Seniors & Friends

This is a general place to talk about medical conditions not covered by a specific discussion here at Seniors and Friends.

mark

Hi Jane
Thank you for the 'Other Medical Conditions'  board.

kelly

Marking my place.

Has anybody around here had total knee replacement surgery?  I'm seriously considering this for sometime after 1 October.  I'm looking for helpful hints, experiences, things to do pre- and post-surgery, etc.

I asked this a year ago, guess the answer was no but.....is there anybody here now who has Multiple Sclerosis?.....If so, I would sure appreciate some company....( without wishing this horrible disease on anyone else...)....It is the old, old cliche..." it takes one to know one....only someone else with MS can understand someone else with MS, and what the illness is really like.....

Jackie, I've had some acquaintances with MS, but no close experience.  I hope you find someone to "talk" to here.

FWIW - No one understands or appreciates the problems of ailments like another with the same problem.

Mary - Gunther has had knee replacement. Haven't seen him post here lately but he was an Apple user so might be talking with Apple people. From what I've heard from some who have had knee replacements, the after care/rehab is a big part of it. The guy that does my taxes had his knee done a year ago and his doctor wanted him to build up his leg muscles before the surgery.  The best bet is probably a discussion with your Doc's (if they do that)well ahead of time.

Good luck.

Thanks, Rammel.  I've been told there can be a "pre-hab" for about three weeks prior.  I'll certainly do that if available.  And I've had a shoulder replacement - I know how important the rehab and PT can be.

Quote from: maryz on June 07, 2016, 10:46:18 PM
Thanks, Rammel.  I've been told there can be a "pre-hab" for about three weeks prior.  I'll certainly do that if available.  And I've had a shoulder replacement - I know how important the rehab and PT can be.

Aha ---- Now tell me about shoulder replacement. If mine get worse I may have to consider it. I've had left shoulder worked on once and the right one twice. Trimmed the acromian(sp) in the right one both times. Doc said there's arthritis in it. Can't lift it overhead any more. After the last op he said don't worry, we can always put in a replacement   :'(    I found the shoulder surgeries to be fairly painful.

Thank you both Rammel and Maryz, thankfully I am a member of a well known MS society forum, so as and when I need advise, comfort, or a listening ear, I turn to my like minded friends there.....but you folks in S & Fs know me far more better, and for far more longer..... ;D

Rick, I think Gloria Z who posts in Soda Shoppe, had shoulder surgery and it took a long time to heal, I'm not sure she can raise her arm too high yet.  You might check with her.

Mary Ann

Rick - I fell in August, 2012 and badly fractured my left upper humerus.  I've had three surgeries on it since then.  The immediate surgery was a plate and screws.  That failed very quickly - just not enough solid bone for it to hold, and the fracture didn't heal around it.  The second surgery was a partial shoulder replacement, i.e., just the shaft and head that goes into the arm.  Again, that failed to hold and was loosening.  In May 2014, the doc did a reverse shoulder replacement (google it) as what he deemed a "salvage operation".  It's my understanding this can be a procedure of choice following a severe and/or failed surgery for rotator cuff tear or for a failed partial replacement.  This has held well for me.  I can't actively raise my arm above shoulder level, but it can be passively raised above my head without pain.  I have almost no pain with it - some occasional twinges.  It's annoying sometimes, but after two years, I'm pretty much used to it.  And I tend to be pretty much accepting - as in "It is what it is" -- deal with it.  And as long as there's no pain, I do.

The postop physical therapy for shoulder surgery is pretty rigorous and can definitely be painful.  I was told to be sure to take pain meds before going to PT - and I did.  BTW, my brother-in-law (about 8 years older than I) has had both shoulders replaced (for arthritis, not following injury, as mine was) and has done very well with his.  I think he's still  able to put his carry-on bag into the overhead compartment on airplanes - something I certainly couldn't do.

Good luck with yours.

So now we're on to a knee replacement.  It's going to be even more fun with the x-rays at airports.  LOL

Thanks Mary.  I'm aware of the reverse shoulder replacement. Read about it several years ago, possibly in a Mayo Clinic Publication. It seemed favored by the writers sources.  As long as I don't do something stupid my shoulders feel pretty much OK - except when I sleep and get into a wrong position. If I try to use my right arm over shoulder height I get some hurt, which takes a while to go away. I think the two surgeries I've had have upset the geometry of the shoulder. As with you, I cant actively raise the arm but passively I can.

Good to have a place here to discuss, complain, learn, etc   :thumbup:

What do,we know about TIAs?

I've known several people who have had them, so they may be more common than we'd like to hope.

