How can we feel more unbridled joy in life? The kind of joy kids experience when playing together. Or that intense happiness that comes from seeing our baby or grandbaby for the first time. The breathtaking awe of nature that may catch us by surprise like a rainbow. Sitting by a warm, crackling fireplace enjoying a hot drink. Indulging in a passionate hobby. Whatever way we uniquely experience joy, we can all agree that it passes too quickly. What if by opening our eyes and hearts to the abundance around us, we could find more joy? One way to do this is by being grateful. It’s not always easy though.
Challenges to Our Gratitude
With any practice that we begin, more than likely, we’ll experience obstacles to its success. Recognizing these potential blocks to our gratitude when they come up, can help. Here are three:
1. Focusing on what’s wrong or lacking
We tend to focus on what’s wrong rather than on what’s right. But the beauty of gratitude is that it’s an effective tool for turning the negative into the positive. For example, when you wake up in the morning, do you start running through your to do list? You may even feel overwhelmed and discouraged by all the chores and obligations. Instead, think about all the blessings in your life. Now you’ll start the day on top of the world instead of the world being on top of you.
2. Losing the Luster
Dr. David Brandt in his book, Is That All There Is?: Balancing Expectation and Disappointment in Your Life, writes about how we lose our enthusiasm for things that once excited us: “Human beings have a curious capacity to take things for granted. The most exquisite diamond loses its luster with familiarity. The most compatible intimate becomes boring. Miracles like the daily sunrise fail to astonish because they’re commonplace! Repetition and time dull our sense of wonder.”
Notice that when you first see the ocean at the beach or the forest on a hike that after a while the magic goes. Recognizing, though, that we can linger longer at the beauty of nature, on our child’s happy face, or on the smell of our favorite food, helps us connect more deeply with our experience of the world.
3. Difficult times
You may be without a job, have an illness or are facing a difficult time in your life. When going through tough times, it’s harder to see the good that exists amidst our troubles. But by being more grateful for what we do have, we can increase our happiness by 25% according to University of California Psychology Professor Dr. Robert Emmons and author of the book, Thanks!: How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happier.
In bad times, look for an opportunity that may exist, yet may not be so obvious. For example, a job loss can present all kinds of fears. Perhaps though it’s time to change life’s direction and look for work that is more suited to your talents and passions. Even the bad experiences, can lead to something good, maybe not right away, but overtime.
Creating More Joy
Now that we’ve explored a few challenges to our gratitude, here are some ways to help create those intensely happy moments we can all use more of:
Notice the pleasures around you – Think about the people and things that you may not be appreciating. A job, spouse or friend? A warm bed, hot shower, the miracle of breathing? The benefit of not taking things for granted is that it pulls you into the moment. You become present and feel more alive.
Show your gratitude – This can create a joyful moment for you and the person receiving your gratitude. You can write someone a gratitude letter, or simply say thank you in person – for their friendship, their love, helping you with a big project, etc. This week make it a point of doing one of these things and see how good you feel afterward.
Nurture your gratitude – To amplify gratitude in your life, you can start a gratitude journal, create gratitude affirmations, post gratitude quotes, and even complain less. Vow to choose a gratitude practice that you can do daily.
Celebrate your potential – We all have talents and skills that are unique to us. We seldom think about them. Instead, we think about how we can’t do something. Focus on your gifts and, if you’re not using them, think about ways you can. This will surely bring more joy to your life.
With these few practices above, you’ll begin to notice that you’ll experience more joy, peace and contentment in life.
What are you grateful for in this moment? Let’s share some gratitude by commenting below.
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Don't make these common nutritional mistakes
Don't Make These Common Nutrition Mistakes
Nutrition plays a key role in our health.
By eating the right foods, you'll benefit from improved physical and mental health.
Unfortunately, though, many people fall victim to one or more of the following nutrition mistakes.
Drinking Soda
How much harm can soda really pose to your health?
Because of its high caloric content without the presence of beneficial nutrients, soda is considered an empty-calorie beverage. While different types of soda contain different ingredients, they all receive their calories from processed sugar. It's not uncommon for a 12-ounce serving to pack up to 40 grams of processed sugar, which is more than the daily allowance recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA).
That excess sugar will wreak havoc on your health by suppressing your immune system, disrupting your sleep cycles, promoting body fat and more.
Counting Calories
When seeking to lose weight, many people reduce the amount of calories they consume, believing this will lead them to a slimmer waistline. The problem is that not all calories are the same. Calories from protein, for instance, are treated differently than those from sugar.
Therefore, counting calories doesn't always work. A better approach is to focus your diet on nutritional foods that are low in processed sugar and sodium.
Using Too Much Dressing or Sauce
Loading up on salad dressing, sauce or other condiments can quickly negate the otherwise positive health benefits of your food.
These products are often loaded with sugar, sodium and artificial preservatives.
Assuming All Fats Are Bad
There are different types of fats, not all of which are bad for your health. Trans-unsaturated fatty acids, or what's more commonly known as trans fat, is the worst type of fat. Studies have shown that consuming trans fat, even in small amounts, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even taken steps to ban the substance in food products sold in the United States.
Nonetheless, you can still find many foods with trans fat, some of which include microwaveable popcorn, cookies, crackers, breakfast meals and doughnuts.
On the other hand, unsaturated fatty acids are good for your health. They have the opposite effect by lowering your risk of heart disease. Unsaturated fatty acids raise levels of good cholesterol and lower levels of bad cholesterol to promote a healthy heart and cardiovascular system.
You can find unsaturated fatty acids in the following foods:
- Fish
- Olive oil
- Canola oil
- Nuts
- Avocados
- Dark Chocolate
Consuming Artificial Sweetener
With its zero caloric content, many people assume that artificial sweeteners are better for their health than real sugar.
Whether it's aspartame, sucralose, saccharin or acesulfame, though, artificial sweeteners are processed by the body the same was as processed sugar.
Therefore, they too can contribute to weight gain and elevated blood glucose levels.
Avoiding these nutrition mistakes will set you on the path to better health.
Just be conscious of what you eat and the ingredients your food contains.
Nutrition plays a key role in our health.
By eating the right foods, you'll benefit from improved physical and mental health.
Unfortunately, though, many people fall victim to one or more of the following nutrition mistakes.
Drinking Soda
How much harm can soda really pose to your health?
Because of its high caloric content without the presence of beneficial nutrients, soda is considered an empty-calorie beverage. While different types of soda contain different ingredients, they all receive their calories from processed sugar. It's not uncommon for a 12-ounce serving to pack up to 40 grams of processed sugar, which is more than the daily allowance recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA).
That excess sugar will wreak havoc on your health by suppressing your immune system, disrupting your sleep cycles, promoting body fat and more.
Counting Calories
When seeking to lose weight, many people reduce the amount of calories they consume, believing this will lead them to a slimmer waistline. The problem is that not all calories are the same. Calories from protein, for instance, are treated differently than those from sugar.
Therefore, counting calories doesn't always work. A better approach is to focus your diet on nutritional foods that are low in processed sugar and sodium.
Using Too Much Dressing or Sauce
Loading up on salad dressing, sauce or other condiments can quickly negate the otherwise positive health benefits of your food.
These products are often loaded with sugar, sodium and artificial preservatives.
Assuming All Fats Are Bad
There are different types of fats, not all of which are bad for your health. Trans-unsaturated fatty acids, or what's more commonly known as trans fat, is the worst type of fat. Studies have shown that consuming trans fat, even in small amounts, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even taken steps to ban the substance in food products sold in the United States.
Nonetheless, you can still find many foods with trans fat, some of which include microwaveable popcorn, cookies, crackers, breakfast meals and doughnuts.
On the other hand, unsaturated fatty acids are good for your health. They have the opposite effect by lowering your risk of heart disease. Unsaturated fatty acids raise levels of good cholesterol and lower levels of bad cholesterol to promote a healthy heart and cardiovascular system.
You can find unsaturated fatty acids in the following foods:
- Fish
- Olive oil
- Canola oil
- Nuts
- Avocados
- Dark Chocolate
Consuming Artificial Sweetener
With its zero caloric content, many people assume that artificial sweeteners are better for their health than real sugar.
