Heart Bypass Surgery

Jan B. I have had migraines for 30 years on and off. I am now taking desipramine 75mg daily and I have been for 5 years. It has lowered the severity of the headache and cut back on the number. I take it at night because it does make me a little sleepy. It also makes your mouth dry which tends to make you drink or suck on hard candy. I hope this has helped. Sue

and hello out there in the heartland!! yep, just joined this group so ya'll can be there to babysit me thru this shit. they are going to do a 5or6 traditional machine bypass tomorrow at 8am, then i need to get in shape for the multiple left leg bypass they're gonna do as soon as permissable. my carotid's are blocked to, but that comes sometime later. this has come kinda suddenly, tho i've had a couple of heart attacks and angoiplastys in the past. so and thoughts/insights on what to expect regarding recovery times, hassles,etc. would be appreciated! thatnks and good luck to me and all of you........john

Hi all, been ages since I've posted. It's been great to hear from so many new folks. I've always thought that the rather sudden attacks of sleepiness before a migraine are probably seratonin related, and I would assume that this is what is causing the yawning? My understanding is that we do yawn because we need oxygen, and when we are sleepy we tend not to breathe as deeply. Since it's been so long - I'm in Canada, 27 years old now... had migraines since I was 11 and plenty or funny things as a child that I know now were migraine precursors. I've tried quite the number of different medications and treatments since then. I'm fortunate enough to have pushed my working life in a self-directed kinda way, so I now my schedule is much more flexible and migraine accommodating. I too got awfully tired of just telling people (and I'm sure they got tired of hearing) I'm "sick" I can't some in today. I've been keeping a much more strict migraine diary since the start of August and I've been averaging about 5 a month lately... although today is the first one I've had since Oct 23, and I seem to have had about 9 in October due to stress. Sigh. Not very predictable unfortunately. It's great to hear that Rizatriptan (Maxalt) was recently approved in Canada, I'll for sure give it a shot after hearing the good results from so many people on this list. One thing that worked oddly well for me last month when I had so many migraines is a roll on aromatherapy concoction that a friend gave me. It has peppermint (which helps the nausea as well) and lavender essential oils in some mild base, and whatever skin it touches feels like it grows ice cold. Didn't abort the migraine or anything but definite temporary partial relief. Quite surprised me. Works about as well as doing the alternating hot and cold water over my forehead. Thanks again to everyone for sharing their experiences! - Lena attack. Although I've had enough sleep and have not had an exhausting day, I will yawn as if I'm totally falling asleep.

I'm very glad I just found this group. I'd like to share my story (quickly) with everyone. My name is Jim, and my father has been a heart patient for as long as I can remember. He has had two bypass surgeries, two heart attacks (prior to the bypasses), and was diagnosed last fall with CHF. In recent months, he's having more breathing trouble -- not consistent, but periodically -- where he gets short of breath after much excertion. I'm wondering if anyone might have some recommendations for CHF websites, information, facilities, etc. I've already contacted the AHA, and his former physician who did the second bypass surgery. Any help is greatly appreciated. For those of you going through bypass surgery, I wish you good luck. Jim

to all you Dad's!

Meet the Frog with no gall bladder. In the hospital at 0730,gallbladder out at 0900,home by 1230.what a day, feel great,now maybe my CABG post op will proceed in a more positive direction.I want to thank all the posters on this board again, for all the support, you have given me over the past three months. Speedy recoveries to all....Mac

Glad you found your way to this group. I've been here about a month. What I like best is when we are given a new medication, there is usually someone who knows about it. Or if you wonder if your symptoms are usual -- you can usually confirm that here, too. I also have learned that excessive yawning is a warning of an impending attack. Although I've had enough sleep and have not had an exhausting day, I will yawn as if I'm totally falling asleep. Hope you have luck finding the right meds or treatments. I've yet to find the right mix. But my physical therapy has been helpful. This woman only treats migraine patients -- she has been working to loosen the knotted muscles in my upper back and then she also works on my head -- relaxing the muscles so the blood can flow more easily. Take care of yourselves, Jan B.