There is some good information here:

http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/TypesofStroke/TIA/TIA-Transient-Ischemic-Attack_UCM_310942_Article.jsp#.WAIy-nQ8KhA


http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/tia/tia.htm

My father had a number of them in the mid-nineties. He died on 10/95 but between three major strokes, he had a fair number of TIAs. It got so each time he had to be taken to a dentist or doctor, or some office, he would sit unmoving for a minute or two and then resume as if a switch had been turned on or off. He had almost total blockage of his carotid arteries.

He was between 85 and 87 when he died so it was a period of about two years where they became almost a daily event or two.

I have 2 friends who had more than one TIA  sometime around 2005.  One of them had one while playing bridge at my house.  The other one was sitting to her right when the one playing the hand just sat there instead of playing a card.  The other one said she's having a TIA.  I said I'm calling an ambulance and the TIA person managed to mumble NO, but I did it anyway.  The ambulance arrived in 3 minutes (I live near a fire station).  The driver told me they had to hurry because the emergency phone person told them they'd better hurry because I was her favorite teacher.  She didn't identify herself to me, was very professional--but I knew who they were talking about.

The one who recognized the TIA died in August.  The one who had the TIA had adjustments made to her meds and at 87 is doing very well.  BTW, I cleaned up the bridge stuff and our dinner dishes and went out to the hospital where I sat with her in a bed/cubby until 2:00 a.m. before she was seen by a doctor.  Does this resonate with you who may have had similar experiences?

Sue

Sue, my sister who retired from nursing and then as a hospital administrator said thats why they call it a practice!

I have been at two people's bedsides when they died. It was very obvious physically and yet the time of death was listed hours later as that was when the doctors came to call it.

Wondering if anyone is taking Lasix?   I have been having trouble with my legs and ankles swelling and my doctor suggested I try the Lasix.  She said I don't have to take it everyday. If I am going out, just don't take it that day.  I know that it will take potassium out of your system. I have blood work done just about every 6 weeks for other problems, and wondering if there would be a problem with the potassium levels  if  every 6 weeks is ok.  The doctor said I could eat something like a half-banana, or a few dried apricots, or some other food high in potassium on the days that I take the Lasix.  I am only take 20 mg. and only 1 time in the morning. 

Just would like to here someone else who has had experience in taking it. 

Thanks.

Joy

Hi all - just a general question about a medication that I started this week.  It's called Triamterene-hydrochlorothiazide, which is generic for Dyazide.  It's a diuretic and potassium pill.  I've taken the plain HCTZ for years, and have had no problems.  However, since the doc started me on this new capsule with the potassium, I am not feeling well at all. 
Let me know if anyone is taking this now, or if you have any history with this medication?

Marilyne, Google says "Less serious side effects may include:
mild nausea, diarrhea, constipation; dizziness, headache; blurred vision; dry mouth; skin rash."   

Marilyne, I take hydro==== and a separate potassium pill, both at the same time, and I have had no problems.  The potassium I take has a very different name than your potassium part of the med, so they probably are not the same.  But anyway, I have had no trouble with the combination.

Mary Ann

Patricia - Thanks for responding. I have all of the reactions you mentioned, plus a number of others. The worst for me being the swollen throat, hoarseness and dry throat. I have existing problems with my vocal cords, (no connection to meds), and the swelling and dryness, has made it impossible for me to speak above a painful whisper.  I've only been taking this med for four days, and today's dose is the last one i intend to take!  Of course, being Friday, I was unable to connect with my doctor, for advice. ::)  Also, my bp has jumped up to extreme levels, but I'm hoping it's a result of stress. I just want this day to end!

Mary Ann - I didn't see your message. Your medication sounds much less likely to cause a reaction, than mine.  Doctors seem to always give me strong meds that overwhelm my system, and I get serious reactions.  It took me a week to get over the last reaction I had earlier in the month. I know he is going to be annoyed when he finds out I stopped taking it.  Incidentally, he knows about my vocal cord problem, so it's too bad he didn't do a little homework.

Mark....CC

My wife is taking  Triam/HCTZ  (37.5/25) and had no problem when she started taking it. Still no problem. As was said it is supposed to have few, or minimal side affects.  It's used as a heart med in some places.
HOWEVER --- If you have a bad reaction you should do something about it, like stop, and contact your Dr.. A few years back my wife had a bad reaction to a drug (not triam/hctz) and ended up in the hospital.  Don't persist and get worse.

Marilyne, since it is the weekend and you can't contact your doctor, I think you should go to the ER.  You might first call your doctor's office.  If it is a multi-doctor practice, they should have at least one doctor on call for emergencies.  Then, if no one is available, go to the ER.  You could choke to death.  Take your meds with you.  I just looked up my potassium med - you might ask about it; it is a prescription med.  POT CHLOR ER(KLORCON) M 

Mary Ann

Thank you everyone, for the comments and advice:

My cardiologist is in practice alone, so no one else to call or to talk to over the weekend.  His recorded phone message says to go to the ER if you have a problem, and they will notify him. We live close to two hospitals with good ER reputations, so if things get worse, I will definitely go.

