Mom and make sure they run the correct testson you. Same with RA. Guess with having Hashimotos, your testscan show different results.LYNNAt 07:20 PM 11/3/2004, you wrote:>{{{sigh}}}>>Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I>can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any>problems with him.>>Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the>Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here - and>he is adding>Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so>much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I>suffer.>>Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck,>shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off>and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it>for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes>it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized,>my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them>back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they>were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more>interested in keeping pilots flying.>>Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or>Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the>results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a>rhmeunologist (sp?).>>I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.>>So anyone here have any experience with Effexor>>RA?>>Lupus?>>What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell>that)>>What should I ask>>Ack more research to do.>>I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it.>>Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one>more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.>>Janie>>>>>>>

[Guest guest]

He just ran 3 blood tests and indicated that these were just the initial tests, that a rheumatologist would run more.

While I don't want to spend tons of time on this and "convince" myself ahead of time I have it - I want to know when I do see someone - I am seeing a good doc or a dud. I am so tried of seeing duds, I don't want to waste anymore time with one. So if I know ahead of time what to expect I will know right off it they are good or not, ya know.

Janie Re: If it's not one thing it's another When I lost my sight last November, I went to the emergency room.They said migraine. I then went to a neurologist who did test me forRA and Lupus.I am not sure if he tested me because that's a normal thing they do,OR if it is because it runs in my family.My Mom has lupus, and my Grandmother on Dad's side had RA (bad).My Mom is in remission, and my Grandmother has since died fromAlzheimer's.Yeah, I bet you are all saying, she's doomed. I have such bad familymedical history. And now my 12 year daughter has a cough that justwont go away. Asthma? Who knows, but I think she is going to gothru the same things.Check to see what tests they run for Lupus. I know there are certaintests. I can ask my Mom and make sure they run the correct testson you. Same with RA. Guess with having Hashimotos, your testscan show different results.LYNNAt 07:20 PM 11/3/2004, you wrote:>{{{sigh}}}>>Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I>can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any>problems with him.>>Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the>Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here - and>he is adding>Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so>much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I>suffer.>>Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck,>shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off>and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it>for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes>it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized,>my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them>back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they>were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more>interested in keeping pilots flying.>>Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or>Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the>results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a>rhmeunologist (sp?).>>I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.>>So anyone here have any experience with Effexor>>RA?>>Lupus?>>What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell>that)>>What should I ask>>Ack more research to do.>>I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it.>>Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one>more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.>>Janie>>>>>>>

[Guest guest]

When I say "alternative", I do not mean a naturopath. They are not licensed to prescribe in Texas. I mean someone like Manzanero, or lin.

I think trying to work with your PCP is a good move. I would specifically ask (in writing) for some 15 mg tablets and permission to slowly increase your dose to tolerance, "as an experiment to see if this might help the following symptoms: . . . ." Promise to keep a detailed daily log of doses and symptoms. Your detailed records gives him some protection as he steps outside of the standard of practice. Janie wrote:

I am getting all my labs together and will be sending them to Dr. Hill with a letter asking him to take over the thyroid issues for the duration and increase the armour like he did before to at LEAST 2 grains. I dont' plan on seeing Monla again - she's a bust. She may be fine for a straight forward hypo case, but toss in the pit issues, the central thyroidism and she is not for me. Add in the possible "new" issues and she is definately not for me.

Dr. Hill can order the follow up US on my thyroid, he can RX armour and order the 12 week tests, he will ignore the TSH and go by T4/T3 and symptoms - why bother with clueless endos??? Life is too short - he had me going as there was concern of thyroid cancer - if at some time I have to deal with that - I will have him refer me to MD to Dr. Sirles (sp? again).

My sister in Wyo has been trying to get me to see a Naturopath that is near Austin that her Naturopath up there keeps recommending ( her MD works with her Naturopath - imagine that!?!?!?), but as Lynn said - it's $$$$ issue. I just finished paying off my portion of the co-pays and 20% of both FNA's this year. I can't afford to pay any out of pockets for more Doctors or tests - just the portion the insurance didn't cover cost me a ton. And now I am looking at how many more tests ahead????? Geez I am going to go broke.

