I'm in constant pain

I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(

On May 27, 12:44*pm, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
left.com> wrote:
> I'm having a miserable time of it. *My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. *If it isn't one joint that's giving
> me trouble, it's another. *I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
> that aggravates my ankles. *The best treatment that works is to rub
> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. *I'd figured that
> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. *The rash is tryingto
> take hold on my ankles. *So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> rash. *I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. *;(

Hey guy,

Are you the same A.S. from agc? Just curious, doesn't really matter,
one way or the other. Sorry you had us. Have you checked into the
support arthritis group?

Have you talked with your doc about possible anti-inflammatories? I
know what you mean about ulcers, I've got one (maybe even two, I
think, lol), but they don't act up unless I'm overly stressed (and who
isn't these days). I'm lucky in that my stomach is generally 'cast
iron', but occasionally... well, you know.

I've got RA (and a couple of other things) primarily with Osteo coming
in some joints (like one knee). I've found that pain rubs with
camphor in them seem to help a little. Probably because it "feels"
warm. Hubby uses those pain patches (the heat ones) when his knee
acts up. Maybe something like that, until you get a better result
from your doctor?

Here's hoping they can get something that helps the pain, but doesn't
screw up the rest of the bodily systems, huh?

Smokie Darling (Annie)

> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin.

I'm restricted due to decreased kidney function. I've been taken off nsaids
and such entirely. I'm seeing a pain specialist and after a brief course of
steroids he has prescribed the extended release oxycontin twice daily with
onycodone in between when necessary. This takes care of the pain very well
so you might consider looking for a pain doctor. Most doctors are very wary
of prescribing narcotics long term or in heavy doses because of the nature
of today's litigation and irrational fears of addiction. This is much
misplaced IMHO and backed by studies which do recommend narcotics for long
term arthritic conditions. Lots of luck in your search for relief and no, we
didn't do anything to deserve this pain, just your government 'protecting'
you. Ha!

Bud

On May 27, 1:56 pm, Bud <b...@romance.org> wrote:
> > I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> > I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin.
>
> I'm restricted due to decreased kidney function. I've been taken off nsaids
> and such entirely. I'm seeing a pain specialist and after a brief course of
> steroids he has prescribed the extended release oxycontin twice daily with
> onycodone in between when necessary. This takes care of the pain very well
> so you might consider looking for a pain doctor. Most doctors are very wary
> of prescribing narcotics long term or in heavy doses because of the nature
> of today's litigation and irrational fears of addiction. This is much
> misplaced IMHO and backed by studies which do recommend narcotics for long
> term arthritic conditions. Lots of luck in your search for relief and no, we
> didn't do anything to deserve this pain, just your government 'protecting'
> you. Ha!
>
> Bud

Hi Bud, sorry to hear of your pain. Say there! U impressed me
bigtime w/your knowledge of the opiodphobic way things are being done
"due to the nature of today's litigation & irrationfears of
addiction"!!! WoW, U "get it!' U should check out the
painreliefnetwork.org/forums ...w/that knowledge u would be welcomed
in w/open arms!!! They're getting laws changed so that hopefully it
won't be so bad for us cp to get the meds we need w/o hassle! hope u
check em out!

Have you tried (prob) ice & or moist heat? It really saves me! Also,
prilosec for a preventive of ulcers really helped me to be able to
take antiinflammatories ...hth!
Kindly,
LoriBoB

On May 27, 2:54 pm, "LoriB.o.B." <banjob...@comcast.net> wrote:
> On May 27, 1:56 pm, Bud <b...@romance.org> wrote:
>
>
>
> > > I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> > > I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin.
>
> > I'm restricted due to decreased kidney function. I've been taken off nsaids
> > and such entirely. I'm seeing a pain specialist and after a brief course of
> > steroids he has prescribed the extended release oxycontin twice daily with
> > onycodone in between when necessary. This takes care of the pain very well
> > so you might consider looking for a pain doctor. Most doctors are very wary
> > of prescribing narcotics long term or in heavy doses because of the nature
> > of today's litigation and irrational fears of addiction. This is much
> > misplaced IMHO and backed by studies which do recommend narcotics for long
> > term arthritic conditions. Lots of luck in your search for relief and no, we
> > didn't do anything to deserve this pain, just your government 'protecting'
> > you. Ha!
>
> > Bud
>
> Hi Bud, sorry to hear of your pain. Say there! U impressed me
> bigtime w/your knowledge of the opiodphobic way things are being done
> "due to the nature of today's litigation & irrationfears of
> addiction"!!! WoW, U "get it!' U should check out the
> painreliefnetwork.org/forums ...w/that knowledge u would be welcomed
> in w/open arms!!! They're getting laws changed so that hopefully it
> won't be so bad for us cp to get the meds we need w/o hassle! hope u
> check em out!
>
> Have you tried (prob) ice & or moist heat? It really saves me! Also,
> prilosec for a preventive of ulcers really helped me to be able to
> take antiinflammatories ...hth!
> Kindly,
> LoriBoB