Whether it's aspartame, sucralose, saccharin or acesulfame, though, artificial sweeteners are processed by the body the same was as processed sugar.
Therefore, they too can contribute to weight gain and elevated blood glucose levels.
Avoiding these nutrition mistakes will set you on the path to better health.
Just be conscious of what you eat and the ingredients your food contains.
Monday, November 26, 2018
Nationwide Recall of Pharmaceuticals
Mylan Initiates Voluntary Nationwide Recall of 15 Lots of Valsartan Tablets, USP, Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP, and Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP, Due to the Detection of Trace Amounts of NDEA (N-Nitrosodiethylamine) Impurity Found in the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient
For Immediate Release
November 20, 2018
Contact
Consumers
888-406-9305
Announcement
Mylan N.V. (NASDAQ: MYL) today announced that its U.S. based Mylan Pharmaceuticals business is conducting a voluntary nationwide recall to the consumer level of select lots of Valsartan-containing products, including six lots of Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP (including the 5mg/160mg, 10mg/160mg, and 10mg/320mg strengths), seven lots of Valsartan Tablets, USP (including 40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg strengths), and two lots of Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP 320mg/25mg strength. These products are being recalled due to detected trace amounts of an impurity, N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) contained in the API Valsartan, USP, manufactured by Mylan Laboratories Limited. NDEA is a substance that occurs naturally in certain foods, drinking water, air pollution, and industrial processes, and has been classified as a probable human carcinogen according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The finished products are manufactured by Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Mylan Laboratories Limited. These batches were distributed in the U.S. between March 2017 and November 2018. The recalled batches are as follows:
NDC Product Description Strength Size Lot Number Expiry
0378-1721-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 5mg/160mg Bottles of 30 3066051 3/2019
0378-1722-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/160mg Bottles of 30 3079500 1/2020
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3061986 11/2018
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3079709 1/2020
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3077618 11/2019
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3079708 1/2020
0378-5813-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 80mg Bottles of 90 3063782 1/2019
0378-5814-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 160mg Bottles of 90 3071352 7/2019
0378-5807-93 Valsartan Tablets, USP 40mg Bottles of 30 3061169 11/2018
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3081499 3/2020
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3080009 2/2020
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3080010 2/2020
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3079205 1/2020
0378-6325-05 Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP 320mg/25mg Bottles of 500 3084886 2/2019
0378-6325-05 Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP 320mg/25mg Bottles of 500 3093804 12/2019
Valsartan is used for the treatment of high blood pressure for the treatment of heart failure, and to reduce cardiovascular mortality following myocardial infarction. Valsartan in combination with amlodipine or hydrochlorothiazide is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. Patients should contact their pharmacist or physician who can advise them about an alternative treatment prior to returning their medication. Patients who are on valsartan should continue taking their medication, as the risk of harm to the patient's health may be higher if the treatment is stopped immediately without any alternative treatment.
Mylan is notifying its distributors and customers by letter and is arranging for return of all recalled products. Wholesalers, retailers and consumers that are in possession of recalled product should contact Stericycle at 1-888-406-9305 for the return of the recalled product. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to using these drug products.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax. Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
Regular Mail or Fax: Download form www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
About Mylan
Mylan is a global pharmaceutical company committed to setting new standards in healthcare. Working together around the world to provide 7 billion people access to high quality medicine, we innovate to satisfy unmet needs; make reliability and service excellence a habit; do what's right, not what's easy; and impact the future through passionate global leadership. We offer a growing portfolio of more than 7,500 marketed products around the world, including antiretroviral therapies on which more than 40% of people being treated for HIV/AIDS globally depend. We market our products in more than 165 countries and territories. We are one of the world's largest producers of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Every member of our approximately 35,000-strong workforce is dedicated to creating better health for a better world, one person at a time. Learn more at Mylan.com.
For Immediate Release
November 20, 2018
Contact
Consumers
888-406-9305
Announcement
Mylan N.V. (NASDAQ: MYL) today announced that its U.S. based Mylan Pharmaceuticals business is conducting a voluntary nationwide recall to the consumer level of select lots of Valsartan-containing products, including six lots of Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP (including the 5mg/160mg, 10mg/160mg, and 10mg/320mg strengths), seven lots of Valsartan Tablets, USP (including 40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg strengths), and two lots of Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP 320mg/25mg strength. These products are being recalled due to detected trace amounts of an impurity, N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) contained in the API Valsartan, USP, manufactured by Mylan Laboratories Limited. NDEA is a substance that occurs naturally in certain foods, drinking water, air pollution, and industrial processes, and has been classified as a probable human carcinogen according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The finished products are manufactured by Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Mylan Laboratories Limited. These batches were distributed in the U.S. between March 2017 and November 2018. The recalled batches are as follows:
NDC Product Description Strength Size Lot Number Expiry
0378-1721-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 5mg/160mg Bottles of 30 3066051 3/2019
0378-1722-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/160mg Bottles of 30 3079500 1/2020
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3061986 11/2018
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3079709 1/2020
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3077618 11/2019
0378-1724-93 Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets, USP 10mg/320mg Bottles of 30 3079708 1/2020
0378-5813-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 80mg Bottles of 90 3063782 1/2019
0378-5814-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 160mg Bottles of 90 3071352 7/2019
0378-5807-93 Valsartan Tablets, USP 40mg Bottles of 30 3061169 11/2018
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3081499 3/2020
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3080009 2/2020
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3080010 2/2020
0378-5815-77 Valsartan Tablets, USP 320mg Bottles of 90 3079205 1/2020
0378-6325-05 Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP 320mg/25mg Bottles of 500 3084886 2/2019
0378-6325-05 Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP 320mg/25mg Bottles of 500 3093804 12/2019
Valsartan is used for the treatment of high blood pressure for the treatment of heart failure, and to reduce cardiovascular mortality following myocardial infarction. Valsartan in combination with amlodipine or hydrochlorothiazide is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. Patients should contact their pharmacist or physician who can advise them about an alternative treatment prior to returning their medication. Patients who are on valsartan should continue taking their medication, as the risk of harm to the patient's health may be higher if the treatment is stopped immediately without any alternative treatment.
Mylan is notifying its distributors and customers by letter and is arranging for return of all recalled products. Wholesalers, retailers and consumers that are in possession of recalled product should contact Stericycle at 1-888-406-9305 for the return of the recalled product. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to using these drug products.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax. Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
Regular Mail or Fax: Download form www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
About Mylan
Mylan is a global pharmaceutical company committed to setting new standards in healthcare. Working together around the world to provide 7 billion people access to high quality medicine, we innovate to satisfy unmet needs; make reliability and service excellence a habit; do what's right, not what's easy; and impact the future through passionate global leadership. We offer a growing portfolio of more than 7,500 marketed products around the world, including antiretroviral therapies on which more than 40% of people being treated for HIV/AIDS globally depend. We market our products in more than 165 countries and territories. We are one of the world's largest producers of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Every member of our approximately 35,000-strong workforce is dedicated to creating better health for a better world, one person at a time. Learn more at Mylan.com.
