Meds

Trying to decide if I should reduce my meds.  I have been on Zoloft since I found out about the dystonia as well as dealing with depression from not being able to have kids. That's been almost 2 years ago. I'm considering going off. My doctor and I agreed that it was for situational only. Also trying to decide if the Gabapentin is working or not. My Movement Specialist that prescribed it is out on a medical emergency and might not return. I go for my botox this week with my neurologist, so we'll discuss it then.

I'm just tired of being on so much medicine. Meds are not the end all for this. It comes from a stat of mind too. So, I am going to get in shape a little better and try to drop some weight. I think it will help my lower back too. ;)

Gabapentin (Neurontin) Update

So, I have been on the full prescription of Gabapentin (Neurontin) now for a little over a week. So far, can't say I've noticed anything noticeably different. But, the doctor might need to increase the dose even more. However, I am having a hard time getting the doctor's office to call back. Dang! As soon as we get this situated, I'm not sticking with him other than checkups. Glad I didn't switch to him for the Botox. Eh:(
I have decided that I am going to start my workouts again Feb 1st. I need to strengthen my back. The lower back is causing me so many problems.
More later...

Test Results

Talked to the doctor today and got the results. All tests including the MRI came back normal. YAY!!! Dr. office had me scared because they said he had to see me today to discuss. So, just primary generalized Dystonia in all 4 limbs now. Going on a new medicine and go from there. I was told today that if it gets worse, ...I am a candidate for DBS (Deep Brain Stimulator). We'll try this medicine first. 

So now I am on Gabapentin (Neurontin). Started Sat night with one 300 mg tab. I do that for a week, then go to 2x a day for a week, then 3x a day for another week, then add a 2nd tab to the evening time for a week, etc. until I'm at 2 tabs (600mg) x 3 times a day (total of 1800mg a day) We'll see if my system will tolerate this one.

Still waiting...

Well, still waiting for the results from the newest tests. I figure I will give the Dr a call next week.

I have been taking a lot more pain medicines lately. I hate that, but not only has stress been aggravating my Dystonia, but my lower back has acting up a lot more. I've been having spasms and wake up almost every more so stiff it hurts to even roll over. Most of the time I'm able to loosen it with a hot shower.

On the good side of things, Thanksgiving was nice. Fell asleep after dinner and now I can't sleep. And we have almost all of our Christmas shopping done already. It rocks. Thank God for the internet.

Well, that's the latest for now.

Brian MRI

Today, I had another Brian MRI with contrast. This is my 3rd one with nothing yet. Everything was okay except when he put the dye in my arm. I guess the vein collapsed and some of the dye got in my arm. OMG, that hurt like crazy. I had a big knot. Put ice on it and it's better, but sure it will bruise. They said the Doctor will have the results tomorrow. Probably won't hear anything though. That Doctor's office sucks.

Fingers crossed. 

Bye, bye Artane

Well, after 2 1/2 weeks on Artane, I am going off it tomorrow. Spoke to the Doctor's office and we agreed I need to get off this medicine. I am so grateful. I started off taking it in the evening before bed. I had fogginess, dizziness, dry mouth and tiredness. When I started the second dose, everything increased and I even had 2 hallucinations. Not a good idea when you have a two year old. i felt like it's not worth it. I'd rather be in pain than live my life like that.

Artane Cont...

I've now taken 2 doses of Artane. Joy! The pharmacist said to take it at night- best advice ever. It has really helped with side effects. It makes me so tired. Only thing I have during the day is dry mouth. This morning I awoke in a bit of a fog this morning. Pretty grateful my parents are in town right now. Less to have to worry about.