Re: Rambling question about pain killers

[Guest guest]

Painkillers aren't going to address the root cause of the problem, and may

actually be masking symptoms to the point that your joints are getting worse and

you don't know it (I took aspirin in massive quantities for about six months

when we were travelling and PA first started up for me, and now have some pretty

serious damage in my knee.

Can you get on a cancellation list at the Rheumatologist?

__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

I tried to take the " cancellation list " route, but alas, initial appointments

weren't accepted

on that basis. Truly a Catch 22 situation, when you need them :-(

And that, in short, is why I tell all my friends to get set up with a rheumy

even if they don't

need one.

Lucia

>

> Painkillers aren't going to address the root cause of the problem, and may

actually be

masking symptoms to the point that your joints are getting worse and you don't

know it (I

took aspirin in massive quantities for about six months when we were travelling

and PA

first started up for me, and now have some pretty serious damage in my knee.

>

> Can you get on a cancellation list at the Rheumatologist?

>

>

>

>

> __________________________________________________

>

[Guest guest]

> What my questions really are is

> -Why can't I live on pain killers?

> -Can a severe flare stop on its own?

>

> Love to everyone

> Janice

Hello Janice, sorry this is so late, I've been ill with one crappy

illness after another the past 6 weeks, got behind on my reading!!!

I've been dealing with PA since the age of 10 (and a little before

that, before I was dx). I have had flares stop on their own for no

reason. However, you sound like you are in a major one, not likely to

stop on it's own, your body most likely needs help! And I hope you

have gotten some by now.

Pain meds are my own personal pet peeve.... my dentist used to hand out

Vicodin like candy... one day, I had major dental work done at the same

time as a flare. I took a Vicodin... I was able to make dinner & watch

TV that night with my husband instead of curling in bed in a fetal

position. I hoarded them. My rheumy at the time said " NO, I can't

give you anything stronger than Ibuprofen, you " might get addicted " (my

now favorite (sarcasm) phrase). Several years passed, with me

wondering why dental work got more care for pain relief than my

horrific athritis pain??!!.

Eventually I got a new rheumy, who did everything possible for my

disease, and THEN started giving me narcotic painkillers to deal with

the rest. He knew I had 2 small kids at home, having treating me

through one post pregnancy flare, and helped me plan for the 2nd. I

can't tell you what an amazing difference this has made in my life.

Instead of thinking " this pain will NEVER END " I know that I can

judiciously medicate the pain away when I need a break from it, or have

something to do with my kids (such as a school even I cannot miss). I

have been " living " on narcotic painkillers on and off for 5 yrs now,

with no trouble at all.

I am *extremely* grateful that I can take this stuff without

addiction. If I take a lot for a few days, then I may have to taper

down for 2 more days or I get a tension headache. No cravings for them

or anything though. Narcotics meds DO make me extremely thirsty

however, it's important to keep up fluids. The rheumy who originally

prescribed me the stuff, I again emphasize, did everything possible for

my disease... biologics, the whole bit. This wasn't just covering pain

that should have been treated otherwise.

When I moved to AZ, my new dr. had no problem continuing with

treatments in the same vein... work hard on the disease, and allow me

ample pain relief drugs. I am careful to not ask for them at every

visit, to not ask for them at any other dr (getting scripts from

several places can trigger a flag on your file). I am honest though

about my pain level, and what drugs I need. Sometimes a Tylenol 3 is

enough, sometimes it's Percocet (always taking with an anti-nausea

drug - usually Phenergan).

I know this was very long winded, but after suffering so many years,

and then getting adequate pain relief, I really get up on my soapbox on

the pain meds topic!!!

-Marietta

[Editor's Note: There are two levels to our disease: Pain and progression.

Painkillers will help with the pain (and that's good!) but will do nothing to

stem the progression of the disease (and may mask the progression). It is

therefore of paramount importance over the long term to also be on a DMARD or

biologic to help stem the progression of the disease. For many people,

therefore, a pain reliever AND a biologic are critical medications. Kathy F.]

[Guest guest]

>

> >

> > Can you get on a cancellation list at the Rheumatologist?

Thanks for the suggestion Jaye I will try. But like Lucia says they

probably won't do that for a first consult. Her office is not even

answering the phone at the moment anyway as she is away on holidays

and I can't even book an appointment at this stage!! Very frustrating.