Mary Ann - I'll definitely ask him about your HCTZ/potassium med.
Rick - the doctor told me that Triam, was well tolerated by most people. Good that it's worked well for your wife.

Quote from: Mary Ann on April 28, 2017, 08:59:43 PM
Marilyne, since it is the weekend and you can't contact your doctor, I think you should go to the ER.  You might first call your doctor's office.  If it is a multi-doctor practice, they should have at least one doctor on call for emergencies.  Then, if no one is available, go to the ER.  You could choke to death.  Take your meds with you.  I just looked up my potassium med - you might ask about it; it is a prescription med.  POT CHLOR ER(KLORCON) M 

Mary Ann

Is that KLORCON a fairly large elongated tablet?  If it's the one I'm taking, I hate it. It tends to dissolve too quickly, like in your mouth, if you are not fast enough.  Easy to choke on.  :tickedoff:

Rick, no my potassium tablet is round and yellow, about 3/8 to 1/2 inch in diameter.  I have no idea how it tastes because it doesn't dissolve in my mouth but in my stomach.

Marilyne, my potassium and hydroz--- pills are separate, not one pill.

Tom just called about breakfast so I must get dressed.

Mary Ann

Just has not stopped raining here for past 4 days. Places and street flooding. So far 7 inch. has fallen and say will keep it up until Wednesday. So dark and dreary.
Daughter was just on and has the funeral to attend at 2pm. for her friend.  Has to drive over the border into Indy. Storming there also. Going to get soaked standing in the graveside but I would say they will cut it short.
I had a good friend who passed at 60 also and I remember standing at her graveside funeral in a heavy snow. She was Jewish and husband not and so had 2 service. Thought I would freeze. I don't attend now unless the church is right there and you never go to the site. Horrible day to go to any and I see we have about 5 today in my town.

Waited long enough. Just not going to clear up so on goes my raincoat. Hat and have to head out.  Going to go to library early. Pick up some DVD and plan on staying in for the rest of the Weekend. Wish I could get in the mood to clean closets and drawers. Just can't.  Will fix a good dinner and lay around. Relax for another day.

Marilyne....it sounds as if you've hit the jackpot on bad side effects.  I hope you will go to the ER and have a list with you of all the side effects you've suffered from.   If your doctor is "annoyed,"...well, that's just too darn bad.  He's a big boy and will get over it.  It's YOUR body that is suffering from these side effects.
You do what's best for YOU, and he can get in tune with his patients.

jane

jane - Thanks for the encouraging words.  I have a history of sensitivity or allergic reactions to medications, and have landed in the hospital on a couple of occasions. It's an ongoing problem, that doesn't appear to be improving as I grow older.  I just wish the doctors were more understanding.

This is new to me...the last few mornings I have woke up with a real bitter awful taste in my mouth...no new Meds...andy suggestions to cause and treatment ? Thanks Cc

Cottoncandy - I'm thinking that you might have dry mouth syndrome?  It's very common in us older folks, because we take so many medications that can cause it.  I wake up during the night with extremely dry mouth, and in the morning, I have a terrible taste in my mouth.  One thing that helps, is over the counter dry mouth lozenges, that you can buy at the drug store. They are in the toothpaste and mouthwash section of the store.  The two that have helped me are Xylimelts and ACT.  Xylimelts have a light mild mint flavor.  They both help with that morning taste. 

I have a simple cure for what I think is my dry mouth - when I get up in the middle of the night, I take a sip of water and that seems to help me.  I don't take a full glass full, just a little water in the bottom of the glass.

Mary Ann

You may have some Acid reflux while sleeping. Maybe taking just one Tums before you fall asleep could work. I have done that if I have eaten something spicy late on.  I don't take meds so can't be that.

Thanks everyone...the only med I take is  amlodipine 5mg a day for BP..I will try your suggestions..just been to the dentist for a check up..all was ok there...CC

I usually get up once or twice during the night for a potty stop and like Mary Ann, always have a glass of water nearby.  My mouth is always dry when I wake up, so that's important.  I always have dry eyes when I wake up, too, to there are OTC moisture eye drops nearby, too, and I use those.  I drink a lot of water and coffee during the day - and at least the water is important, then, too.   Good luck, Darlene.

CC I do not have  your problem but I also have a sip of juice when I get up in the night..  Not sure if that is why I don't have the problem or not tho.  Is just what I do.

