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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 14 of 14. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Greg on June 27, 2000, at 12:31:16
Noa,
Hadn't heard from you in awhile and wanted to check in. Everything coming up roses, or what?
Greg
Posted by noa on June 28, 2000, at 15:37:27
In reply to Noa, how YOU doin?, posted by Greg on June 27, 2000, at 12:31:16
I wouldn't say roses, but perhaps wild flowers? I am doing better now that I am actually taking the meds I am supposed to. Saw my endocrinologist today, and will have some more tests done, but as far as thyroid goes, he and I are pleased with the progress.
How are you?
Posted by Greg on June 29, 2000, at 20:24:22
In reply to Re: Noa, how YOU doin?, posted by noa on June 28, 2000, at 15:37:27
Noa,
I'm doing really well (so far). Normal stress, life problems and general BS, but I'm hanging in there. Brandon's team got knocked out of the TOCs last weekend (on my birthday no less), but I'm so proud of the effort they made! They are a great bunch of kids and I'm looking forward to working with them this fall. I'm really glad you're back, this board needs you. You bring a real balance to things here! I've been here a little more than I planned, but, what the hell huh? Maybe Kazoo was right, I'm finding it harder to stay away than I thought. Any more problems with the owner? Staying out of your house I hope! Please write when you have the time, I always look forward to hearing from you.
Peace,
Greg
Posted by noa on June 30, 2000, at 14:10:54
In reply to Re: Noa, how YOU doin?, posted by Greg on June 29, 2000, at 20:24:22
Greg, sorry your guys didn't take the pennant home, but they did get to the championships!
Glad you are well. I am doing fine. This morning I spent a few hours getting a glucose tolerance test. My endo thinks I might have insulin resistance, which apparently is both caused by and causes weight gain, and puts one at terrible risk for things like artery damage, heart disease, and type II diabetes. Also being tested for Cushings Syndrome. Not a fun prospect, have to collect 48, yes, that is correct, 48 hours worth of pee. Yikes. It is times like these that Freud might have been right about the penis envy thing, you know, at least on a practical level, because the logistics are a lot tougher for us gals.
I am going to try to do a bit of cleaning up over the long weekend. I have both Monday and Tuesday off. So, then, I can schedule the fixit guy to come and take care of the sink finally.
I am getting more in touch with my need for a full 8 hours of sleep and how much better I feel after a good long sleep, as compared to the mornings after only getting a few hours. The past two days, I only got about 4 hours per night and in the morning I felt lousy. I began to interpret it as depression, but then realized that it is probably related to being sleep deprived. Which means I have to really be disciplined about getting to bed on time.
Posted by Greg on June 30, 2000, at 15:14:04
In reply to Re: Noa, how YOU doin? » Greg, posted by noa on June 30, 2000, at 14:10:54
Hi Noa,
I was not aware that you took insulin (if I am reading what you said correctly). I'm assuming here that you would have had to take it to determine intolerance? If I'm right, do they have an alternative treatment in mind? Or do they just suspect the possibility of the diabetes? Wow, when our bodies start passing the warranty stage it can really be a bitch!
I have a really off-color joke about the penis envy thing, but in the interest of good taste and consideration of those it might offend, I'll just mail it to you if you want to hear it. Besides, Dr. Bob would no doubt block me from the site... ;^) As far as peeing logistics go, at least you can sit down and rest, we testosterone controlled males feel like we have to stand just to show our masculinity. Another joke about sitting down to pee comes to mind.... You probably wouldn't have much fun in a distance contest though... 48 hours.....Damnnnnnn!
Take it easy on the cleaning, don't overdue it. Remember that when it comes to the condition of your house, the only one you have to please is you.
If you figure out how to get 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep, PLEASE let me know! If I get 6, I feel like I've won the California State lottery! I'm starting to get used to the minimal sleep....bummer! Oh well, they say us older folks don't need as much sleep anyway...
Please take good care of yourself and let me know how the tests come out, OK? You know I'm thinking about you.
Hugs,
Greg> Greg, sorry your guys didn't take the pennant home, but they did get to the championships!
>
> Glad you are well. I am doing fine. This morning I spent a few hours getting a glucose tolerance test. My endo thinks I might have insulin resistance, which apparently is both caused by and causes weight gain, and puts one at terrible risk for things like artery damage, heart disease, and type II diabetes. Also being tested for Cushings Syndrome. Not a fun prospect, have to collect 48, yes, that is correct, 48 hours worth of pee. Yikes. It is times like these that Freud might have been right about the penis envy thing, you know, at least on a practical level, because the logistics are a lot tougher for us gals.