Friday, November 23, 2018
The ridiculously long list of Fibro symptoms
AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM/ENDOCRINE/IMMUNE/HORMONE:
Abnormal sensitivity to hot or cold Allergies (nasal, other; new, increased or worsening) Canker sores (frequent) Chills and/or shakes when hungry (may occur instead of feeling hungry) Cold hands and feet Feeling hot or cold often Flu-like symptoms, on-going or recurrent after initial gradual or acute onset; includes mild fever (99.5-101.5 F / 37.5-38.6 C), chills, extreme fatigue after minimal exertion Hair loss (alopecia) Herpes simplex or shingles rash Increased susceptibility to infections Low-grade fevers Low blood pressure (below 110/70) Low body temperature (below 97.5) Lymph nodes painful, swollen (in neck; under arms) Night sweats (not related to menopause or fever) Orthostatic Intolerance (neurally mediated hypotension) Reactive hypoglycemia and insulin resistance Thirst, increased Temperature irregularities; often feeling hot or cold irrespective of actual ambient temperature and body temperature; low body temperature (below 97.6 F / 36.4 C) Thyroid inflammation (acute thyroiditis; hypothyroidism; Hashimoto's thyroiditis)
CARDIOPULMONARY/RESPIRATORY/CIRCULATORY:
Cardiac abnormalities (mitral valve prolapse; myocarditis; tachycardia; palpitations; dysrhythmia) Cough Dyspnoea (out of breath) or shortness of breath (air hunger) after minimal or no exertion Heart attack Heart palpitations Heart pounds so hard it shakes body, bed Pulse skips Serious rhythm disturbances of heart Sighing, frequent, not related to mental/emotional state Stroke Vasculitis
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM/NEUROLOGICAL/NEUROPATHIC/OTOLOGIC:
Abnormal CAT, MRI and/or SPECT scans Alcohol intolerance Aseptic meningitis "Brain-fog"; inability to think clearly Difficulty moving tongue to speak,Diminished or absent reflexes Fainting or blackouts; feeling like you might faint Headaches (frequent, severe, recurring) Hearing fluctuations (sounds fade then return) Hearing changes, often from day to day (need to turn up, then down, volume of radio, TV) Joint or arthritic pain not relieved by NSAIDs (ie, ibuprofen) Libido (decreased) Light-headed, feeling spaced-out Migraine headaches Muscle twitching Noise intolerance Paralysis or severe weakness of limb Paraesthesia (numbness, tingling, crawling, itching sensations) in face, head, torso, extremities Photosensitivity Radiculitis Seizures; seizure-like episodes Sensory alterations (hyper- or hypo-sensitivity) - smell, taste, hearing (noise intolerance) Severe muscle weakness Syncope (fainting) Tinnitus (ringing/noises in one or both ears) Touch or weight of clothing on or against body causes discomfort or pain Tremors, trembling
COGNITIVE FUNCTION:
Becoming lost in familiar locations when driving Difficulty with simple calculations (e.g., balancing checkbook) Difficulty expressing ideas in words Difficulty moving your mouth to speak Difficulty making decisions Difficulty following directions while driving Difficulty remembering names of objects Difficulty remembering names of people Difficulty recognizing faces Difficulty following simple written instructions Difficulty following complicated written instructions Difficulty following simple oral (spoken) instructions Difficulty following complicated oral (spoken) instructions Difficulty integrating information (putting ideas together to form a complete picture or concept) Difficulty putting tasks or things in proper sequence Difficulty paying attention Difficulty following a conversation when background noise is present Difficulty making and/or retrieving memories (long/short-term memory deficits) Difficulty understanding what you read Easily distracted during a task Feeling too disoriented to drive Forgetting how to do routine things Forgetting the use of common objects (such as, what to do with the shampoo when you are standing in the shower) Forgetting how to get to familiar places Impaired ability to concentrate Losing your train of thought in the middle of a sentence Losing track in the middle of a task (remembering what to do next) Poor judgment Switching left and right Slowed and/or slurred speech Stuttering; stammering Transposition (reversal) of numbers, words and/or letters when you speak and/or speak Word-finding difficulty Using the wrong word
DIGESTIVE/HEPATIC:
Bloating; intestinal gas Decreased appetite Digestive chemicals (acid, enzymes) reduced or absent Oesophageal reflux; heartburn Frequent constipation Frequent diarrhoea Food cravings (especially carbohydrates, sweets) Food/Substance intolerance IBS Liver function impaired; mild abnormalities Increased appetite Nausea Spleen tender or enlarged Stomach ache, cramps Vomiting Weight gain or loss
EQUILIBRIUM/PERCEPTION:
Bite your cheeks or tongue frequently Bump into things frequently Difficulty discriminating printed matter despite proper vision correction Distances (difficulty judging when driving; when putting things down on surfaces) Dizziness or vertigo Dropping things frequently Disequilibrium (balance problems) Impaired coordination Loss of balance when standing with eyes closed Perception (not quite seeing what you are looking at) Some patterns (stripes, checks) cause dizziness Spatial disorientation Staggering gait (clumsy walking) Words on printed page appear to jump off page or disappear when staring at them
EYES/VISION:
Acuity changes not related to prescription changes Blind spots Blurred vision Conjunctivitis Diminished visual acuity in absence of actual vision change Drooping eyelid Double vision Eye pain Flashes of light perceived peripherally Optic neuritis or atrophy Oscillopsia (image jiggles) Prescription changes more frequently Pressure sensation behind eyes Red and/or tearing eyes Retinal damage Slowed accommodation (switching focus from far to near, near to far) Spots or floaters not related to migraines Swelling around eyes Uveitis and/or iritis Wandering or lazy eye
HEAD/NECK/MOUTH:
Bell's palsy (facial paralysis, one or both sides) Bruxism (grinding/clenching teeth) Canker sores Dizziness when you turn your head or move Dry chronic cough Dry eyes, nose and mouth (sicca syndrome) Pain in ears, palate, gums Periodontal disease Prickling pain along skin of jaw Problems swallowing, chewing Runny nose in absence of cold, allergies Sinus infections Sore spot on the top of your head Temperomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Unexplained toothaches Xerostoma (dry mouth)
MUSCULOSKELETAL:
Arthritic pain that migrates from joint to joint Carpal tunnel syndrome Frozen shoulder Intermittent joint swelling Joint aches (arthralgia) Joint pain, without redness or swelling Loss of tone "Lumpy, bumpy" long muscles Morning stiffness Muscle aches (myalgia) Muscle pain, stiffness, weakness Pyriform muscle syndrome Reduced range of motion Stiff neck Writing causes pain in hand, arm shoulder
PAIN SYMPTOMS:
Abdominal pain *Chest pain* Generalized pain Joint Pain Pain that migrates from joint to joint Pain/stiffness at C1-C2 (top two vertebrae) *** Shooting or stabbing pains **** Painful tender points (FMS: 11 out of 18 tender points)
PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS/MOOD/EMOTIONS:
Abrupt/Unpredictable mood swings Anxiety or fear for no obvious reason Appetite increase/decrease Decreased self-esteem Depression or depressed mood Feeling helpless and/or hopeless Feeling worthless Frequent crying for no reason Helpless/Hopeless feelings Inability to enjoy previously enjoyed activities Irritability; over-reaction New phobias/irrational fears Panic attacks Personality changes (labile, irritable, anxious, confused, forgetful) Phobias (irrational fears) Rage attacks; anger outbursts for little or no reason Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts
SENSITIVITIES:
Acute or abnormal reactions to medications Alteration in taste, smell, and/or hearing Chemicals (alcohol, medications; lower tolerance for) Food sensitivities Increased perception of and sensitivity to noise Light sensitivity Sensitivity to odours (able to detect and/or react in concentrations far lower than before and that healthy people cannot smell) NOISE sensitivities
SKIN/NAILS:
Abnormal scarring Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophician Blotchy or mottled skin Bruise easily Bruises may take longer to appear, and/or longer to fade Bull's-eye (Erythema migraines) on light skin (resembles a bruise on dark skin) Dermographia (minor scratch pressure on skin leaves vivid red welts) Dry, itchy skin Easily scar Eczema or psoriasis Fragile nails Frequent skin irritations Lymphadenosis benigna cutis Nails that curve under or downward Overgrowing connective tissue (ingrown hair, adhesions, thickened/split cuticles, cysts, fibroids)Painful skin (abnormal/excessive pain when scratched or rubbed) "Paper" skin (feels fragile, tissue-thin when rubbed) Rashes on body, face Vertical ridges or beads in nails
SLEEP SYMPTOMS:
Abnormal brain activity in stage 4 sleep Altered sleep/wake patterns (alert/energetic late at night, sleepy during day Difficulty falling asleep Difficulty staying asleep (frequent and/or prolonged awakenings) Hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) Myclonus (restless leg syndrome; occasional jerking of entire body) Nightmares (frequent, extremely vivid and/or disturbing) Unrefreshing/Non-restorative sleep
UROGENITAL/REPRODUCTIVE:
Decreased libido Discharge from breast or galactorrhea Endometriosis Frequent urination Incontinence Impotence Infant: premature; low birth weight; low muscle tone; failure to thrive Interstitial cystitis Miscarriage or stillbirth Painful intercourse Painful urination or bladder Pelvic and/or rectal pain Prostate pain Swollen testicles Other symptoms worsen before start of menstruation Worsening of PMS
OTHER:
Abnormal or other changes in sweating Activity level reduced to less than 50% of pre-onset level Burning sensation (internal or external) Changed voice Changes in sweat odour/body odour Delayed reaction to overactivity/exertion (onset 24-48 hours after exertion) Electromagnetic (EM) sensitivity (electrical storms, full moon, affect function of electrical devices) Fatigue, prolonged, disabling, made worse by exertion or stress Fibrocystic breasts "Galloping" cholesterol and triglycerides Hair loss (not related to age, hormones, diet, medication) Hands hurt excessively when put in cold water Handwriting changes, altering signature and/or other writing Hoarseness Painful, weak grasp that gives way/lets go Periods of concentrated thinking causes physical and mental exhaustion, increases pain Sore throat Swelling/Idiopathic oedema (fluid retention syndrome) Symptoms worsened by extremes of temperature (hot, cold), stress, and/or air travel Symptoms change focus from time to time, like infection is moving through the body Thickened mucus secretions (nose, bowel, vaginal) Thickened "sleep" around eyes in mornings Very attractive to biting flies and mosquitoes Weight changes (usually gain)
by Fibromyalgia Support Network INC.
