Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Syndrome X ?

One of the things that has been on my mind is that I need to find a good doctor. I don't trust them with anything related to medicine or my own body. I have been seeing PA's for the last two years. The one I usually see had a breakdown of some sorts. So therefore my reason to look for a new doctor has become more urgent. As I told you before, I was going to get an appointment with the doctor my therapist uses. I went to my new doc for an initial appointment and blood work and some other tests last week. Little did I realize that for the past 15 years, I have been receiving bad medical advice. I guess I should have put two and two together, but I didn't think that was my job.

Today, I went back to my doctor for the results of my blood work and it was not good news. I have had a hard time digesting this information. I even thought about not posting it, but I need all the prayers I can get, all the good thoughts you can send, even your thought beams will be of help to me. Reike too for those of you that practice it.

My cholesterol and triglycerides are still high. How can that be when I have been dieting, exercising and doing all that I can to lower the numbers. Seems I have something called metabolic syndrome X. Syndrome what? Never heard of it before today.

Metabolic syndrome is not a disease but rather a group of diseases and when you have three or more of the markers out of the five, then it becomes this syndrome. In addition, I am now insulin intolerant. This felt like I had the wind knocked out of me. My doctor says that I am this way because of my family genetics. Thanks mia familia.

He put me on some medicine for the insulin resistance and medicine to reduce my other numbers. I am not going to even read about the side effects because I know I will get them just by the power of suggestion. I am also going to see a dietitian to help me with my food. I thought I had been doing a pretty good job of that because I have lost sixteen pounds. Maybe this is why it is so hard to loose the weight.

I have been taking fish oils which have helped some,but not enough. So today, I had to accept my results like an adult. Remember, I don't like doctors, and this doc was a fireman before he became a doctor. I have to Ttttrrr...uuu...sss...tttT... Trust him on this, there I said it. I have no other options to get healthy.

I am counting on my attitude to get me through this as well as my friends. I had a moment in the office when the reality struck me and my eyes leaked a little. Then I was thankful it was not something more serious. I can turn this around. Before the doctor came in I said "Lord, I am not in control, I can not do this by myself and Lord, I need you to handle this for me". See. I feel better already.

The first day of the medicines went fairly well. I am not going to read the adverse effects. Nope, I am just going on blind faith and taking the medicines. So here is to day two. I know I can do this, I really don't have a choice do I ?That is it for now. I hope you all have a great day. I am off to exercise.

40 comments:

The Bear's Blog said...

My dearest friend,

Okay, let's take this one step at a time. Yes, I am praying, you are on our Church prayer list too.

Thank God, yes, praises that it is't something more serious. This is serious, but...

With prayers from friends, and family you are being lifted up to our Heavenly Father.

Breathe...go for a walk and just soak in the beauty that surrounds you - His gift to us. When I am walking and being quiet it's a precious time to just talk to Him, He knows, but He loves and wants us to come to Him with everything.

Now, you go and have a peaceful day. You are loved, really loved by people you don't even know...

Read Psalm 91 - and just soak in His promises.

Hugs, heaps of them and
BLESSINGS.

Joyce

Gail said...

MY DEAR PAM-

I completely understand all of your fears and concerns. I have HTN and High-cholesterol, both now controled thru medications. It is family genetice as well for me. Also, because of my having MS (that was a shocking diagnosis to receive),it is hard for m e to do exercise for too long. I do toning and strengthening and breathing and stretches. I also get the scary side effects fears - the MS medication is via injection and has horrid effects. Anyway - you and God are in charge now - and remember stress and worry is the worst for all these conditions so get outside and breathe and look up^, ok? And I am sending you light-love-prayers and hugs (((((pam))))))

Love to you
Gail
peace.,....

Finding Pam said...

Joyce, thank you so much for the prayers and the comfort you have blessed me with today. I guess you can tell I am a little bit scared.

My mother had off the chart cholestrol and triglicerides and two heart attacks, but died of lung cancer at a young age.

It is not a coindence that our Sunday school class has been studying Psalms and about the refuge of God's shelter and you telling me to read Psalms 91.

Joyce,I appreciate your friendship so very much. Let me know if I can ever return the favor in prayer to you.