>
> I am going to try to do a bit of cleaning up over the long weekend. I have both Monday and Tuesday off. So, then, I can schedule the fixit guy to come and take care of the sink finally.
>
> I am getting more in touch with my need for a full 8 hours of sleep and how much better I feel after a good long sleep, as compared to the mornings after only getting a few hours. The past two days, I only got about 4 hours per night and in the morning I felt lousy. I began to interpret it as depression, but then realized that it is probably related to being sleep deprived. Which means I have to really be disciplined about getting to bed on time.
Posted by noa on June 30, 2000, at 15:34:29
In reply to Re: Noa, how YOU doin?, posted by Greg on June 30, 2000, at 15:14:04
Greg, I don't take insulin.
Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's tissues and cells become resistant or nonreceptive to the insulin that the pancreas sends out to metabolize sugars. In response to the resistance, the pancreas just works harder and produces more insulin, so a way to diagnose insulin resistance is finding too much insulin in the blood. The glucose tolerance test involves drinking 7.5 grams of glucose and then getting blood insulin levels at 30, 60, and 120 minutes.
Apparently, it is common for the pancreas to finally poop out after putting out so much insulin, and eventually not have enough insulin to put out, which is what causes diabetes, type II.
You are right, sitting down is kind of a luxury, except for the case of public bathrooms and in this situation.
Posted by noa on June 30, 2000, at 15:49:49
In reply to Re: Noa, how YOU doin?, posted by Greg on June 30, 2000, at 15:14:04
Greg, until recently I had MAJOR sleep problems, because I have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and because of the activating effects of the effexor (and before that paxil, prozac, etc.). But here goes---a list of things I do that I *believe* help me to sleep well:
1. I don't have any kids. This might be the most important factor, judging by my friends and family members who do have kids.
2. I use my CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, along with its attached humidifier every night (for my apnea).
3. I don't take lithium anymore (it made me get up to pee constantly).
4. I stopped my caffeine habit.
5. I lowered my effexor dose and raised my serzone dose (with doc approval, of course).
6. I try to keep very regular sleep hours (try is the operative word here. my results would be better if I actually achieved very regular hours more consistently). So, on weekends, I try to go to bed not much later than the usual, and get up and out of bed not much later than the usual.
7. I try not to take naps.
I almost never drink alcohol, and don't smoke, which I suspect helps, too.
I think my results would be even better if I kept more regular meal times, and didn't eat during the three hours prior to going to sleep. Before my apnea was treated, this was more of a problem, because I used to get horrible, I mean seeing my life flash before my eyes horrible, acid reflux, which would wake me up feeling like I was choking and checking out for good. Apparently, it was connected to my apnea, because it has vanished since I started using the CPAP.
Posted by tina on June 30, 2000, at 16:52:40
In reply to Re: Sleep » Greg, posted by noa on June 30, 2000, at 15:49:49
I wouldn't mind hearing those dirty jokes you wouldn't tell here. E-mail me bud!!
> Greg, until recently I had MAJOR sleep problems, because I have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and because of the activating effects of the effexor (and before that paxil, prozac, etc.). But here goes---a list of things I do that I *believe* help me to sleep well:
>
> 1. I don't have any kids. This might be the most important factor, judging by my friends and family members who do have kids.
>
> 2. I use my CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, along with its attached humidifier every night (for my apnea).
>
> 3. I don't take lithium anymore (it made me get up to pee constantly).
>
> 4. I stopped my caffeine habit.
>
> 5. I lowered my effexor dose and raised my serzone dose (with doc approval, of course).
>
> 6. I try to keep very regular sleep hours (try is the operative word here. my results would be better if I actually achieved very regular hours more consistently). So, on weekends, I try to go to bed not much later than the usual, and get up and out of bed not much later than the usual.
>
> 7. I try not to take naps.
>
> I almost never drink alcohol, and don't smoke, which I suspect helps, too.
>
> I think my results would be even better if I kept more regular meal times, and didn't eat during the three hours prior to going to sleep. Before my apnea was treated, this was more of a problem, because I used to get horrible, I mean seeing my life flash before my eyes horrible, acid reflux, which would wake me up feeling like I was choking and checking out for good. Apparently, it was connected to my apnea, because it has vanished since I started using the CPAP.
Posted by Greg on June 30, 2000, at 18:07:54
In reply to Hey GREG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!READ ME, posted by tina on June 30, 2000, at 16:52:40
> I wouldn't mind hearing those dirty jokes you wouldn't tell here. E-mail me bud!!