posted Nov. 23, 2018
Abnormal sensitivity to hot or cold Allergies (nasal, other; new, increased or worsening) Canker sores (frequent) Chills and/or shakes when hungry (may occur instead of feeling hungry) Cold hands and feet Feeling hot or cold often Flu-like symptoms, on-going or recurrent after initial gradual or acute onset; includes mild fever (99.5-101.5 F / 37.5-38.6 C), chills, extreme fatigue after minimal exertion Hair loss (alopecia) Herpes simplex or shingles rash Increased susceptibility to infections Low-grade fevers Low blood pressure (below 110/70) Low body temperature (below 97.5) Lymph nodes painful, swollen (in neck; under arms) Night sweats (not related to menopause or fever) Orthostatic Intolerance (neurally mediated hypotension) Reactive hypoglycemia and insulin resistance Thirst, increased Temperature irregularities; often feeling hot or cold irrespective of actual ambient temperature and body temperature; low body temperature (below 97.6 F / 36.4 C) Thyroid inflammation (acute thyroiditis; hypothyroidism; Hashimoto's thyroiditis)
CARDIOPULMONARY/RESPIRATORY/CIRCULATORY:
Cardiac abnormalities (mitral valve prolapse; myocarditis; tachycardia; palpitations; dysrhythmia) Cough Dyspnoea (out of breath) or shortness of breath (air hunger) after minimal or no exertion Heart attack Heart palpitations Heart pounds so hard it shakes body, bed Pulse skips Serious rhythm disturbances of heart Sighing, frequent, not related to mental/emotional state Stroke Vasculitis
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM/NEUROLOGICAL/NEUROPATHIC/OTOLOGIC:
Abnormal CAT, MRI and/or SPECT scans Alcohol intolerance Aseptic meningitis "Brain-fog"; inability to think clearly Difficulty moving tongue to speak,Diminished or absent reflexes Fainting or blackouts; feeling like you might faint Headaches (frequent, severe, recurring) Hearing fluctuations (sounds fade then return) Hearing changes, often from day to day (need to turn up, then down, volume of radio, TV) Joint or arthritic pain not relieved by NSAIDs (ie, ibuprofen) Libido (decreased) Light-headed, feeling spaced-out Migraine headaches Muscle twitching Noise intolerance Paralysis or severe weakness of limb Paraesthesia (numbness, tingling, crawling, itching sensations) in face, head, torso, extremities Photosensitivity Radiculitis Seizures; seizure-like episodes Sensory alterations (hyper- or hypo-sensitivity) - smell, taste, hearing (noise intolerance) Severe muscle weakness Syncope (fainting) Tinnitus (ringing/noises in one or both ears) Touch or weight of clothing on or against body causes discomfort or pain Tremors, trembling
COGNITIVE FUNCTION:
Becoming lost in familiar locations when driving Difficulty with simple calculations (e.g., balancing checkbook) Difficulty expressing ideas in words Difficulty moving your mouth to speak Difficulty making decisions Difficulty following directions while driving Difficulty remembering names of objects Difficulty remembering names of people Difficulty recognizing faces Difficulty following simple written instructions Difficulty following complicated written instructions Difficulty following simple oral (spoken) instructions Difficulty following complicated oral (spoken) instructions Difficulty integrating information (putting ideas together to form a complete picture or concept) Difficulty putting tasks or things in proper sequence Difficulty paying attention Difficulty following a conversation when background noise is present Difficulty making and/or retrieving memories (long/short-term memory deficits) Difficulty understanding what you read Easily distracted during a task Feeling too disoriented to drive Forgetting how to do routine things Forgetting the use of common objects (such as, what to do with the shampoo when you are standing in the shower) Forgetting how to get to familiar places Impaired ability to concentrate Losing your train of thought in the middle of a sentence Losing track in the middle of a task (remembering what to do next) Poor judgment Switching left and right Slowed and/or slurred speech Stuttering; stammering Transposition (reversal) of numbers, words and/or letters when you speak and/or speak Word-finding difficulty Using the wrong word
DIGESTIVE/HEPATIC:
Bloating; intestinal gas Decreased appetite Digestive chemicals (acid, enzymes) reduced or absent Oesophageal reflux; heartburn Frequent constipation Frequent diarrhoea Food cravings (especially carbohydrates, sweets) Food/Substance intolerance IBS Liver function impaired; mild abnormalities Increased appetite Nausea Spleen tender or enlarged Stomach ache, cramps Vomiting Weight gain or loss
EQUILIBRIUM/PERCEPTION:
Bite your cheeks or tongue frequently Bump into things frequently Difficulty discriminating printed matter despite proper vision correction Distances (difficulty judging when driving; when putting things down on surfaces) Dizziness or vertigo Dropping things frequently Disequilibrium (balance problems) Impaired coordination Loss of balance when standing with eyes closed Perception (not quite seeing what you are looking at) Some patterns (stripes, checks) cause dizziness Spatial disorientation Staggering gait (clumsy walking) Words on printed page appear to jump off page or disappear when staring at them
EYES/VISION:
Acuity changes not related to prescription changes Blind spots Blurred vision Conjunctivitis Diminished visual acuity in absence of actual vision change Drooping eyelid Double vision Eye pain Flashes of light perceived peripherally Optic neuritis or atrophy Oscillopsia (image jiggles) Prescription changes more frequently Pressure sensation behind eyes Red and/or tearing eyes Retinal damage Slowed accommodation (switching focus from far to near, near to far) Spots or floaters not related to migraines Swelling around eyes Uveitis and/or iritis Wandering or lazy eye
HEAD/NECK/MOUTH:
Bell's palsy (facial paralysis, one or both sides) Bruxism (grinding/clenching teeth) Canker sores Dizziness when you turn your head or move Dry chronic cough Dry eyes, nose and mouth (sicca syndrome) Pain in ears, palate, gums Periodontal disease Prickling pain along skin of jaw Problems swallowing, chewing Runny nose in absence of cold, allergies Sinus infections Sore spot on the top of your head Temperomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Unexplained toothaches Xerostoma (dry mouth)
MUSCULOSKELETAL:
Arthritic pain that migrates from joint to joint Carpal tunnel syndrome Frozen shoulder Intermittent joint swelling Joint aches (arthralgia) Joint pain, without redness or swelling Loss of tone "Lumpy, bumpy" long muscles Morning stiffness Muscle aches (myalgia) Muscle pain, stiffness, weakness Pyriform muscle syndrome Reduced range of motion Stiff neck Writing causes pain in hand, arm shoulder
PAIN SYMPTOMS:
Abdominal pain *Chest pain* Generalized pain Joint Pain Pain that migrates from joint to joint Pain/stiffness at C1-C2 (top two vertebrae) *** Shooting or stabbing pains **** Painful tender points (FMS: 11 out of 18 tender points)
PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS/MOOD/EMOTIONS:
Abrupt/Unpredictable mood swings Anxiety or fear for no obvious reason Appetite increase/decrease Decreased self-esteem Depression or depressed mood Feeling helpless and/or hopeless Feeling worthless Frequent crying for no reason Helpless/Hopeless feelings Inability to enjoy previously enjoyed activities Irritability; over-reaction New phobias/irrational fears Panic attacks Personality changes (labile, irritable, anxious, confused, forgetful) Phobias (irrational fears) Rage attacks; anger outbursts for little or no reason Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts
SENSITIVITIES:
Acute or abnormal reactions to medications Alteration in taste, smell, and/or hearing Chemicals (alcohol, medications; lower tolerance for) Food sensitivities Increased perception of and sensitivity to noise Light sensitivity Sensitivity to odours (able to detect and/or react in concentrations far lower than before and that healthy people cannot smell) NOISE sensitivities
SKIN/NAILS:
Abnormal scarring Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophician Blotchy or mottled skin Bruise easily Bruises may take longer to appear, and/or longer to fade Bull's-eye (Erythema migraines) on light skin (resembles a bruise on dark skin) Dermographia (minor scratch pressure on skin leaves vivid red welts) Dry, itchy skin Easily scar Eczema or psoriasis Fragile nails Frequent skin irritations Lymphadenosis benigna cutis Nails that curve under or downward Overgrowing connective tissue (ingrown hair, adhesions, thickened/split cuticles, cysts, fibroids)Painful skin (abnormal/excessive pain when scratched or rubbed) "Paper" skin (feels fragile, tissue-thin when rubbed) Rashes on body, face Vertical ridges or beads in nails
