Introducing
Dr. Lauren Wise
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
From the Fibroid Summit...Introducing
If you read the fibroid summit post on May 3, 2012 titled "Risk Factors for Fibroids in Black Women" then you'll remember this presenter.
Introducing
Dr. Lauren Wise
Introducing
Dr. Lauren Wise
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
It's A Thin Line Between Love & Hate (Entry #13)
(Excerpt taken from a previous document)
One thing I’ve discovered is that what works for one person, may not work for another. Having a hysterectomy may not solve my problems anyway. Endometriosis can come back even after having surgery. Having a baby does not cure endometriosis. It can come back once the woman’s period starts up again.
If nothing else, this Lupron is buying me some time to make other decisions if need be. I’ll let you know how things go.
Around the middle/end of January I got another injection of Lupron and started add-back therapy. It’s the end of February 2006. I have a love/hate relationship with this Lupron and add-back therapy. Of course it’s great not to have the pain. Who could argue with that? With this add-back therapy, I’m not hot flashing like before. However, I do still have night sweats (chest, pelvic area, ankles) from time to time; I still have insomnia which leaves me tired and sleepy when I get up and throughout the day. It’s difficult to think; my memory is shot; it’s hard to focus and I’m basically tired all the time.
One thing I’ve discovered is that what works for one person, may not work for another. Having a hysterectomy may not solve my problems anyway. Endometriosis can come back even after having surgery. Having a baby does not cure endometriosis. It can come back once the woman’s period starts up again.
If nothing else, this Lupron is buying me some time to make other decisions if need be. I’ll let you know how things go.
Around the middle/end of January I got another injection of Lupron and started add-back therapy. It’s the end of February 2006. I have a love/hate relationship with this Lupron and add-back therapy. Of course it’s great not to have the pain. Who could argue with that? With this add-back therapy, I’m not hot flashing like before. However, I do still have night sweats (chest, pelvic area, ankles) from time to time; I still have insomnia which leaves me tired and sleepy when I get up and throughout the day. It’s difficult to think; my memory is shot; it’s hard to focus and I’m basically tired all the time.
Did I tell you about all of the weight that I’ve gained. Most of my clothes are too tight. I don’t want to speak too soon about Lupron and the add-back causing this, so I have been consistently working out since the beginning of 2006 and watching what I eat. I work out 4 to 5 days a week and keep my calorie intake down.
My doctor tells me that I’ll be on Lupron indefinitely. I don’t like this. I don’t like this at all.
My doctor tells me that I’ll be on Lupron indefinitely. I don’t like this. I don’t like this at all.
Monday, November 19, 2012
From the Fibroid Summit...Introducing
If you read the April 27, 2012 post titled, "Uterine Fibroid Embolization...."
Introducing
Dr. James Spies
Introducing
Dr. James Spies
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Pill -1 / Breenabwell - 0. Back to Crazy (Entry #12)
(An excerpt from a previous document. (c))
Anyway, back at home in the bed with a heating pad, of course. Heat was definitely one of the keys to some relief. I was taking all kinds of drugs (percoset, anaprox, Demerol, etc) probably up to two weeks after my period and I was back on birth control pills.
I went from the type of pain I was having during/after my bowel movements to sharp pains in my left vaginal area (the endometriosis was mostly on my left side). These sharp pains would be all throughout the day. At night the sharp pains would be more continuous, keeping me from sleeping. I think I could take 3 200 mg ibuprofen tablets and the pain subsided somewhat.
After E-mailing Doc G with questions, seeing several other gyns (who I might say are probably great gyns, but .....), researching endometriosis, I was finally convinced or at least had resigned to taking the Lupron with the add back therapy indefinitely.
Anyway, back at home in the bed with a heating pad, of course. Heat was definitely one of the keys to some relief. I was taking all kinds of drugs (percoset, anaprox, Demerol, etc) probably up to two weeks after my period and I was back on birth control pills.
I went from the type of pain I was having during/after my bowel movements to sharp pains in my left vaginal area (the endometriosis was mostly on my left side). These sharp pains would be all throughout the day. At night the sharp pains would be more continuous, keeping me from sleeping. I think I could take 3 200 mg ibuprofen tablets and the pain subsided somewhat.
After E-mailing Doc G with questions, seeing several other gyns (who I might say are probably great gyns, but .....), researching endometriosis, I was finally convinced or at least had resigned to taking the Lupron with the add back therapy indefinitely.
Today, is Thursday, November 03, 2005. I received my shot of Lupron/3 month on Tuesday and started the add-back therapy on Wednesday morning. I take that as I did my birth control pills , but instead of the bc pill. Well so far so good. I actually said that today was fabulous. I didn’t think I would be using that adjective to describe my days anymore.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
No More Pasta! Mama Mia!
Co-workers told me about both of these pasta-free noodles
Kelp Noodles - Good substitute for wheat pasta. A raw food
Kelp noodles - Made from kelp (seaweed). Mineral rich, low in calories, fat-free. Your local health food store should have, but if not they can order it for you. I like the Sea Tangle Noodle Company's brand, but then again, I haven't seen / tried any other brand.
Spaghetti Squash - an oblong seed-bearing variety of winter squash. The fruit can range either from ivory to yellow or orange in color. The orange varieties have a higher carotene content. Its center contains many large seeds. Its flesh is bright yellow or orange. When raw, the flesh is solid and similar to other raw squash; when cooked, the flesh falls away from the fruit in ribbons or strands like spaghetti. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spaghetti_squash
Kelp Noodles - Good substitute for wheat pasta. A raw food
Kelp noodles - Made from kelp (seaweed). Mineral rich, low in calories, fat-free. Your local health food store should have, but if not they can order it for you. I like the Sea Tangle Noodle Company's brand, but then again, I haven't seen / tried any other brand.
Spaghetti Squash - an oblong seed-bearing variety of winter squash. The fruit can range either from ivory to yellow or orange in color. The orange varieties have a higher carotene content. Its center contains many large seeds. Its flesh is bright yellow or orange. When raw, the flesh is solid and similar to other raw squash; when cooked, the flesh falls away from the fruit in ribbons or strands like spaghetti. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spaghetti_squash
Saturday, October 20, 2012
From the Fibroid Summit...Introducing
If you read the April 11, 2012 post titled, "Fibroids In African American Women Are Different." Introducing
Dr. James Segars
Dr. James Segars
Saturday, October 13, 2012
The Workout I Won't Be Doing
Not yet anyway....
The following is an example of a typical workout I would do back in 2008. I would work out 4 to 5 days a week:
Saturday
20 minute run on treadmill
4 sets of 18 leg press @ 105lbs
4 sets of 15 leg ext @ 40lbs
4 sets of 15 abduction @ 99lbs
4 sets of 15 adduction @ 110lbs
4 sets of 20 back ext @ 55lbs
4 sets of 15 standing calf raise @ 55lbs
20 minutes elliptical
Sunday
20 minute run on treadmill
4 sets of 12 bench press @ 55lbs
4 sets of 12 lat pulldown @ 50lbs
4 sets of 20 ab ball side to side @ albs
20 minute stationary bike
Boo - ya!
No mas! I just can't! Not right now....
That was then, and this is now -
Walking a 3.5 mile stretch in my neighborhood with my neighbor (as many days a week as we can get in).
I told my doctor I wanted to incorporate weights into my workout and he suggested the following (my sister said she had heard about this on some website)
Before you sit down to watch your your favorite television show, grab some free weights (10lb or 5lb or whatever) and put on the floor near where you'll be sitting. Once your program starts, enjoy the show. However, every time a commercial comes on, pick up your weights and do some bicep curls or triceps curls or squats.
Now you know that shows break for commercial every 5 seconds (okay, not that frequent). So by the time your show is over, you will have completed a nice little session. BOOM- LOOK WHO STEPPED IN THE ROOM!