Janice

[Guest guest]

Hi Marietta,

I'm sorry to hear you haven't been the best lately. I've read in

the posts even normal bugs hit us harder than most. I really

appreciated your honesty about my current flare and sharing about

pain meds. I was thinking that it was a bad thing and I was being

weak for wanting pain relief meds. The dr and my mother are very

against them. Probably they are being referred to in the posts, but

as I am not familiar with the pain med names much yet I haven't

picked them up. I have taken tramal over the years for my different

aches and pains (obviously flares now) and wish that is what she had

given me this time.

It is funny you say about tapering off though..I know that is why I

ended up with a severe migraine, my body telling me enough already.

Taking the pain killers knowing full well they were masking the pain

so I could do things that I have not been able to. I ended up

having to rest all weekend (concentrating on time with the kids) and

did not take any more pain meds until today when I needed them at

work.

I managed to work the whole day and was really proud of myself. I

am having a difficult time, but I am so lucky to have the most

wonderful boss. I have only been in my current job for 8 months. I

left my stressful 60 hour a week management job into part time

bookkeeping work just in the nick of time I reckon. I must have

proved myself already as the boss does not want to lose me and is

being so understanding!! Can't believe it. I was so worried – for

nothing. He doesn't care about how much time I take off if I need

it as long as I get the basics done…easy peasy (and will still pay

me full pay!!!!) I already get full time wages as he knows I am a

struggling single mum and I can do the work easily just doing pt.

And hows this, caus he knows I am having a hard time until I can get

some decent medical help, he has given me 2 weeks off extra over

Christmas with pay! How LUCKY am I! Just when I need it most. I

only have to go in for a few hours a week to pay the boys and check

through the mail. I can even do this from home if I want. Someone

is definitely looking after me….

Janice

[Guest guest]

Janice...I'm so sorry that things are feeling out of control for you

right now. It's hard having to depend on others....others you don't

always want to have to depend on. This can be a humbling disease. I'm

feeling like you about pain meds lately. Unless you are hurting

yourself or others, if a pain med helps you live more normally, I don't

have a problem with that. I was so ANTI DRUG as a young person. Oh

well. lol. I'm keeping you in my prayers...praying for better days and

nights and rest in your spirit. Love Betz

[Guest guest]

Janice, I can emphise with your situation as I am just

getting over a bad flare up myself. It seems you are

trying very hard to live an active life,

Cheers

Greg

--- Janice <itchy_itch69@...> wrote:

> Hi to Everyone,

> I have exhausted all avenues of being able to get to

> see a rheumy or

> dermo until February. (found out that then i just

> get to go on a

> waiting list..lol..so goodness knows when I am going

> to see someone)

> Just waiting to save up to be able to see another

> pcp. Hopefully in

> the next couple of weeks. Also found that no dr

> here will prescribe

> mtx or anything else decent, only the rheumy who is

> supposed to be

> really good.

>

> I don't feel like i can last that long and just

> don't know what to

> do. I have used up all my sick leave long ago and

> nearly all my

> annual leave. Hopefully a new pcp will help me and

> maybe give me

> prednisone or something. The ibuprofen hasn't done

> anything other

> than make my psoriasis worse. The soles of my feet

> and hands are a

> mess. Can an all over flare up stop by itself?

> I've always had

> problems over the years, but they have been more

> localised and

> always stopped by themselves after a while. This

> time it has been

> about 7 weeks so far and just seems to be getting

> worse and worse in

> nearly every joint every day. This is really

> worrying me. I have

> had a couple of sort ok days, but then seem to go

> down further

> after. I am starting to think soon i will not be

> able to move at

> all! I have had to leave work 3 times this week

> after about 3 hours

> and didn't make it at all today. I would say i am

> working at 30%

> capacity at present if that. Half the time i

> sit/stand there in too

> much pain to be able to concentrate on anything. My

> arms just won't

> function for me. Have done a lot of crying so

> thankful that i work

> on my own and no one sees me. My boss has been great

> and says he

> will look after me, but i am feeling so guilty. I

> only work 6 hour

> days, but they are taking it all out of me. I have

> to lay down for

> a few hours after work and still manage to do stuff

> all at home,

> struggle to cook tea thats about it (half of it ends

> up on the floor

> anyway - the dogs love me. lol). None of this seems

> real and i keep

> thinking this isn't really happening to me. I just

> don't seem to be

> able to function properly. I have to keep working to

> be able to live

> but just don't seem able to any more and is really

> frightening me. I

> have only just started thinking about Christmas and

> how on earth i

> am going to do that... and for the first time ever

> the tree isn't

> even up yet.

>

> My kids are paying for all this dearly at the moment

> and it is

> breaking my heart. They are being so neglected and

> I am ashamed of

> the standard of care I am providing. My house is a

> pig sty and the

> meals i have provided haven't been my best. I went

> to my kids grade

> 7 graduation last night and although I loved it, it

> really hurt.