*****************8
Ps...there's also a lidocaine cream or gel that can help a little.
xoxo
LoriBoB

hi as

got a couple questions for you

which 'type' of arthritis do you have?

are you seeing a rheumatologist?

you say you have an ulcer - caused by what? - ever tested for the
bacterium that is proved to cause most ulcers? if that is the cause they
'can' cure the durn thing! yes, i know some doctors still don't test for
it - but insist

you only mention aspirin - what other meds have been tried?

all in all - there just isn't enough info in your post to give
reasonable reply back

stick around - there are a lot of good folks, with terrific solid info
who might be able to steer you if you provide more info

be well

paul

Agent Smith wrote:
>
> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
> me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
> that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
> take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(

I take Nexium for ulcers and Ultram for arthritis pain. These are only two
of the RXs I take, but they work for the stomach and the OA pain.
Gwen


"Agent Smith" <agent-smith@two-blocks-on-your-left.com> wrote in message
news:Xns9AAB95D902D16agentsmithtwoblockso@207.115. 33.102...

I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(

On Tue, 27 May 2008 18:44:13 GMT, Agent Smith
<agent-smith@two-blocks-on-your-left.com> wrote:

>
>I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
>I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
>me trouble, it's another.
>
Well let's hope you don't need Viagria as well. Now that's a real
joint problem.

>I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
>that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
>aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
>ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
>eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
>take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
>cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
>rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(
>
Sorry for the joke, but sometimes I can't help myself. Along with
Aspirin there is a whole list of Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs
(NSAIDs) you shouldn't take. I burned three holes in my stomach and
about shuffled off this mortal coil so I know it is no joke.
>
While you didn't mention if you have osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid
arthritis (RA). perhaps you could try Arthrotec, a medication used in
arthritis treatment, which is a combination of the NSAID diclofenac
sodium and the drug misoprostol for the Ulcers. One of the newer
"Two, uh, two uh, two pills in one. See the following website for
more info http://www.arthrotec.com/consumer/

If you like the cream approach, you might want to try capsaicin cream.

There is some clinical data that shows taking Nexium along with
Aspirin (if Aspirin works for you) can help in patients with Ulcers.

http://doctorsjointrelief.com/arthritis-treatment.html has some
treatment suggestions for people with Osteoarthritis, and as you
mentioned exercise is one of them.
--
"Before all else, be armed" -- Machiavelli

On Tue, 27 May 2008 12:06:22 -0700 (PDT), "Smokie Darling (Annie)"
<Barnabus1993@yahoo.com> wrote:

>On May 27, 12:44*pm, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
>left.com> wrote:
>> I'm having a miserable time of it. *My arthritis is flaring up, and because
>> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. *If it isn't one joint that's giving
>> me trouble, it's another. *I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
>> that aggravates my ankles. *The best treatment that works is to rub
>> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
>> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. *I'd figured that
>> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. *The rash is trying to
>> take hold on my ankles. *So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
>> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
>> rash. *I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. *;(
>
>Hey guy,
>
>Are you the same A.S. from agc? Just curious, doesn't really matter,
>one way or the other. Sorry you had us. Have you checked into the
>support arthritis group?
>
>Have you talked with your doc about possible anti-inflammatories? I
>know what you mean about ulcers, I've got one (maybe even two, I
>think, lol), but they don't act up unless I'm overly stressed (and who
>isn't these days). I'm lucky in that my stomach is generally 'cast
>iron', but occasionally... well, you know.
>
Almost all of the NSAID's give people with Ulcer problems, more
problems. Supposedly Arthrotec, is for people dealing with both
Ulcers & Arthritis. It is one of the newer two-in-one drugs.

Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac and misoprostol. Diclofenac
is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) similar to ibuprofen
(Motrin; Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn), and others. Diclofenac, like
other NSAIDs work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are a related family of chemicals that are produced by
the cells of the body and have several important functions. They
promote inflammation, pain, and fever, support the function of
platelets that are necessary for the clotting of blood, and protect
the lining of the stomach from the damaging effects of acid.
Prostaglandins are produced by the enzyme cyclooxygenase (Cox). There
actually are two Cox enzymes, Cox-1 and Cox-2. Both enzymes produce
prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. However,
only Cox-1 produces prostaglandins that support platelets and protect
the stomach. Diclofenac blocks both Cox enzymes and reduces
prostaglandins throughout the body. As a consequence, ongoing
inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced. Since prostaglandins that
protect the stomach and support platelets and blood clotting also are
reduced, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in the stomach and promote bleeding.
Misoprostol is a synthetic (man-made) prostaglandin that stimulates
secretion of mucus in the gastrointestinal tract. Mucus protects the
lining of the stomach from acid. Misoprostol has been shown to reduce
the frequency of ulcers of the stomach caused by NSAIDs.
>
>I've got RA (and a couple of other things) primarily with Osteo coming
>in some joints (like one knee). I've found that pain rubs with
>camphor in them seem to help a little. Probably because it "feels"
>warm. Hubby uses those pain patches (the heat ones) when his knee
>acts up. Maybe something like that, until you get a better result
>from your doctor?
>
For the knees supposedly Hyaluronic acid, is a medicine for joint
injection, used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. This substance is
a normal component of the joint, involved in joint lubrication and
nutrition.
>
>Here's hoping they can get something that helps the pain, but doesn't
>screw up the rest of the bodily systems, huh?
>
Hells Bells, here's to anything where the cure isn't worse then the
disease itself. Seems like I am constantly taking one medication to
offset the side-effects of another. Gets both old & expensive -- I on
the other hand just get old.
--
"Before all else, be armed" -- Machiavelli