Move!
The following is an example of a typical workout I would do back in 2008. I would work out 4 to 5 days a week:
Saturday
20 minute run on treadmill
4 sets of 18 leg press @ 105lbs
4 sets of 15 leg ext @ 40lbs
4 sets of 15 abduction @ 99lbs
4 sets of 15 adduction @ 110lbs
4 sets of 20 back ext @ 55lbs
4 sets of 15 standing calf raise @ 55lbs
20 minutes elliptical
Sunday
20 minute run on treadmill
4 sets of 12 bench press @ 55lbs
4 sets of 12 lat pulldown @ 50lbs
4 sets of 20 ab ball side to side @ albs
20 minute stationary bike
Boo - ya!
No mas! I just can't! Not right now....
That was then, and this is now -
Walking a 3.5 mile stretch in my neighborhood with my neighbor (as many days a week as we can get in).
I told my doctor I wanted to incorporate weights into my workout and he suggested the following (my sister said she had heard about this on some website)
Before you sit down to watch your your favorite television show, grab some free weights (10lb or 5lb or whatever) and put on the floor near where you'll be sitting. Once your program starts, enjoy the show. However, every time a commercial comes on, pick up your weights and do some bicep curls or triceps curls or squats.
Now you know that shows break for commercial every 5 seconds (okay, not that frequent). So by the time your show is over, you will have completed a nice little session. BOOM- LOOK WHO STEPPED IN THE ROOM!
Move!
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Gives Me the Blues...the Yellows and Greens too....
Blueberry, Banana, and Mango Smoothie
1 Ripe banana
1 1/2 c of frozen mango cubes
1 c of frozen blueberries
About 8 ounces of rice milk (or your favorite non-dairy beverage, i.e. soy milk, almond milk, etc.) Add more as necessary to get to your desired consistency.
Blend in the blender or vitamix or ninja until smoothified! Best served cold! Enjoy!
Green Smoothie
Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bmwv7EvVjGM From the Health Master website
1 peeled banana
2 pineapple spears - remove core
1 1/2 c coconut water (I like Amy & Brian's coconut juice)
1 tsp flax oil
1cup ice
4 clean kale leaves - stems removed I sometimes even change out kale for another of my favorite greens, use frozen greens instead of fresh (when I don't have time to clean the kale) and use more flax oil.
Blend in blender until blended or smoothified! Best served cold! Enjoy! "So Funk-da-fied!"
What You Know To Be True
Noni of Three Naturals said it best
Sometimes situations in life can threaten to totally overwhelm you. They can have you thinking that you’re extremely exhausted and at the end of yourself. Or that there is no end and you’ll be stuck wherever you are forever. When you start to reason with this ‘stinkin thinkin’ you’ve got to separate what you feel from what you know. Remember that feelings are fickle but knowledge is steadfast. You need to know and believe it will get better. The more truth you know the better.
She says to "remind yourself of what you KNOW to be true."
I say that God is good and that is what I know to be true.
Sometimes situations in life can threaten to totally overwhelm you. They can have you thinking that you’re extremely exhausted and at the end of yourself. Or that there is no end and you’ll be stuck wherever you are forever. When you start to reason with this ‘stinkin thinkin’ you’ve got to separate what you feel from what you know. Remember that feelings are fickle but knowledge is steadfast. You need to know and believe it will get better. The more truth you know the better.
She says to "remind yourself of what you KNOW to be true."
I say that God is good and that is what I know to be true.
Monday, October 1, 2012
From the Fibroid Summit...Introducing
Today begins a short series of posts titled "From the Fibroid Summit...Introducing." In this series I'll be providing you with the bios from some of the speakers at the Howard University Fibroid Summit that was held in March 2012. Their work may inspire you and give you hope that somebody out there does care and is working towards your healing.
Today's post starts with someone you may have already heard of on this blog if you've read the April 12, 2012 post titled The Impact of Fibroids on Infertility.
Introducing Dr. Valerie Rice
Today's post starts with someone you may have already heard of on this blog if you've read the April 12, 2012 post titled The Impact of Fibroids on Infertility.
Introducing Dr. Valerie Rice
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Three Week's Worth of Pain .... Let Me Just Lose My Mind (Entry # 11)
(An excerpt from one of my previous documents on my experiences)
Now the endometriosis symptoms had taken on a different character. It now was lasting beyond the 2-3 days of my period. It was now lasting beyond a week after my period. My period started October 7, 2005. It is now November 3, 2005. This week is the first week that I’ve been basically pain free. Basically.
A week or two after my period, I was still having painful bowel movements. Knowing I needed to move my bowels, but not wanting to or not wanting to eat the foods (fruits and vegetables) that I knew would cause me to have a movement, made me very anxious. Urinating and passing gas was also an issue. I was very sensitive urinating or may have even felt a burning sensation; and either I couldn’t pass gas or it was painful.
One of the days that I went back to work, sure enough I had to have a movement. I went down to the handicap bathroom (don’t frown, you know we all do it) to have my movement. Upon having it / during having it, it sent me into a crazy spiral of pain. I was going out of my mind. I immediately came back upstairs to my office (didn't want anyone I knew to see me coming out of the handicap bathroom), told people I was leaving and taking a cab home.
One of my co-workers / girlfriends came with me to make sure I got home okay. She said my face was flush and she could tell my pain was over the top. I think I scared one of my male co-workers.
Now the endometriosis symptoms had taken on a different character. It now was lasting beyond the 2-3 days of my period. It was now lasting beyond a week after my period. My period started October 7, 2005. It is now November 3, 2005. This week is the first week that I’ve been basically pain free. Basically.
A week or two after my period, I was still having painful bowel movements. Knowing I needed to move my bowels, but not wanting to or not wanting to eat the foods (fruits and vegetables) that I knew would cause me to have a movement, made me very anxious. Urinating and passing gas was also an issue. I was very sensitive urinating or may have even felt a burning sensation; and either I couldn’t pass gas or it was painful.
One of the days that I went back to work, sure enough I had to have a movement. I went down to the handicap bathroom (don’t frown, you know we all do it) to have my movement. Upon having it / during having it, it sent me into a crazy spiral of pain. I was going out of my mind. I immediately came back upstairs to my office (didn't want anyone I knew to see me coming out of the handicap bathroom), told people I was leaving and taking a cab home.
One of my co-workers / girlfriends came with me to make sure I got home okay. She said my face was flush and she could tell my pain was over the top. I think I scared one of my male co-workers.
Men - they don’t have a clue.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Here We Go! (Entry #10)
(Excerpt taken from previous document of my experiences)
I ended up getting the same doctor (emergency room doctor that is) that originally diagnosed me with endometriosis back in September 2004. I was glad to see him and updated him on what had been going on with me regarding the endometriosis. He said that there are many options out there for treating and dealing with endometriosis and that I should get with my gynecologist about them. I told him I have and I would.
I saw Doc G again and told him of my symptoms. He performed a rectal exam, inserting his finger into my anus. I wanted to kick him in the mouth. Unreal, pain. Doc told me he believed I should get back on Lupron, but this time with the add back therapy that would help with the bone loss/thinning and decrease the hot flashes. I was very skeptical, especially looking at what happened after I got off Lupron before. In my mind I did not want to be going around in circles and was contemplating surgery with a gyn out on the west coast. It is Doc’s opinion though, that it is best to try to treat something medically than going to radical surgery.
I had also hoped to just take the active only birth control pills so my period would not come on, but Doc said I was in stage 3/4 of endometriosis and past the birth control pill stage. WON - DER - FUL!
I ended up getting the same doctor (emergency room doctor that is) that originally diagnosed me with endometriosis back in September 2004. I was glad to see him and updated him on what had been going on with me regarding the endometriosis. He said that there are many options out there for treating and dealing with endometriosis and that I should get with my gynecologist about them. I told him I have and I would.