> Today i paid dearly for it. Woke up with a severe

> migraine.

> Couldn't even get the kids to school and they had to

> ring the ex's

> girlfriend to come and get them. How embarassing.

> Couldn't keep any

> meds down until 9.30 tonight finally (thank goodness

> I am now

> rattling around)

>

> The dr was very very strict in saying i was only

> allowed to take the

> panadeine forte at night to help me sleep. Why? Why

> are we not

> allowed to take pain killers more often? I don't

> care about

> addiction if I get some relief. I don't understand

> as they seem to

> be able to make me cope better. I suppose I have

> been naughty this

> week, but after not being able to function at all at

> work Monday, i

> took a pf at work Tuesday and what a difference it

> made, I could

> move. I have only been taking 3-4 a day since to

> help me get

> around. It dulls the pain a little and i really

> notice when they

> are wearing off. I have a stomach ache from hell

> but i don't care,

> the relief is more important. All my swellings have

> gone down today

> as i have rested all day which has been a small

> relief. I think i

> could survive waiting for the rheumy if i can take

> more of these

> meds more often. Unfortunately i am going to have

> to go back to my

> original b**ch of a dr on tuesday (the one who

> reckons i don't have

> arthritis), but maybe she will be in a better mood

> and may listen a

> bit that I am just getting worse. I need

> certificates for work

> anyway.

>

> Sorry if i am rambling and I always write too much,

> i am a bit all

> over the shop at the moment, and with all the rests

> most of us take

> with typing, you tend to lose your own plot after a

> few hours. lol.

> You guys are the only support i have and i need to

> share, it makes

> me feel better somehow, so sorry about that. I know

> my problems are

> pretty minimal compared to some of you on here and i

> draw from your

> strengths and courage.

>

> What my questions really are is

> -Why can't I live on pain killers?

> -Can a severe flare stop on its own?

>

> Love to everyone

> Janice

>

> Sorry Kathy about being so long winded

>

> [Editor's Note: Not at all, Janice - WE'RE sorry

> that things are so difficult right now and if you

> need to write tomes to us every day, please do so.

> Kathy F.]

>

>

________________________________________________________________________________\

____

Any questions? Get answers on any topic at www.Answers.. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

Hi Janice, I use Ultram 100mg which has helped

greatly. It is my understanding that it is

non-adictive and it helps with depression. Cymbalta,

a anti-depressive, may also help you.

Hang in there,

Greg

--- Marietta <mariettashirk@...> wrote:

> > What my questions really are is

> > -Why can't I live on pain killers?

> > -Can a severe flare stop on its own?

> >

> > Love to everyone

> > Janice

>

>

> Hello Janice, sorry this is so late, I've been ill

> with one crappy

> illness after another the past 6 weeks, got behind

> on my reading!!!

>

> I've been dealing with PA since the age of 10 (and a

> little before

> that, before I was dx). I have had flares stop on

> their own for no

> reason. However, you sound like you are in a major

> one, not likely to

> stop on it's own, your body most likely needs help!

> And I hope you

> have gotten some by now.

>

> Pain meds are my own personal pet peeve.... my

> dentist used to hand out

> Vicodin like candy... one day, I had major dental

> work done at the same

> time as a flare. I took a Vicodin... I was able to

> make dinner & watch

> TV that night with my husband instead of curling in

> bed in a fetal

> position. I hoarded them. My rheumy at the time

> said " NO, I can't

> give you anything stronger than Ibuprofen, you

> " might get addicted " (my

> now favorite (sarcasm) phrase). Several years

> passed, with me

> wondering why dental work got more care for pain

> relief than my

> horrific athritis pain??!!.

>

> Eventually I got a new rheumy, who did everything

> possible for my

> disease, and THEN started giving me narcotic

> painkillers to deal with

> the rest. He knew I had 2 small kids at home,

> having treating me

> through one post pregnancy flare, and helped me plan

> for the 2nd. I

> can't tell you what an amazing difference this has

> made in my life.

> Instead of thinking " this pain will NEVER END " I

> know that I can

> judiciously medicate the pain away when I need a

> break from it, or have

> something to do with my kids (such as a school even

> I cannot miss). I

> have been " living " on narcotic painkillers on and

> off for 5 yrs now,

> with no trouble at all.

>

> I am *extremely* grateful that I can take this stuff

> without

> addiction. If I take a lot for a few days, then I

> may have to taper

> down for 2 more days or I get a tension headache.

