Forums > Social Discussion > Quality of life?
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veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
Quality of life?
As a number of you know I have suffered from Chronic Sinusitis since I was 16 years old (probably longer but my parents used to think I just had a really bad cold).
Since I was diagnosed when I was 16 I have been through a number of tests and taken many, many different over the counter and prescribed drugs. I have pretty much tried everything on the market. A new thing gets brought out on the market and I am put on it pretty much to see if it works.
When I was 19 I under went surgery to see if that would improve my quality of life. It did for one year (the cost of the surgery compared to how long it last was not really worth it would have been cheaper to try more drugs!).
So for the last six years I have again been on and off many, many drugs trying to find more things to help me out. I have found only one. The problem is that it is one of the most hardest to get prescribed due to the fact that it is also considered a dangerous and powerful drug. And I realised just how bad it was about three months ago when I was admitted to hospital from Adrenal Shock after the doctor decided he would not prescribe it to me anymore.
The drug (for those that know anything about medicine) is Prednisone (also known as Prednisolone) which is a corticosteroid…so basically I am taking steroids.
Now after my stint in the hospital I was put back on the drugs to be weaned off them properly. Which was great cause that meant that not only was my asthma good but so was my sinusitis.
Now I am down to a measly 3mg and it is killing me. My asthma is shot and I am in absolute misery because my sinuses are giving me hell EVERY day. I am getting headaches, I am cranky all the time…etc, etc.
Now I know that the side effects and what this drug can do to you in the long run are BAD! Extremely bad….but I am only nearly 26 years old and if I am not on them my quality of life is absolute shite….
So my question to you today is….even knowing that a drug has the potential to be extremely bad for you in the long run would you take it to have some form of decent quality of life at the present?
Quality of life?
As a number of you know I have suffered from Chronic Sinusitis since I was 16 years old (probably longer but my parents used to think I just had a really bad cold).
Since I was diagnosed when I was 16 I have been through a number of tests and taken many, many different over the counter and prescribed drugs. I have pretty much tried everything on the market. A new thing gets brought out on the market and I am put on it pretty much to see if it works.
When I was 19 I under went surgery to see if that would improve my quality of life. It did for one year (the cost of the surgery compared to how long it last was not really worth it would have been cheaper to try more drugs!).
So for the last six years I have again been on and off many, many drugs trying to find more things to help me out. I have found only one. The problem is that it is one of the most hardest to get prescribed due to the fact that it is also considered a dangerous and powerful drug. And I realised just how bad it was about three months ago when I was admitted to hospital from Adrenal Shock after the doctor decided he would not prescribe it to me anymore.
The drug (for those that know anything about medicine) is Prednisone (also known as Prednisolone) which is a corticosteroid…so basically I am taking steroids.
Now after my stint in the hospital I was put back on the drugs to be weaned off them properly. Which was great cause that meant that not only was my asthma good but so was my sinusitis.
Now I am down to a measly 3mg and it is killing me. My asthma is shot and I am in absolute misery because my sinuses are giving me hell EVERY day. I am getting headaches, I am cranky all the time…etc, etc.
Now I know that the side effects and what this drug can do to you in the long run are BAD! Extremely bad….but I am only nearly 26 years old and if I am not on them my quality of life is absolute shite….
So my question to you today is….even knowing that a drug has the potential to be extremely bad for you in the long run would you take it to have some form of decent quality of life at the present?
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
yup. and we should found the chronically ill spinning foundation, maybe we could find someone to sponsor us and pay us money to go to conventions to improve our quality of life
I know how you feel, being 26 and faced with the first consequences of having been a diabetic for 24 years ("the first" if you don't count the actually being sick and dependent on stabbing yourself with needles for 2 1/2 decades and whatever psychological damage that does)
I know about a lot of things that can potentially happen to me, and doctors keep telling me that it's "amazing how far I've come" (now isn't that REALLY encouraging?), but hey, I didn't choose to get it, but I can choose to live with it best as I can. Which does include enjoying my life and doing fun stuff, even though it might be better to just have a standard day every day.
In the long run, if you're unhappy and feeling bad and having trouble breathing and being angry at others every day of your life, it's not going to improve your health either. It can lead to depressions (which have been discussed on here extensively) or psychosomatic illnesses. Neither are chronical headaches (or chronical painkillers against headaches) good for you. You have to decide for yourself though... it's no situation that anyone who isn't in it can judge.
yup. and we should found the chronically ill spinning foundation, maybe we could find someone to sponsor us and pay us money to go to conventions to improve our quality of life
I know how you feel, being 26 and faced with the first consequences of having been a diabetic for 24 years ("the first" if you don't count the actually being sick and dependent on stabbing yourself with needles for 2 1/2 decades and whatever psychological damage that does
)I know about a lot of things that can potentially happen to me, and doctors keep telling me that it's "amazing how far I've come" (now isn't that REALLY encouraging?), but hey, I didn't choose to get it, but I can choose to live with it best as I can. Which does include enjoying my life and doing fun stuff, even though it might be better to just have a standard day every day.