On Tue, 27 May 2008 16:56:48 -0400, Bud <bud@romance.org> wrote:

>
>> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
>> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin.
>
>I'm restricted due to decreased kidney function. I've been taken off nsaids
>and such entirely. I'm seeing a pain specialist and after a brief course of
>steroids he has prescribed the extended release oxycontin twice daily with
>onycodone in between when necessary. This takes care of the pain very well
>so you might consider looking for a pain doctor. Most doctors are very wary
>of prescribing narcotics long term or in heavy doses because of the nature
>of today's litigation and irrational fears of addiction. This is much
>misplaced IMHO and backed by studies which do recommend narcotics for long
>term arthritic conditions. Lots of luck in your search for relief and no, we
>didn't do anything to deserve this pain, just your government 'protecting'
>you. Ha!
>
>Bud
>
Yeah but! -- The unless you are taking "pure" Oxycodone, your still
get that little add-in they like to throw into everything,
acetaminophen -- which isn't all that good for the Kidneys or Liver.

Interesting but true fact; more people die every year from OTC
NSAID's then prescribed Opiates.
--
"Before all else, be armed" -- Machiavelli

On Tue, 27 May 2008 14:54:48 -0700 (PDT), "LoriB.o.B."
<banjobabe@comcast.net> wrote:

>On May 27, 1:56 pm, Bud <b...@romance.org> wrote:
>> > I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
>> > I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin.
>>
>> I'm restricted due to decreased kidney function. I've been taken off nsaids
>> and such entirely. I'm seeing a pain specialist and after a brief course of
>> steroids he has prescribed the extended release oxycontin twice daily with
>> onycodone in between when necessary. This takes care of the pain very well
>> so you might consider looking for a pain doctor. Most doctors are very wary
>> of prescribing narcotics long term or in heavy doses because of the nature
>> of today's litigation and irrational fears of addiction. This is much
>> misplaced IMHO and backed by studies which do recommend narcotics for long
>> term arthritic conditions. Lots of luck in your search for relief and no, we
>> didn't do anything to deserve this pain, just your government 'protecting'
>> you. Ha!
>>
>> Bud
>
>Hi Bud, sorry to hear of your pain. Say there! U impressed me
>bigtime w/your knowledge of the opiodphobic way things are being done
>"due to the nature of today's litigation & irrationfears of
>addiction"!!! WoW, U "get it!' U should check out the
>painreliefnetwork.org/forums ...w/that knowledge u would be welcomed
>in w/open arms!!! They're getting laws changed so that hopefully it
>won't be so bad for us cp to get the meds we need w/o hassle! hope u
>check em out!
>
Funny you should mention the "A" word. Sitting in the Pain Clinic
yesterday chatting with a couple of patients when one woman said she
was being treated for Fibro, but wasn't having much luck with her
current course of treatment. She followed it up with she'd like to
follow the Dr's advice & give Opiates a try but was afraid of getting
"Addicted".

Those of us around her (after we stopped rolling around on the floor)
explained the difference between Addiction, Dependence & Tolerance. I
don't think she got it though.
--
"Before all else, be armed" -- Machiavelli

On May 27, 6:00*pm, Zomby-W...@cox.net wrote:
> On Tue, 27 May 2008 12:06:22 -0700 (PDT), "Smokie Darling (Annie)"
>
>
>
>
>
> <Barnabus1...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> >On May 27, 12:44*pm, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
> >left.com> wrote:

> >> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. *The rash is trying to
> >> take hold on my ankles. *So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> >> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> >> rash. *I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. *;(
>
> >Hey guy,
>
> >Are you the same A.S. from agc? *Just curious, doesn't really matter,
> >one way or the other. *Sorry you had us. *Have you checked into the
> >support arthritis group?
>

>
> Almost all of the NSAID's give people with Ulcer problems, more
> problems. *Supposedly Arthrotec, is for people dealing with both
> Ulcers & Arthritis. *It is one of the newer two-in-one drugs.
>
> Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac and *misoprostol. Diclofenac
> is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) similar to ibuprofen
> (Motrin; Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn), and others.

