Thursday, February 05, 2009
Will the struggles never end?
I knew it was coming, but I tried desperately to ignore it. I was hoping I was just having a simple flare up that would pass. However, the increased fatigue. bladder problems, increased balance problems and finally, another case of optic neuritis proved this was no flare up. I'm having a full fledged exacerbation. DAMN!! So tomorrow I start the regime. You know the one. A gram of solumedrol IV for 5 days. Mark already piked up the Prilosec. I'll start taking that tonight with the hope that it will help minimize the gastritis I always get. So, first thing in the morning the home health nurse will be here. My vision is so bad this time, I can't read and typing this is a challenge. It's been 6 months since my last round of steroids. I just hope this time one round does it and this is not a repeat of last summer and fall. I'll keep you posted!
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2 comments:
Also get your blood sugar tested -fingerstick and meter. Here's the reason why:
If your vision is already compromised, the IVSM will make it worse. Often IVSM sends up the blood sugar -sometimes over 200 and compromises your vision. Get a glucometer (through insurance or pharmacy) to test your blood sugar on your finger (it really doesn't hurt).
When I am on IVSM, I have to test twice a day and take some insulin - otherwise I am practically blind. My sugar goes up over 300 on IVSM, so insulin is a must for me. Not saying this will be the case with you, but get your sugar tested before you start and again 3 hours after you start IVSM. If it remains in normal ranges, you will probably fare well.
Regarding Prilosec, if you have a prescription plan, ask your doc for 300mg Zantac to ADD to the Prilosec. If not, over the counter Zantac 150's - just double the dose. Guaranteed no GERDS.
I know you are not looking forward to the 5 days or the taper, but think about getting better when you come out of the other side of it.
Take care,
Anne
Sorry to hear about the Flare but I know you'll pull through it and it won't be like last time. You'll respond to the danged steroids! I'll be sending you happy GI tract thoughts in double-time over the next few days!!
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