SLEEP SYMPTOMS:
Abnormal brain activity in stage 4 sleep Altered sleep/wake patterns (alert/energetic late at night, sleepy during day Difficulty falling asleep Difficulty staying asleep (frequent and/or prolonged awakenings) Hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) Myclonus (restless leg syndrome; occasional jerking of entire body) Nightmares (frequent, extremely vivid and/or disturbing) Unrefreshing/Non-restorative sleep
UROGENITAL/REPRODUCTIVE:
Decreased libido Discharge from breast or galactorrhea Endometriosis Frequent urination Incontinence Impotence Infant: premature; low birth weight; low muscle tone; failure to thrive Interstitial cystitis Miscarriage or stillbirth Painful intercourse Painful urination or bladder Pelvic and/or rectal pain Prostate pain Swollen testicles Other symptoms worsen before start of menstruation Worsening of PMS
OTHER:
Abnormal or other changes in sweating Activity level reduced to less than 50% of pre-onset level Burning sensation (internal or external) Changed voice Changes in sweat odour/body odour Delayed reaction to overactivity/exertion (onset 24-48 hours after exertion) Electromagnetic (EM) sensitivity (electrical storms, full moon, affect function of electrical devices) Fatigue, prolonged, disabling, made worse by exertion or stress Fibrocystic breasts "Galloping" cholesterol and triglycerides Hair loss (not related to age, hormones, diet, medication) Hands hurt excessively when put in cold water Handwriting changes, altering signature and/or other writing Hoarseness Painful, weak grasp that gives way/lets go Periods of concentrated thinking causes physical and mental exhaustion, increases pain Sore throat Swelling/Idiopathic oedema (fluid retention syndrome) Symptoms worsened by extremes of temperature (hot, cold), stress, and/or air travel Symptoms change focus from time to time, like infection is moving through the body Thickened mucus secretions (nose, bowel, vaginal) Thickened "sleep" around eyes in mornings Very attractive to biting flies and mosquitoes Weight changes (usually gain)
by Fibromyalgia Support Network INC.
posted Nov. 23, 2018
Monday, November 19, 2018
Living with an Invisible Illness
I am living with three Auto-Immune diseases. The ones of which are known as invisible illnesses. Chronic pain, Menieres and Fibromyalgia. My life is not pleasant as each day I suffer pain and dizziness. I have no real quality of life. I stay in my bedroom most times only eating once since I forget even to eat. Strange though I don't loose weight like I would love to do.
While working for the local Cancer center and even in the Laboratory I had a great fulfillment. I loved helping others as it was my life's mission. I even helped my Grand-mother and Mother when they had medical problems. I never thought at age forty-five I would be confined to my bed with immense pain coursing through me to the effect I could barely move. When this pain began, the doctor sent me to a Rheumatologist, considering I had been in a motor vehicle accident about ten years earlier. It would have been more acceptable to have had been diagnosed with some form of non-debilitating Arthritis since there are medications and treatments out there for it. But not this, this is life altering, giving up my career due to my doctor saying I could cause someone harm if I had a jolt of pain or a bout of dizziness was the worse day of my life. Everything I had worked so hard for, going to school for Nursing, after my husband left me with a one year and three year old to raise by myself.
The pain makes me cry. Today my hair is even hurting. Why me? I worked twenty years in the Medical Field, and lost it all to Chronic pain. is so devastating. Now I am on anti-depressants, along with pain injections, anxiety and PTSD medication. If I happen to go to an Emergency room about my chronic pain or Fibromyalgia pain, in between seeing my pain doctor, I am labeled as a drug seeker. I don't ask for anything except Toradol which is an NSAID like aspirin. I look at myself in the mirror each morning and all I see is a loser anymore. Unable to work and staying home crying in my bed. Each day I wake up and hope that it is a bad dream, but I find it is not. More pain and people don't see me as disabled since Fibromyalgia is not visible.
I am so tired so very tired by the lack of support and the exhaustion from the lack of ability to sleep. All the years I worked in the Medical field in various positions and now pain dictates my life everyday. Along with the pain comes dizziness, migraines, depression, anxiety and forgetting words as if I have dementia. This is so devastating since I was once so vital in caring for patients and their needs. Now when I pull into a handicapped parking spot and get out people judge me for they see I can walk and they don't see the me inside. The pain that now defines who I am. If I use the electric grocery cart I get the same looks. I'm thinking of having "I have Fibromyalgia" painted on the car so that people won't give me those looks when I get out. But what use would that be as half the Medical community and population don't believe in Fibromyalgia? Even people in my immediate family don't believe. People keep saying, "you don't look sick", so common. What do I have to do to have them believe me that I have Chronic Pain that I live with daily?
Now, thirteen years later there still is no cure in sight. I still have that stigma from others looking at me and not seeing my disability. It never changes. Even some family don't believe in my chronic pain with Fibromyalgia. They kept needling me to quit being lazy and go get a job and work or anything but lie in bed. Since over the years I have developed many drug allergies I don't have a great pain-reliever regime. I have tried so many ways to lessen my pain, TENS unit, Light relief unit, ice or heat packs, physical therapy, visualization, supplements and holistic measures. However, even using all this my daily pain is a four to six on the scale. I have days that are called Fibro Flares when my pain is an intense ten sometimes a flare can last three days or up to sixteen days at a time.
People who have Fibromyalgia, like I do, don't want to be sick and want their lives back to the fullest. However, because we have to cancel plans due to our level of pain for the day we are missing out on friends and family events. Eventually, people stop calling and asking. This is where depression sets in and our thoughts turn to different venues such as being inadequate, a burden on family and sometimes suicide. It varies day to day, due to the pain, as to whether or not I am suicidal, but don't act on it. Even in online support groups, when we have new members, I try to be helpful so the new person has an idea as to what they are facing. Like clothes with tags, hurt me, so it's tag-less clothes all the time. I try to let them know all the two-hundred plus symptoms or diagnoses that come with Fibromyalgia.
Yes, I said over two hundred: The ones listed are the ones I live with in my life. You can google the others.
1)Fatigue really bad after taking a shower as the exhaustion is so bad I can't do anything else the rest of the day,
2)Restless leg syndrome and spasms when I lie down to sleep my body jumps and my toes curl under with intense pain,
3)Cold hands and feet(unable to control body temperature) I can run my hands under hot water to warm them as for my feet I make sure to wear thick winter socks. It can also be ninety degrees outside and I am freezing under an electric blanket or it can be 55 and I am hot. This changes day to day minute by minute.
4)Stress
5)Dryness of eyes, mouth, skin and hair
6)Low blood pressure
7)Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which happens for me if I miss a meal. I get very dizzy.
8)Night sweats
9)Feeling like you have the flu but don't
10)Symptoms worsened by flying, stress, temperature change
11)Tremors
12)Weight gain or loss - for me it's gain with certain medications
13)Swollen lymph nodes - mine are under my chin and they come and go
14)Of course Chronic pain that is widespread throughout your body - It's not easily treated like you see in the commercials on television
15)Inability to go into REM stage of sleep so therefore you are always tired.
