Andria Kinner
12-17-2006, 07:03 AM
I am a 62 year old woman who has recently been diagnosed with IC. I also have fibromyalgia, IBS, Hashimoto's Disease and hypertension. The problem with the IC came to a head a few months ago when I was diagnoses with a antibiotic resistant bladder infection. The antibiotic that finally worked for me was so strong that it set up a vicious cycle of three days of IC flare followed by three days of IBS flare. I have recently gotten some relief from both but not before losing almost 30 pounds....I'm not complaing about that, though:)
After seeing a uriologist and having several tests, I was finally diagnosed with IC. He put me on Elmiron. I was not expecting it to cost me such a small fortune!! My health insurance doesn't cover ANY of my drug cost and so I am applying for help from the drug companies I deal with through the health advocate associated with my clinic.
I am presently keeping a journal to track my triggers. So far, I have eliminated tomato products and anything with mint. I suspect that the med I take for the IBS also triggers a IC flare...any advice on that one?
On the personal side, I have been married to my second husband for fifteen years and he was diganosed as Bi-polar ten years ago and is on disability. That is our only source of income. I know stress plays a HUGE part in all my illnesses and am currently trying different relaxation techniques to cope. Some days....such as when hubby goes manic....nothing helps. On the positive side, I have a great medical support team that keep current on all of these diseases. I also have some great kids and grandkids that are pretty understanding when I say, no and will listen without complaining to my woes. Wish hubby would do the same. He said he considers me a burden....made me feel great:cussing: LOL
I am very impressed with this most helpful site and hope to garner new friends as well as new and useful information. You have already been more helpful than you will ever know. Thanks, Andria
After seeing a uriologist and having several tests, I was finally diagnosed with IC. He put me on Elmiron. I was not expecting it to cost me such a small fortune!! My health insurance doesn't cover ANY of my drug cost and so I am applying for help from the drug companies I deal with through the health advocate associated with my clinic.
I am presently keeping a journal to track my triggers. So far, I have eliminated tomato products and anything with mint. I suspect that the med I take for the IBS also triggers a IC flare...any advice on that one?
On the personal side, I have been married to my second husband for fifteen years and he was diganosed as Bi-polar ten years ago and is on disability. That is our only source of income. I know stress plays a HUGE part in all my illnesses and am currently trying different relaxation techniques to cope. Some days....such as when hubby goes manic....nothing helps. On the positive side, I have a great medical support team that keep current on all of these diseases. I also have some great kids and grandkids that are pretty understanding when I say, no and will listen without complaining to my woes. Wish hubby would do the same. He said he considers me a burden....made me feel great:cussing: LOL
I am very impressed with this most helpful site and hope to garner new friends as well as new and useful information. You have already been more helpful than you will ever know. Thanks, Andria