In the long run, if you're unhappy and feeling bad and having trouble breathing and being angry at others every day of your life, it's not going to improve your health either. It can lead to depressions (which have been discussed on here extensively) or psychosomatic illnesses. Neither are chronical headaches (or chronical painkillers against headaches) good for you. You have to decide for yourself though... it's no situation that anyone who isn't in it can judge.
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GOLD Member
just lost .... evil init
2,474 posts
Location: Adelaide, Australia
just lost .... evil init
2,474 posts
Location: Adelaide, Australia
Posted:
i think quality of life is very very important, having seen my share of specialists over the years and getting lots of different diagnosises for the same thing i would be making sure that i had been to every specialist i could find and tried all the different possible treatments before resigning myself to taking uber beefy meds like prednisone.
ive had it before and was told not take it unless i absolutely had to and if i did have to then not to take it for more than 3 weeks in a row at a 20mg daily dose with atleast 3 weeks inbetween the next lot due to the fact thats its such a beefy med.
have u tried alternative medicines to?
i think quality of life is very very important, having seen my share of specialists over the years and getting lots of different diagnosises for the same thing i would be making sure that i had been to every specialist i could find and tried all the different possible treatments before resigning myself to taking uber beefy meds like prednisone.
ive had it before and was told not take it unless i absolutely had to and if i did have to then not to take it for more than 3 weeks in a row at a 20mg daily dose with atleast 3 weeks inbetween the next lot due to the fact thats its such a beefy med.
have u tried alternative medicines to?
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SILVER Member
addict
667 posts
Location: Cannock, staffordshire, United Kingdom
addict
667 posts
Location: Cannock, staffordshire, United Kingdom
Posted:
u had to pay for an operation now thats wrong???
to be honest i wouldnt want to put my life in extreme danger with potentially harmful drugs but i guess its up to the individual...
EDITED_BY: dani_babyboo (1141125542)
u had to pay for an operation now thats wrong???
to be honest i wouldnt want to put my life in extreme danger with potentially harmful drugs but i guess its up to the individual...
EDITED_BY: dani_babyboo (1141125542)
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veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
I have tried everything except for acupuncture and the onyl reason I haven't tried that is because I am scared of needles....hate them with a passion.
Most of the places I have been or people I have seen have told me the surgery is the last resort. Been there done that...
I have seen many doctors about it but all they do is put me on more drugs which never work.
I'm just tired of being guinea pig material i know this works, I know how bad it is for me but I am willing to accept the risks for some sort of decent life now...but yet continuously I am told that I shouldn't be using it or doctors won't prescribe it.
My boyfriend even thinks I am an idiot for doing it (mind you this is coming from someone who has nearly never been sick).
I just would like to know if others would want to risk their health later in life for relief now in life?
I have tried everything except for acupuncture and the onyl reason I haven't tried that is because I am scared of needles....hate them with a passion.
Most of the places I have been or people I have seen have told me the surgery is the last resort. Been there done that...
I have seen many doctors about it but all they do is put me on more drugs which never work.
I'm just tired of being guinea pig material i know this works, I know how bad it is for me but I am willing to accept the risks for some sort of decent life now...but yet continuously I am told that I shouldn't be using it or doctors won't prescribe it.
My boyfriend even thinks I am an idiot for doing it (mind you this is coming from someone who has nearly never been sick).
I just would like to know if others would want to risk their health later in life for relief now in life?
SILVER Member
Tosser
1,712 posts
Location: Bristol,UK
Tosser
1,712 posts
Location: Bristol,UK
Posted:
I've had varying severities of Asthma since I was 18 months old and in the last 10 years I have had short term dosages of Prednisolone. I find that the stuff really messes me up- It makes me feel emotionally fragile, stops me from sleeping etc. It has cleared up some of the pretty nsty chest infections I've had over the years, but it was at some considerable short term cost.
It sounds like you don't suffer side effects that badly (though I'm guessing it may be that relatively speaking the benefits outweigh the cons?) but I thought you may be interested to hear the following.
My dad went to a secondary school for asthmatics (this is back in the 70's). While he was there he saw lots of new treatments come onto the market and obviously a school full of asthmatics is a great place to test your wares. Prednisolone became available during his ime there and from what he's told me it was treated like some sort of wonder drug- almost everyone with a worse than normal condition would be given huge amounts of the stuff.
I've never got tot the bottom of it, but I'm pretty sure that the drug severely screwed up some of my dads friends back then (I know that one died, though I don't know if that was prednisolone or another drug that caused it) but whenever I have been prescribed the drug my he has been very keen to make sure I am being careful with taking it correctly and to sugggest that ideally I don't take it at all. This ios from someone who takes an awful lot of medication and is very trusting of medicines in general.