16)Cramping
17)Sensitivities - with me I can't use certain soaps (body/dish/laundry),cigarette smoke and medications.
18)Migraines or headaches for me this is 3-4 times per week.
19)Dementia or Cognitive Dysfunction - we call this Fibro Fog and most days I can't think of a word so I use the description and people are like just "say the word I'm not into guessing games".
20)Muscle spasms and morning stiffness - it's hard to get out of bed and try to start the day. I do a few stretches in bed until I can push myself up.
21)Hair loss - for years I didn't know this was one of the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.
22)Rashes - I get a lot of rashes in the summer mostly.
23)Increased thirst - which is hard on me since I have fluid restrictions.
24)Heart problems - but please get checked out it may not be related.
25)Light-headed
26)Ringing of the ears
27)Easily distracted - this is a big one for me.
28)Bloating
29)Appetite changes
30)Mood swings - another big one for me. Just like temperature changes I can be yelling one moment to joyful the next
31)Bumping into things
32)Dropping things - this too is a big one for me.
33)Hands unable to open bottles - I hate this because I may be out and need a sip of water and can't open the water bottle and look like an idiot.
34)Staggering like I am drunk but am not
35)Vision changes more often
36)Eye pain
37)Dry chronic cough
38)Hearing loss - it's my left ear that has it.
39)Frequent Sinus infections
40)TMJ (Temperomandibular Joint Syndrome ) I had it bad on my left side and had surgery for it.
41)Muscle aches
42)Unexplained Abdominal pain
43)Painful Trigger Points - there are 18 if you have 11 then you have Fibromyalgia. So far this is the only way to diagnose it until a different test can be found.
44)Frequent crying for no reason
45)Panic Attacks
46)Easy bruising
47)Uncontrollable itching - worse for me at night.
48)Fingernails that curve under
49)Burning nerve pain
50)Muscle twitching
51)Rib cage inflammation - I get this at least 1-2 times per year.
52)Tender breasts
53)Muscle weakness
54)Numbness or tingling sensations - I get this a lot.
55)Sensitivity to light
56)Poor balance and coordination - I hate this along with the pain most.
57)Disturbing nightmares - tried counseling but it didn't help me.
58)Unable to drive at night due to poor night vision
59)Stutter
60)Feeling unwanted or worthless or a burden - start of a depression episode for me.
61)Over-reaction - this is a big thing in my life and has actually alienated some of my family.
62)Nausea - this is for me everyday.
63)Diarrhea
64)Constipation - some of my meds and my limited fluid intake cause this for me. I actually struggle with it on a daily basis.
65)GERD
66)IBS
67)Bladder pain and frequent bladder infections
68)Nail ridges
69)Cuticles that split
70)Gum disease
71)Disk degeneration
72)Dental problems including bleeding gums
73)Frequent canker sores or lips splitting
74)Nose bleeds
75)Hemorrhoids
As you can see I live with seventy-five symptoms which I listed. This is just me, other Fibromites live with more or less of the two hundred symptoms. Now that you are aware of my symptoms can you imagine how horrible my daily life can be? If I could wear a shirt everyday that I go out that states all these symptoms just maybe some people will understand when I use a handicapped parking space. I no longer try to use the electric shopping carts but instead just lean a bit on the shopping cart. Being judged because nobody can see what I live with is a big deal with me and others who live with Chronic pain and Fibromyalgia. Over the years I have lost family and friend relationships because they couldn't understand my new horrible pain filled life since I am not wearing a cast or in a wheel chair. Fibromites call these "toxic people" and we are sometimes the ones who break ties with them so we aren't as stressed out. Stress triggers pain for us. And we want less not more pain in our daily lives.
Finding a cure or regular treatment regime may not happen in my lifetime. Yet, I still hold out hope. My hope is the non-ugly side of me, it's my soul. I have see many modern advancements in the medical field during my work. When I began nursing the EKG was done with metal plates and rubber straps, to hold on the plates, to do the EKG. Now, in today's times it no longer takes a half hour to do an EKG it only takes seconds. Therefore, the marvels of medicine will some day bring about cures for many diseases. I just hope I am still around to see them cure Fibromyalgia, Chronic pain disorders and the many other Auto-Immune disorders.
November 19.2018 posted
While working for the local Cancer center and even in the Laboratory I had a great fulfillment. I loved helping others as it was my life's mission. I even helped my Grand-mother and Mother when they had medical problems. I never thought at age forty-five I would be confined to my bed with immense pain coursing through me to the effect I could barely move. When this pain began, the doctor sent me to a Rheumatologist, considering I had been in a motor vehicle accident about ten years earlier. It would have been more acceptable to have had been diagnosed with some form of non-debilitating Arthritis since there are medications and treatments out there for it. But not this, this is life altering, giving up my career due to my doctor saying I could cause someone harm if I had a jolt of pain or a bout of dizziness was the worse day of my life. Everything I had worked so hard for, going to school for Nursing, after my husband left me with a one year and three year old to raise by myself.
The pain makes me cry. Today my hair is even hurting. Why me? I worked twenty years in the Medical Field, and lost it all to Chronic pain. is so devastating. Now I am on anti-depressants, along with pain injections, anxiety and PTSD medication. If I happen to go to an Emergency room about my chronic pain or Fibromyalgia pain, in between seeing my pain doctor, I am labeled as a drug seeker. I don't ask for anything except Toradol which is an NSAID like aspirin. I look at myself in the mirror each morning and all I see is a loser anymore. Unable to work and staying home crying in my bed. Each day I wake up and hope that it is a bad dream, but I find it is not. More pain and people don't see me as disabled since Fibromyalgia is not visible.
I am so tired so very tired by the lack of support and the exhaustion from the lack of ability to sleep. All the years I worked in the Medical field in various positions and now pain dictates my life everyday. Along with the pain comes dizziness, migraines, depression, anxiety and forgetting words as if I have dementia. This is so devastating since I was once so vital in caring for patients and their needs. Now when I pull into a handicapped parking spot and get out people judge me for they see I can walk and they don't see the me inside. The pain that now defines who I am. If I use the electric grocery cart I get the same looks. I'm thinking of having "I have Fibromyalgia" painted on the car so that people won't give me those looks when I get out. But what use would that be as half the Medical community and population don't believe in Fibromyalgia? Even people in my immediate family don't believe. People keep saying, "you don't look sick", so common. What do I have to do to have them believe me that I have Chronic Pain that I live with daily?
Now, thirteen years later there still is no cure in sight. I still have that stigma from others looking at me and not seeing my disability. It never changes. Even some family don't believe in my chronic pain with Fibromyalgia. They kept needling me to quit being lazy and go get a job and work or anything but lie in bed. Since over the years I have developed many drug allergies I don't have a great pain-reliever regime. I have tried so many ways to lessen my pain, TENS unit, Light relief unit, ice or heat packs, physical therapy, visualization, supplements and holistic measures. However, even using all this my daily pain is a four to six on the scale. I have days that are called Fibro Flares when my pain is an intense ten sometimes a flare can last three days or up to sixteen days at a time.
People who have Fibromyalgia, like I do, don't want to be sick and want their lives back to the fullest. However, because we have to cancel plans due to our level of pain for the day we are missing out on friends and family events. Eventually, people stop calling and asking. This is where depression sets in and our thoughts turn to different venues such as being inadequate, a burden on family and sometimes suicide. It varies day to day, due to the pain, as to whether or not I am suicidal, but don't act on it. Even in online support groups, when we have new members, I try to be helpful so the new person has an idea as to what they are facing. Like clothes with tags, hurt me, so it's tag-less clothes all the time. I try to let them know all the two-hundred plus symptoms or diagnoses that come with Fibromyalgia.
Yes, I said over two hundred: The ones listed are the ones I live with in my life. You can google the others.
1)Fatigue really bad after taking a shower as the exhaustion is so bad I can't do anything else the rest of the day,
2)Restless leg syndrome and spasms when I lie down to sleep my body jumps and my toes curl under with intense pain,
3)Cold hands and feet(unable to control body temperature) I can run my hands under hot water to warm them as for my feet I make sure to wear thick winter socks. It can also be ninety degrees outside and I am freezing under an electric blanket or it can be 55 and I am hot. This changes day to day minute by minute.