Currently my ulcers are behaving, and I take 800mg of ibuprofen twice
a day. At least I've got it down from three times a day. Actually,
since being fired for not healing before FMLA ran out (12 weeks), my
ulcers are nearly non-existent, which is a good thing.

Learning that a county government can use the "undue hardship" clause
to prevent having to accomodate an employee... Well, I'm a somewhat
healthier, if poorer person.

I'll be talking to my RD about this when I see him next month. I know
he wants to get me off the ibuprofen, since I've been on it since
1996, maybe this will be an option for me.



>
> >I've got RA (and a couple of other things) primarily with Osteo coming
> >in some joints (like one knee). *I've found that pain rubs with
> >camphor in them seem to help a little. *Probably because it "feels"
> >warm. *Hubby uses those pain patches (the heat ones) when his knee
> >acts up. *Maybe something like that, until you get a better result
> >from your doctor?
>
> For the knees supposedly *Hyaluronic acid, is a medicine for joint
> injection, used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. This substance is
> a normal component of the joint, involved in joint lubrication and
> nutrition.

Since the last injection in my knee ended up giving me MRSA, they are
rather hesitant to inject anything else (gee, wonder why?). However,
I do have my NSAIDs (and will be looking into the one you describe
above), and my 'heavier' pain killer for night time.



>
> >Here's hoping they can get something that helps the pain, but doesn't
> >screw up the rest of the bodily systems, huh?
>
> Hells Bells, here's to anything where the cure isn't worse then the
> disease itself. *Seems like I am constantly taking one medication to
> offset the side-effects of another. *Gets both old & expensive -- I on
> the other hand just get old.

You and me both, ZW. However, I'll take the relief I can, and deal
with the rest, when the RD allows it (damn hives!).

<sweetpickleNO@SPAMknology.net> wrote in
news:bcd8a$483c9452$45491df5$31412@KNOLOGY.NET:

> I take Nexium for ulcers and Ultram for arthritis pain. These are
> only two of the RXs I take, but they work for the stomach and the OA
> pain. Gwen

If you're paying cash for your Nexium, you can can save money by taking
over-the-counter Prilosec instead, since the two are nearly identical.
Ask your pharmacist for the physician's instructions for both of them
and then look at the pictures of the molecules. You may have to rotate
one or the other until the general orientation is the same, but when you
seem them next to each other, you'll have an epiphany. The overall
structures are the same, with only very small differences between the
two. There's no reason to prefer one over the other based on those
small differences, so you might as well buy the cheap one.

Of course, if you're only paying $5 for your monthly scrip, and your
medical insurer pays the other $95, that's cheaper for you than paying
$23 for OTC meds, even though it's more expensive to someone else.
That's just one more way in which the screwed up health insurance system
provides financial incentives to waste money.



> "Agent Smith" <agent-smith@two-blocks-on-your-left.com> wrote in
> message news:Xns9AAB95D902D16agentsmithtwoblockso@207.115. 33.102...
>
> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and
> because I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint
> that's giving me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy
> for my knees, but that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that
> works is to rub aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble
> and then wrap them in ace bandages, but that's starting to get played
> out. I'd figured that eventually it might give me a rash, and I was
> right. The rash is trying to take hold on my ankles. So now I have
> to just hope that discontinuing the cream and trying to walk slowly
> will be enough to control the pain and the rash. I didn't do anything
> to deserve this torture. ;(
>
>

"Paul T. Holland" <pholland@bellatlantic.net> wrote in
news:483C96C5.7D9CB5E8@bellatlantic.net:

> hi as
>
> got a couple questions for you
>
> which 'type' of arthritis do you have?

Osteo.

> are you seeing a rheumatologist?

Not any more. The guy was stupid, clueless, and possibly dangerous. ;(

> you say you have an ulcer - caused by what?

Acid reflux.

> - ever tested for the
> bacterium that is proved to cause most ulcers?

Yes. I didn't have it.

> if that is the cause
> they 'can' cure the durn thing! yes, i know some doctors still don't
> test for it - but insist
>
> you only mention aspirin - what other meds have been tried?

Celebrex, which hardly worked at all, and certainly not enough to
justify $100 out of pocket. My doctor thought that there was still a
possibility that it might aggravate my ulcer, which is also clearly
stated on the warnings.

Glucosamine sulfate, which is also quite expensive and doesn't seem to
work at all, not to mention that nobody has any idea *why* it supposedly
works, although since cox-2 inhibitors became popular, GS was suddenly
labelled to be one. I think that was simply a bald-faced fabrication,
as supplement stores are routinely known to do.