Dram your own conclusions I, but speaking personally from my own exposure and the notional concern of m dad, I can only suggest that you ty to avoid using prednisolone.
DISCLAIMER:
I am not a Doctor, I do not know that actual benefits/dangers of taking the drug. It is very possible that you'll take it and it will do nothing but good.
I've had varying severities of Asthma since I was 18 months old and in the last 10 years I have had short term dosages of Prednisolone. I find that the stuff really messes me up- It makes me feel emotionally fragile, stops me from sleeping etc. It has cleared up some of the pretty nsty chest infections I've had over the years, but it was at some considerable short term cost.
It sounds like you don't suffer side effects that badly (though I'm guessing it may be that relatively speaking the benefits outweigh the cons?) but I thought you may be interested to hear the following.
My dad went to a secondary school for asthmatics (this is back in the 70's). While he was there he saw lots of new treatments come onto the market and obviously a school full of asthmatics is a great place to test your wares. Prednisolone became available during his ime there and from what he's told me it was treated like some sort of wonder drug- almost everyone with a worse than normal condition would be given huge amounts of the stuff.
I've never got tot the bottom of it, but I'm pretty sure that the drug severely screwed up some of my dads friends back then (I know that one died, though I don't know if that was prednisolone or another drug that caused it) but whenever I have been prescribed the drug my he has been very keen to make sure I am being careful with taking it correctly and to sugggest that ideally I don't take it at all. This ios from someone who takes an awful lot of medication and is very trusting of medicines in general.
Dram your own conclusions I, but speaking personally from my own exposure and the notional concern of m dad, I can only suggest that you ty to avoid using prednisolone.
DISCLAIMER:
I am not a Doctor, I do not know that actual benefits/dangers of taking the drug. It is very possible that you'll take it and it will do nothing but good.
SILVER Member
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
The only side effects I have from it are when I am being taken off it.
But that being said prednisolone has a nasty little habit of masking things that could really be wrong with you.
Essentially taking prednisolone does not cure my sinusitis it just masks it so I don't feel the effects...the problem is still there (that is why when being taken off them I have the problem again!).
The side effects most people seem to have made comment on (on other websites and people I have met IRL) I have never had. I must be just lucky in that case.
The only side effects I have from it are when I am being taken off it.
But that being said prednisolone has a nasty little habit of masking things that could really be wrong with you.
Essentially taking prednisolone does not cure my sinusitis it just masks it so I don't feel the effects...the problem is still there (that is why when being taken off them I have the problem again!).
The side effects most people seem to have made comment on (on other websites and people I have met IRL) I have never had. I must be just lucky in that case.
BRONZE Member
Carpal \'Tunnel
5,814 posts
Location: Perth, Australia
Carpal \'Tunnel
5,814 posts
Location: Perth, Australia
Posted:
I would be lining back up for the meds. Long life of misery vs possibly shorter one with less pain....no call there for me.
Acupuncture for me was suprisingly relaxing and with your eyes closed it was sometimes hard to even feel them being inserted and you have a much higher pain tolerance than me.
Can you try acupressure instead?
Do your moods settle after being off the drug for a while??? You have said when coming off it that it was horrid...
Ive heard of diabetes and mood problems being a side effect of the meds. (not meaning you Birgit)
I would be lining back up for the meds. Long life of misery vs possibly shorter one with less pain....no call there for me.
Acupuncture for me was suprisingly relaxing and with your eyes closed it was sometimes hard to even feel them being inserted and you have a much higher pain tolerance than me.
Can you try acupressure instead?
Do your moods settle after being off the drug for a while??? You have said when coming off it that it was horrid...
Ive heard of diabetes and mood problems being a side effect of the meds. (not meaning you Birgit)
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Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?
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1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
I only have the modd swings while coming off it because of the stupid problems I start having. I get sick I get cranky...so technically it isn't a side effect it is just me being nasty because I feel awful.
See I am of the same mind as you gnor...I would rather die young looking back on fond memories than die old feeling crabby and sick all my life.
But I am being told by my family and Chris (my partner) that I am being stupid and selfish for doing this.
I don't think it is selfish to want to feel healthy...
I only have the modd swings while coming off it because of the stupid problems I start having. I get sick I get cranky...so technically it isn't a side effect it is just me being nasty because I feel awful.
See I am of the same mind as you gnor...I would rather die young looking back on fond memories than die old feeling crabby and sick all my life.
But I am being told by my family and Chris (my partner) that I am being stupid and selfish for doing this.
I don't think it is selfish to want to feel healthy...
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
Nah, it's not selfish. If asked "what would you do if you could be whatever you wanted for a day" I usually reply "healthy" and that makes people shut up
Most people don't realise what it's like to be sick apart from the occasional flu.