4)Stress
5)Dryness of eyes, mouth, skin and hair
6)Low blood pressure
7)Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which happens for me if I miss a meal. I get very dizzy.
8)Night sweats
9)Feeling like you have the flu but don't
10)Symptoms worsened by flying, stress, temperature change
11)Tremors
12)Weight gain or loss - for me it's gain with certain medications
13)Swollen lymph nodes - mine are under my chin and they come and go
14)Of course Chronic pain that is widespread throughout your body - It's not easily treated like you see in the commercials on television
15)Inability to go into REM stage of sleep so therefore you are always tired.
16)Cramping
17)Sensitivities - with me I can't use certain soaps (body/dish/laundry),cigarette smoke and medications.
18)Migraines or headaches for me this is 3-4 times per week.
19)Dementia or Cognitive Dysfunction - we call this Fibro Fog and most days I can't think of a word so I use the description and people are like just "say the word I'm not into guessing games".
20)Muscle spasms and morning stiffness - it's hard to get out of bed and try to start the day. I do a few stretches in bed until I can push myself up.
21)Hair loss - for years I didn't know this was one of the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.
22)Rashes - I get a lot of rashes in the summer mostly.
23)Increased thirst - which is hard on me since I have fluid restrictions.
24)Heart problems - but please get checked out it may not be related.
25)Light-headed
26)Ringing of the ears
27)Easily distracted - this is a big one for me.
28)Bloating
29)Appetite changes
30)Mood swings - another big one for me. Just like temperature changes I can be yelling one moment to joyful the next
31)Bumping into things
32)Dropping things - this too is a big one for me.
33)Hands unable to open bottles - I hate this because I may be out and need a sip of water and can't open the water bottle and look like an idiot.
34)Staggering like I am drunk but am not
35)Vision changes more often
36)Eye pain
37)Dry chronic cough
38)Hearing loss - it's my left ear that has it.
39)Frequent Sinus infections
40)TMJ (Temperomandibular Joint Syndrome ) I had it bad on my left side and had surgery for it.
41)Muscle aches
42)Unexplained Abdominal pain
43)Painful Trigger Points - there are 18 if you have 11 then you have Fibromyalgia. So far this is the only way to diagnose it until a different test can be found.
44)Frequent crying for no reason
45)Panic Attacks
46)Easy bruising
47)Uncontrollable itching - worse for me at night.
48)Fingernails that curve under
49)Burning nerve pain
50)Muscle twitching
51)Rib cage inflammation - I get this at least 1-2 times per year.
52)Tender breasts
53)Muscle weakness
54)Numbness or tingling sensations - I get this a lot.
55)Sensitivity to light
56)Poor balance and coordination - I hate this along with the pain most.
57)Disturbing nightmares - tried counseling but it didn't help me.
58)Unable to drive at night due to poor night vision
59)Stutter
60)Feeling unwanted or worthless or a burden - start of a depression episode for me.
61)Over-reaction - this is a big thing in my life and has actually alienated some of my family.
62)Nausea - this is for me everyday.
63)Diarrhea
64)Constipation - some of my meds and my limited fluid intake cause this for me. I actually struggle with it on a daily basis.
65)GERD
66)IBS
67)Bladder pain and frequent bladder infections
68)Nail ridges
69)Cuticles that split
70)Gum disease
71)Disk degeneration
72)Dental problems including bleeding gums
73)Frequent canker sores or lips splitting
74)Nose bleeds
75)Hemorrhoids
As you can see I live with seventy-five symptoms which I listed. This is just me, other Fibromites live with more or less of the two hundred symptoms. Now that you are aware of my symptoms can you imagine how horrible my daily life can be? If I could wear a shirt everyday that I go out that states all these symptoms just maybe some people will understand when I use a handicapped parking space. I no longer try to use the electric shopping carts but instead just lean a bit on the shopping cart. Being judged because nobody can see what I live with is a big deal with me and others who live with Chronic pain and Fibromyalgia. Over the years I have lost family and friend relationships because they couldn't understand my new horrible pain filled life since I am not wearing a cast or in a wheel chair. Fibromites call these "toxic people" and we are sometimes the ones who break ties with them so we aren't as stressed out. Stress triggers pain for us. And we want less not more pain in our daily lives.
Finding a cure or regular treatment regime may not happen in my lifetime. Yet, I still hold out hope. My hope is the non-ugly side of me, it's my soul. I have see many modern advancements in the medical field during my work. When I began nursing the EKG was done with metal plates and rubber straps, to hold on the plates, to do the EKG. Now, in today's times it no longer takes a half hour to do an EKG it only takes seconds. Therefore, the marvels of medicine will some day bring about cures for many diseases. I just hope I am still around to see them cure Fibromyalgia, Chronic pain disorders and the many other Auto-Immune disorders.
November 19.2018 posted
Saturday, November 17, 2018
CDC: Flu Activity in the U.S. Expected to Pick Up in the Coming Weeks
The flu is short for influenza. Influenza is a serious and sometimes deadly infection that can spread quickly across populations all over the globe. Cases of the flu typically appear during what is known as the flu season.
During this time, flu infections are far more common. In the United States, for example, flu season begins in October and extends through May.
Health officials expect to see the greatest number of flu infections roughly in February. Officials monitor the flu season closely. They're looking for trends. Scientists and world health officials wish to answer many questions about flu infections. They are trying to determine which areas are seeing the most infections. They're also trying to determine the severity of the flu virus as well as mortality and morbidity rates.
A Particularly Bad Season
The flu season of 2017-2018 was a particularly severe one. Of all the flu seasons on record, it had one of the highest death rates and per capita hospitalization rates. Officials estimate over eighty thousand Americans died of the flu or from complications.
More than nine hundred thousand were hospitalized. Given those circumstances, it is understandable that officials are keeping a close eye on the current flu season. They want to make sure that all health facilities have the capacity to respond to cases of the flu and offer lifesaving treatment. This is why they are doing everything they can to keep people informed about outbreaks of the flu in each part of the country.
Getting Vaccinated
So far, health officials do not think this season will be as serious as last year. However, they still highly recommend vaccination for all those over six months. Health officials are offering several types of flu vaccinations.
The trivalent strain protects against three flu strains. The quadrivalent vaccine offers protection against an additional strain. Seniors can get a high dose vaccine that is designed for those with weaker immune systems. They can also opt for the adjuvanted vaccine that is intended to produce a stronger immune response.
People with known egg allergies now have a flu vaccine option. The recombinant vaccine offers protection against three strains of the flu. In addition, there's also a nasal stray. This is not recommended for certain groups including pregnant women and those who have weakened immune systems.
Millions of Doses
Over one hundred and sixty-six million flu vaccine doses have been prepared for distribution. Officials recommend people get the vaccine as soon as they can. It can take up to two weeks for protection to begin.
An earlier shot means that people are more protected as the flu season continues. Part of the reason morbidity rates were so high last year is fewer people got a flu vaccine. Only about thirty-seven percent of adults older than eighteen were vaccinated.
Only about fifty-eight percent of children got a flu shot. Officials hope to see an increase in flu shot coverage this year that should help reduce complications and deaths.
The CDC has provided the following information about the 2018-2019 Flu Season:
Will the United States have a flu epidemic?
The United States experiences annual epidemics of seasonal flu. This time of year is called "flu season." In the United States, flu viruses are most common during the fall and winter months. Influenza activity often begins to increase in October and November. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, and it can last as late as May. CDC monitors certain key flu indicators (for example, outpatient visits of influenza-like illness (ILI), the results of laboratory testing and reports of flu hospitalizations and deaths). When these indicators rise and remain elevated for a number of consecutive weeks, "flu season" is said to have begun. Usually ILI increases first, followed by an increase in flu-associated hospitalizations, which is then followed by increases in flu-associated deaths.
When will flu activity begin and when will it peak?
The timing of flu is unpredictable and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Seasonal flu viruses can be detected year-round; however, seasonal flu activity often begins as early as October and November and can continue to occur as late as May. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States between December and February.
During this time, flu infections are far more common. In the United States, for example, flu season begins in October and extends through May.