> all in all - there just isn't enough info in your post to give
> reasonable reply back
>
> stick around - there are a lot of good folks, with terrific solid info
> who might be able to steer you if you provide more info
>
> be well
>
> paul
>
> Agent Smith wrote:
>>
>> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and
>> because I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint
>> that's giving me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy
>> for my knees, but that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that
>> works is to rub aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble
>> and then wrap them in ace bandages, but that's starting to get played
>> out. I'd figured that eventually it might give me a rash, and I was
>> right. The rash is trying to take hold on my ankles. So now I have
>> to just hope that discontinuing the cream and trying to walk slowly
>> will be enough to control the pain and the rash. I didn't do
>> anything to deserve this torture. ;(
>

Agent Smith, I was on Prilosec before Nexium came out. My RD said that
Nexium does some healing that Prilosec doesn't do so he wants me on Nexium.
I'm on Part D Medicare and have already hit the gap so I'm paying full price
now for Nexium which is almost $200. However, in only 4 months I will hit
catastrophic coverage at which time my insurance will pay almost everything.
The insurance company contacted my RD about changing from the Nexium, but
whatever he did or said convinced them that I should stay on it so it is now
approved for me until the end of the year and beyond if I stay with the some
company next year. The Ultram 300 is just over $200 for me now!
Gwen


"Agent Smith" <agent-smith@two-blocks-on-your-left.com> wrote in message
news:Xns9AABE6593836agentsmithtwoblockso@207.115.3 3.102...
<sweetpickleNO@SPAMknology.net> wrote in
news:bcd8a$483c9452$45491df5$31412@KNOLOGY.NET:

> I take Nexium for ulcers and Ultram for arthritis pain. These are
> only two of the RXs I take, but they work for the stomach and the OA
> pain. Gwen

If you're paying cash for your Nexium, you can can save money by taking
over-the-counter Prilosec instead, since the two are nearly identical.
Ask your pharmacist for the physician's instructions for both of them
and then look at the pictures of the molecules. You may have to rotate
one or the other until the general orientation is the same, but when you
seem them next to each other, you'll have an epiphany. The overall
structures are the same, with only very small differences between the
two. There's no reason to prefer one over the other based on those
small differences, so you might as well buy the cheap one.

Of course, if you're only paying $5 for your monthly scrip, and your
medical insurer pays the other $95, that's cheaper for you than paying
$23 for OTC meds, even though it's more expensive to someone else.
That's just one more way in which the screwed up health insurance system
provides financial incentives to waste money.



> "Agent Smith" <agent-smith@two-blocks-on-your-left.com> wrote in
> message news:Xns9AAB95D902D16agentsmithtwoblockso@207.115. 33.102...
>
> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and
> because I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint
> that's giving me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy
> for my knees, but that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that
> works is to rub aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble
> and then wrap them in ace bandages, but that's starting to get played
> out. I'd figured that eventually it might give me a rash, and I was
> right. The rash is trying to take hold on my ankles. So now I have
> to just hope that discontinuing the cream and trying to walk slowly
> will be enough to control the pain and the rash. I didn't do anything
> to deserve this torture. ;(
>
>

Agent Smith wrote:
> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and
> because I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint
> that's giving me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy
> for my knees, but that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that
> works is to rub aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble
> and then wrap them in ace bandages, but that's starting to get played
> out. I'd figured that eventually it might give me a rash, and I was
> right. The rash is trying to take hold on my ankles. So now I have
> to just hope that discontinuing the cream and trying to walk slowly
> will be enough to control the pain and the rash. I didn't do
> anything to deserve this torture. ;(


Well, I read through the other responses first, so I wouldn't be reapeating
what somebody else did. ZW gave you an option. My doctor has me covered in a
similar fashion, but 2 pills instead of 1. I take an ulcer med plus an NSAID
together, which she did to protect my stomache. I don't have a history of
ulcers, pretty much have a cast iron stomache, but she is proactive rather
than reactive, treat the potential, rather than then the inevitable.

As for flares, I am just coming out of one of the biggest I've had in a long
time, definitely scale 10 pain at one point. Corticosteroids come in handy
for those flares accompanied with excessive inflamation. Sounds like you
could use a Medi-dose pack. This is a pre-packaged corticosteroid therapy
that gradually ramps you up to a maximum dose, then weans you off. Each day
has a different dose in the pack. This has always worked well for me, when I
suffer a bout of inflamation accompanied by stiffness, swelling, and
unrelenting pain.

Hope you can find a solution soon. Do you take any supplements? MSM and
Omega 3's are two I take that are natural
anti-inflamatories. MSM is relatively cheap, I take advantage of frequent
sales and CVS bucks that I earn, and get sent to me via email with email
sign-up, to buy mine at CVS. Not sure how MSM and Omega 3's work, but they
have helped me. They are both good for the joints.


--
Carol
Contessa of Consternation
Known to leave foes discombobulated

Autistic Spectrum Code v.1.0
AS? d- s--:+ a+ c+ p+ t-- f S+ p@- e+ h- r- n+(-) i+ P m-() M

http://www32.brinkster.com/ascdecode/
"I have run rings around you logically". Monty Python

Email at clay_pots_47@nospam.com, removing the 'nospam' and replacing
with 'msn'.