> No cravings for them

> or anything though. Narcotics meds DO make me

> extremely thirsty

> however, it's important to keep up fluids. The

> rheumy who originally

> prescribed me the stuff, I again emphasize, did

> everything possible for

> my disease... biologics, the whole bit. This wasn't

> just covering pain

> that should have been treated otherwise.

>

> When I moved to AZ, my new dr. had no problem

> continuing with

> treatments in the same vein... work hard on the

> disease, and allow me

> ample pain relief drugs. I am careful to not ask

> for them at every

> visit, to not ask for them at any other dr (getting

> scripts from

> several places can trigger a flag on your file). I

> am honest though

> about my pain level, and what drugs I need.

> Sometimes a Tylenol 3 is

> enough, sometimes it's Percocet (always taking with

> an anti-nausea

> drug - usually Phenergan).

>

> I know this was very long winded, but after

> suffering so many years,

> and then getting adequate pain relief, I really get

> up on my soapbox on

> the pain meds topic!!!

>

> -Marietta

>

> [Editor's Note: There are two levels to our

> disease: Pain and progression. Painkillers will

> help with the pain (and that's good!) but will do

> nothing to stem the progression of the disease (and

> may mask the progression). It is therefore of

> paramount importance over the long term to also be

> on a DMARD or biologic to help stem the progression

> of the disease. For many people, therefore, a pain

> reliever AND a biologic are critical medications.

> Kathy F.]

>

>

>

>

________________________________________________________________________________\

____

Cheap talk?

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[Guest guest]

Well done Greg to remind us all to seek and check out other options and

opinions. (Hi Janice, I use Ultram 100mg which has helped

greatly. It is my understanding that it is non-adictive and it helps with

depression. Cymbalta, a anti-depressive, may also help you. Posted by: " Greg

Livorno " ) But we obviously don't have the same facts about these drugs.

Please see below. I can only re iterate that before taking any other

medications/over the counter products/herbal remedies you do your own

research. What may work and not harm some may not be for you because of

other health issues. There are more natural treatments for Depression.

Cymbalta has a long list of don'ts and a long list of side effects. The same

goes for Ultram (Tramadol). Please check these out very carefully.

Ultram - Seizures (convulsions) have occurred in some people taking

tramadol. You may be more likely to have a seizure while taking tramadol if

you have a history of seizures or head injury, a metabolic disorder, or if

you are taking certain medicines such as antidepressants, muscle relaxers,

or medicine for nausea and vomiting.

..

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this

medicine. A tramadol overdose can be fatal. Symptoms of a tramadol overdose

may include drowsiness, shallow breathing, slow heartbeat, extreme weakness,

cold or clammy skin, feeling light-headed, fainting, or coma.

Tramadol may be habit-forming. Tell your doctor if you feel the medicine is

not working as well in relieving your pain. Do not change your dose without

talking to your doctor.

..

Do not stop using this medication suddenly without talking to your doctor.

You may need to gradually reduce the dose. Withdrawal symptoms may occur

when you stop using tramadol. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, sweating,

nausea, diarrhea, tremors, chills, hallucinations, trouble sleeping, or

breathing problems. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these

withdrawal symptoms after you stop using tramadol.

Cymbalta - While you are taking Cymbalta you will need to be monitored for

worsening symptoms of depression and/or suicidal thoughts during the first

weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed. In addition to you

watching for changes in your own symptoms, your family or other caregivers

should be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need

to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment.

Contact your doctor promptly if you have any of the following side effects,

especially if they are new symptoms or if they get worse: mood changes,

anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, agitation,

aggressiveness, severe restlessness, mania (mental and/or physical

hyperactivity), thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself. Do not take

Cymbalta together with thioridazine (Mellaril), or a monoamine oxidase

inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil),

rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine

(Parnate). You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before you

can take Cymbalta. After you stop taking Cymbalta, you must wait at least 5

days before you start taking an MAOI.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine,

pain medication, muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, other medication

for depression or Before taking Cymbalta, tell your doctor if you are

allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

* liver or kidney disease;

* seizures or epilepsy;

* bipolar disorder (manic depression); or

* a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Cymbalta, or

you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Cymbalta. Alcohol may increase the risk

of damage to your liver. http://www.drugs.com/cymbalta.html

IF YOU KEEP DOING WHAT YOU'VE ALWAYS DONE, YOU WILL GET WHAT YOU'VE ALWAYS

GOTTEN

Maraika Mason

Degenerative Disease Resourced Information

Clin.Nutrition

Email: UrHealth@...

www.4betrhealth.com

[Guest guest]

Janice,

I wanted to mention that my Dr. tried me on Ultram, but it made me

VERY " out of it " , and I couldn't function that way taking care of my

kids. Ironically the " highly addictive " narcotic class doesn't make me

out of it like that. Many people have a lof of success with Ultram

though. Regardless, you need PAIN RELIEF NOW!