Health officials expect to see the greatest number of flu infections roughly in February. Officials monitor the flu season closely. They're looking for trends. Scientists and world health officials wish to answer many questions about flu infections. They are trying to determine which areas are seeing the most infections. They're also trying to determine the severity of the flu virus as well as mortality and morbidity rates.
A Particularly Bad Season
The flu season of 2017-2018 was a particularly severe one. Of all the flu seasons on record, it had one of the highest death rates and per capita hospitalization rates. Officials estimate over eighty thousand Americans died of the flu or from complications.
More than nine hundred thousand were hospitalized. Given those circumstances, it is understandable that officials are keeping a close eye on the current flu season. They want to make sure that all health facilities have the capacity to respond to cases of the flu and offer lifesaving treatment. This is why they are doing everything they can to keep people informed about outbreaks of the flu in each part of the country.
Getting Vaccinated
So far, health officials do not think this season will be as serious as last year. However, they still highly recommend vaccination for all those over six months. Health officials are offering several types of flu vaccinations.
The trivalent strain protects against three flu strains. The quadrivalent vaccine offers protection against an additional strain. Seniors can get a high dose vaccine that is designed for those with weaker immune systems. They can also opt for the adjuvanted vaccine that is intended to produce a stronger immune response.
People with known egg allergies now have a flu vaccine option. The recombinant vaccine offers protection against three strains of the flu. In addition, there's also a nasal stray. This is not recommended for certain groups including pregnant women and those who have weakened immune systems.
Millions of Doses
Over one hundred and sixty-six million flu vaccine doses have been prepared for distribution. Officials recommend people get the vaccine as soon as they can. It can take up to two weeks for protection to begin.
An earlier shot means that people are more protected as the flu season continues. Part of the reason morbidity rates were so high last year is fewer people got a flu vaccine. Only about thirty-seven percent of adults older than eighteen were vaccinated.
Only about fifty-eight percent of children got a flu shot. Officials hope to see an increase in flu shot coverage this year that should help reduce complications and deaths.
The CDC has provided the following information about the 2018-2019 Flu Season:
Will the United States have a flu epidemic?
The United States experiences annual epidemics of seasonal flu. This time of year is called "flu season." In the United States, flu viruses are most common during the fall and winter months. Influenza activity often begins to increase in October and November. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, and it can last as late as May. CDC monitors certain key flu indicators (for example, outpatient visits of influenza-like illness (ILI), the results of laboratory testing and reports of flu hospitalizations and deaths). When these indicators rise and remain elevated for a number of consecutive weeks, "flu season" is said to have begun. Usually ILI increases first, followed by an increase in flu-associated hospitalizations, which is then followed by increases in flu-associated deaths.
When will flu activity begin and when will it peak?
The timing of flu is unpredictable and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Seasonal flu viruses can be detected year-round; however, seasonal flu activity often begins as early as October and November and can continue to occur as late as May. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States between December and February.
Monday, November 12, 2018
Duncan Hines Recalls Cake Mixes Due to Potential Presence of Salmonella
Duncan Hines Classic White, Classic Butter Golden, Signature Confetti and Classic Yellow Cake Mixes Recalled Due to Potential Presence of Salmonella
For Immediate Release
November 5, 2018
Contact
Consumers
Consumer Care team
1-888-299-7646
Announcement
CHICAGO - Conagra Brands is collaborating with health officials in connection with a positive finding of Salmonella in a retail sample of Duncan Hines Classic White cake mix that may be linked to a Salmonella outbreak that is currently being investigated by CDC and FDA. While it has not been definitively concluded that this product is linked to the outbreak and the investigation is still ongoing, Conagra has decided to voluntarily recall the specific Duncan Hines variety identified (Classic White) and three other varieties (Classic Butter Golden, Signature Confetti and Classic Yellow) made during the same time period out of an abundance of caution.
Five occurrences of illnesses due to Salmonella are being researched by CDC and FDA as part of this investigation. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
Several of the individuals reported consuming a cake mix at some point prior to becoming ill, and some may have also consumed these products raw and not baked. Consumers are reminded not to consume any raw batter. Cake mixes and batter can be made with ingredients such as eggs or flour which can carry risks of bacteria that are rendered harmless by baking, frying or boiling. Consumers are reminded to wash their hands, work surfaces, and utensils thoroughly after contact with raw batter products, to follow baking instructions, and to never eat raw batter.
The products covered by this recall were distributed for retail sale in the U.S. and limited international exports; the specific product information is listed below. No other Duncan Hines products or Conagra Brands' products are impacted by this recall.
Product Description & Brand Product UPC Best If Used By Date
(located on top of box)
Duncan Hines Classic White Cake 15.25oz. 644209307500 MAR 7 2019
MAR 8 2019
MAR 9 2019
MAR 10 2019
MAR 12 2019
MAR 13 2019
Duncan Hines Classic Yellow Cake 15.25oz. 644209307494 MAR 9 2019
MAR 10 2019
MAR 12 2019
MAR 13 2019
Duncan Hines Classic Butter Golden Cake 15.25oz. 644209307593 MAR 7 2019
MAR 8 2019
MAR 9 2019
Duncan Hines Signature Confetti Cake 15.25oz. 644209414550 MAR 12 2019
MAR 13 2019
Consumers who have purchased these items are advised not to consume them and to return them to the store where originally purchased. Conagra Brands is cooperating with the FDA on this recall and is working with customers to ensure the packages are removed from store shelves and are no longer distributed. Consumers with questions should call our Consumer Care team at 1-888-299-7646, open 9 am through 5 pm EST, Monday through Friday or visit www.duncanhines.com.
For Immediate Release
November 5, 2018
Contact
Consumers
Consumer Care team
1-888-299-7646
Announcement
CHICAGO - Conagra Brands is collaborating with health officials in connection with a positive finding of Salmonella in a retail sample of Duncan Hines Classic White cake mix that may be linked to a Salmonella outbreak that is currently being investigated by CDC and FDA. While it has not been definitively concluded that this product is linked to the outbreak and the investigation is still ongoing, Conagra has decided to voluntarily recall the specific Duncan Hines variety identified (Classic White) and three other varieties (Classic Butter Golden, Signature Confetti and Classic Yellow) made during the same time period out of an abundance of caution.
Five occurrences of illnesses due to Salmonella are being researched by CDC and FDA as part of this investigation. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
Several of the individuals reported consuming a cake mix at some point prior to becoming ill, and some may have also consumed these products raw and not baked. Consumers are reminded not to consume any raw batter. Cake mixes and batter can be made with ingredients such as eggs or flour which can carry risks of bacteria that are rendered harmless by baking, frying or boiling. Consumers are reminded to wash their hands, work surfaces, and utensils thoroughly after contact with raw batter products, to follow baking instructions, and to never eat raw batter.
The products covered by this recall were distributed for retail sale in the U.S. and limited international exports; the specific product information is listed below. No other Duncan Hines products or Conagra Brands' products are impacted by this recall.
Product Description & Brand Product UPC Best If Used By Date
(located on top of box)
Duncan Hines Classic White Cake 15.25oz. 644209307500 MAR 7 2019
MAR 8 2019
MAR 9 2019
MAR 10 2019
MAR 12 2019
MAR 13 2019
Duncan Hines Classic Yellow Cake 15.25oz. 644209307494 MAR 9 2019
MAR 10 2019
MAR 12 2019
MAR 13 2019
Duncan Hines Classic Butter Golden Cake 15.25oz. 644209307593 MAR 7 2019
MAR 8 2019
MAR 9 2019
Duncan Hines Signature Confetti Cake 15.25oz. 644209414550 MAR 12 2019
MAR 13 2019
Consumers who have purchased these items are advised not to consume them and to return them to the store where originally purchased. Conagra Brands is cooperating with the FDA on this recall and is working with customers to ensure the packages are removed from store shelves and are no longer distributed. Consumers with questions should call our Consumer Care team at 1-888-299-7646, open 9 am through 5 pm EST, Monday through Friday or visit www.duncanhines.com.
Sunday, November 11, 2018
Ryde Movie || Official Trailer || David Wachs, Jessica Serfaty
I watched this it makes me never want to use Uber or Lyft.
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