I don't mean to brag, and will probably jinx myself, but... almost 1 month of NO migraines!!! And I have reduced my medication as well. What a different story to the last pregnancy. I am almost daring to hope that they may not return until after I have had the baby. I am so happy, this is just like it was before migraines entered my life. Each day without a migraine is a bonus I guess. Hope you all are having equally good days! Annie

Hi, this is Mac reporting in. I have had neck,shoulder,and arm pain,but it is easying up, since I have been in cardiac rehab. I have to have another surgery on thursday,(6-12-03) to have my gall bladder removed. This sure has been a hectic two and a half months. My chest pain has it's good days and bad days, but it is getting better. I can sleep on my sides without to much discomfort. For the past week my gall bladder has really added to the all around crappy feeling, I will be glad when it is gone. I hope all the posters on this board have rapid recoveries. Hang in there,as I was told on this board,things do get better. Bless you all,,,,Mac What "CABG" made me do. C-Curse A-Argue B-Bitch G-Groan Just my point of view. haha ( But it saved my life }

Hello All, I'm Ed D. from Florida, 58 years old, had a stent inserted on March 5 and a triple bypass on March 6 of this year after experiencing a heart attack. I have learned alot about the recovery process and what to expect during that time period from the posts, both old and new, on this great group. I have been reading them for about two months. Thank God my recovery has been going well. I do however have one question. Shoulders. Has anyone else experienced ongoing and sometimes quite severe shoulder pain. It begins at the upper joint and if either arm is moved the wrong way sends a shooting pain down the arm, sometimes all the way to the hand. I have been to my surgeon, chiropractor and general MD, none of whom have helped very much. While this is probably a minor problem compared to some I have been reading about, it is none the less very uncomfortable most of the time and downright painful at other times. The MD gave me an anti-inflmatory called Naprosyn, 500MG. This has helped a little. Has anyone had a similar experience of have any suggestions that might help. Any input is appreciated. Best Regards To All, Ed D.

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I had quad bypass done the beginning of Feb 2003 then had another heart attack and seven stents put in (some in the grafts)the beginning of May 2003, this is a setback? I thought I would be feeling better eventually, now still take nitro for the angina and still cant really do anything.Aren't you supposed to be better or at least have some hope that it will get better.Don't mean to sound like a moaner/groaner but.....

Hi all, Thank you so much for the wonderful welcome - I have had several welcome letters sent privately too! It is so good to be amongst people who really seem to understand. I remember just a month or so ago I read an article in the UK's migraine magazine from the Migraine Association. It was from a lady of my age and she wrote about her migraine in such a way that I could really empathise with. I cried with relief that I wasn't alone! I hate to cancel events and appointments with friends because it always sounds like a pathetic excuse when I say I have a migraine. I worry they will think I am just making excuses and that my headache is nothing. Only those few friends who have actually seen me mid-migraine really understand the extent of the problem. My trip to the Drs was a success - he was great. He says I sound as though I need a preventative but he doesn't want to start me off on that yet and wants to try other things. He has prescribed Paramax to begin with and said to go back in a month if they are no good - he says there are so many different meds and they each suit different peoples migraines. He says 97% of sufferers can be cured if they find the drug to suit them. He gave me a prescription for 100 sachets. He did say that there is no drug on earth that will stop a migraine once it has started and the aim is to stop it from starting in the first place - so I really have to concentrate on noticing the early signs of an attack. (For those not in the UK, a prescription is about £5.75 a time (not sure exactly - ages since I had one!) (approx $10.) so 100 sachets is quite good really. Does anyone know anything about Paramax? Is it helpful. Side effects? Reliability? The scary thing is that now I am quite looking forward to my next migraine just to see if it will work. I am doubtful that it will - surely I can't be lucky enough to get the right drug first time. Luckily my Dr is very interested in migraines - they have participated in trials and research into various medications for migraines. He was very matter of fact and positive about everything. He said I should keep going back until I find what is right for me! Now, today I have rushed about constantly. Now 8pm and I still haven't had a chance to sit and relax and I now have to go to my astrologgy class - yet I haven't had a migraine - why? All the trigger factors have been there - not eating regularly, rushing about, stress - yet no migraine. They are crazy things aren't they? Thank you again for your messages - It is so good to read all your messages and to know people understand how I feel. Take care, Bws Jane