Taking the steroids is something you do to yourself, not to them. While you may get sick later, if you don't take the medicines you're already feeling sick... well. As I said, I think you have to be there to understand it. It's still such a hard decision to make, and please don't let anyone here influence you, but do what you think is right!
Nah, it's not selfish. If asked "what would you do if you could be whatever you wanted for a day" I usually reply "healthy" and that makes people shut up
Most people don't realise what it's like to be sick apart from the occasional flu.Taking the steroids is something you do to yourself, not to them. While you may get sick later, if you don't take the medicines you're already feeling sick... well. As I said, I think you have to be there to understand it. It's still such a hard decision to make, and please don't let anyone here influence you, but do what you think is right!
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Owner of Dragosani's left half
BRONZE Member
Carpal \'Tunnel
5,814 posts
Location: Perth, Australia
Carpal \'Tunnel
5,814 posts
Location: Perth, Australia
Posted:
You know what you want to do. You know your body and how it works.
Is there better operations now?
Is there some kick ass specialists there with new solutions?
You know what you want to do. You know your body and how it works.
Is there better operations now?
Is there some kick ass specialists there with new solutions?
Is it the Truth?
Is it Fair to all concerned?
Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships?
Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?
Im in a lonely battle with the world with a fish to match the chip on my shoulder. Gnu in Binnu in a cnu
SILVER Member
newbie
17 posts
Location: Münchendorf, AUSTRIA
newbie
17 posts
Location: Münchendorf, AUSTRIA
Posted:
Just beforehand an important deatail: I don't know how you feel, I am free from chronical illnesses.
I also recommend acupuncture, I was also scared of it but after the first times I trusted in it. Try it out.
As what concerns life quality, I'm not sure what I would do in such a situation (I hope it never comes to the point where I have to make this desicion)
Still I believe that I prefer quality not quantity. What use do I have, if I get eighty years old or more but suffer all my life?
twirling greets
hilli
Just beforehand an important deatail: I don't know how you feel, I am free from chronical illnesses.
I also recommend acupuncture, I was also scared of it but after the first times I trusted in it. Try it out.
As what concerns life quality, I'm not sure what I would do in such a situation (I hope it never comes to the point where I have to make this desicion)
Still I believe that I prefer quality not quantity. What use do I have, if I get eighty years old or more but suffer all my life?
twirling greets
hilli
Think but never worry for tomorrow will come anyway
SILVER Member
big and good and broken
7,330 posts
Location: lunn dunn, yoo kay, United Kingdom
big and good and broken
7,330 posts
Location: lunn dunn, yoo kay, United Kingdom
Posted:
good question gnor.
i had chronic sinusitus for about three years - as medusa has found, most of the treatments i tried didn't work.
however, i refused to go onto prescription medication long term because i wasn't prepared to risk the side effects.
luckily for me, within a few years, i visited a specialist who performed an operation on me.
i regained full health and my sense of smell and have had very few problems since (just small sinus infections following the flu or heavy colds).
just because the operation you had before was only partially successful, doesn't mean you should rule out surgery completely, especially if the meds you are on are not available to you anymore.
there may well have been advances in surgery that mean you get a better result this time round...
aside from that, i think the fact that this is a prescription drug and that you have said that no doctor will prescribe it to you, probably means that the risks associated with its prolonged use are too great for the doctor to consider letting you take it any more.
i think they are telling you you can't be on it to maintain your quality of life anymore, not because you risk dying early, but rather because there is a high likelihood you will lower your quality of life even further by taking the drug.
consider what your quality of life will be like when you start to lose your eyesight because of cataracts or when osteoperosis kicks in super early and you find you can pick up bone fractures from everyday knocks and bumps...
whatever you decide, i wish you luck.
cole. x
good question gnor.
i had chronic sinusitus for about three years - as medusa has found, most of the treatments i tried didn't work.
however, i refused to go onto prescription medication long term because i wasn't prepared to risk the side effects.
luckily for me, within a few years, i visited a specialist who performed an operation on me.
i regained full health and my sense of smell and have had very few problems since (just small sinus infections following the flu or heavy colds).
just because the operation you had before was only partially successful, doesn't mean you should rule out surgery completely, especially if the meds you are on are not available to you anymore.
there may well have been advances in surgery that mean you get a better result this time round...
aside from that, i think the fact that this is a prescription drug and that you have said that no doctor will prescribe it to you, probably means that the risks associated with its prolonged use are too great for the doctor to consider letting you take it any more.
i think they are telling you you can't be on it to maintain your quality of life anymore, not because you risk dying early, but rather because there is a high likelihood you will lower your quality of life even further by taking the drug.
consider what your quality of life will be like when you start to lose your eyesight because of cataracts or when osteoperosis kicks in super early and you find you can pick up bone fractures from everyday knocks and bumps...
whatever you decide, i wish you luck.
cole. x
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GOLD Member
wandering dingo
167 posts
Location: Aussie in London, Australia
wandering dingo
167 posts
Location: Aussie in London, Australia
Posted:
I also haven't had anything as serious or long term as that. But I did have severe and crippling headaches/migraines for over 15 years of my life, at very regular intervals, and was just told by doctor after doctor to just "take more panadol". I was X-rayed scanned, poked and prodded to see what was causing it, but no one figured it out ever, and I just gave up with the medical profession entirely. I hated taking painkillers constantly.