About 8 yrs ago, I had to go to the ER on Christmas Eve for pain

relief... I was nursing my first child at the time, but came armed with

my _Nursing Mother's Companion_ book with the drugs they could give me

in the back. Funny it took me another 6 yrs to start asking my

rheumatologists for the same sort of stuff for at home.

-Marietta

> Hi Janice, I use Ultram 100mg which has helped

> greatly. It is my understanding that it is

> non-adictive and it helps with depression. Cymbalta,

> a anti-depressive, may also help you.

>

> Hang in there,

> Greg

[Guest guest]

Thanks Marietta & Greg,

I did some research after reading Gregs post on Ultram, and yes, it

is the same as the generic Tramal that I have taken in the past. I

thought this was the one I wanted, but I found an old out of date (i

know - bad girl) packet in my med cabinet. I had written across it -

very strong, knocks me out. So yes, I have the same effect as

you " out of it " and that wouldn't do for me at all. I think it

really mixes badly with the Zoloft i take for my bipolar and read

that I shouldn't take it with an addiction history or bipolar

either. So for now i will just stick to the Codeine. They are

knocking the edge off the pain a little bit so doing ok and don't

make me too drowsy or anything like that, just give me a tummy ache

(had to buy good ole laxative tonight. lol) The ibuprofen i have

been taking gave me diarrhoea so i thought i may end up just normal,

but nah.

I hope things are getting better for you with your sinus infection

and inflammation. Not too long to go hopefully until you start on

the Remicade - just try and keep well...and then you have to root

canal to look forward to, very nice indeed!

I understand with the worry with young ones trying so hard to be a

good mum, especially this time of year. I am lucky that my two are

12 & 13, so getting old enough to help out a bit. I had the whip

out on them yesterday to mow the lawn, they were not impressed and

it cost me lots of pocket money.lol. I hate having to get the kids

to do things like that and really makes me feel yuk, but

unfortunately there is no-one else to help.

I really wish Christmas wasn't so close. My pay went on meds this

week. So only 1 pay left and then i have to get my arse to the

shops somehow and get the poor buggers a present. This is just so

unlike me as Christmas has always been one of my highlights and i

have always been well prepared and gone overboard. I have caught

them sneaking around looking for where i have hidden the presents

(haven't the heart to tell them there aren't any to find!) The ex

came around and got the tree down from the cupboard for me, but it

still isn't up. Seems my lack of motivation is rubbing off on the

kids which is a worry. Oh well, weekend is coming and maybe we can

throw a bit of tinsel around, bit sad.

Apparently I get to do Christmas for my mum & sister again this

year! Thanks guys i need the extra pressure and expense. Mum

doesn't help as it is against her religion to celebrate Christmas,

but I know she will still turn up, just to make us uncomfortable and

not let us play carols or be chrismassy etc. My poor sister can't

do anything at the moment either. What a fun bunch we are going to

be, I can just imagine the disaster already. Stopit Janice, be

POSITIVE!

Anyway enough whining from me, I really do hope things look up for

you soon.

Take care

Janice

[Guest guest]

My PA surfaced years after a bad car wreck, I destroyed my neck and have

been on MS Contin (time released Morphine) for years, I have to fight not to

increase the dosage, but it is the only thing that has worked. It feels much

more organic to me than any of the other things I have tried, but it is best to

stay away from all of them if you can bear it. I would hit the wall at 100 MPH

if I ran out.....very addictive. But not nearly as ugly as some others.

Luck

Bobby

[Guest guest]

Janice- thank you for your insight. Have a good day.

Greg

--- Arthritis <urhealth@...> wrote:

> Well done Greg to remind us all to seek and check

> out other options and

> opinions. (Hi Janice, I use Ultram 100mg which has

> helped

> greatly. It is my understanding that it is

> non-adictive and it helps with

> depression. Cymbalta, a anti-depressive, may also

> help you. Posted by: " Greg

> Livorno " ) But we obviously don't have the same facts

> about these drugs.

> Please see below. I can only re iterate that before

> taking any other

> medications/over the counter products/herbal

> remedies you do your own

> research. What may work and not harm some may not be

> for you because of

> other health issues. There are more natural

> treatments for Depression.

