*** DOMINIE'S FMS/CFIDS
NEWSLETTER (Page 2) ***
JUNE
2004
Continued from
www.fms-help.com/June2004.htm
Scroll
down to read the topics on this page:
14.
TESTED POSITIVE FOR R.A
15.
POMEGRANATE JUICE
16. ASPARTAME (NUTRASWEET) AND
DEPRESSION
17.
STRESS, CORTISOL AND FMS ONSET
18.
CARBOHYDRATE CRAVINGS
19. RESPONSE FOR CHRONIC FATIGUE
20.
SEABISCUIT
21. MORE TIPS ON FIBROMYALGIA
22. THERAPEUTIC LASER LIGHT TREATMENT
23. YEAST AND FIBROMYALGIA
24. CHIROPRACTIC AND FMS
25. ESSIAC TEA
26.
EXERCISE AND FIBROMYALGIA?
27. MANAGING A FIBRO FLARE
28.
DOCTOR DOESN'T UNDERSTAND FIBRO
29. SPIRITUAL UPLIFT CORNER
30.
DOMINIE'S PERSONAL UPDATE
14. TESTED POSITIVE FOR
R.A.
From a newsletter
reader--
"Thank you so much for the
newsletter. It's so full of great info. I found out that
testing RA positive can have causes other than RA. There is a list and it's
amazing what it could be. One of them is Lyme disease and also peridontal
disease. Still doing research, so will let you know."
15.
POMEGRANATE JUICE
From a newsletter
reader--
"Besides FMS, I also got
hypothyroid around the same time, GERD, and
ankylosing spondylitis. I had problems with FMS soreness and the GERD
regularly despite taking Prevacid as prescribed. I don't know if this will
help others but since drinking POM pomegranate juice (1-2 glasses daily: in
the morning on an empty stomach and before bedtime) since February, I
haven't had any GERD symptoms, and I'm not as achey from FMS. I haven't
done anything else differently or changed anything else. I know it's
expensive stuff but it's loaded with antioxidants. If the pomegranate
flavor is too tart, it also comes in a pomegranate/blueberry mixed flavor.
If other people try it and notice an improvement by drinking it daily, maybe
the POM company could sponsor some research. I'm going to write them a
letter and tell them how I believe its helped me and suggest a study."
ankylosing spondylitis. I had problems with FMS soreness and the GERD
regularly despite taking Prevacid as prescribed. I don't know if this will
help others but since drinking POM pomegranate juice (1-2 glasses daily: in
the morning on an empty stomach and before bedtime) since February, I
haven't had any GERD symptoms, and I'm not as achey from FMS. I haven't
done anything else differently or changed anything else. I know it's
expensive stuff but it's loaded with antioxidants. If the pomegranate
flavor is too tart, it also comes in a pomegranate/blueberry mixed flavor.
If other people try it and notice an improvement by drinking it daily, maybe
the POM company could sponsor some research. I'm going to write them a
letter and tell them how I believe its helped me and suggest a study."
16. ASPARTAME
(NUTRASWEET) AND DEPRESSION
From the immunesupport.com newsletter--
Report: Aspartame is Neurotoxic and Worsens
Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
According to the plaintiffs in a recent lawsuit, aspartame is a drug masquerading as an additive. Aspartame, it has been alleged, causes headache, memory loss, seizures, vision loss, coma and cancer. In addition, it worsens or mimics the symptoms of such diseases and conditions as fibromyalgia, MS, lupus, ADD, diabetes, Alzheimer's, chronic fatigue and depression.
According to the plaintiffs in a recent lawsuit, aspartame is a drug masquerading as an additive. Aspartame, it has been alleged, causes headache, memory loss, seizures, vision loss, coma and cancer. In addition, it worsens or mimics the symptoms of such diseases and conditions as fibromyalgia, MS, lupus, ADD, diabetes, Alzheimer's, chronic fatigue and depression.
Read the full article at http://www.immunesupport.com/library/bulletinarticle.cfm?ID=5645&PROD=PH166
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: I read another
article about Nutrasweet this week saying that it lowers serotonin levels,
causing depression. Nutrasweet is also linked to brain tumors.
I developed severe vertigo after drinking a glass of Crystal Lite (containing
Nutrasweet) many years ago when it first came out. I was terrified because
I had never experienced anything like this before. When the
attack subsided, I called the company to report it, but of course they said
it had nothing to do with their product. Later I learned about all the
neurological problems people were getting from using Nutrasweet. If this
isn't enough evidence to keep you from drinking those diet soft drinks, I have
also read that Nutrasweet causes weight gain. You can't fool the body into
tasting something sweet, but with no nutrients. Nutrasweet was introduced
in the early 1980's and is now in 9,000 foods. The percentage of
obese Americans has doubled since the mid-1980's.]