Believe me I want to get better, but once you have to end up spending hours on the phone just to straighten out each dang insurance claim - it doesn't help much - oh yeah that's right I wasn't going to whine today. Deep Breathe - new day - new start. Exhale........

My husband is seeing Dr. Hill today - he is asking for a recommendation on the Rhumenaologist (sp - still can't spell)

Janie Re: If it's not one thing it's another

Then it sounds like getting your thyroid meds optimized is job 1. . . . .You might do better with one of the Austin alternative docs than with a Houston doc.Janie Skipper wrote:

I've had them my entire life.I've doubt it, it's hard to know anymore what's thyroid and what is something else. I started to do better at 2 grains, but wasn't left there long enough to know.JanieJan wrote:

Do you still have the arthritis symptoms when you are on an optimal dose of Armour? Have you ever been on an optimal dose?Janie Skipper wrote:

{{{sigh}}}Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had anyproblems with him.Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here - and he is addingEffexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I suffer.Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck, shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved

sometimes it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized, my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more interested in keeping pilots flying. Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a rhmeunologist (sp?). I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.So anyone here have any experience with EffexorRA?Lupus?What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell that)What should I askAck more research to do.I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it. Can't I just wake up and have one less

thing to deal with instead of one more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.Janie__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

When I say "alternative", I do not mean a naturopath. They are not licensed to prescribe in Texas. I mean someone like Manzanero, or lin.

I think trying to work with your PCP is a good move. I would specifically ask (in writing) for some 15 mg tablets and permission to slowly increase your dose to tolerance, "as an experiment to see if this might help the following symptoms: . . . ." Promise to keep a detailed daily log of doses and symptoms. Your detailed records gives him some protection as he steps outside of the standard of practice. Janie wrote:

I am getting all my labs together and will be sending them to Dr. Hill with a letter asking him to take over the thyroid issues for the duration and increase the armour like he did before to at LEAST 2 grains. I dont' plan on seeing Monla again - she's a bust. She may be fine for a straight forward hypo case, but toss in the pit issues, the central thyroidism and she is not for me. Add in the possible "new" issues and she is definately not for me.

Dr. Hill can order the follow up US on my thyroid, he can RX armour and order the 12 week tests, he will ignore the TSH and go by T4/T3 and symptoms - why bother with clueless endos??? Life is too short - he had me going as there was concern of thyroid cancer - if at some time I have to deal with that - I will have him refer me to MD to Dr. Sirles (sp? again).

My sister in Wyo has been trying to get me to see a Naturopath that is near Austin that her Naturopath up there keeps recommending ( her MD works with her Naturopath - imagine that!?!?!?), but as Lynn said - it's $$$$ issue. I just finished paying off my portion of the co-pays and 20% of both FNA's this year. I can't afford to pay any out of pockets for more Doctors or tests - just the portion the insurance didn't cover cost me a ton. And now I am looking at how many more tests ahead????? Geez I am going to go broke.

Believe me I want to get better, but once you have to end up spending hours on the phone just to straighten out each dang insurance claim - it doesn't help much - oh yeah that's right I wasn't going to whine today. Deep Breathe - new day - new start. Exhale........

My husband is seeing Dr. Hill today - he is asking for a recommendation on the Rhumenaologist (sp - still can't spell)

Janie Re: If it's not one thing it's another

Then it sounds like getting your thyroid meds optimized is job 1. . . . .You might do better with one of the Austin alternative docs than with a Houston doc.Janie Skipper wrote:

I've had them my entire life.I've doubt it, it's hard to know anymore what's thyroid and what is something else. I started to do better at 2 grains, but wasn't left there long enough to know.JanieJan wrote:

Do you still have the arthritis symptoms when you are on an optimal dose of Armour? Have you ever been on an optimal dose?Janie Skipper wrote:

{{{sigh}}}Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had anyproblems with him.Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here - and he is addingEffexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I suffer.Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck, shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved

sometimes it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized, my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more interested in keeping pilots flying. Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a rhmeunologist (sp?). I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.So anyone here have any experience with EffexorRA?Lupus?What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell that)What should I askAck more research to do.I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it. Can't I just wake up and have one less

thing to deal with instead of one more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.Janie__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

A friend that is on Topamax (as I am) always reminds me that this time of the year it is not uncommon to have break through due to weather fronts, ozone days, and allergy stuff in the air. Just wanted to share that because it made a lot of sense when she told me.