On May 27, 11:44*am, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
left.com> wrote:
> I'm having a miserable time of it. *My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. *If it isn't one joint that's giving
> me trouble, it's another. *I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
> that aggravates my ankles. *The best treatment that works is to rub
> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. *I'd figured that
> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. *The rash is tryingto
> take hold on my ankles. *So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> rash. *I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. *;(

Hi, go to www.optimalhealthandwellbeing.com. I work with people who
suffer for many years with chronic conditions within their body and
pill after pill, doctor after doctor relief was not found until now.
The tool that enabled the body to correct itself is on this site.
This tool will change your life forever.
Chaplain Bonnie

Spammer central.
LoriBoB


On May 28, 8:06 pm, optimalhealthandwellbe...@gmail.com wrote:
> On May 27, 11:44 am, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
>
> left.com> wrote:
> > I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> > I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
> > me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
> > that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
> > aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
> > ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
> > eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
> > take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> > cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> > rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(
>
> Hi, go towww.optimalhealthandwellbeing.com. I work with people who
> suffer for many years with chronic conditions within their body and
> pill after pill, doctor after doctor relief was not found until now.
> The tool that enabled the body to correct itself is on this site.
> This tool will change your life forever.
> Chaplain Bonnie

"I didn't do anything to deserve this torture" What familiar words.
I say this to myself and the people I love. We all have pain we should
not have. It probably is not organic pain. Crohns disease causes pain
from the environment. I repeat this so often, it is like a bible to me.
It is a strange, weird illness that comes from someone we know that is on a
stimulant, i.e. xanax, buspar, marijuana, cocaine, ALL ANTI-DEPRESSANTS.
They all have the uncanny ability to transfer harm to a friend or family by
a mind/body connection simply by ingesting a stimulant. And no one
realizes what is happening. Stranger still is the fact that the two (or
more) persons do not have to be in the same room for the person being
affected to continue being affected, they can be miles and miles apart,
still the harm continues.
No logic, but it is so. If the person ceases the stimulant, the pain
leaves immediately. Otherwise, one has to break the mind connection
entirely before the pain subsides. This is the cause of more problems
than realized, and the doctors are blissfully unaware of this, and if told,
they scoff (except now and then one believes it)
Try to relate, it just may be the answer.
Gail Michael

A valerian now and then will control the stress that crohns feeds on.

On May 29, 11:01*pm, "news.chi.sbcglobal.net"
<kureforcro...@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

> No logic, but it is so. * *If the person ceases the stimulant, the pain
> leaves immediately.

Funny.

I have a friend who doesn't take any drugs at all. She has Crohn's
but believes in natural healing and that manner of stuff.

She just had a colostomy put in.

I tend to think this is a generalization that should be perhaps
phrased a bit differently.

Trisha in MO *

Trisha,
You misunderstand as many do. Perhaps I do not make it clear.
It is not your friend on the stimulant that causes her own crohns. It is
someone else she knows, friend or family that is on the stimulant causing
her problem. In other words, what someone else ingests is causing her
problem. Believe me, this is the ONLY cause of crohns and UC. Weird
illness, weird cause. Tell her this and perhaps she can relate to this
and avoid further problems.
Gail Michael
This is becoming a plague, so vast is the the use of stimulants.

"trisha" <fridaybears@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:b1399eab-4a74-4a22-904f-8a38ac650499@l64g2000hse.googlegroups.com...
On May 29, 11:01 pm, "news.chi.sbcglobal.net"
<kureforcro...@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

> No logic, but it is so. If the person ceases the stimulant, the pain
> leaves immediately.

Funny.

I have a friend who doesn't take any drugs at all. She has Crohn's
but believes in natural healing and that manner of stuff.

She just had a colostomy put in.

I tend to think this is a generalization that should be perhaps
phrased a bit differently.

Trisha in MO

On May 27, 2:44 pm, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
left.com> wrote:
> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
> me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
> that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
> take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(

So sorry. I know exactly how you feel. I've had constant low back
pain for 5 years and OA in both knees for 2. I am very grateful for
this newsgroup.

For the knees I had Orthosvisc injections. It didn't help as much as
I'd hoped but it definitely helped. I also use Lidoderm patches on my
knees. Between the injections and the Lidoderm they are usually OK if
I don't walk too much. There are good days and bad days. Before the
shots there were no good days.

Like you, I have stomach problems caused by all the NSAIDs I took over
the years. Now I'm on Tramadol and it is helpful and doesn't bother
my stomach. I know others have had problems with it but I it might be
worth a try.

Another thing that helps my knees is ice. Heat makes them feel much
worse. Same for other joints.

In case you find something that helps, be careful not to do too much.
Sometimes when the pain goes away we think we are "normal", but it
just ain't so. Trying to do what you used to do just causes more
problems in the end.