Do you REALLY want me to corrupt your virgin mind?
Hugs,
Greg
Posted by tina on June 30, 2000, at 21:44:07
In reply to Re: Hey TINA!!!!!!!!!!!! Read me back!, posted by Greg on June 30, 2000, at 18:07:54
As if, yaaaaaaa right! (in my best valley-girl voice) Virgin mind, HA! IIIt needs a little corrupting, haven't had enough of that lately.
> > I wouldn't mind hearing those dirty jokes you wouldn't tell here. E-mail me bud!!
>
> Do you REALLY want me to corrupt your virgin mind?
>
> Hugs,
> Greg
Posted by Greg on July 1, 2000, at 14:39:27
In reply to Re: Sleep » Greg, posted by noa on June 30, 2000, at 15:49:49
> Greg, until recently I had MAJOR sleep problems, because I have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and because of the activating effects of the effexor (and before that paxil, prozac, etc.). But here goes---a list of things I do that I *believe* help me to sleep well:
Noa,
Can you tell me a bit about OSA? I've read a little and must admit I found it a little confusing. That is if you don't mind.
>
> 1. I don't have any kids. This might be the most important factor, judging by my friends and family members who do have kids.Kids can be disturbing to your sleep, but they can also be a joy that helps bring peace to your life as well. I think it's the little ones who do the most damage to a person's sleep cycle. They certainly aren't for everyone though...
>
> 2. I use my CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, along with its attached humidifier every night (for my apnea).I ass/u/me (I know making an ass out of you and me...) this is for breathing problems? Are they directly related to the apnea?
>
> 3. I don't take lithium anymore (it made me get up to pee constantly).Never taken it, heard BAD things about it, don't want to try it. What is it used for?
>
> 4. I stopped my caffeine habit.I've cut down from 10 cups a day to 3. Caffiene cetainly doesn't do my anxiety any good. I'm squirrly enough on my own. My anxiety has been very intense at times lately, any suggestions?
>
> 5. I lowered my effexor dose and raised my serzone dose (with doc approval, of course).Effexor made me so forgetful that I had to stop it. I literally couldn't remember where I parked my car most of the time. VERY scary! Never taken Serzone, what is it used for?
>
> 6. I try to keep very regular sleep hours (try is the operative word here. my results would be better if I actually achieved very regular hours more consistently). So, on weekends, I try to go to bed not much later than the usual, and get up and out of bed not much later than the usual.My sleep hours are usually very consistent, but I'm finding that the less sleep I get, the better I feel? Just would like to be able to sleep in once in awhile... Maybe an older aged thing? I've heard that the older you get, the less sleep you require. But I can't even begin to fall asleep without my Ambien.
>
> 7. I try not to take naps.Used to take naps, but haven't in many, many months. Just makes me feel more tired.
>
> I almost never drink alcohol, and don't smoke, which I suspect helps, too.I haven't drank in 12 years (alcoholic), but I do smoke about a pack a day. Was doing better with it (smoking) when I first started the WB, but that seems to have worn off.
>
> I think my results would be even better if I kept more regular meal times, and didn't eat during the three hours prior to going to sleep. Before my apnea was treated, this was more of a problem, because I used to get horrible, I mean seeing my life flash before my eyes horrible, acid reflux, which would wake me up feeling like I was choking and checking out for good. Apparently, it was connected to my apnea, because it has vanished since I started using the CPAP.My schedule is so screwed up most of the time, I never know when I'm going to be able to eat. I just try to fit it in somewhere. I used to have the acid reflux fron Hell. Wake me up in the middle of the night with this incredibal burning from the pit of my stomach up into my throat. It would have me in tears. I also had trouble swallowing and food would lodge about 1/2 way down my throat. Nearly choked to death a few times. My gastro doc put me on Prilosec and after about 1 1/2 mos, it went away. He did several upper GIs but never found anything. Did you take any meds for the AR, or just the CPAP? Did the meds help?
Respond when you have the time and I hope you're having a peaceful day,
Greg
Posted by tina on July 1, 2000, at 17:23:49
In reply to Re: Sleep, posted by Greg on July 1, 2000, at 14:39:27
Learned a few things I didn't know from this post. Thanks for the honesty bud!
> > Greg, until recently I had MAJOR sleep problems, because I have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and because of the activating effects of the effexor (and before that paxil, prozac, etc.). But here goes---a list of things I do that I *believe* help me to sleep well:
>
> Noa,
> Can you tell me a bit about OSA? I've read a little and must admit I found it a little confusing. That is if you don't mind.