17. STRESS,
CORTISOL AND FMS ONSET
From immunesupport.com's Tip of the Day--
FMS may begin with a chronically overactivated
stress-cortisol state. Over time, as the system gradually "tires," a low
cortisol response to stress may be produced. In turn, continuing stressors may
increase the release of certain cytokines (chemical messengers between cells)
that cause pain, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and other problems, while
inhibiting the cytokines that promote positive functions such as sleep and
tissue repair. (Source: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Other
Invisible Illnesses - The Comprehensive Guide, by Katrina Berne, Ph.D. Published
by Hunter House books and available at www.hunterhouse.com.)
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: Most of us with FMS
believe that severe stress or trauma was a factor in the onset of our
condition. My story is at http://www.fms-help.com/fibro.htm ]
18. CARBOHYDRATE
CRAVINGS
From immunesupport.com's Tip of the Day--
Carbohydrate cravings are especially common during
exacerbations when energy is low. Although a psychological basis for these
cravings has been proposed, evidence suggests that the source is largely
biochemical, possibly related to abnormalities in neurotransmitter levels and
metabolism. Consumption of simple carbohydrates may increase pain, cognitive
dysfunction, and fatigue, causing a "boost and crash" cycle (in which blood
sugar level rises and then plummets quickly and dramatically). Further,
carbohydrates may be best tolerated in the evening. (Source: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Other Invisible
Illnesses - The Comprehensive Guide, by Katrina Berne, Ph.D. Published by Hunter
House books and available at www.hunterhouse.com.)
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: I found that I sleep
better if I have a little bit of carbohydrate before
bedtime. Eating too much sugar or starch is not good
for my FMS, so I do not overindulge in sweets, although I do allow myself a
little bit now and then. I used to live totally without sugar, but that's
no fun! I have figured how much I can have and still feel
good.]
19. RESPONSE FOR
CHRONIC FATIGUE
From a newsletter reader--
"I read your newsletter about the mail campaign and I
think it is a great idea. One thing that stuck in my mind is your opening
comment about what people say when you tell them you suffer from chronic
fatigue...this is what I say..." Honey, you don't have a clue what it is to be
chronically fatigued until you can't raise your arm to brush your
teeth." It's something everyone can relate to, and something everyone takes
totally for granted. No one thinks twice about their ability to raise their arm
high enough to brush their teeth, until the day comes when they
can't."
20.
SEABISCUIT
From a newsletter reader--
"Go see the movie if you haven't already.
It's called SEABISCUIT. Laura Hillenbrand has been
on various TV shows about her CFS."
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: I read Laura
Hillenbrand's story which this reader sent to me from the
net. Laura has had one of the most horrendous cases of CFIDS that I have
ever heard about! It's amazing that she was able to write in that
condition!]
21. MORE TIPS ON
FIBROMYALGIA
Got this from someone who read my "tips for coping"
at http://www.fms-help.com/tips.htm--
I really enjoyed your website. I'm guessing you already
know about these possible additional therapies for Fibro/cfids, but I thought I
would include them just in case.
-Researchers have discovered that people with fibromyalgia produce at least 2x or more lactic acid in their muscles, and on top of that, their bodies are less capable of removing the lactic acid, the muscles can't get oxygen, and literally begin to die. no wonder it hurts!
-Iron deficiency - everyone with symptoms should get tested, the problems with iron deficiency go way beyond being tired and pale, it affects every system in the body and iron is likely to be deficient in anyone with a malabsorbtion disorder.
-malabsorption
-electromagnetic fields (especially from fluorescent lights, computers and televisions)
-msm with the glucosamine-sam-e is also helpful, with depression too
-only dim light in the evening (no t.v. or computer or going to movies,represses melatonin production)
-magnets help some, but can make others worse-experiment!
-DMSO
-lymph drainage-through supplements, massage or exercise -helps tremendously!