I saw Doc G again and told him of my symptoms. He performed a rectal exam, inserting his finger into my anus. I wanted to kick him in the mouth. Unreal, pain. Doc told me he believed I should get back on Lupron, but this time with the add back therapy that would help with the bone loss/thinning and decrease the hot flashes. I was very skeptical, especially looking at what happened after I got off Lupron before. In my mind I did not want to be going around in circles and was contemplating surgery with a gyn out on the west coast. It is Doc’s opinion though, that it is best to try to treat something medically than going to radical surgery.
I had also hoped to just take the active only birth control pills so my period would not come on, but Doc said I was in stage 3/4 of endometriosis and past the birth control pill stage. WON - DER - FUL!
The Aliens Within
I hope you find this informative.
Monday, June 25, 2012
About 30 days ago.....
Was my last post. What's up with that? Well.....
I'm enrolled in UNC-Chapel Hill's online program focusing on the core concepts in public health. The one, "1," course I was enrolled in is part of 5 course program offered by the University. The course was great, informative, enjoyed it and now I'm glad it's over. It took up more of my time than I expected, but that's really no excuse for why I haven't posted more consistently in the past 30 days. However, that's what I'm using anyways as my excuse.
Moving on.....
Upcoming posts will include pictures of fibroids and endometriosis, which goes along with my post dated 4/21/12 titled "The Endo Surgery - Round One (Entry #7)," and what the Docs are saying now (lab reports - a breakdown in layman's terms).
Live your life and be well.
I'm enrolled in UNC-Chapel Hill's online program focusing on the core concepts in public health. The one, "1," course I was enrolled in is part of 5 course program offered by the University. The course was great, informative, enjoyed it and now I'm glad it's over. It took up more of my time than I expected, but that's really no excuse for why I haven't posted more consistently in the past 30 days. However, that's what I'm using anyways as my excuse.
Moving on.....
Upcoming posts will include pictures of fibroids and endometriosis, which goes along with my post dated 4/21/12 titled "The Endo Surgery - Round One (Entry #7)," and what the Docs are saying now (lab reports - a breakdown in layman's terms).
Live your life and be well.
Friday, May 25, 2012
The Health Datapalooza? Sold Out!
What: Plug into the Ecosystem of Health Innovation. Bring creative ideas, and connect with startups, developers, and designers. Learn how to utilize the exploding market of healthcare data innovation, and network with recognized VCs, funders, policy makers, and potential partners.
The Health Datapalooza will feature keynote addresses, a Data & Apps Expo, demonstrations of cutting-edge apps, hands-on data deep dives, and thought-provoking panel discussions. There will also be plenty of time for networking and one-on-one interaction.
Where: The Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC
When: June 5-6, 2012
Harnessing the Power of Data to Improve Health
The Health Data Initiative is a public-private collaboration that encourages innovators, entrepreneurs, startups, data geeks, community activists and policy makers to utilize health data to develop products and applications to raise awareness of health and health system performance and spark action to improve health.
On June 9th the Department of Health and Human Services and the Institute of Medicine will hold a second health data forum that will bring together over 500 people in person to showcase how health data can create tools and applications to support more informed decision-making by consumers/patients, health care systems, and community officials.
The innovators presenting are a great example of how data and technology can be harnessed in powerful ways to help provide better care and better health.
Over 40 companies will be featured. This event will be live streamed throughout the day with a series of major announcements (challenges issued, new university programs and partnerships, and new major activity in the startup world).
Although sold out, you can get on the Health Data Initiative Forum III mailing list.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
The Pain? Tick Tock and It Don't Stop.... (Entry # 9)
(Excerpt taken from previous document of my experiences)
My October period. Well, what can I say? This was the end all be all of everything I had gone through. Pain galore. I had to go to the ER on Friday.
My parents were on their way up here and I called them on their cell and told them to just meet me at the hospital. By the time I got to the hospital and parked my car and was heading to the building, Mom and Dad pulled up. I was so glad to see them. Mom got out the car and I wrapped my arms around her and just started crying. Crying in because I was glad to see them and crying due to the pain. We got checked in and sat down. Dad came in shortly and I wrapped my arms around him from where I sat and started crying again.
Before too too long, staff called me back. I sat down and they took my temperature and blood pressure. It was then time to sign the insurance paperwork. The desk for this couldn’t have been anymore than 10 steps away, but I could not get up. I knew and felt that it was going to be too painful. Mom and Dad said they would help me, but I didn’t want to. I finally did get up and screamed out in pain and started crying. I had one arm around Mom’s neck and one around Dad’s neck (my parents are in their seventies and eighties - I’m supposed to be taking care of them).
You must believe me when I say that this kind of pain is just unimaginable. I sat down and signed my name to all the papers. By this time, I had this down and didn’t have to read anything. I was in so much pain I just signed. Staff had gotten a wheelchair for me by this time to take me to a room in the back. Mom went back with me and helped me get into the gown. At some point the doctor came in asked me some questions and I was administered some medication. He said the medicine would not take away all of my pain, but make it more manageable. He didn’t lie. The medicine did not take away most of my pain, but I thought it would get better.
Why couldn’t the medicine take away all of my pain as it had in the past? I don’t believe that he gave me enough of whatever. Anyway, he prescribed anaprox and I already had percoset. He said if need be I could take them together and you better believe I did. But I ran out of Percoset.
Saturday morning I was still in pain and got my parents up around 6 or 6:30 am and we headed back to the hospital.
My October period. Well, what can I say? This was the end all be all of everything I had gone through. Pain galore. I had to go to the ER on Friday.
My parents were on their way up here and I called them on their cell and told them to just meet me at the hospital. By the time I got to the hospital and parked my car and was heading to the building, Mom and Dad pulled up. I was so glad to see them. Mom got out the car and I wrapped my arms around her and just started crying. Crying in because I was glad to see them and crying due to the pain. We got checked in and sat down. Dad came in shortly and I wrapped my arms around him from where I sat and started crying again.
Before too too long, staff called me back. I sat down and they took my temperature and blood pressure. It was then time to sign the insurance paperwork. The desk for this couldn’t have been anymore than 10 steps away, but I could not get up. I knew and felt that it was going to be too painful. Mom and Dad said they would help me, but I didn’t want to. I finally did get up and screamed out in pain and started crying. I had one arm around Mom’s neck and one around Dad’s neck (my parents are in their seventies and eighties - I’m supposed to be taking care of them).
You must believe me when I say that this kind of pain is just unimaginable. I sat down and signed my name to all the papers. By this time, I had this down and didn’t have to read anything. I was in so much pain I just signed. Staff had gotten a wheelchair for me by this time to take me to a room in the back. Mom went back with me and helped me get into the gown. At some point the doctor came in asked me some questions and I was administered some medication. He said the medicine would not take away all of my pain, but make it more manageable. He didn’t lie. The medicine did not take away most of my pain, but I thought it would get better.
Why couldn’t the medicine take away all of my pain as it had in the past? I don’t believe that he gave me enough of whatever. Anyway, he prescribed anaprox and I already had percoset. He said if need be I could take them together and you better believe I did. But I ran out of Percoset.
Saturday morning I was still in pain and got my parents up around 6 or 6:30 am and we headed back to the hospital.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Too Hot, Too Cold & Definitely Not Just Right (Entry #8)
So we left off with me telling you that Doc put me on Lupron after my surgery. Ahh yes; Lupron....
(Excerpt taken from previous document of my experiences)
While I was on the Lupron, I didn’t have any periods so I didn’t have any pain. However, I was hot flashing all over the place and suffered from severe insomnia. I was waking up almost every hour, covers on --- covers off because I was hot and then cold. I was unfocused and tired at work. It was just a crazy time. The Lupron started wearing off and I started to feel normal again, although my periods hadn’t started back yet. I was happy, but just a little concerned about why my period had not come on yet and whether that was normal.