Glad to meet you, Jane. I'm so sorry for the headaches that brought you to us, though. Do see the doctor. There is help available. You don't have to be suffering as much as you are. We've all been suffering for years, but in degrees. Meds can alter those degrees. You sound like a devoted mom and you know when you are in over your head. Don't feel bad about your decision to send kids to school as it's your health that needs to take priority now. Then maybe you can go back to h.s. later. You want to be your best for your children. Each of us has found we needed to be our own advocate with our docs. If one doesn't help you, then, having given them enough time, move on to another doc. Keep searching till you get some help.We'll be with you through it all. Blessings, Linda PS. Try the Omega Code. Haven't seen it ,but heard it's good.

Good morning Janice, I too hope your tests turn out just fine. I take up to 200m. of imimpramine for panic attacks.....I don't know that they help my migraines.I have been taking it for about 3 yrs. I am beginning to have some panic symptoms coming back . I may need to see my PHI.MD or increase my dose back to the maximum. I have taken noratryptaline but I walked around like a zombie and stone. I took Elivil and gained 15 lbs. right away. I was also on predisone for about 3 months at the start of my H/A's and had all kinds of reactions to that. I have found nothing to prevent them for very long.....Emitex usually relives them for a couple hrs. I would like to try Zomig.... I will be thinking about you !!! Head to Head Heart to Heart, Karen

Depression is a very common side effect following any type of Heart Surgery and can be effectively treated with appropriate drugs. Ask your Doctor about treatment options if 'the blues won't go away' after your surgery. I also recommend the book "Coping with Heart Surgery and Bypassing Depression" by J.Jude, M.D., et. al. which was previously published as "The Heart Surgery Handbook" 'AL'

Dear Group, My brother asked me why I have wires holding my chest together and he didn't have wires. Any ideas? I told him different doctors, different time period (3 years), different procedures. Two of my wires have untucked but the doctor is only talking about fixing one of them when I hit six months. I am in a funk and don't want to walk, use my coach 2, take my temp, eat right, etc. Sure hope this passes soon! - Michal - stapled down the middle* Countess Talks Too Much *don't really have staples, just wires.

In a message dated 6/2/2003 10:45:03 AM US Eastern Standard Time, ann.mccrea@... writes: We are all educated enough to evaluate the information passed our way, and to determine for ourselves whether there is a valid risk. Should information like this come your way again, and you feel it may pertain to you, I would encourage you to speak to your doctor about it. Keep on keepin' on.... Ann thanks for checking it out for us Ann some of us don't have the great comprehension after a heart attack we had before and it helps when someone knowledgeable clues us in on whether something is a huge danger or not Rose