>

> Cymbalta has a long list of don'ts and a long list

> of side effects. The same

> goes for Ultram (Tramadol). Please check these out

> very carefully.

>

>

> Ultram - Seizures (convulsions) have occurred in

> some people taking

> tramadol. You may be more likely to have a seizure

> while taking tramadol if

> you have a history of seizures or head injury, a

> metabolic disorder, or if

> you are taking certain medicines such as

> antidepressants, muscle relaxers,

> or medicine for nausea and vomiting.

[Guest guest]

You need to listen to the tape The Secret, think positive and have great

Christmas with your beautuful children, You are making memories for them to

cherish for years to comel. String popcorn for the tree!!!! Enjoy the moment!

I work on a christmas project and than take a nap, space your time

Janice <itchy_itch69@...> wrote:

Thanks Marietta & Greg,

I did some research after reading Gregs post on Ultram, and yes, it

is the same as the generic Tramal that I have taken in the past. I

thought this was the one I wanted, but I found an old out of date (i

know - bad girl) packet in my med cabinet. I had written across it -

very strong, knocks me out. So yes, I have the same effect as

you " out of it " and that wouldn't do for me at all. I think it

really mixes badly with the Zoloft i take for my bipolar and read

that I shouldn't take it with an addiction history or bipolar

either. So for now i will just stick to the Codeine. They are

knocking the edge off the pain a little bit so doing ok and don't

make me too drowsy or anything like that, just give me a tummy ache

(had to buy good ole laxative tonight. lol) The ibuprofen i have

been taking gave me diarrhoea so i thought i may end up just normal,

but nah.

I hope things are getting better for you with your sinus infection

and inflammation. Not too long to go hopefully until you start on

the Remicade - just try and keep well...and then you have to root

canal to look forward to, very nice indeed!

I understand with the worry with young ones trying so hard to be a

good mum, especially this time of year. I am lucky that my two are

12 & 13, so getting old enough to help out a bit. I had the whip

out on them yesterday to mow the lawn, they were not impressed and

it cost me lots of pocket money.lol. I hate having to get the kids

to do things like that and really makes me feel yuk, but

unfortunately there is no-one else to help.

I really wish Christmas wasn't so close. My pay went on meds this

week. So only 1 pay left and then i have to get my arse to the

shops somehow and get the poor buggers a present. This is just so

unlike me as Christmas has always been one of my highlights and i

have always been well prepared and gone overboard. I have caught

them sneaking around looking for where i have hidden the presents

(haven't the heart to tell them there aren't any to find!) The ex

came around and got the tree down from the cupboard for me, but it

still isn't up. Seems my lack of motivation is rubbing off on the

kids which is a worry. Oh well, weekend is coming and maybe we can

throw a bit of tinsel around, bit sad.

Apparently I get to do Christmas for my mum & sister again this

year! Thanks guys i need the extra pressure and expense. Mum

doesn't help as it is against her religion to celebrate Christmas,

but I know she will still turn up, just to make us uncomfortable and

not let us play carols or be chrismassy etc. My poor sister can't

do anything at the moment either. What a fun bunch we are going to

be, I can just imagine the disaster already. Stopit Janice, be

POSITIVE!

Anyway enough whining from me, I really do hope things look up for

you soon.

Take care

Janice

---------------------------------

Everyone is raving about the all-new beta.

[Guest guest]

Thanks for that Bobby, It helps me understand things alot better

with my sisters' problems hearing that. And I heed you, I will

certainly refrain from going down that path and thank that I haven't

had the need to.

I had a huge laugh at my own ignorance though...a little bit of

research tells me that the painkiller that I am taking is a

narcotic.. They nearly all are. lol. I felt so stupid that I never

thought I was being given narcotics - how nieve!! They are much

lesser than your schedule though so I am pleased with that. I

thought as they were called Panadeine Forte - that they were just a

strong panadol...not good...I have been given these level of drugs

so many times over the years, that it now quite concerns me. I will

be using them sparingly and more wisely from now on.

Thank goodness for this group, I have learnt so much more from here

than i have been able to in many, many hours research on the

internet. And really honest insights to this disease that I could

never have imagined. I feel like it gives me so much more power and

control over my own physical and mental state. I hate to think

where I would honestly be right now if it wasn't for everyones

support and information.

I am frightened about starting the mtx tomorrow, but I know i will

be ok. It is just such a big thing to be doing to my body, but i

know i need it if i want some relief. I wouldn't be starting this

if it wasn't for the groups information either. So i just have to

say the BIGGEST THANK YOU TO ALL YOU BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE I HAVE FOUND

ON HERE.