I always have a glass of Diet 7Up on my night stand.  After waking up with a dry mouth and having coughing spells I learned to be prepared.
Take care everyone.                                             

I don't know where to put this , so I'll try here .  I'm to have a lumpectomy .  I did a search & there seems to be two different procedures . One they do a local anesthetic & the other the patient is put to sleep & they spend the night in the hospital .  I was told I would get a letter in the mail    from the surgeon & I'm to call & make an appt. for a consultation  Has anyone gone through this ? I have a mass & over 3 years have gotten two ceramic markers but so far no sign of cancer . The dr. wants the mass removed .

alpiner, come on over to the Bosom Buddies discussion.  We've all dealt with breast cancer, one way or another, and all are very happy to talk.  I had a lumpectomy, with general anesthesia, but it was performed as an outpatient procedure in the hospital.  Here's the link to our page...

https://www.seniorsandfriends.org/index.php?topic=5.3200

I started this post but pushed the wrong key and wiped it out when I was 1/2
finished------
Yesterday I attended the funeral of my friend of years.  She was amazing------
had 12 children (all living) umpteen grands, greats, etc.  She was the organist
for3 Catholic Churches at various times------taking NO pay,just doing it for her
love of the organ  and the Catholic Churches----a wonderful friend. ;)
JOY

Good morning, Joy.  Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your longtime  friend.  It is so hard to lose beloved friends, but you know that she has gone to a better place now.  Hugs to you and your family for your loss.  She sounds like an amazing Christian person.

SCFSue

Joyous...
...I would also like to add...your friend will be well rewarded for her loyal devotion...

PLEASE READ:



Message from Oldiesmann
HERE (https://www.seniorsandfriends.org/site-announcements/fyi-server-move-553/msg135117/#msg135117)

Can anyone tell me anything about a Nuclear Stress Test?  Got one coming on Monday and would like to be informed :-)

"A nuclear stress test uses radioactive dye and an imaging machine to create pictures showing the blood flow to your heart. The test measures blood flow while you are at rest and are exerting yourself, showing areas with poor blood flow or damage in your heart." Mayo Clinic

"Can a nuclear stress test show blocked arteries?
The test can show the size of the heart's chambers, how well the heart is pumping blood, and whether the heart has any damaged or dead muscle. Nuclear stress tests can also give doctors information about your arteries and whether they might be narrowed or blocked because of coronary artery disease." Texas Heart Institute

"A dual isotope stress or a one day Sestamibi test may take up to three to three and a half hours. A two day Sestamibi test will take about one hour and a half for the stress and about an hour for the rest part.
Nuclear Cardiology Stress Test - SJH Cardiology"
sjhcardiology.org/nuclear.html

"What to expect during the test

    The testing area is supervised by a physician.
    A nuclear medicine technologist will place an IV into a vein in your arm or hand and inject a small amount of radioactive tracer. The tracer is not a dye or contrast. After the tracer is injected, you will wait about 20 minutes before the first set of “resting” images are taken.
    Then you will be asked to lie very still under the gamma camera with both arms above your head for about 15 to 20 minutes. The camera will record images that show blood flow through your heart at rest.
    Next, a technician will place electrodes on your chest to monitor your EKG.
    You will start walking on a treadmill. At regular intervals, the difficulty of the exercise will increase until you achieve the target heart rate. Then, a second dose of radioactive tracer will be injected into the IV. Your heart rate, EKG and blood pressure will be monitored throughout the test. If you are unable to achieve your target heart rate, a medication may be given to simulate exercise.
    About 30 minutes after exercising, you will be asked to again lie very still under the camera with both arms over your head for about 15-20 minutes. The camera will record images that show blood flow through your heart during exercise. These images will be compared to the first set.

How long will the test last?

The appointment will take about 2 to 3 hours. The actual exercise part of the test lasts about 7-12 minutes.

This information is about testing and procedures and may include instructions specific to Cleveland Clinic. Please consult your physician for information pertaining to your testing."

Thanks Pat.  I should have known to look at the Mayo site.  I get their News Letter.  Always interesting stuff in it.

 :thumbup:

I can now add Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia to my PPMS portfolio..well that is what I am being treated for as from today..My dentist last week also agrees...I have been given a fortnights supply of Carbamazepine, and due back to my local GP in two weeks time..My MS just keeps on giving or is that taking?

Jackie, I'm sorry to see that you have another ailment to add to your list.  I know that you will follow your dentist and/or doctor's instructions, you will fight the ailment and you'll get along OK.  Was it Marilyne who wrote that she had been treated for it and did not now have it?  Best Wishes!