Hi all, I just joined the list a couple of days ago and thought today would be a good day to say hi! After suffering from migraines since I was 19 (I'm now 27) I am finally going to see my Doctor today to ask for medication. It took me a couple of years to realise what I was suffering from. I just thought I kept getting a dreadful virus - Doctors even admitted me to hospital twice with suspected meningitis in the early days! Now of course it seems obvious that these times when I thought I was dying or my head would explode were migraines. Since then I have either been pregnant or breastfeeding the whole time and unable to take anything but paracetomol (useless!) though I did try Migraleve for a while (useless for me too!) So today I am going to see my GP and ask for something stronger to help - but I know nothing about medication for migraine. Since stopping breastfeeding I realise that my migraines are menstrually related as I always get one the day my period starts. But I get them in between too - I find my trigger factors are missing breakfast or other meals, rushing about too much. I get hypoglycaemic anyway - if I miss a meal I get very cranky, can't concentrate, get the shakes and generally fall to pieces :o) I have sinus problems too but my migraines aren't always related to my sinuses. I know when a migraine is coming - I start yawning a lot all of a sudden and sometimes I find I feel quite high for a couple of days before. I also find I need to urinate a lot just before and during the early stages of the migraine. My stomach stops working though as any tablets taken are never digested at all! Then feel like someone has thumped me in the nose and the left side of the nose starts to throb. Then the pain takes over the whole left side of my head. I always vomit and then the vomiting occurs every 15 minutes for anything between two and six hours - 8 hours at the most. I can't bare light, noise, smells or the slightest movement - no one can even touch the bed as I can feel the slightest movement. Afterwards I feel weak and shaky for a couple of days. My last migraine was last weekend - bad timing as three friends and I went to see The Blair Witch Project (rubbish film by the way!) and I sat in the cinema with a bad migraine and missed the last few minutes of the film due to vomiting in the toilets! :o( As I had driven everyone I had to drive us all home too - no idea how I managed to get us home safely! I knew I had a migraine but for some reason I still went out that evening, stupidly hoping the migraine would just go away! Will I never learn? Well, I just wanted to join in to share what the Doctor says later with you all and ask your opinion of any treatment I get given. Thank you for listening! And by the way, I live in Manchester, England with my Husband and three young children. I was homeschooling them but this September the oldest two went to school as my migraines were interfering too often. My family are amazingly supportive of me when I have a migraine - even my two year old somehow knows to be so good and leave me alone when I have my bad heads! Bws Jane

Tomorrow I will be taking my stress echocardiogram to find out if I had a heart attack or if my EKG just had a bad reading. I'm nervous and getting a migraine thinking about it. Seems like everytime I have a test done, it comes out that I'm healthy. Hope to get a heatlhy result from the stress deal so I can take Zomig again. It works well if I catch a headache early. And my neurologist is switching me from nortriptylin to desipramine. The nortriptylin has helped me sleep and has reduced the severity if not frequency of migraines. But when I took 30 mgs of it, I have problems waking up in the morning. So, the plan is to see if I can tolerate a higher dose of desipramine. Wishing everyone a peaceful night. Jan B.

I finished my 1st week of carciac rehab (3 one hour sessions) and I'm improving more each day. Without a doubt this board, and those who responded to my plea for help, the first few weeks,are what kept me sane. To all you people who are going through this recently,don't be afraid to ask the people on this board for advice. I have learned more, and have got more hope from this board, then all the handouts my doctors gave me. I check this board every few days and hope that all the new people do well with their recoveries. Like I was told,IT DOES GET BETTER. Good-luck to all....Mac

What is Sandomigran ? My head has been very bad since last Mon. and I feel I am taking too much medicine But I don't know what else to do. Emitrex will only help for about 2 hrs and then it comes back..Wygesic helps at least 4 hr.Feorset helps but some but it makes me feel so sleepy ..HELP !!! I need to go to work this PM...Fuzzy mind and all. Congratulations on the baby !!! :) Hope as you that your headaches lesson !!! As always Head to Head and Heart to Heart, Karen

Hi, I had an Angioplasty 2 weeks ago & one stent in the r/h coronery artery & a tear in the same artery caused a 2nd stent to be placed. This was the 6th of May & the sheath in the groin came out on the 8th. Today, after doing much better; I went to WalMart for tires & did little to no walking & developed a fair sized lump where the catheter came out. This alarmed me & called my wife to call the Dr.'s office & they asked me to come in because of it being a hard lump. She picked me up & took me & the nurse there checked & said " If it gets bigger, go to ER. If not , take it easy for a couple of days & use ice packs on it. Has anyone experienced this & do you have some recommendations for me with this problem. Thank You, Billy

My new email address is: HKopcf@...