Come September 2005, I finally had my first period since being off the Lupron. Oh, No! The pains from the endometriosis came back with a vengeance. I went into the hospital in excruciating pain. Staff ended up giving me morphine, which felt like a blessing sent by God. For Real. I then had a sonogram and pelvic probe. Finally I could get some rest and sleep.
I had already had an appointment scheduled with Doc G. When I saw him I told him what happened and asked if all of my periods were going to be like this and he said he didn’t know. The Sunday after my period started I started taking birth control pills Doc had prescribed (ortho tri cyclen). The hope was that taking birth control pills would help me during my periods.
(Excerpt taken from previous document of my experiences)
While I was on the Lupron, I didn’t have any periods so I didn’t have any pain. However, I was hot flashing all over the place and suffered from severe insomnia. I was waking up almost every hour, covers on --- covers off because I was hot and then cold. I was unfocused and tired at work. It was just a crazy time. The Lupron started wearing off and I started to feel normal again, although my periods hadn’t started back yet. I was happy, but just a little concerned about why my period had not come on yet and whether that was normal.
Come September 2005, I finally had my first period since being off the Lupron. Oh, No! The pains from the endometriosis came back with a vengeance. I went into the hospital in excruciating pain. Staff ended up giving me morphine, which felt like a blessing sent by God. For Real. I then had a sonogram and pelvic probe. Finally I could get some rest and sleep.
I had already had an appointment scheduled with Doc G. When I saw him I told him what happened and asked if all of my periods were going to be like this and he said he didn’t know. The Sunday after my period started I started taking birth control pills Doc had prescribed (ortho tri cyclen). The hope was that taking birth control pills would help me during my periods.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Is Participating in a Health Study for You?
Are you a part of a health study or clinical trial?
As mentioned in my earlier post, "Risk Factors for Fibroids in Black Women," not enough black women are participating in health studies for researchers and investigators to fully study and present solid results on the things that affect us (i.e. fibroids)
I have been part of the Black Women's Health Study for a number of years now. 99.9% of my participation has been through completing a questionnaire every 2 years. Perhaps it was only once that I was requested to provide a saliva sample. A couple of years ago, I found out that one of my aunt's has been part of this study. I did not feel that the study was intrusive at all.
When I spoke to Dr. Wise at the summit to let her know I had been part of the study for some time, she was elated and thanked me for my participation. Many of the doctors and researchers there stressed the need for participation of African-American women in studies.
As mentioned in my earlier post, "Risk Factors for Fibroids in Black Women," not enough black women are participating in health studies for researchers and investigators to fully study and present solid results on the things that affect us (i.e. fibroids)
I have been part of the Black Women's Health Study for a number of years now. 99.9% of my participation has been through completing a questionnaire every 2 years. Perhaps it was only once that I was requested to provide a saliva sample. A couple of years ago, I found out that one of my aunt's has been part of this study. I did not feel that the study was intrusive at all.
When I spoke to Dr. Wise at the summit to let her know I had been part of the study for some time, she was elated and thanked me for my participation. Many of the doctors and researchers there stressed the need for participation of African-American women in studies.
Unfortunately, the BWHS cannot invite you to take part in the study. Due to the study design, only the 59,000 women who enrolled in the study in 1995 can participate.
The Black Women's Health Study had a prospective cohort of 59,000 black women ages 21-69 at 1995 (baseline year)- Postal questionnaires were sent to Essence magazine subscribers.
- Baseline: demographic and lifestyle factors; reproductive and medical history
- Data is updated every 2 years
- Cohort retention is greater than 80%
This is the study that I am familiar with, but I am sure there are others. Check out the website at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and think about how you can participate to help improve the health of black women.
Talk to your doctor as she/he may be aware of trials or research that may be of interest or benefit to you.
While clinical trials can lead to the development of medicines (which I still believe eating right, exercise and thoughts can/will heal), they also play a part in finding ways to prevent a disease all together. Finding out why a disease occurs in the first place.
Talk to your doctor as she/he may be aware of trials or research that may be of interest or benefit to you.
While clinical trials can lead to the development of medicines (which I still believe eating right, exercise and thoughts can/will heal), they also play a part in finding ways to prevent a disease all together. Finding out why a disease occurs in the first place.
Call BWHS's toll free number is 1-800-786-0814. Someone may be able to refer you to an on-going study.
Also, check out this NIEHS website for more information about fibroid studies and fibroids.
Also, check out this NIEHS website for more information about fibroid studies and fibroids.
There is so much information out there. Do your homework and definitely talk to your health care provider/partner. If you do decide that participating in a health study is right for you, make sure it is one that you are comfortable with.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Risk Factors for Fibroids in Black Women
The information presented below is based on the presentation of Dr. Lauren Wise, SCD., Associate Professor of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University. [Not all information from the presentation is presented here or for the other Fibroid Summit posts.]
Dr. Weiss has authored several fibroid-related publications including a chapter entitled "Uterine Leiomyomata in Women and Health," Second Edition. She is principal investigator of fibroid studies that use data from the Black Women's Health Study, on ongoing prospective cohort study of African-American women, initiated in 1995.
This is the same Dr. Wise cited in the curly nikki post on fibroids and relaxers.
The presentation was based on recent findings from the Black Women's Health Study.
The findings presented were on
Dr. Weiss has authored several fibroid-related publications including a chapter entitled "Uterine Leiomyomata in Women and Health," Second Edition. She is principal investigator of fibroid studies that use data from the Black Women's Health Study, on ongoing prospective cohort study of African-American women, initiated in 1995.
This is the same Dr. Wise cited in the curly nikki post on fibroids and relaxers.
The presentation was based on recent findings from the Black Women's Health Study.
The findings presented were on
- diet
- genetics
- psychosocial factors
Diet
An Italian study was conducted dealing with fibroids and meat: Chiaffarino et al. 1999
It is known that diet can affect endometrial cancers.
There is an inverse association with diary intake.
There was a 30% risk of fibroids for women who had 4 or more servings of milk.
There was no real soy connection; however, not many participants in her study ate soy.
Fruits and vegetables only presented a modest association with reducing risk.
Citrus fruits had an 8% decrease to the risk.
Citrus fruits had an 8% decrease to the risk.
There were other dietary variables that one might have thought would have affected fibroid risk, but they did not. I am not continuing on with this list because at a later point a woman from the general audience asked if the women in the study had fibroids. I believe Dr. Wise stated that none or most of the women in the study did not have fibroids. The same woman stated that she was able to control her fibroids / fibroid symptoms through her diet of eating fruits and veggies. [I wish I had gotten a chance to speak with her.]
It was stated that more black women should participate in health studies. Also, as with any study, there were a number of limitations to this one. It was noted that more research is needed.
Genetics
Basically, they looked at the percent of the European ancestry on the X chromosome and found that the higher the percent of European ancestry, the lower the incidence for fibroids.
Psychosocial
New data in research is suggesting that exposure to psychosocial stress influences fibroid risk.
- Severe stress in early life is associated with altered regulation of HPA axis. In some cases, stress can up-regulate ovarian steroids and various growth factors involved in fibroid growth.
- Cross-sectional study: major life events, "stress intensity" (Vines et al 2010)
- BWHS: perceived racial discrimination (Wise et al 2007)
- NHS II: early life abuse victimization (Boynton-Jarrett et al 2011)
NHS - Nurse's Health Study; BWHS - Black Women's Health Study
Identified factors that appeared to have a positive association with the risks of fibroids were
- Age
- African ancestry
- Early age at menarche
- Early age at first birth
- Early age at first oral contraceptive use*
- Being overweight
- Weight gain
- Hypertension*
- IUD use
- Alcohol*
- Stress (e.g. racism, child abuse)*
* more data needed
The results were mixed regarding - gynecologic infections and oral contraceptive use in general.