Mary Ann

Checking up on Marilyne's posts I believe she said she had this 20 years ago and was cleared up by the drug she was given, she also stated as far as drugs go, today's drugs will probably work better...
I have never been a person to welcome pill-popping as I think some would cause more problems than they are worth, causing other unnecessary problems whilst fixing the problem one is taking it for in the first place but, I shall take these and see what happens, if nothing, I am to go see her in two weeks, then see what she will have in store for me...
GP said to take one every night-late evening for one week and if nothing to take two twice a day for the second week...

Vanilla-Jackie....have you gotten any relief from the face pain?

Jane...
...thank you for asking..I have now taken myself off the medication ( Carbamazepine ) and it has been a fair bit better but it did kindof start up again a few days ago, although not so bad as before...

Ha ha, if its not one thing its another, my MS thigh electricity shocks have decided to come back and pay me a visit...It is all meant to try us... ;)

Hi all.   I had a fall back in Oct. that put me in the Hospital for a couple of months. <actually 3 days in Hosp. and 2 months in Rehab>  Anyway, the damage was loss of sight in my right eye, three pins were put into my hip and mny right hand was in a cast for over two months.  No problems from the hip but still having a bit of a problem with my thumb on my right hand.  It seems to be taking forever to stop hurting.  Any suggestions??

Yikes, Joan...not a good way to spend 3 months.  Hope you get healed and out of pain soon.

V-J...our niece had brain surgery for trigeminal pain after being on so many meds she couldn't think straight.  They put a silicon pad around the nerve and that's helped.  That was a yr ago, and she's now having some pain again, but not like before.  Terrible condition to have to endure.

Jane

Jane...
...sorry to hear your niece also suffered (Atypical) Trigeminal Neuralgia and was placed on so many pain medications...I too was a tad nervous when taking my first (for epilepsy) Carbamazepine...I try as much as I can to stay off of all things med's...Was it the meds that caused her to have the brain surgery or was her T-N so bad that they had to do it? it just sounds so drastic..Yes it is not very pleasant and I was told it could come back.. Not sure if mine was to do with my MS...my central nervous system.......

Jane, thanks.

V-J...Her pain was so bad she couldn't take it any longer. The pain meds were simply not working.  She had it done at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. 

jane 

Joan...hope you're feeling better real soon.

Jane, just about back to normal thanks.  :_

Joan, that's good to hear.

Mary Ann

Thanks Mary Ann.

I've been busy taking care of my husband. He was in the hospital for 5 days with pneumonia and they're trying to regulate his blood sugar also, so it's been a busy and confusing time.  Novolog/Humalog before meals and bedtime and Lantus in the morning.  Keeping track of 2 kinds of insulin has me being Nurse Jane Fuzzy-Wuzzy.

Hope you're feeling much better, Joan!

My sister's significant other has lung cancer , he hasn't much time left , hospice comes a couple times a week .  She has been watching over him & is very stressed & worn out .  She said her meals & coffee are cold before she can finish them .  His daughter is coming soon & his son isn't around much .  I live over a 1,000 miles from her .  Please keep them in your prayers .

Jane, thanks.  Feeling almost like new now.  The Artritus in my back bothers but as we all know nothing can be done for that.  I take Tylenol when it gets too bad.  Some days I do more chores than I probably should, but oh well.

When I first went on Insulin I was also taking two different kinds.   Gave one up as soon as I could.  Now with all the weight loss I have been cleared of the Diabetes and am glad.  Hope your husband can get off one soon.  Makes life eaier.   HUGS to you both.

Thanks, Joan.  So glad you're off all insulin and diabetes-free. 

My husband is now fighting Stage 4 lung cancer and so all the chemo meds, etc. play havoc with his blood sugar.  It's up and down, so he's getting shots 5 times a day....with lantus and then novolog and humalog. 

It's one day at a time.  If this new chemo doesn't work, then his time is very limited...the cancer has filled almost all of his lungs, so he's on a lot of oxygen 24/7.

jane

Jane - I'm so sorry to hear that your husband is suffering from lung cancer.  I will be thinking about you and Ray, and hoping that the new chemo treatment will help him.

Jane, hugs to you and your husband.

The new chemo has been wonderful.  He's better than he's been in weeks.  He has more energy, he needs less oxygen, etc.  Just praying it all continues. 

Thank you all for your kind wishes,

jane

Jane, that is such good news.  Am so happy for both of you.  More hugs sent your way.  Always hard on the spouse I have heard.

Jane, hurray for the good news about Ray.  I'm hoping/praying that his health continues to improve.  Hugs to you and Ray, too.  Keep us posted!

Sue

Thanks!  I sure hope the improvements continue.

Jane

Well, got a bit of my eyesight back that I lost from the two strokes.  Not enough tho to participate in conversations tho I am sorry to say.  Hope all are well.  We are having temps in the 100's here.