-there are many antioxidants of the market now that are much more powerful than opc's
-good dose of calcium/mag/potassium 1 hour before bedtime
-bright light first thing in morning
-avoiding red meat
-omega 3's, 9's and pure organic coconut oil
-goat's milk-organic, unpasteurized, unhomogenized, less mucous, less allergenic, and highly digestible
please update your research on coral calcium, it is possibly highly toxic
-my local parks and rec depart. actually offers warm water exercise classes
22. THERAPEUTIC
LASER LIGHT TREATMENT
Send in by a newsletter reader who is going to try
this--
23. YEAST AND
FIBROMYALGIA
From a newsletter reader--
"I had the symptoms of Fibromyalgia for 6 years following
a car accident...unfortunately I had to continue working while enduring
the severe pain and and fatigue. Have you
read The Yeast Connection by Dr, Wm Crook? Please take the time to
investigate. After all of the terrible years of "FIBROMYALGIA"
it turned out that the problem was coming from my allergies to yeast.
After taking DIFLUCAN and following the diet in the book, the FIBROMYALGIA
dissappeared. After just 2 weeks I was a new woman."
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: About 20 years ago,
a friend gave me "The Yeast Connection" by Dr. Crook. Many symptoms of
candidiasis are the same as FMS. Personally, I have taken Diflucan many
times, but it did not affect my fibro. If only all cases of
FMS/CFIDS could be solved as quickly as this fortunate lady's was. Some
report relief from fibro symptoms by dealing with candida (yeast overgrowth) and
several have written to tell me about Three Lac (on the net) which has helped
yeast problems.]
24. CHIROPRACTIC
AND FMS
From a newsletter reader--
"I have found the best Chiropractor in town. His
name is Dr. Bennett. He has given me 3 treatments, and for the first time
in 5 years, I have no back pain. I have 37 more treatments to go, and if
they are as good as the last 3, I feel I have found my cure. I still have
fibromyalgia, but at least I am able to function without pain. I am almost
through with my last can of the immune supplement. I feel someone upstairs
is looking out for me."
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: I too have had some
excellent chiropractors who kept me out of back and neck pain. I have been
to some bad ones too in times past. Yes, the immune
supplement is awesome and continues to enable me
be productive and energetic. Have been using it for 3 years now very
successfully.]
25. ESSIAC
TEA
From a newsletter reader--
"For me chronic fatigue and fibro has been straightening
out my hormones - natural progesterone and getting the estrogen
right. I also have been taking Essiac tea for pain - works wonders.
This is a tea developed by RN Rene Cassie (Her name spelled backwards
-Essiac) its very reasonable to buy - make up and drink 2-4 oz a day
- I take a l/2 ounce - that does it for me. Look it up on the web site
Essiac tea and learn the story. If it helps cancer it will help
anything."
26. EXERCISE AND
FIBROMYALGIA
A newsletter sent me this "tip" from a doctor--please see
my comments below:
"Exercising Away Fibromyalgia - If
you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia - a chronic condition characterized by
generalized aching pain - take heart. There are several lifestyle and
therapeutic methods for managing its symptoms. One of the most effective
treatment methods to reduce the pain of fibromyalgia is exercise. Although
muscle pain may increase during exercise, the discomfort usually dissipates
within 30 minutes. Try low-impact aerobic activities such as swimming, walking
or yoga, or use cardiovascular machines like stationary bikes or elliptical
trainers for the best results. Stretching can also help to reduce pain and
fatigue while increasing muscle strength and a sense of
well-being."
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: This glib
advice made me MAD! It only works for people with very MILD FMS.
When you have full blown FMS like I had for 14 years, even the slightest motion,
such as turning the pages of a newspaper can cause searing pain. Playing
the piano for a few minutes would cause me weeks of debilitating pain. One
of my doctors suggested I join a gym sponsored at the hospital. I lasted
about 10 minutes in a low impact aerobics class before throwing my back
out. Doctors just don't understand what it's like to have fibro. I'm
just glad that I am back to regular activity again! Read my fibro story at
http://www.fms-help.com/fibro.htm ]
27. MANAGING A
FIBRO FLARE
From immunesupport.com's Tip of the Day--
"Identification and avoidance of relapse triggers can help
prevent future relapses. During a relapse, further lifestyle modification is
necessary. Self-care is especially important: additional resting and sleeping
time, relaxation breaks, avoidance of stress, moderation of activities, use of
heat and other therapies, and distracting activities. Replace such self-messages
as, "I'll never feel better again" with rational statements such as, "This is a
temporary setback and I can ride it out." A relapse is not forever, although it
may feel like it. You've been there before and emerged; this cycle will repeat.
(Source: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Other Invisible Illnesses -
The Comprehensive Guide, by Katrina Berne, Ph.D. Published by Hunter House books
and available at www.hunterhouse.com.)"