Hang in there -- glad the counseling is working!

Holly

From: Janie Sent: Thursday, November 04, 2004 9:03 AMTo: Texas_Thyroid_Groups Subject: Re: Re: If it's not one thing it's another

I am on Topamax to control migraines - I am having a lot of "break through" migraines.

I am also under alot of stress, work, martial problems (we are in counseling and it is working), but my

stress level right now is tremendous.

I do not know if the stress is causing the migraines or if the Topamax is no longer working.

The Effexor is to help with the stress level, it will help determine if the Topamax is still working or not. If we can get my stress level down and I still get the migrianes - then the Topamax isn't working and I will need a med change there. If I don't get migraines once the stress is better controlled, then the Topamax is still working. And the stress was causing them.

I had two aunts with rheumatoid arthritis. I did have one doctor when I was a kid say I probably had "some kind of arthritis" or it could be just growing pains, but nothing was done further, but this was also an Air Force doc and they all had other priorities in the '60's. I have for years learned to "live" with it and have several coping mechanisms in place - they just aren't working anymore. I have also gotten where I mention it once to a "new" doc and then not again, if they don't response - why I mentioned it to my neuro when I've seen him for years - I have no clue. Maybe because the pain is finally beyond what I can cope with? I do have a very high tolerance for pain. Who knows.

I told my husband last time it all may be nothing but fibro despite my family history. Time will tell. I am not trying to borrow trouble.

On thyroid meds - the last two endos claim I am overtreated - I do not concur.

Janie

Re: If it's not one thing it's another Janie,If you don't mind my asking, what is the Effexor supposed to do to help with your migraines? Isn't Effexor an antidepressant? Are your thyroid meds optimized? I know when I am hypo, I sometimes have excruciating pain in my neck, shoulders, collarbone, chest muscles, teeth, and even pelvic pain. Sheesh. One doctor told me once she suspected osteo-arthritis in my neck but she was wrong.A rheumatotologist would not be a bad idea. Just ask if they can determine if you have rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom just got dianognosed with R.A. She woke up one morning with her wrist and thumb swollen and bruised. Don't feel bad about feeling sorry for yourself. Check out all your options. Hang in there and keep pushing. It's awful tough sometimes, I know.Take care. > {{{sigh}}}> > Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I > can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any> problems with him.> > Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the > Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here -and > he is adding> Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so > much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I > suffer.> > Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck, > shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off > and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it > for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes > it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized, > my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them > back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they > were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more > interested in keeping pilots flying. > > Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or > Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the > results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a > rhmeunologist (sp?). > > I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.> > So anyone here have any experience with Effexor> > RA?> > Lupus?> > What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell > that)> > What should I ask> > Ack more research to do.> > I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it. > > Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one > more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.> > Janie

[Guest guest]

A friend that is on Topamax (as I am) always reminds me that this time of the year it is not uncommon to have break through due to weather fronts, ozone days, and allergy stuff in the air. Just wanted to share that because it made a lot of sense when she told me.

Hang in there -- glad the counseling is working!

Holly

From: Janie Sent: Thursday, November 04, 2004 9:03 AMTo: Texas_Thyroid_Groups Subject: Re: Re: If it's not one thing it's another

I am on Topamax to control migraines - I am having a lot of "break through" migraines.

I am also under alot of stress, work, martial problems (we are in counseling and it is working), but my

stress level right now is tremendous.

I do not know if the stress is causing the migraines or if the Topamax is no longer working.

The Effexor is to help with the stress level, it will help determine if the Topamax is still working or not. If we can get my stress level down and I still get the migrianes - then the Topamax isn't working and I will need a med change there. If I don't get migraines once the stress is better controlled, then the Topamax is still working. And the stress was causing them.