> >
> > 1. I don't have any kids. This might be the most important factor, judging by my friends and family members who do have kids.
>
> Kids can be disturbing to your sleep, but they can also be a joy that helps bring peace to your life as well. I think it's the little ones who do the most damage to a person's sleep cycle. They certainly aren't for everyone though...
> >
> > 2. I use my CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, along with its attached humidifier every night (for my apnea).
>
> I ass/u/me (I know making an ass out of you and me...) this is for breathing problems? Are they directly related to the apnea?
> >
> > 3. I don't take lithium anymore (it made me get up to pee constantly).
>
> Never taken it, heard BAD things about it, don't want to try it. What is it used for?
> >
> > 4. I stopped my caffeine habit.
>
> I've cut down from 10 cups a day to 3. Caffiene cetainly doesn't do my anxiety any good. I'm squirrly enough on my own. My anxiety has been very intense at times lately, any suggestions?
> >
> > 5. I lowered my effexor dose and raised my serzone dose (with doc approval, of course).
>
> Effexor made me so forgetful that I had to stop it. I literally couldn't remember where I parked my car most of the time. VERY scary! Never taken Serzone, what is it used for?
> >
> > 6. I try to keep very regular sleep hours (try is the operative word here. my results would be better if I actually achieved very regular hours more consistently). So, on weekends, I try to go to bed not much later than the usual, and get up and out of bed not much later than the usual.
>
> My sleep hours are usually very consistent, but I'm finding that the less sleep I get, the better I feel? Just would like to be able to sleep in once in awhile... Maybe an older aged thing? I've heard that the older you get, the less sleep you require. But I can't even begin to fall asleep without my Ambien.
> >
> > 7. I try not to take naps.
>
> Used to take naps, but haven't in many, many months. Just makes me feel more tired.
> >
> > I almost never drink alcohol, and don't smoke, which I suspect helps, too.
>
> I haven't drank in 12 years (alcoholic), but I do smoke about a pack a day. Was doing better with it (smoking) when I first started the WB, but that seems to have worn off.
> >
> > I think my results would be even better if I kept more regular meal times, and didn't eat during the three hours prior to going to sleep. Before my apnea was treated, this was more of a problem, because I used to get horrible, I mean seeing my life flash before my eyes horrible, acid reflux, which would wake me up feeling like I was choking and checking out for good. Apparently, it was connected to my apnea, because it has vanished since I started using the CPAP.
>
> My schedule is so screwed up most of the time, I never know when I'm going to be able to eat. I just try to fit it in somewhere. I used to have the acid reflux fron Hell. Wake me up in the middle of the night with this incredibal burning from the pit of my stomach up into my throat. It would have me in tears. I also had trouble swallowing and food would lodge about 1/2 way down my throat. Nearly choked to death a few times. My gastro doc put me on Prilosec and after about 1 1/2 mos, it went away. He did several upper GIs but never found anything. Did you take any meds for the AR, or just the CPAP? Did the meds help?
>
> Respond when you have the time and I hope you're having a peaceful day,
> Greg
Posted by noa on July 3, 2000, at 8:16:04
In reply to Re: Sleep--Hey Greg, posted by tina on July 1, 2000, at 17:23:49
Greg, I didn't take any prescription meds for the acid reflux, just over the counter antacids, which were only mediocre and temporary in dealing with it.
Around the same time that I was figuring out I had apnea, and getting tested for it, I was just starting to educate myself about the acid reflux too, and was planning to consult a gastrodoc after I settled in with the apnea treatment. But then, I didn't need to, since the reflux went away when I started the CPAP.
I think, though, that getting on a regular schedule can help a lot with both the reflux and the sleep. Like not letting yourself get too hungry, because you are more likely to eat till you are too full once you do eat, and not eating and running, etc. and not eating before bed, etc. Also, the caffeine thing really contributes to the sleep problems, and to the reflux.
All easier said than done, huh?
Posted by KarenB on July 8, 2000, at 2:54:30
In reply to Re: Sleep, posted by Greg on July 1, 2000, at 14:39:27
>>Did you take any meds for the AR, or just the CPAP? Did the meds help?
Greg,
I am so tired I'm loopy =^P. The first time I read this sentence you wrote, I really thought you said "CRAP!" I must comment that I have tried all the CRAP I can stand, and found it to be ineffective. Of course,YMMV.
Goodnight everyone...off to dreamland.
Karen
This is the end of the thread.
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