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: This is realistic
and helpful advice. There are many things you can do to help
yourself. See my 100 Tips for Coping with Fibromyalgia and Insomnia at
http://www.fms-help.com/tips.htm
for more ideas.]
28. DOCTOR DOESN'T
UNDERSTAND FIBRO
From a newsletter reader--
"Just had to share this with you. I went to see my family
dr today, not my FMS Dr. I think I may have suffered an anxiety
attack over the weekend. It drove my blood pressure up to 153 / 113. I had such
pains in my chest I thought I was having a heart attack. I was hoping this
Dr. could suggest a way to get me off of some of the medications I am taking. He
had the nerve to look at me and say he thinks FMS patients are drug
addicts and just want to get their narcotics for their drug habit and they do
not have any pain symptoms. Is that unreal? He does not think FMS is
even a disease or disorder. He must think I enjoy wearing my back brace and TENS
Unit for the fun of it. I thought to my self, too bad he can not feel the pain
for just one day, he'd change his way of thinking. I sat there in shock
and I had to pay him $20.00 copay for that comment! I could not believe a Dr.
would have the nerve to tell a patient that. It sure did cut through me like a
knife. "
[NOTE FROM DOMINIE: Doesn't this just
get you??!!!!!! Such ignorance in the medical profession about FMS/CFIDS,
despite a worldwide epidemic! Do you see why we ALL need to write our
letters for the MILLION LETTER CAMPAIGN in May 2005? Please read about
this united effort at http://www.fms-help.com/letter.htm --
and let's get the word out between now and then! May 2005 will be here
before we know it! There have even been people who "consulted" Dr.
Kervorkian regarding FMS/CFIDS and were given the final "solution!" I believe
they may have done this in part due to the lack of understanding regarding this
illness. It's hard to endure illness with no sympathy or
support.]
29. SPIRITUAL
UPLIFT CORNER
Here are the words to one of my favorite old hymns--and
yet it is so appropriate for today, you would think they were just
written!--
"In times like these, you need a
Savior.
In times like these, you need an
anchor.
Be very sure, be very
sure,
Your anchor holds and grips the
Solid Rock.
This Rock is
Jesus,
Yes, He's the
One,
This Rock is Jesus, The only
One.
Be very sure, be very
sure,
Your anchor holds and grips the
Solid Rock."
2 Corinthians 13:5 says, "Examine yourselves,
whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves." Also
consider 2 Peter 1:10: "Give diligence to make
your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall
never fall. For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly
into the everlasting kindgom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
Don't "toy" with God and His offer of
salvation. Time is short! I play for many funerals and can tell
you that it's a sobering experience. About 70% of the deceased have been
people younger than myself! (Maybe that means I'm getting old??? I
am 52.)
FMS/CFIDS may be our earthly problem, but
our eternal destination will determine our happiness and comfort
level for all eternity. Heaven or hell
are the only two places everyone ends up at! Good works, nice as
they are, won't save us--but accepting Christ's atoning sacrifice for our
sins will! Grace is amazing, but it is not cheap!
Are you in fellowship with God and other
believers? That's where our strength comes
from! If we say we are saved, are we living
according to God's standards? Living in disobedience is not very
smart. I have spent some time in God's "woodshed" in the past,
and it's not a very fun place to be. It's much
more fun and fulfilling to be an OBEDIENT child of God--both
for right now and in the hereafter. God called me into his family on May
11, 1988 at the age of 36. I am now 52, and can tell you that salvation
has made a huge difference in my life. I love the Lord!
30. DOMINIE'S PERSONAL
UPDATE
I attribute my energy and
stamina to immune product which I
began taking 3 years ago. I will never be "Hercules," but compared to the
poor health I had for the first 50 years of my life, I am very happy with the
way I am now. I can have a life and be productive!!!
I also use a natural antibiotic that has
kept me away from doctors many times!
I love the essential oils of Lavender and Peace
and Calming, which affect the limbic portion of the brain for peace and
relaxation.
I am happy with my Holosync Audio tapes
at bedtime. I am usually asleep before Side One clicks off. I take
my mild sleep meds at 9:30 a.m. and am ready to doze off after midnight.
If I go to bed too early, I can't sleep.
If you want more info about any of these, please write me
at dom@fms-help.com
Blessings,
Dominie
Bush
DISCLAIMER: I am
not a
medical doctor. I am a fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue syndrome survivor. The
purpose of this website is not to diagnose or cure any disease or malady, but is
presented as food for thought. This information cannot take the place of
professional medical advice. Any attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should
come under the direction of a physician. No guarantees are made regarding any of
the information in this
website.
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