I had two aunts with rheumatoid arthritis. I did have one doctor when I was a kid say I probably had "some kind of arthritis" or it could be just growing pains, but nothing was done further, but this was also an Air Force doc and they all had other priorities in the '60's. I have for years learned to "live" with it and have several coping mechanisms in place - they just aren't working anymore. I have also gotten where I mention it once to a "new" doc and then not again, if they don't response - why I mentioned it to my neuro when I've seen him for years - I have no clue. Maybe because the pain is finally beyond what I can cope with? I do have a very high tolerance for pain. Who knows.

I told my husband last time it all may be nothing but fibro despite my family history. Time will tell. I am not trying to borrow trouble.

On thyroid meds - the last two endos claim I am overtreated - I do not concur.

Janie

Re: If it's not one thing it's another Janie,If you don't mind my asking, what is the Effexor supposed to do to help with your migraines? Isn't Effexor an antidepressant? Are your thyroid meds optimized? I know when I am hypo, I sometimes have excruciating pain in my neck, shoulders, collarbone, chest muscles, teeth, and even pelvic pain. Sheesh. One doctor told me once she suspected osteo-arthritis in my neck but she was wrong.A rheumatotologist would not be a bad idea. Just ask if they can determine if you have rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom just got dianognosed with R.A. She woke up one morning with her wrist and thumb swollen and bruised. Don't feel bad about feeling sorry for yourself. Check out all your options. Hang in there and keep pushing. It's awful tough sometimes, I know.Take care. > {{{sigh}}}> > Saw my neurologist today - who by the way is great, this is one doc I > can and will highly recommend (if you are in Houston) I have never had any> problems with him.> > Anyway, I have been having breakthrough migraines lately - ACK - so the > Topamax may not be working that great for me anymore - whine here -and > he is adding> Effexor XR to it to see if that would help. I mean you can only take so > much Axert and Vicaden a month and I won't take it much anyway - So I > suffer.> > Then I tell him about the pain I have been experiencing in my neck, > shoulders, back, arms, hand, legs and feet. This is pain I have had off > and on for years, I have told Petak, I have told Monla, I have had it > for years since I was a kid, and there is swelling involved sometimes > it's so bad I can't wear my watch, I have had my wedding band resized, > my shoes at night if I take them off - well forget about putting them > back on. P & M blew it off. When I was a kid - it was AF docs and they > were clueless - they said growing pains - they were really more > interested in keeping pilots flying. > > Dr listened and right off - says has anyone tested you for RA or > Lupus - OMG - no never - so he is and then he says regardless of the > results you may have some form of arthritis and need to see a > rhmeunologist (sp?). > > I had two aunts with RA, one also had Osto Arth.> > So anyone here have any experience with Effexor> > RA?> > Lupus?> > What should I expect from a Rhumenologist (gee I need to learn to spell > that)> > What should I ask> > Ack more research to do.> > I really expected him to just say fibro and that be it. > > Can't I just wake up and have one less thing to deal with instead of one > more? Alright tomorrow I will stop feeling sorry for myself.> > Janie

[Guest guest]

Janie,

Who is that Naturopath in Wyoming that your sister sees? What town

is he/she in? My sis lives in Wyoming too and needs a good doctor.

Nobody can give her a straight answer as to if she is hyper or

hypothyroid. Sheesh. Thank you. I hope the 2 grains of Armour will

get you feeling better.

>

[Guest guest]

Janie,

Who is that Naturopath in Wyoming that your sister sees? What town

is he/she in? My sis lives in Wyoming too and needs a good doctor.

Nobody can give her a straight answer as to if she is hyper or

hypothyroid. Sheesh. Thank you. I hope the 2 grains of Armour will

get you feeling better.

>

[Guest guest]

I will ask her next time I talk to her, which should be within 2 weeks - she is

not easy to get on the phone, but we do talk regularly. As for where, she lives

outside of Lander, but I know she travels all over the place, so it could be

there or in Riverton, Casper, Hole, or anywhere in that part of the

state. My sister is an Occupational Therapist with her own business - she

also does early intervention for the state which requires her to go all over the

state. I think the Naturopath is in Hole, but won't swear to it. I

know her regular doc works with her & the naturopath for better health. My

sister also knows of several Holestic type docs - most of which I believe are in

Hole. She is always telling me to ditch the endo I see and find a

holestic doc. Must say she's right, but it comes down to $$ and what ins will

pay for. I can't do without a doc that takes ins $$ right now, wish I could.