Joan, it was nice to see a post from you, even if it wasn't in Norm's B&T.  We would love to hear from you, even if it's only a "hi"; then we'd know you are all right.

Mary Ann

Hi Joan - I was thinking about you yesterday, and mentioned your name in a post last night in Norm's B&T.  You must have received a mental telepathy message from me! LOL  :D  I'm glad your eyes are better, and hope they continue to improve.  Please return and leave us a message here or in B&T. We're having 100 degree days here in the SF Bay Area also.

Marilyn and Mary Ann,  thanks.   I was legally blind BEFORE  the strokes so    I cannot expect too much.  .  Candy has moved down to So. Oregon.  She does not stay long in one place.  Usually about 18 months.  I call it wander lust.  LOL

Joan ------ Great sign, ---- your posts have small font   :thumbup:   I presume you can now see them.  Good work on the diabetes. Wish I could do that.

Jane - Does your husband get the Novolog with each meal?  I get it at the evening meal and worry at times how it will affect me during the night (while asleep). Woke up a couple of times with a low

Rammel...Ray's blood sugar got so messed up with chemo and his other health issues and, I think, too much insulin at times.

Everybody seemed to want to change what he got and when.  Before he passed away 30 July, he was taking Lantus (long term insulin) and Novolog (short term insulin.)  He, too, sometimes awoke with low BS...like 47!

Diabetic nurse was saying 5 units of Novolog before each meal, and novolog again at bedtime on the sliding scale they gave us.   And then 6 units of Lantus in the morning.   It was too much.  His primary care finally said to ease back and try
the 6 units of Lantus ONLY on days he had chemo.  She told us to use the sliding scale all the other times, since he often, in the last week and a half, didn't eat much at all.  At bedtime, if the reading was 150 or less I gave him no insulin, and if it was even 160 or less, I didn't.  It seemed it went way too low overnight otherwise, even using the sliding scale.

jane

Blood sugar seems to be a difficult thing to get a good control of. Too many things affect it.  I can do and eat the same thing day after day and still get highs and lows.  After my post above and mentioning concern about lows at night I woke up last night shaky and found my BS at 62. Good excuse for a sweet  :-\

Yep. We kept some of those sugar/glucose tabs on his nightstand so he could take a couple when his BS was so low.  Cutting back on his insulin at night seemed to help.  He was also taking Januvia and Actos and the insulin and they still couldn't get it regulated, it seemed to me.

V-J...having just lost my husband on 30 July, I understand your stress and feeling lonely and all the paperwork.  We had everything in order, but one investment is making it expensive for me to get what I should have easily.  They want to charge me for "making things easier"...ie., $70 to not have to hunt for the original, decorative stock certificate from over 35 years ago, $50 to not have to get a "medallion" signature on the forms transfering the shares to my name alone, and yesterday, the latest...$35-$85+ to "help" me by furnishing one of their support people to help me fill out the forms.  NONE of our other investments have pulled this "scam" to me...and I'm going to a certified accountant tomorrow. I'll pay her before I'll pay them!! And I want to sell it at the earliest possible moment. It's a very small amount of money, but a huge pain. Other investments with more $$ in them did everything on the phone and online or sent me forms with a number to call if I needed help....no charge.

jane

Would you tell us who (what Company) was so difficult?  It would be nice if we could avoid them.

Had a problem when my MIL died and a rep from one company suggested we just let a holding (a near due bond) run out.  The payments were going to bank with "Direct Deposit" in my wife's name.  That worked out fine.

Jane...
...I am in UK so would not know of this company that is giving you such a hard time, at a time in your life you are definitely not needing it...Some companies and businesses really dont care that someone is in bereavement..they wouldn't know what compassion is...

...Yes i am now dealing with solicitor business which is 140 - 150 miles away back home, before we moved three years ago due to my MS four years ago..

... All this is making me so very very ill...i am so alone..

jane et al, the last one that I had to deal with kept asking me for information I had already provided them (no charges involved, though).  I finally sent one of their requests back to them with a handwritten note in red marker saying, "I've already sent you everything I have - there's nothing else."  I got a check from them in a couple of weeks - and it wasn't even for very much money.  This was spring of 2018 and John died in 2015.

Rick...It's MFS Fund...formerly Colonial Municipal when we bought it.

And this is for a very small amount of money, but they've set me off big time.   :knuppel2:     :knuppel2:

Vanguard, on the other hand, was a dream to work with.  On the phone it was handled and the money was moved from our joint acct to a new account with my name in 2 days!

jane

Jane --- Thanks for that info.  Something to be aware and cautious of.  Small or big amount, they should treat their investors with consideration.