- Race/ethnicity presents a strong risk factor
- Compared with white women, black women have:
- 2- to 3-fold higher incidence
- Earlier age at diagnosis
- Larger and more numbers tumors at diagnosis
- Higher rates of hysterectomy due to fibroids
- [Unfortunately] The majority of studies involve white women.
Much More Research Involving African-American Women Is Needed.
As always contact your health care provider (whomever that may be) regarding your personal and unique health concerns.
Disclaimer: Howard University College of Medicine/Howard University Hospital, and their staffs, and the National Institutes of Health and staff and the doctor/presenter and the blogger for "Sorry But I Had To Scream" are not responsible for injury or illness resulting form the use of medications or modalities discussed during this educational activity.
Websites I found interesting at first glance:
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Hirsutism and Hot Plates..... (Flashback! The wonder years? No, the awkward years!)
Was my first desire to scream when around my early to mid-teens, multitudes of hairs started growing out of my face and neck? Not the cute, soft, light peach fuzz, but dark course hairs that growl at you when you try to cut or pull them out. Side Note: My parents were really great about getting us to the doctors and tending to our health care needs. When my period started, my Mom started taking me to the gynecologist. Yep, there’s an experience for you. Won’t explain it – you know the drill.
Anyway, my parents took me to a specialist at one of the major university hospitals to find out what was going on with me, my periods and this hairy situation. The doctors told me that I had a cyst on my ovaries, which was causing or was caused by hormonal fluctuations which was causing my erratic periods and acute hirsutism (my hairy face). Although I don’t specifically recall all of what the specialist said to do about it, he did suggest birth control pills as a remedy. Ah yes, birth control pills – treat the symptoms, not the cause. What was causing my hormones to be out of balance? I didn't even think about that question at the time.
The birth control pills helped to regulate my irregular periods and decreased my pain, but what about all of this hair. For this, I used depilatories and hot wax. I would go to the drugstore and purchase a bar of wax. When I got home, I put the cold wax bar in a metal dish, placed the dish in a pan of water and put the pan on the stove or a hot plate to heat up the water and melt the wax. Once the wax was melted, I then took the wooden spatula that came with the wax, scooped out some melted wax and spread it over the hairs on my face, chin and neck. Once it set, I then ripped the wax off along with those ugly, dark and course hairs. Oh, joy! I had to really watch using depilatories because the chemicals in the cream would leave my face red and irritated.
I am truly thankful that I came up in school when I did because no one ever really said anything hateful to me. The worst I can remember a guy saying to me was when I was in high school he pulled me to the side and said, “B, I think it’s time.” (as in time to get that hair off your face) Whew! I think that statement was pretty mild and I got off pretty easy.
Finally, I think it was my senior year in high school that I or my Mother found this lady in our small town that performed electrolysis (the permanent removal of hair by using a needle and electric current). A small, petite, middle-age white lady who lived in the center of the city and worked out of here home. What a blessing. I was so thankful for her and the work she was doing. Throughout college I think I was still doing the waxing and using the hotplate from time to time and in between visits home to see “Ms. Petite.”
Once I graduated and moved to the “big city” I was able to find another electrolysis practitioner, who over the years and with the help of birth control pills to manage my hormones, was able to skillfully and wonderfully get rid of all of those hairs and get my problem under control. She and Ms. Petite will always hold a special place in my heart.
Since that time I have seen a number of women with large amounts of course facial hairs. Some more pronounced than others – some looking like a five o’clock shadow because they shaved. Shaving, though, is supposedly better than plucking them out (I've been told) only because I learned that when you pluck hairs, they just come back stronger, darker and harder to get out.
When I would see women with extreme facial hair, I lovingly wanted to tell them that there was hope – there was a solution. I knew exactly what they were going through and my heart went out to them. They were me and I was them.
Anyone had to deal with facial hair issues or know someone who did? Were you prescribed birth control pills to control the hair or control your painful periods?
Anyway, my parents took me to a specialist at one of the major university hospitals to find out what was going on with me, my periods and this hairy situation. The doctors told me that I had a cyst on my ovaries, which was causing or was caused by hormonal fluctuations which was causing my erratic periods and acute hirsutism (my hairy face). Although I don’t specifically recall all of what the specialist said to do about it, he did suggest birth control pills as a remedy. Ah yes, birth control pills – treat the symptoms, not the cause. What was causing my hormones to be out of balance? I didn't even think about that question at the time.
The birth control pills helped to regulate my irregular periods and decreased my pain, but what about all of this hair. For this, I used depilatories and hot wax. I would go to the drugstore and purchase a bar of wax. When I got home, I put the cold wax bar in a metal dish, placed the dish in a pan of water and put the pan on the stove or a hot plate to heat up the water and melt the wax. Once the wax was melted, I then took the wooden spatula that came with the wax, scooped out some melted wax and spread it over the hairs on my face, chin and neck. Once it set, I then ripped the wax off along with those ugly, dark and course hairs. Oh, joy! I had to really watch using depilatories because the chemicals in the cream would leave my face red and irritated.
I am truly thankful that I came up in school when I did because no one ever really said anything hateful to me. The worst I can remember a guy saying to me was when I was in high school he pulled me to the side and said, “B, I think it’s time.” (as in time to get that hair off your face) Whew! I think that statement was pretty mild and I got off pretty easy.
Finally, I think it was my senior year in high school that I or my Mother found this lady in our small town that performed electrolysis (the permanent removal of hair by using a needle and electric current). A small, petite, middle-age white lady who lived in the center of the city and worked out of here home. What a blessing. I was so thankful for her and the work she was doing. Throughout college I think I was still doing the waxing and using the hotplate from time to time and in between visits home to see “Ms. Petite.”
Once I graduated and moved to the “big city” I was able to find another electrolysis practitioner, who over the years and with the help of birth control pills to manage my hormones, was able to skillfully and wonderfully get rid of all of those hairs and get my problem under control. She and Ms. Petite will always hold a special place in my heart.
Since that time I have seen a number of women with large amounts of course facial hairs. Some more pronounced than others – some looking like a five o’clock shadow because they shaved. Shaving, though, is supposedly better than plucking them out (I've been told) only because I learned that when you pluck hairs, they just come back stronger, darker and harder to get out.
As you can imagine, having an electric current zap each and every individual hair was painful, but it was bearable and worth it to me. (of course, there laser hair removal now)
When I would see women with extreme facial hair, I lovingly wanted to tell them that there was hope – there was a solution. I knew exactly what they were going through and my heart went out to them. They were me and I was them.
Anyone had to deal with facial hair issues or know someone who did? Were you prescribed birth control pills to control the hair or control your painful periods?
Friday, April 27, 2012
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
The information below is based on a presentation provided by James Spies, M. D., MPH, Professor and Chairman, Dept. Of Radiology
Georgetown University Hospital
The information below is from the presentation handouts:
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Georgetown University Hospital
The information below is from the presentation handouts:
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
- heavy menstrual periods
- severe menstrual cramps
- pelvic or back pain
- pelvic pressure or abdominal bloating
- urinary frequency or urgency
- difficulty becoming pregnant or carrying pregnancy
- Impact of fibroids? Location does matter!
- fibroids that distort the uterine lining can cause heavy bleeding
- bulk symptoms relate to all fibroids together
- pain may be caused by fibroids with local mass effect
Inquire with your doctor about the use of ultrasound versus MRI as an imaging tool for confirming, diagnosing, and estimating uterine and fibroid size.
Choice of [surgical] treatments noted by Dr. Spies: hysterectomy, myomectomy and UFE. [Unfortunately] hysterectomy is the most commonly recommended therapy for symptomatic fibroids. It is clearly not the only therapy.
- Myomectomy is more common in women in their 30s to preserve the uterus.