It was alternative medicine that made the difference for me. Headaches reduced to infrequent and much less severe, and I take a hell of a lot less painkillers.
If I were you I would try anything as an alternative to the drugs. Fear of needles isn't actually going to kill you, but if the drugs can, or cause long term damage, I would take the chance on acupuncture, and investigate any other alternative treatment paths that you can.
PS come back to F-F-D board Fi!!
I also haven't had anything as serious or long term as that. But I did have severe and crippling headaches/migraines for over 15 years of my life, at very regular intervals, and was just told by doctor after doctor to just "take more panadol". I was X-rayed scanned, poked and prodded to see what was causing it, but no one figured it out ever, and I just gave up with the medical profession entirely. I hated taking painkillers constantly.
It was alternative medicine that made the difference for me. Headaches reduced to infrequent and much less severe, and I take a hell of a lot less painkillers.
If I were you I would try anything as an alternative to the drugs. Fear of needles isn't actually going to kill you, but if the drugs can, or cause long term damage, I would take the chance on acupuncture, and investigate any other alternative treatment paths that you can.
PS come back to F-F-D board Fi!!
Only three things are certain: Death, Taxes, and that England will not win back the Ashes in this lifetime.
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veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
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1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
There are no other types of operations just the same one I have already had.
I have tried many natural therapies (in fact anything that has been suggested to me I have pretty much tried except acupuncture which I can't do sorry but myfear is alot more than just being a bit scared of needles I am petrified...I cry like a baby when I even see the damn things).
My normal doctor in Australia said the only reason he couldn't prescribe it to me anymore was due to the fact that if something did happen later in life I could sue the health board to which I even told him I would sign a waiver or disclaimer whatever. Nil response.
If I have tried all other avenues and I am willing to take the risks (which may never happen they are only maybes) then I don't see why I should be denied this small thing.
I'm not asking them much just to help me feel better...sure it may be only short lived but I am fine with the consequences.
Mojojo - You won't see me there again sorry...
There are no other types of operations just the same one I have already had.
I have tried many natural therapies (in fact anything that has been suggested to me I have pretty much tried except acupuncture which I can't do sorry but myfear is alot more than just being a bit scared of needles I am petrified...I cry like a baby when I even see the damn things).
My normal doctor in Australia said the only reason he couldn't prescribe it to me anymore was due to the fact that if something did happen later in life I could sue the health board to which I even told him I would sign a waiver or disclaimer whatever. Nil response.
If I have tried all other avenues and I am willing to take the risks (which may never happen they are only maybes) then I don't see why I should be denied this small thing.
I'm not asking them much just to help me feel better...sure it may be only short lived but I am fine with the consequences.
Mojojo - You won't see me there again sorry...
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Momma Bear
4,525 posts
Location: Telford, Shrops, United Kingdom
Momma Bear
4,525 posts
Location: Telford, Shrops, United Kingdom
Posted:
Medusa, I'm sorry to hear you're suffering. I have no idea how you feel, but I know I absolutely hate it when i get a cold, or even have a bit of a blocked up nose.
The only thing i can relate it to personally is my depression. I got diagnosed at 17 (same kinda time you were) but I've had it since i was 15. I'm almost 25 now. the only thing that helps (apart from chocolate, tea and a hell of a lot of hugs!!) is my anti depressants. they have so many side effects, and do a lot of long term damage. I was really anti medication for about 2 years, until i realised i couldn't live in constant misery and self-hate.
I know it's a bit of an abstract comparison to your illness but I hope it helps.
Medusa, I'm sorry to hear you're suffering. I have no idea how you feel, but I know I absolutely hate it when i get a cold, or even have a bit of a blocked up nose.
The only thing i can relate it to personally is my depression. I got diagnosed at 17 (same kinda time you were) but I've had it since i was 15. I'm almost 25 now. the only thing that helps (apart from chocolate, tea and a hell of a lot of hugs!!) is my anti depressants. they have so many side effects, and do a lot of long term damage. I was really anti medication for about 2 years, until i realised i couldn't live in constant misery and self-hate.
I know it's a bit of an abstract comparison to your illness but I hope it helps.