Jane

On May 27, 8:00 pm, Zomby-W...@cox.net wrote:
> On Tue, 27 May 2008 12:06:22 -0700 (PDT), "Smokie Darling (Annie)"
>
>
>
> <Barnabus1...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> >On May 27, 12:44 pm, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
> >left.com> wrote:
> >> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and because
> >> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's giving
> >> me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees, but
> >> that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
> >> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them in
> >> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
> >> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is trying to
> >> take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing the
> >> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and the
> >> rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(
>
> >Hey guy,
>
> >Are you the same A.S. from agc? Just curious, doesn't really matter,
> >one way or the other. Sorry you had us. Have you checked into the
> >support arthritis group?
>
> >Have you talked with your doc about possible anti-inflammatories? I
> >know what you mean about ulcers, I've got one (maybe even two, I
> >think, lol), but they don't act up unless I'm overly stressed (and who
> >isn't these days). I'm lucky in that my stomach is generally 'cast
> >iron', but occasionally... well, you know.
>
> Almost all of the NSAID's give people with Ulcer problems, more
> problems. Supposedly Arthrotec, is for people dealing with both
> Ulcers & Arthritis. It is one of the newer two-in-one drugs.
>
> Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac and misoprostol. Diclofenac
> is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) similar to ibuprofen
> (Motrin; Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn), and others. Diclofenac, like
> other NSAIDs work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.
> Prostaglandins are a related family of chemicals that are produced by
> the cells of the body and have several important functions. They
> promote inflammation, pain, and fever, support the function of
> platelets that are necessary for the clotting of blood, and protect
> the lining of the stomach from the damaging effects of acid.
> Prostaglandins are produced by the enzyme cyclooxygenase (Cox). There
> actually are two Cox enzymes, Cox-1 and Cox-2. Both enzymes produce
> prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. However,
> only Cox-1 produces prostaglandins that support platelets and protect
> the stomach. Diclofenac blocks both Cox enzymes and reduces
> prostaglandins throughout the body. As a consequence, ongoing
> inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced. Since prostaglandins that
> protect the stomach and support platelets and blood clotting also are
> reduced, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in the stomach and promote bleeding.
> Misoprostol is a synthetic (man-made) prostaglandin that stimulates
> secretion of mucus in the gastrointestinal tract. Mucus protects the
> lining of the stomach from acid. Misoprostol has been shown to reduce
> the frequency of ulcers of the stomach caused by NSAIDs.
>
> >I've got RA (and a couple of other things) primarily with Osteo coming
> >in some joints (like one knee). I've found that pain rubs with
> >camphor in them seem to help a little. Probably because it "feels"
> >warm. Hubby uses those pain patches (the heat ones) when his knee
> >acts up. Maybe something like that, until you get a better result
> >from your doctor?
>
> For the knees supposedly Hyaluronic acid, is a medicine for joint
> injection, used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. This substance is
> a normal component of the joint, involved in joint lubrication and
> nutrition.
>
> >Here's hoping they can get something that helps the pain, but doesn't
> >screw up the rest of the bodily systems, huh?
>
> Hells Bells, here's to anything where the cure isn't worse then the
> disease itself. Seems like I am constantly taking one medication to
> offset the side-effects of another. Gets both old & expensive -- I on
> the other hand just get old.
> --
> "Before all else, be armed" -- Machiavelli

Jeez, the blurb on the Arthrotec website scared the hell out of me.

On Thu, 29 May 2008 23:21:53 -0500, "news.chi.sbcglobal.net"
<kureforcrohns@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

>Trisha,
>You misunderstand as many do. Perhaps I do not make it clear.
>It is not your friend on the stimulant that causes her own crohns. It is
>someone else she knows, friend or family that is on the stimulant causing
>her problem. In other words, what someone else ingests is causing her
>problem. Believe me, this is the ONLY cause of crohns and UC. Weird
>illness, weird cause. Tell her this and perhaps she can relate to this
>and avoid further problems.
>Gail Michael
>This is becoming a plague, so vast is the the use of stimulants.

This has to be the most bizarre "logic" I have ever heard.

Joan

I agree with you, Joan. Unbelievable!
Gwen

"Joan Carter" <spamfree@sentex.ca> wrote in message
news:e43044dhvshjadp7ij509dbm49t89t9f0p@4ax.com...
On Thu, 29 May 2008 23:21:53 -0500, "news.chi.sbcglobal.net"
<kureforcrohns@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

>Trisha,
>You misunderstand as many do. Perhaps I do not make it clear.
>It is not your friend on the stimulant that causes her own crohns. It is
>someone else she knows, friend or family that is on the stimulant causing
>her problem. In other words, what someone else ingests is causing her
>problem. Believe me, this is the ONLY cause of crohns and UC. Weird
>illness, weird cause. Tell her this and perhaps she can relate to this
>and avoid further problems.
>Gail Michael
>This is becoming a plague, so vast is the the use of stimulants.