- UFE [uterine fibroid embolization] can be safely and effectively be used in most women with fibroids. [In this procedure, plastic biocompatible beads are inserted into the blood vessels "feeding" the fibroid. This permanent embolization causes scarring which is necessary to help plug the vessel cutting off the fibroids blood supply.]
This procedure usually requires an overnight stay, although some centers do as an outpatient procedure. There is some pain after the procedure for about 2 -6 afterwards. Hospital or center can provide pain relief intravenously. One week off for recovery is recommended.
Not all fibroids are treated just alike and not all fibroids are removed with myomectomy.
Women may have to have 3, 4, 5 interventions [surgeries] during the course of her reproductive years.
- Patients should try to get pregnant without surgeries first.
- Myomectomy [should be] the first therapeutic choice for those seeking pregnancy.
- While UFE still has a role in some patients, more study of the potential uterine and ovarian impacts of UFE are needed.
Again, according to Dr. Spies
Myomectomy may be preferred for those with strong interest in future childbearing.
UFE is the best choice for those patients done with childbearing wishing to avoid hysterectomy.
As always contact your health care provider (whomever that may be) regarding your personal and unique health concerns.
Disclaimer: Howard University College of Medicine/Howard University Hospital, and their staffs, and the National Institutes of Health and staff and the doctor/presenter and the blogger for "Sorry But I Had To Scream" are not responsible for injury or illness resulting form the use of medications or modalities discussed during this educational activity.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
The Endo Surgery - Round One (Entry # 7)
(Excerpt taken from previous document of my experiences - picking up from #5)
I am hopeful and prayerful that this surgery will close the book on all of this pain I’ve been dealing with. The doctor tells me that endometriosis can reoccur. He said that one of his patients told him that she was down on the floor on her knees and she just felt like she wanted to die. I said, "yep, that’s the feeling." I have felt like I wanted to die and actually thought and said I might be better if I were dead. I quickly had to take that back, but that accurately reflects the state of mind when going through that kind and intensity of pain.
May God bless us all and may the medical field, researchers and this country increase its emphasis on women’s issues (research and cures).
Well, I began writing again. I had the surgery in November 2004. I was in surgery for many hours because I just had so much Endo on the inside to deal with, according to the doctor. Endometriosis was all over the place. My uterus was attached to my rectum by endometriosis. Yes, you've read right. I'll discuss this in further detail in another post.
The doctor was only able to partially separate my rectum from my uterus or else he would have had to cut out part of my rectum and said I might have to wear a body bag. Also, I had fibroids in my uterus which had to be removed to the extent possible. No one knew the extent of my problems until Doc G did this laparoscopy. I was in surgery longer than anyone expected. I was so doped up when I left the ambulatory center, I was unable to stand on my own and was not aware of my surroundings. My dad had to practically carry/drag me into the house (I had both arms around his neck). Thank God for Daddy.
Later in November after the surgery and in less pain and able to get around a little better, I went in to Doc’s office to get my shot of Lupron (see section on "Why is the medicine prescribed" and "What side effects...") which covered 3 months. Doc believed I should get on this in order to be able to heal properly and hopefully get some relief from periods and period pain and shrink the endometriosis sites. I had a period in December and that was painful, but that was it for a while. I got my second shot of Lupron in February 2005.
I am hopeful and prayerful that this surgery will close the book on all of this pain I’ve been dealing with. The doctor tells me that endometriosis can reoccur. He said that one of his patients told him that she was down on the floor on her knees and she just felt like she wanted to die. I said, "yep, that’s the feeling." I have felt like I wanted to die and actually thought and said I might be better if I were dead. I quickly had to take that back, but that accurately reflects the state of mind when going through that kind and intensity of pain.
May God bless us all and may the medical field, researchers and this country increase its emphasis on women’s issues (research and cures).
Well, I began writing again. I had the surgery in November 2004. I was in surgery for many hours because I just had so much Endo on the inside to deal with, according to the doctor. Endometriosis was all over the place. My uterus was attached to my rectum by endometriosis. Yes, you've read right. I'll discuss this in further detail in another post.
The doctor was only able to partially separate my rectum from my uterus or else he would have had to cut out part of my rectum and said I might have to wear a body bag. Also, I had fibroids in my uterus which had to be removed to the extent possible. No one knew the extent of my problems until Doc G did this laparoscopy. I was in surgery longer than anyone expected. I was so doped up when I left the ambulatory center, I was unable to stand on my own and was not aware of my surroundings. My dad had to practically carry/drag me into the house (I had both arms around his neck). Thank God for Daddy.
Later in November after the surgery and in less pain and able to get around a little better, I went in to Doc’s office to get my shot of Lupron (see section on "Why is the medicine prescribed" and "What side effects...") which covered 3 months. Doc believed I should get on this in order to be able to heal properly and hopefully get some relief from periods and period pain and shrink the endometriosis sites. I had a period in December and that was painful, but that was it for a while. I got my second shot of Lupron in February 2005.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Infertility
The information below is based on a presentation provided by Valerie Montgomery Rice, M.D. Dr. Rice is the Dean and Executive Vice President, Morehouse School of Medicine
The impact of fibroids on fertility studies have only started being pulled in their cumulative status and been deemed clinically relevant since 2002.
Schematic drawing of various types of uterine fibroids: a=subserosal fibroids, b=intramural fibroids, c=submucosal fibroid, d=pedunculated submucosal fibroid, e=fibroid in statu nascendi
[Source: Picture and description found on Wikipedia]
The impact of fibroids on fertility studies have only started being pulled in their cumulative status and been deemed clinically relevant since 2002.
- Uterine Leiomyomas (fibroids) are benign tumors arising from the myometrium.
- Fibroids are the most common gynecologic tumor.
- They affect about 77% of reproductive age women.
- Fibroids will most likely come back after removal.
- Fibroids are the main indication in over 200,000 hysterectomies each year in the US.
- Vitamin D deficiency is associated with risk of uterine fibroids in African American women.
- Green Tea Extract may be a treatment for uterine fibroids.
- It is important to find out where your fibroids are, their size and whether they will prevent pregnancy.
Schematic drawing of various types of uterine fibroids: a=subserosal fibroids, b=intramural fibroids, c=submucosal fibroid, d=pedunculated submucosal fibroid, e=fibroid in statu nascendi
[Source: Picture and description found on Wikipedia]
- Based on the presentation, it appears that intramural fibroids cause a negative outcome for trying to get pregnant. More studies must be done as this conclusion is still controversial.
As always contact your health care provider (whomever that may be) regarding your personal and unique health concerns.
Disclaimer: Howard University College of Medicine/Howard University Hospital, and their staffs, and the National Institutes of Health and staff and the doctor/presenter and the blogger for "Sorry But I Had To Scream" are not responsible for injury or illness resulting form the use of medications or modalities discussed during this educational activity.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Fibroids in African American Women Are Different
The summit was an excellent event that provided great information for researchers, doctors and the general public who are interested in fibroid treatment, pain management, causes and cures.
While, to date, detailed information regarding the presentations at the summit is not available via Internet, I believe plans may be in the works for Howard University's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology to make this information available. For the agenda, click here and scroll down.
The information below is based on a presentation provided by James H. Segars, MD. Dr. Segars is Head of the Unit on Reproduction Endocrinology and Infertility at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health
AA = African American
CC = Caucasian
What has been learned in the past 2 - 3 years (race related and general information):
While, to date, detailed information regarding the presentations at the summit is not available via Internet, I believe plans may be in the works for Howard University's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology to make this information available. For the agenda, click here and scroll down.
The information below is based on a presentation provided by James H. Segars, MD. Dr. Segars is Head of the Unit on Reproduction Endocrinology and Infertility at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health
AA = African American
CC = Caucasian
What has been learned in the past 2 - 3 years (race related and general information):
- AA women are 3 times more likely to suffer from fibroids than CC women.