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GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
No. And I've had to do prednisone, too for my ankylosing spondylitis (an autoimmune arthritis of the back). (Geeky fact: prednisone is a pro-drug of prednisolone. Prednisone is converted to prednisolone in the liver.)
First of all, prednisone doesn't treat the underlying problem. It also increases the risk that you'll suffer serious consequences, including extension of the sinusitis into the brain because it inhibits the immune system.
And prednisone in the long run decreases quality of life. It causes you to get fat, hypertensive, and hyperglycemic. It slows wound healing and it thins the skin and the tissues making you very prone to bruising and cuts from mild trauma.
Oh sure, for right now the prednisone will make you feel ten feet tall and bullet proof...but I'd get off it ASAP.
Anything is better than that.
Besides, prednisone is not appropriate therapy for sinusitis. Never was and never will be.
Written by: Medusa
So my question to you today is….even knowing that a drug has the potential to be extremely bad for you in the long run would you take it to have some form of decent quality of life at the present?
No. And I've had to do prednisone, too for my ankylosing spondylitis (an autoimmune arthritis of the back). (Geeky fact: prednisone is a pro-drug of prednisolone. Prednisone is converted to prednisolone in the liver.)
First of all, prednisone doesn't treat the underlying problem. It also increases the risk that you'll suffer serious consequences, including extension of the sinusitis into the brain because it inhibits the immune system.
And prednisone in the long run decreases quality of life. It causes you to get fat, hypertensive, and hyperglycemic. It slows wound healing and it thins the skin and the tissues making you very prone to bruising and cuts from mild trauma.
Oh sure, for right now the prednisone will make you feel ten feet tall and bullet proof...but I'd get off it ASAP.
Anything is better than that.
Besides, prednisone is not appropriate therapy for sinusitis. Never was and never will be.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
Sorry to hear that Medusa and I, too, have not much of an idea about how that must feel. Your story shows me what my ego denies much of the time: that I live a life in health and serenity and should be lots more humble and thankful for this gift.
To the medical question: Yes I would take it - but explore and see whether or not there are alternative methods to siege the problem...
I hope you will find this alternative.
Sorry to hear that Medusa and I, too, have not much of an idea about how that must feel. Your story shows me what my ego denies much of the time: that I live a life in health and serenity and should be lots more humble and thankful for this gift.To the medical question: Yes I would take it - but explore and see whether or not there are alternative methods to siege the problem...
I hope you will find this alternative.
the best smiles are the ones you lead to 
SILVER Member
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
Okay I understand how risky this medication is because I have been on it for about three years for my asthma.
Now here is the real doozy...Having been on them for three years as soon as I am dropped even the slightest from the drug I end up with Adrenal Shock. I was in hospital for a week in November for this problem.
Very painful and can be quite problematic so there is two reasons not to go off it, wouldn't you think?
So a real question is it not my decision, in the long run, to do with my body as I want? If that is the case then can I not request a doctor to make a prescription for this drug? It is my decision so can they legally deny me this? I mean it is not an illegal drug so I can't see how they could possibly deny my something that I have taken a lot of time to consider.
Okay I understand how risky this medication is because I have been on it for about three years for my asthma.
Now here is the real doozy...Having been on them for three years as soon as I am dropped even the slightest from the drug I end up with Adrenal Shock. I was in hospital for a week in November for this problem.
Very painful and can be quite problematic so there is two reasons not to go off it, wouldn't you think?
So a real question is it not my decision, in the long run, to do with my body as I want? If that is the case then can I not request a doctor to make a prescription for this drug? It is my decision so can they legally deny me this? I mean it is not an illegal drug so I can't see how they could possibly deny my something that I have taken a lot of time to consider.
GOLD Member
Member
89 posts
Location: Caves Beach, NSW, Australia
Member
89 posts
Location: Caves Beach, NSW, Australia
Posted:
My dog was put on prednisone long term for a flea allergy.
He went blind with cataracts.
Only found out later that this was a known side effect, the vet did not mention.
My dog was put on prednisone long term for a flea allergy.
He went blind with cataracts.
Only found out later that this was a known side effect, the vet did not mention.
SILVER Member
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
Yeah that would be one of the drawbacks....but that may happen and it may not happen....
Yeah that would be one of the drawbacks....but that may happen and it may not happen....
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Been there, done it. It sucked.
The solution is to taper. If you've been on it that long most docs would have you taper by 5mg/week until you're down at 10mg/day. Then they'd taper by 1mg/day/wk. And oooh boy that day after I'd drop the dose would be a doosey. I'd feel like re-fried arse. The canned kind. Generic. Past expiration date.
Once you're below 5mg the adrenal glands start to work again and Addisonian crisis is essentially unheard-of at this dose. However, inflammatory rebound can happen, which is why the tapers are continued.