That's my view, too, Rick.  No other investment group has mentioned any charge for changing things.  They want forms filled out, and a death certificate, etc., but that seems reasonable.

jane

Well here we go again those of us taking Lasorton for our Blood pressure. On news tonight they are now banning it. What is happening,this is the forth one for me in last 9 months. Is not feeling that good usingitbut it does keep. Nine down. Dizzy for a couple hours on for first 3 hours taken in the morning. Tummy not good. Let's see what dr.say.
It takes me a couple weeks to get use to it every change.
I am going to try to find one that is not generic even though will have to pay at least $199 a month. I don't carry a drug insurance but people with one can't get them to use other than the generic anyway. The country has got todo something about drug suppliers. Mostly in Asia. Need toget our drugs made by US companies 

Jeanne..I saw that on the news of the BP recall...AGAIN.....I take it to....my next Dr appt is a month away so guess I will keep taking it until I go in....disgusting

I'm pretty sure that I was prescribed every known BP med over the years, and had some really bad reactions to all of them. (Losartan, was one of them.)  I feel that I gave each one a fair trial, except for a couple where I had an immediate serious reaction. Finally, my doctor had me stop everything, and take only a 12.0 mg capsule of hydrochlorothiazide, which is nothing but a diuretic.  It has kept my BP at a reasonable level for about 8 years now.  Recently, new guidelines have come out, that it is now acceptable for seniors over the age of 70, to have a BP of 150/80.  In other words, they feel that number is normal for older adults.  Mine always goes much higher than that in the doctor's office, but the doc doesn't panic, as long as it goes down before I leave the office. (White Coat Syndrome! ha ha)  Also, I have a good monitor at home, and my BP rarely goes above 150, and is usually around 130 to 140. At my advanced age, I don't expect perfection, when it comes to my BP or any other health related issues.  I know the end is in sight, so now I just want to feel as good as possible for these remaining years.

I've been on one BP med for about 20 years, along with the diuretic.  I take a generic Toprol.  My BP at the office is generally between 120/70 to 130/70.  The doctor is happy so I am too.  I haven't seen my PCP for some time but I see my cardiologist yearly.

Mary Ann

Good Grief!  I hadn't seen the recall on Losartan.  I don't see my provider until next July, so guess I'd better call the office and find out what to do.

Geez!

jane

Jane. I don't even think the Dr. know when they are recalled as it seems to be when they are told by the drug store that they cant fill the prescription.
After passing a certain age I don't think the seem to be that interested in what ones BP is. No doctor thinks alike., Mine keep adding something to the Losarton. Last thing added is now making it to low.  About ready to give up on all of them. I will try to see him next week. They say that seems to be something in Losarton that can cause Cancer. One Dr says that would not bother me any as most cancer takes a few years to go to work and at my age not last that long. I don't even get a memo now as my Gino told me that. Never had a bad report. Last one 2 years ago

As of September 19, Losartan and Valsartan from the following pharmaceutical companies are the only ones on the recall list at present: 

Torrent, Teva, Macleods, Camber, Legacy and Vivimed Life Sciences

The one I take is from a different company and is not on the list (at least for the moment).  I also take a generic Toprol.

Mary

Thank you Mary Tx for that info...mine is filled by the VA....they have not contacted me.....

Guess I am a lucky one.  Don't need pills since I lost all my weight.  Am glad tho, was one pill tooo many.  :)

Hi Joan, good to see a post from you.  We miss you.

How fortunate you are to not have to take pills.  I take too many in my estimation but something must be helping me.

Mary Ann

Hi MaryAnn.  This is the only  place I I post these days.   Had to even give up FaceBook since daughter messed up my post there.  We did not have Fall this year, went direct to Winter.  Very strange year here for some reason.

Hi Joan - I heard Montana had four inches of snow and I know you're close.  We had 70 degree weather today with rain.  I know it will not last.  Stay well and let us hear from you.

Mary Ann

Mary Ann, thanks, I will.  Tis the only place I post now.

Joan, there are few folders I read, but I look for who has posted on others.  If the posters are regulars, I don't go to the other folders, but when I see your name, I want to keep in touch, so I come here even if I don't have an other medical condition.

Mary Ann

Mary Ann, I am glad you do.  :)  All is well here.  We went right from Summer to Winter.   Long Winter this year.
I am doing fine <for  an older lady>.    A few minor health issues which I can handle, comes with age they say.   I know you are older but  I never thought I would get this old <86>  Seems everything in the body is slowing down.  Oh well.
Hope all are well.  Holidays just around the corner.  Hugs to all.