This has to be the most bizarre "logic" I have ever heard.

Joan

"Jeez, the blurb on the Arthrotec website scared the hell out of me."

I haven't looked at the arthrotec website; however I was on arthrotec until
it really messed up my stomach. Watch carefully if you try it.
Gwen

I have been on Arthrotec for some time now. My rheumy tried me on
Celebrex - could have been a cracker for all the good it did. Arthrotec
made a big difference for me. I take 75mg twice a day with a meal. Just
goes to show how different we all are. I am so fortunate that, so far, I've
been fairly fortunate with my medications. Did have one that made me dizzy.
OOps.

--
Navy
Take out the FISH to email me.
"Jane" <googlemail2003@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:5bc843e6-6d37-4b77-9180-d513d2f5880b@d1g2000hsg.googlegroups.com...
> On May 27, 8:00 pm, Zomby-W...@cox.net wrote:
>> On Tue, 27 May 2008 12:06:22 -0700 (PDT), "Smokie Darling (Annie)"
>>
>>
>>
>> <Barnabus1...@yahoo.com> wrote:
>> >On May 27, 12:44 pm, Agent Smith <agent-sm...@two-blocks-on-your-
>> >left.com> wrote:
>> >> I'm having a miserable time of it. My arthritis is flaring up, and
>> >> because
>> >> I have an ulcer, I can't take aspirin. If it isn't one joint that's
>> >> giving
>> >> me trouble, it's another. I could do physical therapy for my knees,
>> >> but
>> >> that aggravates my ankles. The best treatment that works is to rub
>> >> aspircreme on the joints that are giving me trouble and then wrap them
>> >> in
>> >> ace bandages, but that's starting to get played out. I'd figured that
>> >> eventually it might give me a rash, and I was right. The rash is
>> >> trying to
>> >> take hold on my ankles. So now I have to just hope that discontinuing
>> >> the
>> >> cream and trying to walk slowly will be enough to control the pain and
>> >> the
>> >> rash. I didn't do anything to deserve this torture. ;(
>>
>> >Hey guy,
>>
>> >Are you the same A.S. from agc? Just curious, doesn't really matter,
>> >one way or the other. Sorry you had us. Have you checked into the
>> >support arthritis group?
>>
>> >Have you talked with your doc about possible anti-inflammatories? I
>> >know what you mean about ulcers, I've got one (maybe even two, I
>> >think, lol), but they don't act up unless I'm overly stressed (and who
>> >isn't these days). I'm lucky in that my stomach is generally 'cast
>> >iron', but occasionally... well, you know.
>>
>> Almost all of the NSAID's give people with Ulcer problems, more
>> problems. Supposedly Arthrotec, is for people dealing with both
>> Ulcers & Arthritis. It is one of the newer two-in-one drugs.
>>
>> Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac and misoprostol. Diclofenac
>> is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) similar to ibuprofen
>> (Motrin; Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn), and others. Diclofenac, like
>> other NSAIDs work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.
>> Prostaglandins are a related family of chemicals that are produced by
>> the cells of the body and have several important functions. They
>> promote inflammation, pain, and fever, support the function of
>> platelets that are necessary for the clotting of blood, and protect
>> the lining of the stomach from the damaging effects of acid.
>> Prostaglandins are produced by the enzyme cyclooxygenase (Cox). There
>> actually are two Cox enzymes, Cox-1 and Cox-2. Both enzymes produce
>> prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. However,
>> only Cox-1 produces prostaglandins that support platelets and protect
>> the stomach. Diclofenac blocks both Cox enzymes and reduces
>> prostaglandins throughout the body. As a consequence, ongoing
>> inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced. Since prostaglandins that
>> protect the stomach and support platelets and blood clotting also are
>> reduced, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in the stomach and promote bleeding.
>> Misoprostol is a synthetic (man-made) prostaglandin that stimulates
>> secretion of mucus in the gastrointestinal tract. Mucus protects the
>> lining of the stomach from acid. Misoprostol has been shown to reduce
>> the frequency of ulcers of the stomach caused by NSAIDs.
>>
>> >I've got RA (and a couple of other things) primarily with Osteo coming
>> >in some joints (like one knee). I've found that pain rubs with
>> >camphor in them seem to help a little. Probably because it "feels"
>> >warm. Hubby uses those pain patches (the heat ones) when his knee
>> >acts up. Maybe something like that, until you get a better result
>> >from your doctor?
>>
>> For the knees supposedly Hyaluronic acid, is a medicine for joint
>> injection, used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. This substance is
>> a normal component of the joint, involved in joint lubrication and
>> nutrition.
>>
>> >Here's hoping they can get something that helps the pain, but doesn't
>> >screw up the rest of the bodily systems, huh?
>>
>> Hells Bells, here's to anything where the cure isn't worse then the
>> disease itself. Seems like I am constantly taking one medication to
>> offset the side-effects of another. Gets both old &