Many blessings to you.
Pam

The Bear's Blog said...

Sweet Pam,

The ONE thing you can do for me is to relax, and trust that Doc. Wonder "who" put him in your life? We know.

Blessings.

Hugs,
me

Finding Pam said...

Gail, I am not sure I know what HTN is? I so appreciate your comments, hugs and love. I am sending them back to you as well.

Some how I have had a real shift in my thinking. I thank God for that because I trust Him.

I am thankful for friends like you and especially those sweet prayers.

Love to you. I am off to the chiropractor for a tune up.
Peace,
Pam

Finding Pam said...

Joyce, my FIL was one of the best doctors around and had more living heart patients. City docs would send their patients to him.

I was telling my SIL how I have not found a doctor as good as their dad was and that I felt like I was in good hands finally.

I am going to take you advice and relax and go enjoy the day.

thanks so much again.

Sandee said...

You will be in my thoughts and prayers Pam. I Googled Syndrome X to get more information. I'm just glad you went to the doctor. Now you can work on fixing this and I know you will. Big hug. :)

DeEtta said...

Pam, you know I have had you on my mind a lot lately so you have been in my prayers every day and I didn't even know you were having problems.

I have learned that we have to take control of our own health and it sounds like you are doing that. Stay strong and know that a loving Heavenly Father knows your needs and will help you get through this.

Sending prayers and {{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}.

Love to you,
DeEtta

Xmichra said...

Hi Pam :)

You know I am not the praying sort. But I am of the possitive energy kind. And there are two really good things to know about syndrome X:

1 - it can be reversed, and you can help it along with the changes you have already made. Being active for 30 minutes a day 4/7 days is proven to help fight this. And watching your diet, reducing intake of high fat/cholesterol/sugar foods heps you too.

2 - this is not a death sentence, and the medicine that you will take is likely not either. from what I know, there are three basic groups of meds to ake (weight loss meds, cholesterol meds, insulin meds) and all three have far more positive feed back than negative. So don't worry about it for a second.

I will tell you that this is something of an omen for me, as my doctor is testing me for this very thing, as well as an alergy to wheat. So I have been brushing up on the causes/symptoms/treatments and have found that syndrome X isn't that bad a diagnosis. In fact, I would definately call it good. why? Because it is something that CAN be diagnosed, and has a very good percentage of reversal where you can irradicate the potential harm that it causes.

That to me, is a win.

You will be fine, and I know this because of the kind of person you are. This syndrome doesn't have a chance with you, and I beleive that right into my core.

((hugs)) from afar

Finding Pam said...

Sandee, thank you my friend for the support and prayers. It is much appreciated.

This is my year and I have dedicated it to myself to get healthy. Looks like a big job, but I need a challenge.

Hugs back to you, Sandee

DeEtta, it never ceases to amaze me how God works in oour lives. I pray for you and my blogger friends as well.

I love intercessory prayer and I pray that way often. I am blessed to call you friend.
Hugs back to you and thank you.

Love and Grace,
Pam

Finding Pam said...

Gail, I ust googles HTN and now I know what it is. Sorry I didn't know what it stood for.

Finding Pam said...

Xmichra, You are such an encouraging person. I felt such relief after reading your comment. You are very right in that I can overcome this. My doctor sounded like I might have to take the meds for the rest of my life.

Thank you for all of this information and support. My chiropractor did not think I needed to be on the Cholesterol meds. I just did not know what to say to him and of course you know how physicians feel about Chiropractors?

I am keeping you in my prayers for your results. Let me know what you find out.

I hope you are not allergic to wheat.

Maybe together we can kick this syndrome X to the curb.

You are a dear sweet young woman.
Hugs to you.
Pam

Gail said...

Hi again-

HTN is hyper-tension or high blood pressure. phew

love you

Nessa said...

You are in my prayers.

The good side is that you found out in time to do something about it. Yeah, I know. Small comfort right now but it will get better.

larkswing said...

Hugs and Prayers!! One day at the time and remember where to focus - He will see you through!

mielikki said...