SCOTTSDALE, Oct 27 (Reuters Health) - The serotonin syndrome, which can be induced by several medications commonly used to control migraine, may be more common in migraine patients than is believed, according to Dr. Gretchen Tietjen, of the Medical College of Ohio, in Toledo. Dr. Tietjen spoke on the syndrome, which has only recently been recognized and reported in this population, at the American Association for the Study of Headache's Scottsdale Headache Symposium. "This is something that had been for many years primarily in the psychiatric literature," the researcher explained. However, she believes that the syndrome, caused by drug-induced central serotonergic hyperstimulation, "...can explain many of the symptoms we see in migraine patients." Serotonin syndrome is marked usually by mild and moderate motor symptoms, mental status changes and autonomic symptoms, such as weakness, fever, nausea, confusion and anxiety. Rarely, the syndrome is associated with severe complications, which can include stroke, seizure, Babinski signs and even death. The syndrome can be caused by any agent that "...enhance[s] serotonin availability at the neuronal synapse," Dr. Tietjen explained in a meeting abstract. These drugs include serotonin agonists, agents that reduce serotonin reuptake or breakdown, and drugs that enhance presynaptic release of serotonin. Although several of the affected patients Dr. Tietjen discussed at the meeting had been using sumatriptan, she believes that this drug was not a cause of serotonin syndrome since removing the patients' other medications resulted in resolution of symptoms. The first steps in diagnosing serotonin syndrome should be to rule out a biologic cause and to determine that the patient did not recently initiate treatment with a neuroleptic, according to Dr. Tietjen. In addition, the patient must have at least three symptoms specific to the disorder, usually beginning within hours of starting or increasing the dosage of a known serotonergic agent. Withdrawal of the causative agent or agents is the first step in treatment. Generally, symptoms will resolve quickly. In some cases, patients may require supportive therapy or treatment with a serotonin receptor antagonist. In extreme cases, intensive care with mechanical ventilation and muscle paralysis may be needed. Because the serotonin syndrome is most often mild and self-limiting in migraine patients, Dr. Tietjen told meeting attendees, she suspects that it often goes unrecognized and, therefore, may be more common than believed. Copyright © 1999 Reuters Ltd. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. -

Thoughts and prayers are with you. Note: forwarded message attached.

HI all, I think I missed out on the dizzy conversation ...I have had dizzy spells since I was a child. It is like I have to lay absolutely still or everything spins and I get so sick to my stomach.My Dr. says the dizziness along with the migraines are inherited...I have meclizene for the dizziness. So far I only take it as needed. I have been trying to take a prescription allergy pill when I wake up to see if that will alleviate some of this AM headache. First thing when I get up I get the coffee going and drink one cup. It seems to clear up my fog a little. I don't drink a lot of coffee or pop with caffeine in it BUT I seem to need that first cup in the morning ! Thanks to everyone for sharing - I felt like I was the only person in the world with these awful headaches and everything that goes with them. Like disbelieving "friends and relatives".Does any one really believe that we would opt to bring these on ourselves and suffer all we do ?? Head to Head Heart to Heart, Karen

My bypass is scheduled for wed, may 21st.

Is this possible? I get a little stressed out and bored every Tuesday. Well out of the last 7 weeks (6 of them resulted in a migraine) every Tuesday and Wednesday. Last week (the first week w/o one) I kept myself so busy. I didn't hardly sit down all day or night.. Resulted in no migraine. Could this be related? Or is it just a coincidence? Has anyone ever experienced this...If you stay busy your migraines go away for awhile. But if I sit down my migraines stays with me until I do something and forget about it. It's like my brain forgets I have one if I am really busy. But when I stop it always comes back?!? ----- Melissa D. Morgan missy.morgan@... Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth (Mat 5:5)