Janie

Re: If it's not one thing it's another

<html><body>

<tt>

<BR>

Janie,<BR>

<BR>

Who is that Naturopath in Wyoming that your sister sees? What town <BR>

is he/she in? My sis lives in Wyoming too and needs a good doctor. <BR>

Nobody can give her a straight answer as to if she is hyper or <BR>

hypothyroid. Sheesh. Thank you. I hope the 2 grains of Armour will <BR>

get you feeling better.<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

> <BR>

<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

</tt>

<br>

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[Guest guest]

I will ask her next time I talk to her, which should be within 2 weeks - she is

not easy to get on the phone, but we do talk regularly. As for where, she lives

outside of Lander, but I know she travels all over the place, so it could be

there or in Riverton, Casper, Hole, or anywhere in that part of the

state. My sister is an Occupational Therapist with her own business - she

also does early intervention for the state which requires her to go all over the

state. I think the Naturopath is in Hole, but won't swear to it. I

know her regular doc works with her & the naturopath for better health. My

sister also knows of several Holestic type docs - most of which I believe are in

Hole. She is always telling me to ditch the endo I see and find a

holestic doc. Must say she's right, but it comes down to $$ and what ins will

pay for. I can't do without a doc that takes ins $$ right now, wish I could.

Janie

Re: If it's not one thing it's another

<html><body>

<tt>

<BR>

Janie,<BR>

<BR>

Who is that Naturopath in Wyoming that your sister sees? What town <BR>

is he/she in? My sis lives in Wyoming too and needs a good doctor. <BR>

Nobody can give her a straight answer as to if she is hyper or <BR>

hypothyroid. Sheesh. Thank you. I hope the 2 grains of Armour will <BR>

get you feeling better.<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

> <BR>

<BR>

<BR>

<BR>

</tt>

<br>

<!-- |**|begin egp html banner|**| -->

<table border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=2>

<tr bgcolor=#FFFFCC>

<td align=center><font size= " -1 " color=#003399><b>Yahoo! Groups

Sponsor</b></font></td>

</tr>

<tr bgcolor=#FFFFFF>

<td align=center width=470><table border=0 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0> <tr> <td

align=center><font face=arial size=-2>ADVERTISEMENT</font><br><a

href= " http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12camlbdi/M=315388.5543473.6613715.3001176/D=g\

rphealth/S=1705094710:HM/EXP=1099674739/A=2372354/R=0/SIG=12id813k2/*https://www\

..orchardbank.com/hcs/hcsapplication?pf=PLApply & media=EMYHNL40F21004SS "

alt= " " ><img

src= " http://us.a1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/a/ho/household/f2_free2_300x250_def_0904.\

gif " alt= " click here " width= " 300 " height= " 250 " border= " 0 " ></a></td></tr></table>

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[Guest guest]

Thank you, Janie!

Sounds like your sister is right over the mountain from mine ... in

fact, if she travels in that area she probably goes through Pinedale,

which is between Lander and . My daughter was born in

. Anyway, I digress. I appreciate your asking her when you

get a chance.

I wish insurance companies weren't so restrictive. We pay all this

money for coverage and they act like they are the ones doing us the

big favors, eh? Take care.

>

> I will ask her next time I talk to her, which should be within 2

weeks - she is not easy to get on the phone, but we do talk regularly.

[Guest guest]

Thank you, Janie!

Sounds like your sister is right over the mountain from mine ... in

fact, if she travels in that area she probably goes through Pinedale,

which is between Lander and . My daughter was born in

. Anyway, I digress. I appreciate your asking her when you

get a chance.

I wish insurance companies weren't so restrictive. We pay all this

money for coverage and they act like they are the ones doing us the

big favors, eh? Take care.

>

> I will ask her next time I talk to her, which should be within 2

weeks - she is not easy to get on the phone, but we do talk regularly.