It is really hard to invest that kind of trust in an MD, just remember YOU know how you feel, it's YOUR body. Be the squeaky wheel for yourself when you need to.
At least, now, you know what is going on and you are taking the steps to remedy the situation. I am sending prayer and good thoughts your way
and please, eventually? Read the common side effects. Know what your taking. It really is important...

Travis Cody said...

You're entitled to a moment or two to absorb what you've been told and let it sink in. Then you get to ask questions and get information. Then you work with your doc and make a plan.

Then you follow the plan.

It sounds simple, but I've found that health issues are helped by understanding, information, and positive attitude...because it is what it is. But you get to decide how you handle it.

You can get through this.

Finding Pam said...

Nessa, thank you for the prayers too. They are much appreciated. I am going to work as hard as I can on me and getting healthy. I go back in three months for blood work.

Lailani, I will keep my eyes focused on Him. Thank you for your prayers and comment.

Mielikki, I appreciate the good thoughts and prayers. I am always my own best advocate for my health.

I am thinking since the last time I tried statin drugs was about ten years ago, when I still owned my own business.

The stress was killing me. I must have tried ten different statin drugs. So I know what to expect, but I also know until I get adjusted to the medicine that I don't want to know the side effects. Once I get leveled out then I promise I will read them.

I think you must be a nurse? I have been given so much good advice by all of you. I don't know what I would do with out you ladies.

I really appreciate it all. Big SMILES to all of you.

Finding Pam said...

Travis, you sound a lot like my doctor. He already had the plan and now I am doing the plan. I really like appreciate your confidence in me.

Now I am feeling so much better from all of your comments. I feel empowered.

Love you all,
Pam

Cindy Adkins said...

I hope that it will all be well and that you will improve daily!!! Sending big (((hugs))) your way,
Cindy

Cindy Swanson said...

What a great blog, Pam! I found you through a comment on someone's Thursday Thirteen post. I'm going through similar struggles with my "numbers" (oooh! I'm so sick of "numbers"!!!) since I'm a Type 2 diabetic. It's a constant struggle, and I haved varying degrees of success. You have a wonderful blog, and I'll be visiting more. I invite you to stop my mine! http://cindyswanslife.blogspot.com

Best wishes with your health! You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

Finding Pam said...

Cindy A., thank you for keeping me in your prayers. It is much appreciated my friend. I feel those hugs.

Cindy S. it is nice to meet you. I am going to read your blog about your journey. Thank you for sharing your story.

Maura @ Kisiwa Creek Photography said...

Dear Pam,
I'm sorry that you're having to go through all this. That's a lot to swallow at once and I can see why you're overwhelmed. I don't trust doctors either so I understand your reluctance to go to one and especially since the one you were going to for 15 years was giving you the wrong information! These doctors need to stay up to date on all the health information out there!!! What the heck are they getting paid so much money for?! Anyway...it sounds as though this new doctor knows his stuff and I'm sure that in time your body will turn around with the help of the meds. I also know what you mean about not wanting to read the side affects just so you don't get it from the power of suggestion....goodness you think like me! Anyway...please just make sure that if you feel like there's something not right that you go back to the doc. If it is a side affect of one of the meds at least he can narrow it down and get you another one that won't bother you. Sigh...hang in there sister...you're doing what's right and taking care of yourself so you're heading in the right direction. I'll be watching to see how things go. Enjoy your day and your weekend as best you can ok. Take care.

Maura :)

Anonymous said...

I hear you on reading the side effects. I will develop all of them if I do that.
My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Much Love,
Dawn

Akelamalu said...

I'm sending Reiki Pam. xx

Nikki (Sarah) said...

oh Pam...me too...gonna pray for you and it sounds like you're trying to do all the right things and take care of yourself...keep doing it and trust...

Finding Pam said...

Maura, Thank you for the comments. I am glad I am not the only one that can relate to the side effects. I have been working on my decorations. It seems like I am not making any headway. I have this black cat that thinks he has to do everything with me. Literally, if I am decorating the tree he is right there inspecting what I am doing. I moved a heavy mirror this morning and he had to jump up on the bachelor's chest then he knocked off my lamp and broke the finial and the mirror fell to the floor. It didn't break, but a piece of the frame fell off. Now I can't find the glue. You know how one of the days goes? I think I will finish tomorrow.