Medusa, you're not going to get me to pat you on the head and say "there there, if the prednisone makes you feel good you should stay on it."
I'd rather you be on high-dose morphine long-term than prednisone. Morphine will make you feel good, too.
Written by: Medusa
Very painful and can be quite problematic so there is two reasons not to go off it, wouldn't you think?
Been there, done it. It sucked.
The solution is to taper. If you've been on it that long most docs would have you taper by 5mg/week until you're down at 10mg/day. Then they'd taper by 1mg/day/wk. And oooh boy that day after I'd drop the dose would be a doosey. I'd feel like re-fried arse. The canned kind. Generic. Past expiration date.
Once you're below 5mg the adrenal glands start to work again and Addisonian crisis is essentially unheard-of at this dose. However, inflammatory rebound can happen, which is why the tapers are continued.
Medusa, you're not going to get me to pat you on the head and say "there there, if the prednisone makes you feel good you should stay on it."
I'd rather you be on high-dose morphine long-term than prednisone. Morphine will make you feel good, too.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
SILVER Member
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
veteran
1,433 posts
Location: 8 days at Cloudbreak, 6 in Perth, Australia
Posted:
Definitely not looking for a pat on the head...just wanted people's opinions and knowing that you have medical experience and know what you are talking about, the drawbacks, negatives and positives of many different forms of drugs that is particularly why I was interested in your opinion.
I know whatever I decide is going to be a negative decision to someone. But it is always good to hear, especially as you have said you have been through it before.
Definitely not looking for a pat on the head...just wanted people's opinions and knowing that you have medical experience and know what you are talking about, the drawbacks, negatives and positives of many different forms of drugs that is particularly why I was interested in your opinion.
I know whatever I decide is going to be a negative decision to someone. But it is always good to hear, especially as you have said you have been through it before.
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Well not with chronic sinusitis. For me it's ankylosing spondylitis, which isn't infectious and for which prednisone *IS* accepted therapy.
It makes me feel great. And I won't take it unless I can't move.
Besides, my disease seems to have become somewhat steroid-resistant.
Well not with chronic sinusitis. For me it's ankylosing spondylitis, which isn't infectious and for which prednisone *IS* accepted therapy.
It makes me feel great. And I won't take it unless I can't move.
Besides, my disease seems to have become somewhat steroid-resistant.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
addict
422 posts
Location: London
422 posts
Location: London
Posted:
speaking from personal experiance yes i would and i have and as a result i am now addicted to all types of painkillers ect.... (i have not only broken my spine but fractered it as well) and i continue to do so as i dont want to be stuck in a wheel chair again....even tho i know eventully i will be, i guess what im tring to say is that i will try anything that might improve my quality of life at the moment.
oh and acupuncture didnt work for me but i also hae a fear of needles but i tried it and i didnt hurt ....
speaking from personal experiance yes i would and i have and as a result i am now addicted to all types of painkillers ect.... (i have not only broken my spine but fractered it as well) and i continue to do so as i dont want to be stuck in a wheel chair again....even tho i know eventully i will be, i guess what im tring to say is that i will try anything that might improve my quality of life at the moment.
oh and acupuncture didnt work for me but i also hae a fear of needles but i tried it and i didnt hurt ....
There are no stupid questions, only stupid answers...
veteran
1,328 posts
Location: Bendigo, Vic, Australia
1,328 posts
Location: Bendigo, Vic, Australia
Posted:
Ive been having sinus problems on and off for a little while now (not 100% how long), and with year 12 upon me, we realised I cant spend the year feeling like crap. Ive been at the doctors a few times recently, last time I was there (3 weeks ago) the doc said there was nothing wrong, and to just use hayfever medication (antihistamines and the like).
Today I returned there as I am getting worse, Ive been given 5 days worth of Cefaclor Monohydrate, and had an injection of quartazone (sorry about the spelling). After I finish the tablets I am going in for a CT scan to see if there are any major problems.
So, Medusa, I can understand where you are coming from, between my ankle (which I have pretty much been told there is no point doing physio, I am better off snapping ligaments) and now this, I can understand you wanting relief, however, if these other things are going to make you more sick than you already are, maybe you need to find another alternative... maybe getting over your fear...
EDITED_BY: Hanz (1141378318)
Ive been having sinus problems on and off for a little while now (not 100% how long), and with year 12 upon me, we realised I cant spend the year feeling like crap. Ive been at the doctors a few times recently, last time I was there (3 weeks ago) the doc said there was nothing wrong, and to just use hayfever medication (antihistamines and the like).
Today I returned there as I am getting worse, Ive been given 5 days worth of Cefaclor Monohydrate, and had an injection of quartazone (sorry about the spelling). After I finish the tablets I am going in for a CT scan to see if there are any major problems.