And an ESPECIALLY BIG THANK YOU TO KATHY F, you have really made me

feel welcome and your information, advice and support has always

been just spot on. I love reading all the posts and I and I'm sure

everyone would like to thank you for the amount of your time you

must spend looking after this groups posts. It makes a huge

difference in peoples lives. You are really appreciated.

Feeling much better.

Janice

[Editor's Note: Good luck with the MTX. It's a big and very important step on

your path to feeling better. I'm so happy to hear that you get so much out of

this group and it says a lot about you that even though you feel awful, you are

giving back to others by taking the time and effort to post. Your comments

about me are not necessary, but are appreciated. Kathy F.]

>

> My PA surfaced years after a bad car wreck, I destroyed my neck

and have

> been on MS Contin (time released Morphine) for years, I have to

fight not to

> increase the dosage, but it is the only thing that has worked. It

feels much

> more organic to me than any of the other things I have tried, but

it is best to

> stay away from all of them if you can bear it. I would hit the

wall at 100 MPH

> if I ran out.....very addictive. But not nearly as ugly as some

others.

> Luck

> Bobby

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Janice,

Thank you for the kind thoughts! I am better enough to wrap presents

& make some christmas cookies. Though for the presents I bought big

decorated felt drawstring bags at 's (a craft store), so

minimal " wrapping " , I just stuffed everything in the bags LOL.

We also celebrate winter solstice, so I get to pull off TWO

celebrations in the same week! But I'm trying to pace myself & enjoy

everything. My 5yo is turning 6 on Jan 3rd, so I get to do a

birthday party coming up too.

I will be off my antibiotic in the nick of time to start Remicade on

Wednesday, but I am still having a really hard time with the pain &

inflammation right now. Tonight we are going to see the lights at

the Phoenix zoo, and my husband will have to push me around in a

wheelchair... not how I was going to enjoy the holidays this year.

But things transpired to end up this way.

-Marietta

> I hope things are getting better for you with your sinus infection

> and inflammation. Not too long to go hopefully until you start on

> the Remicade - just try and keep well...and then you have to root

> canal to look forward to, very nice indeed!

[Guest guest]

Marieta,

You could pretend you are a princess for a day, or night in your circumstance

and your " kingdom " is putting on this fabulous celebration. And of course, a

princess wouldn't even dream of walking anywhere but instead have some other

type of transportation, be it wheelchair or chariot! Anyway, its more fun that

thinking you have to use a wheelchair because of the pain! And I'm sure your

almost 5 year old would get into the role play. Best wishes and Merry Christmas!

Ann

Marietta <mariettashirk@...> wrote:

I will be off my antibiotic in the nick of time to start Remicade on

Wednesday, but I am still having a really hard time with the pain &

inflammation right now. Tonight we are going to see the lights at

the Phoenix zoo, and my husband will have to push me around in a

wheelchair... not how I was going to enjoy the holidays this year.

But things transpired to end up this way.

-Marietta

[Guest guest]

so Janice, how are you feeling on the MTX? i remember my first day. if your

stomach starts feeling funny try alittle benadryl. and i take mine on Saturday

nite before bed so i sleep through the effects. don't expect miracles it takes a

while. I've been on for 1.5 years with no problems worth mentioning. i do

recommend that you take during a couple days off from work. it can make you

sleepy. good luck and congratulations. Casey

Janice <itchy_itch69@...> wrote: Thanks for that Bobby, It

helps me understand things alot better

with my sisters' problems hearing that. And I heed you, I will

certainly refrain from going down that path and thank that I haven't

had the need to.

I had a huge laugh at my own ignorance though...a little bit of

research tells me that the painkiller that I am taking is a

narcotic.. They nearly all are. lol. I felt so stupid that I never

thought I was being given narcotics - how nieve!! They are much

lesser than your schedule though so I am pleased with that. I

thought as they were called Panadeine Forte - that they were just a

strong panadol...not good...I have been given these level of drugs

so many times over the years, that it now quite concerns me. I will

be using them sparingly and more wisely from now on.

Thank goodness for this group, I have learnt so much more from here

than i have been able to in many, many hours research on the

internet. And really honest insights to this disease that I could

never have imagined. I feel like it gives me so much more power and

control over my own physical and mental state. I hate to think

where I would honestly be right now if it wasn't for everyones

support and information.

I am frightened about starting the mtx tomorrow, but I know i will

be ok. It is just such a big thing to be doing to my body, but i

know i need it if i want some relief. I wouldn't be starting this

if it wasn't for the groups information either. So i just have to

say the BIGGEST THANK YOU TO ALL YOU BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE I HAVE FOUND

ON HERE.