- The symptoms in AA women are more severe than in CC women.
- AA women don't get relief from fibroids during menopause as do CC women; fibroids continue to grow.
- An enzyme called aromatase is much higher in AA women than CC women. It was stated that AA women may be able to use aromatase inhibitors to reduce fibroid size. Discuss with your doctor or health care provider.
- Hysterectomies due to fibroids are much more common in AA women than CC women.
- For AA women, the link that genes are responsible for familial causes of fibroids has not been made.
- Vitamin D3 and vitamin A deficiencies were mentioned as a possible causes of fibroids.
In general,
- Fibroids are uterine cells that got the wrong message.
- Not all fibroids are the same and not all fibroids behave the same.
- Fibroids sometimes shrink, but the reason for this is unknown.
- Fibroids can grow to a very large size, but do not metastasize.
- Fibroids have different rates of growth.
As always contact your health care provider (whomever that may be) regarding your own personal and unique health concerns.
Disclaimer: Howard University College of Medicine/Howard University Hospital, and their staffs, and the National Institutes of Health and staff, and the presenters, and the blogger for "Sorry But I Had To Scream" are not responsible for injury or illness resulting form the use of medications or modalities discussed during this educational activity.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Prescription / Over-Counter Drug Breakout (Entry #6)
(Excerpt taken from previous document of my experiences)
October, vioxx was off the market so my gi doctor suggested using Aleve. He had also previously prescribed Percoset, if and only if I really really needed it. Well, I did need it. The pharmacy filled the generic brand for Percoset, which I think is called Oxycyclene. During my October period, I was taking, Aleve, Oxycyclene, Zelnorm, Pamine, and Lexapro. Oh, and by the way, I have high cholesterol so I was also taking Lipitor.
Not long after, by skin broke out into excessive itching and redness. I didn’t know what was causing this and thought it could have been something I’d experienced many many years ago. So I called my general doctor for a prescription of Lac Hydrin lotion. I had to use this several times a day. Without it I would break out in this maddening itching.
A thought came to me, and I stopped taking all the medication that the gi doctor gave me. I only continued taking the lipitor. Within a day or two, the itching stopped. All of this medication had also taken a toll on my hair. My stylist informed that my hair had gotten really dry and was thinning.
Now that I think back on this time in my life, I just shake my head and thank God. What was a putting my liver and my body through in taking all of those medications? What in the world was I thinking? I guess I just wanted to stop the pain and be well.
October, vioxx was off the market so my gi doctor suggested using Aleve. He had also previously prescribed Percoset, if and only if I really really needed it. Well, I did need it. The pharmacy filled the generic brand for Percoset, which I think is called Oxycyclene. During my October period, I was taking, Aleve, Oxycyclene, Zelnorm, Pamine, and Lexapro. Oh, and by the way, I have high cholesterol so I was also taking Lipitor.
Not long after, by skin broke out into excessive itching and redness. I didn’t know what was causing this and thought it could have been something I’d experienced many many years ago. So I called my general doctor for a prescription of Lac Hydrin lotion. I had to use this several times a day. Without it I would break out in this maddening itching.
A thought came to me, and I stopped taking all the medication that the gi doctor gave me. I only continued taking the lipitor. Within a day or two, the itching stopped. All of this medication had also taken a toll on my hair. My stylist informed that my hair had gotten really dry and was thinning.
Now that I think back on this time in my life, I just shake my head and thank God. What was a putting my liver and my body through in taking all of those medications? What in the world was I thinking? I guess I just wanted to stop the pain and be well.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Somebody Does Care
Do you remember the song by Aaliyah called "I Care For You"? In an excerpt from those lyrics, the songstress stated
Hey my baby
Tell me, why you cry?
Here take my hand and yeah
Wipe those tears from your eyes
Can I talk to you
Comfort you?
Let you know
I care for you
Hold on, stay strong
Press on, I care for you
Hold on, stay strong
Press on, I care for you
Can I talk to you?
Comfort you?
Let you know
I care for you?
When dealing with the pain and simple reality of having of fibroids, you may cry, but you have to stay strong and press on. It's great when you have someone who cares and is there to comfort you and stand by you.
I am deeply humbled. Being present at the Fibroid Summit and listening to the various speakers was a sobering experience. It was sobering just to hear all of the scientific, medical and research information that is and has been going on. Humbling to realize how much I don't know and how easy it is to get caught up in my own situation (as I had) and for my perspective to be skewed. But this was one of the reasons I wanted to attend the Summit; to dismantle some of my preconceptions. I already knew that I was / am or tend to be self-absorbed when comes to the issue of fibroids, endometriosis and such.
It was humbling and sobering to discover that "yes, indeed, somebody does care." A whole lot of somebodies care and these are people that can actually cause change in the way fibroids are researched, treated, managed and yes, one day, prevented.
For so long I have felt like no one out there in the world was doing anything in a large proportion to help all of us suffering, so to see this was amazing for me.
Hey my baby
Tell me, why you cry?
Here take my hand and yeah
Wipe those tears from your eyes
Can I talk to you
Comfort you?
Let you know
I care for you
Hold on, stay strong
Press on, I care for you
Hold on, stay strong
Press on, I care for you
Can I talk to you?
Comfort you?
Let you know
I care for you?
When dealing with the pain and simple reality of having of fibroids, you may cry, but you have to stay strong and press on. It's great when you have someone who cares and is there to comfort you and stand by you.
I am deeply humbled. Being present at the Fibroid Summit and listening to the various speakers was a sobering experience. It was sobering just to hear all of the scientific, medical and research information that is and has been going on. Humbling to realize how much I don't know and how easy it is to get caught up in my own situation (as I had) and for my perspective to be skewed. But this was one of the reasons I wanted to attend the Summit; to dismantle some of my preconceptions. I already knew that I was / am or tend to be self-absorbed when comes to the issue of fibroids, endometriosis and such.
It was humbling and sobering to discover that "yes, indeed, somebody does care." A whole lot of somebodies care and these are people that can actually cause change in the way fibroids are researched, treated, managed and yes, one day, prevented.
For so long I have felt like no one out there in the world was doing anything in a large proportion to help all of us suffering, so to see this was amazing for me.
It was humbling because it's not for me to tell you your path, but to employ you to get as much information as possible and partner with those whom you entrust with your well-being to get to your best possible outcomes. I feel more empowered after attending this event and more prepared to make the necessary decisions concerning this area of my life.
Will I continue with the juicing and vegging out? Absolutely! Do I still believe exercise and thoughts are important in strengthening and maintaining good health? No doubt! And now I've been provided with other possible options should I so choose.
Howard University wants to create a Center for Excellence in the treatment/management/study of fibroids in African American women. Thank God! How great is that!
In my next post on the Summit I'll share why this focus is great and necessary.
There is no way I can discuss all of the information covered at the Summit in one post, so I'll be providing information over several posts.
Thank you Howard University!
Be well.
Will I continue with the juicing and vegging out? Absolutely! Do I still believe exercise and thoughts are important in strengthening and maintaining good health? No doubt! And now I've been provided with other possible options should I so choose.
Howard University wants to create a Center for Excellence in the treatment/management/study of fibroids in African American women. Thank God! How great is that!
In my next post on the Summit I'll share why this focus is great and necessary.
There is no way I can discuss all of the information covered at the Summit in one post, so I'll be providing information over several posts.
Thank you Howard University!
Be well.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Fibroid Summit
I'm in Washington, DC for the Howard University Fibroid Summit. The Summit is March 29 - 30, 2012, and being presented by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. In the days to follow, I'll do a post recapping the topics and take-aways presented.
Be well.
Be well.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
March Madness 2012? No, March Menstruation 2012.