Have a great weekend, Maura.

Dawn, you can manefest the side effects, too? If we could only harness that power to work on our will power. I would have it made.LOL!

Akelamula, Thank you my deario. It is much appreciated. Keep it coming my way.

Sarah,I am giving it my best shot. Thank you for the prayers. I hope all is well with you.

Debra said...

Oh my, seems you and I are on familiar paths. God bless you my friend. I feel the same way about doctors and I am a nurse.

I recently went to the ER with chest pains and the doctor said I had a blot clot to the lung because of that D-dimer test I mentioned in my post. After sending me for a CT of the chest he then comes back and says no it wasn't a blog clot at all. Grrrrr...Still no answers about the chest pain I was having, but thankfully it is some better now.

I too just got started on simistatin and the Omega 3 fish oil. Seems my cholesterol is a whopping 300!

There are no easy answers. Much prayer and hugs being sent your way!

Finding Pam said...

Debra, I am sorry to hear that the docs could not find the source of your chest pain. Argh...they wonder why we don't trust them.

How are you triglicerides? I hope you can lower your numbers. I hope I don't have to stay on the meds forever.

I am keeping you in my prayers. My mother was a ER nusre and she was the worst patient ever.

Melissa Lynn Shell said...

I know how it feels to get an unexpected diagnosis like this. It does knock the wind out of you. I am praying for you.

You can get through this, you will come out stronger and with more knowledge.

I am very familiar with what you are going through right now. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

Finding Pam said...

Melissa, I know you know all too well about difficult diagnoisis. Your comment is so thoughtful and I appreciate your offer of help.

I hope you are better. Thank you for the prayers, too. I keep you in prayer.

Wanda's Wings said...

Yes we tend to believe what ever the doctors say. They are not always right. May God wrap His loving arms around you now.

Just Be Real said...

Pam you share all that you are doing to improve your health..... God will help along in this process, no doubt. Thank you for sharing and always being an encourager as well. Blessings.

Finding Pam said...

Wanda's Wings, many thanks to you for stopping by and commenting. I hope you will come back for another visit.

I am wishing you peace and love for this holiday.

Pam


JBR, you are such an amazing person with an incredible story to share. May God richly bless you.

Peace and Love,
Pam

crochet lady said...

Oh Pam, I pray for your complete healing and that through the process you will feel loved and cared for. Illness is so challenging and we end up going through almost the patterns of grief in our lives when we have to battle this obstacle.

May you find peace in the midst of the battle.

Love,Jen
(by the way I do have light brownish red hair, I just decided recently to go blond.

aniceplaceinthesun.blogspot.com said...

Pam, You're so brave to share this with us, and I'm happy you did.

I still have a note on my refrigerator that my grandmother scribbled on a piece of paper before she passed away ten years ago. She wrote, "Courage is fear plus action," and if that is true you are very courageous.

You also have a great attitude. I am with you and Dawn as far as reading or hearing about the side effects.

I will pray for you, and do not forget we're here~

Big hug, and love,

Annie

Finding Pam said...

Jen at Crochet Lady, Thank you for the prayers. I am a firm believer in the power of prayer.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.

Blessings and love to you as well,
Pam

Annie, thank you for the support and comments about this post. I am really trying to play this low keyed. I told my youngest son about it. I didn't think too much about it anymore and then the next thing I know my DIL is calling me because she heard it from our youngest son. I just hope they will head my warnings about the cholesterol. They are both in excellant shape, but one has high cholersteral.

Thank you for the love and prayers. I can feel it and I am sending it back to you as well.

Love,
Pam

Chickie said...

Hopefully, once the meds kick in you will at least start feeling better. How rotten to find out after so many years that you were being treated improperly though!

Mouse said...

Only just read this Pam. Will add you to my nightly reiki list! xx

Finding Pam said...

Chickie, I appreciate your comments. I am hoping the meds will do the trick. Oh and the weight loss and exercise,too.

Mouse, thank you for adding me to your Reiki list. I am not sure how it works, but I know it does.