It's good to hear from you Joan.  I never thought I'd get to this age (95) either, but I feel relatively good and my goal is to get to 96.  One at a time!  I'm glad all is well with you.  Your children have moved enough that I cannot keep up with them - are any of them in your area now? 

Dot will be 90 in June and her arthritis pains her a lot, but other than that, she is OK.  We go to church together, then go out to eat afterward; she drives.  I sold my car 3 1/2 years ago. Tom takes me where I need to go, especially on appointments.  We had a boy born to a nephew's daughter a month ago and in a week or two we will have another boy in California to a nephew's son and DIL.  I did some figuring earlier today and Norm has 18 descendants; too bad he isn't around to enjoy them. 

Keep well, Joan, and I hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Mary Ann

Thanks Mary Ann.  I just one left here and he is my caregiver.  Youngest son.  He is 53  and will be 54 next week.  He does my shopping for me.  I have a lady that comes in once a month to clean.  I do cleaning otherwise.  I do my own laundry and can still take care of me so am lucky that way.  Use a walker but these secondary knees are wearing out so not sure how much longer they will hold me up.  Glad I lost the bunch of weight that I did after the two strokes.    Had to buy all new clothes.  LOL  Took me a few months, cannot do that all in one month.
Cold here but Winter started early this year.
You take care and HI to all my friends on here.  Hugs to all.

Can easily forget we have this folder, re, our medical issues....
Well this past week or two i have seen my local GP, had to phone 111 NHS twice, had two home call-outs, second calling ambulance, and spent most of the day in hospital yesterday ( not overnight ) All this because of foot oedema, leg cellulitis, and a possible leg blood clot ( deep vein thrombosis, ) thankfully at least DVT was ruled out in hospital yesterday via, taking top of hand 3 dangling blood vials..To be honest i have had better weeks, and not even mentioning my 5 -10 minute annual, and first face to face with my Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Consultant Neurologist two weeks ago which amounted to nothing...Today my last day of 4 a day antibiotic - penicillin tablets...

Jackie, - You're right. It's easy to forget this folder. Those blood draws from the top of the hand hurt. Once had an artery draw from deep in the wrist area - nearly jumped of the gurney. Hope control of the edema resolves easily and no Cellulitis. I'm well aware of the associated "misery". I'm supposed to get an Artery Scan of my legs in an effort to control similar problems. You've given me a good reminder.

Rick..
..you are so right, that top of hand really did hurt...i got her to take it back out, she got the blood she was needing, ( it would have been left in for as long as i would have been in that hospital, ) told her i have MS with this right hand nerve damage, ( left hand is ok ) she did...i still have black bruising covering the top of that hand but, at least no pain with it now...I am sure our UK A & E ( accident & emergency ) do this as procedure without knowing your history....Rick get it seen to, we both know the seriousness of leg cellulitis, that can literally be a killer...

As you are all, I'm too dealing with a host of problems, medically speaking.  I hope you all have good medical help and can deal with all the blood draws, scans, etc.

Stay safe and healthy,

jane

Jane..
..this is not the life any of us want but, this is our reality...On the positive side, at least our medical trips are giving us some form of a social life...it gets us out..

VJ----YES...that's what I told another woman waiting for the surgeon yesterday...."I'd have no social life at all, if I didn't have so many doc appts!" ;D  ::)  :2funny:

Jane...
...aren't we the lucky ones.. ;) ;D

 :2funny:  ;D  :o

Jane...
...another " outing, " soon being hospital transport collected for a trip to a bladder and bowel clinic ( my MS )...Oh well, at least our weather looks warm dry and sunny..but i shan't be taking my bucket and spade..

On a nonrelated topic; Has anyone ever heard of an over the counter product called "Edison Ointment"?  Supposedly developed by Thomas Edison.

Astro...
...in answer to you question...no i hadn't heard of it but, i have heard of it now...Link...

https://www.weirduniverse.net/blog/comments/polyform_edisons_topical_anesthetic

I never heard of it, but it appears VJ has a link for you.

Hope your appt at bladder clinic went well.  I have another cancer surgery in my bladder tomorrow...scraping any cancer out.

I had my yearly appt with my primary care this morning.  I need to do blood work and a dexa scan when things calm down.

I hope that is soon.

Jane

Jane...
...never thought bladders would give us so much problems...hoping your surgery appointment has a positive outcome for you...

Thank You for your input, Vanilla-Jackie

V-J  Urology surgery went well.  He was pleased with healing from June surgery.  He did take 2 more biopsies from the "padding"at the bottom of the bladder.

Surgery was also delayed 3 hours...emergency for my urologist in surgery to take care of.

All in a LONG day.

jane

Sounds like good news, jane!!  :thumbup:

Jane...
...things can only get better for you from now on....

Thanks, Mary and V-J.

jane