And an ESPECIALLY BIG THANK YOU TO KATHY F, you have really made me

feel welcome and your information, advice and support has always

been just spot on. I love reading all the posts and I and I'm sure

everyone would like to thank you for the amount of your time you

must spend looking after this groups posts. It makes a huge

difference in peoples lives. You are really appreciated.

Feeling much better.

Janice

[Editor's Note: Good luck with the MTX. It's a big and very important step on

your path to feeling better. I'm so happy to hear that you get so much out of

this group and it says a lot about you that even though you feel awful, you are

giving back to others by taking the time and effort to post. Your comments about

me are not necessary, but are appreciated. Kathy F.]

>

> My PA surfaced years after a bad car wreck, I destroyed my neck

and have

> been on MS Contin (time released Morphine) for years, I have to

fight not to

> increase the dosage, but it is the only thing that has worked. It

feels much

> more organic to me than any of the other things I have tried, but

it is best to

> stay away from all of them if you can bear it. I would hit the

wall at 100 MPH

> if I ran out.....very addictive. But not nearly as ugly as some

others.

> Luck

> Bobby

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Casey,

Thanks for asking about the MTX. I stupidly thought that as I was

taking the very smallest dose you can, that it would be peachy! I

put it off until lunch time on Saturday. Won't be making that

mistake again. Really didn't affect me to badly, just a little

dizzy and a bit of nausea, but I take Somac for my stomach acid

anyway, so i think that helped. The weirdest thing was even though

i was warned about the increased sensitivity to sunlight, I wasn't

expecting it to affect my eyes. I couldn't handle daylight from

inside (it was even overcast) Had to have the curtains drawn and I

was still squinting with sore eyes. Certainly couldn't look at the

computer or TV. Then I fell asleep at 6.00 and managed to waste

most of my Saturday. Taking it at bedtime will obviously stop any of

that, so I will definately be taking that road and probably Friday

night would be best, just in case. Although I do think I am going

to be one of the lucky ones and not have bad side affects either.

Can I ask is Benadryl the same in the US as here in Oz, in that it

is a cough medicine???

I understand not to expect results until a few months, is that

right? I had a really painful day Sunday, but Monday was

wonderful. ) Didn't need any pain meds for work so I was really

happy. Unfortunately today was back to normal....but I am still

happy.

Cheers and thanks for the Good Luck wishes.

Janice

>

> so Janice, how are you feeling on the MTX? i remember my first

day. if your stomach starts feeling funny try alittle benadryl. and

i take mine on Saturday nite before bed so i sleep through the

effects. don't expect miracles it takes a while. I've been on for

1.5 years with no problems worth mentioning. i do recommend that you

take during a couple days off from work. it can make you sleepy.

good luck and congratulations. Casey

>

[Guest guest]

Janice, everyone reacts differently but I started to notice slight

improvement from the very beginning. Every week was a little better.

I was able to slowly start reducing the amount of painkillers I was

taking. I hope you are as lucky as I was!

best,

sherry z

>

> I understand not to expect results until a few months, is that

> right? I

[Guest guest]

the benedryl in US is the little pink capsule. buy at any drug store.

amtihistamine only. hope you can find. casey

Janice <itchy_itch69@...> wrote: Hi Casey,

Thanks for asking about the MTX. I stupidly thought that as I was

taking the very smallest dose you can, that it would be peachy! I

put it off until lunch time on Saturday. Won't be making that

mistake again. Really didn't affect me to badly, just a little

dizzy and a bit of nausea, but I take Somac for my stomach acid

anyway, so i think that helped. The weirdest thing was even though

i was warned about the increased sensitivity to sunlight, I wasn't

expecting it to affect my eyes. I couldn't handle daylight from

inside (it was even overcast) Had to have the curtains drawn and I

was still squinting with sore eyes. Certainly couldn't look at the

computer or TV. Then I fell asleep at 6.00 and managed to waste

most of my Saturday. Taking it at bedtime will obviously stop any of

that, so I will definately be taking that road and probably Friday

night would be best, just in case. Although I do think I am going

to be one of the lucky ones and not have bad side affects either.

Can I ask is Benadryl the same in the US as here in Oz, in that it

is a cough medicine???

I understand not to expect results until a few months, is that

right? I had a really painful day Sunday, but Monday was

wonderful. ) Didn't need any pain meds for work so I was really

happy. Unfortunately today was back to normal....but I am still

happy.

Cheers and thanks for the Good Luck wishes.

Janice