What is this month's period like? As I sit here at my desk and think about the start of it, which was on Sunday, one word comes to mind - Exhausting. This period has made me so fatigued; more so than my toughest workout with my trainer.
I've been too tired to get up on time for work and too tired to go and do something after work. It's been fatigue to the extreme. Well, maybe not extreme, but.... When I got home from work yesterday, I got in the massaging recliner and fell asleep. After about an hour or less nap, I had enough energy to do a few things.
In addition to the exhaustion, my flow has been heavy. (This is somewhat surprising with all of the raw and cooked veggies I've been eating as well as the fruit. Perhaps the bread is the culprit. Bread?) However, I haven't had to take any pain killers. I experienced like a mild stomachache, but no cramping, which is great.
Anyway, as I said earlier, after my nap I had some energy. So I made 6 pints of a green smoothie using coconut juice, pineapples, a banana, flax seed oil, chard (I usually use kale) and some crushed ice. Tastes great!
For dinner, I some cooked swiss chard, spinach and kamut noodles. But not before I had some chocolate cake and raspberry sorbet. The cake was gluten and dairy free and all natural. Yes, me telling you this is supposed to make you think, "Oh, so this makes it okay." You know, I have some gluten-free english muffins in the freezer. Gluten-free bread is still bread! Gluten-free, dairy-free cake is still "sweets" and I guess I wanted some points for this with the added emphasis that it's "all natural."
Here's the deal - I'm trying not to be radical or over zealous here. I think probably having a small amount of these things once or twice a month and not around the time of my period would have been better. But I'm wondering if the bread earlier and the "treats" during my period affects my flow? I dunno, I should probably let fruits be my "sweets / treats."
Here are some things that I'm adding a little at a time to my eating either since my last post or perhaps I just didn't mention it before
What foods , juices or other healthy eating habits have you incorporated into to your lifestyle?
Be. Well.
I've been too tired to get up on time for work and too tired to go and do something after work. It's been fatigue to the extreme. Well, maybe not extreme, but.... When I got home from work yesterday, I got in the massaging recliner and fell asleep. After about an hour or less nap, I had enough energy to do a few things.
In addition to the exhaustion, my flow has been heavy. (This is somewhat surprising with all of the raw and cooked veggies I've been eating as well as the fruit. Perhaps the bread is the culprit. Bread?) However, I haven't had to take any pain killers. I experienced like a mild stomachache, but no cramping, which is great.
Anyway, as I said earlier, after my nap I had some energy. So I made 6 pints of a green smoothie using coconut juice, pineapples, a banana, flax seed oil, chard (I usually use kale) and some crushed ice. Tastes great!
For dinner, I some cooked swiss chard, spinach and kamut noodles. But not before I had some chocolate cake and raspberry sorbet. The cake was gluten and dairy free and all natural. Yes, me telling you this is supposed to make you think, "Oh, so this makes it okay." You know, I have some gluten-free english muffins in the freezer. Gluten-free bread is still bread! Gluten-free, dairy-free cake is still "sweets" and I guess I wanted some points for this with the added emphasis that it's "all natural."
Here's the deal - I'm trying not to be radical or over zealous here. I think probably having a small amount of these things once or twice a month and not around the time of my period would have been better. But I'm wondering if the bread earlier and the "treats" during my period affects my flow? I dunno, I should probably let fruits be my "sweets / treats."
Here are some things that I'm adding a little at a time to my eating either since my last post or perhaps I just didn't mention it before
- aloe vera juice
- wheat grass
- spirulina
- quinoa (actually, I use to eat this all the time, so now I've gotten back to it)
- parsley
- cilantro
What foods , juices or other healthy eating habits have you incorporated into to your lifestyle?
Be. Well.
A Correct Diagnosis? (Entry #5)
(Excerpt taken from document of previous experiences)
My gi doctor did a colonoscopy on me. I already had one colonoscopy performed just 3 years prior by another gi doctor who found a polyp. However, the first gi doctor did not want to do another check because he said I was too young to have polyps or any problems. I thought too myself “if I’m too young, then what about the fact that he found one?” my second gi doctor wanted to check for himself.
He found no polyps, but my colon and rectum were definitely showing spasms throughout. I contacted my regular gynecologist regarding my pain and what the emergency room doctor had said about me having endometriosis. She said “oh, what do emergency room doctors know?” but she did think it was important to at least check out. So she referred me to another gynecologist .
I went for my appointment and I laid out everything that had happened to me and all that I had been through. I told him that I only had pain from ibs when my period was on. He stopped me before I could go on with the rest of my saga and said to his assistant that he had just lectured his students on ibs and how ibs pain would not just show up during one’s menstrual cycle. I went on with my story and he examined me and diagnosed me with endometriosis. I am scheduled to have a procedure in November for final diagnosis and removal of excess tissue.
I’m not going to say yet that I was mis-diagnosed. That would probably be unfair. I’ll wait until after the surgery and see how my periods go. However, the diagnosis of endometriosis sure does make a whole lot more sense to me than this ibs.
Why didn’t my regular ob/gyn diagnosis me with this endo? I see her every year.
Why didn’t my regular ob/gyn refer my to another gyn first instead of to the gi doctor and urologist?
Why did I have to go through this ordeal for over a year?
My gi doctor did a colonoscopy on me. I already had one colonoscopy performed just 3 years prior by another gi doctor who found a polyp. However, the first gi doctor did not want to do another check because he said I was too young to have polyps or any problems. I thought too myself “if I’m too young, then what about the fact that he found one?” my second gi doctor wanted to check for himself.
He found no polyps, but my colon and rectum were definitely showing spasms throughout. I contacted my regular gynecologist regarding my pain and what the emergency room doctor had said about me having endometriosis. She said “oh, what do emergency room doctors know?” but she did think it was important to at least check out. So she referred me to another gynecologist .
I went for my appointment and I laid out everything that had happened to me and all that I had been through. I told him that I only had pain from ibs when my period was on. He stopped me before I could go on with the rest of my saga and said to his assistant that he had just lectured his students on ibs and how ibs pain would not just show up during one’s menstrual cycle. I went on with my story and he examined me and diagnosed me with endometriosis. I am scheduled to have a procedure in November for final diagnosis and removal of excess tissue.
I’m not going to say yet that I was mis-diagnosed. That would probably be unfair. I’ll wait until after the surgery and see how my periods go. However, the diagnosis of endometriosis sure does make a whole lot more sense to me than this ibs.
Why didn’t my regular ob/gyn diagnosis me with this endo? I see her every year.
Why didn’t my regular ob/gyn refer my to another gyn first instead of to the gi doctor and urologist?
Why did I have to go through this ordeal for over a year?
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Hungry for Change
So in an earlier post I shared with you that I believed my chronic condition(s) or dis-eases could be resolved through what I eat, how I move (physical activity/exercise) and my thoughts (positive thoughts, letting go of past hurts, etc.). Well, check out this documentary that you can see for free up through the end of this month.
http://www.hungryforchange.tv/online-premiere
These film makers and experts are not saying anything that Djehuty Ma'at-ra of Dherbs (see various articles) or evidently Queen Afua have been talking about for some time now. Just a different package or delivery of the information.
I've been reading and listening to information on Djehuty's website for several years now. He also has videos out on YouTube as well. Queen Afua I just recently found out about at a women's empowerment conference as I was chatting with some ladies from the DC/MD area.
So, what do you think about the film?
http://www.hungryforchange.tv/online-premiere
These film makers and experts are not saying anything that Djehuty Ma'at-ra of Dherbs (see various articles) or evidently Queen Afua have been talking about for some time now. Just a different package or delivery of the information.
I've been reading and listening to information on Djehuty's website for several years now. He also has videos out on YouTube as well. Queen Afua I just recently found out about at a women's empowerment conference as I was chatting with some ladies from the DC/MD area.
So, what do you think about the film?
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