So, Medusa, I can understand where you are coming from, between my ankle (which I have pretty much been told there is no point doing physio, I am better off snapping ligaments) and now this, I can understand you wanting relief, however, if these other things are going to make you more sick than you already are, maybe you need to find another alternative... maybe getting over your fear...
EDITED_BY: Hanz (1141378318)
veteran
1,328 posts
Location: Bendigo, Vic, Australia
1,328 posts
Location: Bendigo, Vic, Australia
Posted:
Just spoke to mum, the shot yesterday, was prednisilone. Mum is aware of all the side affects of it (used to be a nurse until a bad back)
She has used it in the past for asthma, my cousin uses it as she is blind (dont think she's on it at the moment though)
Mum is hoping it will get me through year 12, and then see what happens from there.
If it stops working in 3 months she will NOT allow me to have another injection, she will look at another alternative if I need it.
I still don't feel too great, but I feel better than yesterday, then again I did just have an injection of steriods into my rear end.
Just spoke to mum, the shot yesterday, was prednisilone. Mum is aware of all the side affects of it (used to be a nurse until a bad back)
She has used it in the past for asthma, my cousin uses it as she is blind (dont think she's on it at the moment though)
Mum is hoping it will get me through year 12, and then see what happens from there.
If it stops working in 3 months she will NOT allow me to have another injection, she will look at another alternative if I need it.
I still don't feel too great, but I feel better than yesterday, then again I did just have an injection of steriods into my rear end.
addict
422 posts
Location: London
422 posts
Location: London
Posted:
Ohhh i have them injected into my spine...it is an unpleasent experiance... good luck
Ohhh i have them injected into my spine...it is an unpleasent experiance...
good luck There are no stupid questions, only stupid answers...
SILVER Member
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
Posted:
I've got Asperger's syndrome, which causes depression due to social isolation, mainly because of anxiety. I should be on anti-anxiety drugs and anti-depressants, seeing as I can't get any other kind of help from the NHS. I've also got a condition called Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS), so I can't take any drugs, as I have a bad reaction to an ever growing number of chemicals. I tried 3 different anti-depressants, and even at the lowest dosages they were far too strong and it was like being on speed all the time. Exposure to one chemical can cause sensitivity to other similar chemicals (I got MCS working in a badly ventilated plastics factory). After taking the last lot of anti-depressants I could no longer smoke, or drink coffee, and things have progressed to the point where I don't eat anything with certain additives (like artificial sweetners and monosodium glutamate), or I end up loosing my ability to concentrate, and end up feeling very low. I can't drink tea any more, as it's a strong enough stimulant to make my anxiety worse.
So I guess I'm going to live for quite a while as I have to eat healthily, and don't eat junk food, but without the drugs I can't easily control any mood swings, or overcome the anxiety which makes me feel isolated and depressed a lot of the time.
I've got Asperger's syndrome, which causes depression due to social isolation, mainly because of anxiety. I should be on anti-anxiety drugs and anti-depressants, seeing as I can't get any other kind of help from the NHS. I've also got a condition called Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS), so I can't take any drugs, as I have a bad reaction to an ever growing number of chemicals. I tried 3 different anti-depressants, and even at the lowest dosages they were far too strong and it was like being on speed all the time. Exposure to one chemical can cause sensitivity to other similar chemicals (I got MCS working in a badly ventilated plastics factory). After taking the last lot of anti-depressants I could no longer smoke, or drink coffee, and things have progressed to the point where I don't eat anything with certain additives (like artificial sweetners and monosodium glutamate), or I end up loosing my ability to concentrate, and end up feeling very low. I can't drink tea any more, as it's a strong enough stimulant to make my anxiety worse.
So I guess I'm going to live for quite a while as I have to eat healthily, and don't eat junk food, but without the drugs I can't easily control any mood swings, or overcome the anxiety which makes me feel isolated and depressed a lot of the time.
You aren't thinking or really existing unless you're willing to risk even your own sanity in the judgment of your existence.
Green peppers, lime pickle and whole-grain mustard = best sandwich filling.
SILVER Member
Momma Bear
4,525 posts
Location: Telford, Shrops, United Kingdom
Momma Bear
4,525 posts
Location: Telford, Shrops, United Kingdom
Posted:
aww Polarity that has to be the suckiest thing i've ever heard. Never able to drink tea. whats the point without tea?!! good luck to you
aww Polarity that has to be the suckiest thing i've ever heard. Never able to drink tea.
whats the point without tea?!! good luck to you Hoppers are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.
SILVER Member
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
Posted:
At least there's still beer
Although I get a hangover after 2 pints, so I have to watch how quickly I'm drinking.
At least there's still beer
Although I get a hangover after 2 pints, so I have to watch how quickly I'm drinking. You aren't thinking or really existing unless you're willing to risk even your own sanity in the judgment of your existence.
Green peppers, lime pickle and whole-grain mustard = best sandwich filling.
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