Is this possible. I get a little stressed out and bored every Tuesday. Well out of the last 7 weeks (6 of them resulted in a migraine) every Tuesday and Wednesday. Last week (the first week w/o one) I kept myself so busy. I didn't hardly sit down all day or night.. Resulted in no migraine. Could this be related? Or is it just a coincidence? Has anyone ever experienced this.....If you stay busy your migraines go away for awhile. But if I sit down my migraine stays with me until I do something and forget about it. It's like my brain forgets I have one if I am really busy. But when I stop it always comes back?!? ----- Melissa D. Morgan missy.morgan@... Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth (Mat 5:5)

Greetings! I had 5xbypass in December and am doing really well. My husband and I want to start a family (I'm 38). My ob/gyn says it's not a good idea but my cardiologist says that he doesn't see why we couldn't. I have an appointment with a cardiologist who is also an ob/gyn in a few weeks. In the meantime, I was wondering if anyone else out there had experience with this kind of thing. My cardiologist originally said that most of his female bypass patients were post- menapausal so had never really had to deal with this situation in the past. Any input would be appreciated! Dana

Hi all, As an adult I was told back in ' 91 that my daily chronic migraine/tension H/A'swould subside with menopause. I had suddenly stopped having periods when I was 42 in '88. I was not on hrt till '95. My H/A's continue...Same old same old.. I did have them as a child ,awful migraines 2 or 3 times a year.. A Pain Dr. took me off all my medicines for 3 months swearing to me that I would be H/A free at then end of those 3 months. NEVER HAPPENED !! Of course he believed I was having rebounds caused by my pain medicine.. I am having a difficult time at this moment typing and thinking as my brain is in a fog. My R.eye and temple are hurting...Sometimes I explain the feeling like tremors - sharp hot jabs to my eyes and temples with this real strange feeling to my "brain" I think I have tried MOST of the preventatives out there. Some helped for a short while. I guess I need to go take another pain pill..I am so frustrated .... Heart to Heart Head to Head, Karen

CRACKED POTS A water bearer in China had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole which he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water. At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full. For a full two years this went on daily, with the bearer delivering only one and a half pots full of water to his house. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect for which it was made. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do. After 2 years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream. "I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house." The bearer said to the pot, "Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side? That's because I have always known about your flaw, and I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you've watered them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house." Moral: Each of us has our own unique flaws. We're all cracked pots. But it's the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding. You've just got to take each person for what they are, and look for the good in them........ Best wishes to all my crackpot friends and relatives.

Hi Diann~ Hope that you are feeling better. I just read your post. On top of the Migraine you surely don't need your Mother's attitude. Can you print out some info from the Migraine sites & also let her read some of the posts here & on the other Boards so that she can get an understanding that this is a Brain Disorder & not a little headache made up as an excuse to get out of doing things?! Take care, ~Lyn~ The riches that are in the heart cannot be stolen.

In a message dated 5/13/2003 11:28:57 AM US Eastern Standard Time, woodstone@... writes: May we all learn to care for our bodies in a more efficient way. Love, Edith so you are saying drinking alot of green tea is what helped lung capacity? u did nothing else to enhance it? do u know if green tea has caffeine? Rose

Hi, everyone!!!! I am not doing so well these days. I have a killer migraine which has been going strong since Saturday. I missed a lovely 70 degree weather weekend in bed to this migraine as well as Monday and now Tuesday of work. I went to my famiy doctor yesterday who took one look at me and knew I was suffering badly in pain. My whole right side of my face was swelled. He prescribed 4 mg. of Methylprednislone (steroids) and Percocet for pain. Believe it or not, I am still in violent pain. The only thing that has calmed down is the diarrhea and vomiting. I've been keeping fluids down, crackers, toast and some dry cereal. Missing two days of work where I am employed is difficult as it is a small law firm. I am sure that they don't believe me, however, I did get a doctor's excuse. My doctor says that I could be getting a rare form of migraine where you get a cluster headache on top of it. I had my friend take me up to Wal-Mart last night to get my prescriptions filled. I could never have gotten there myself. And, the pharmacist says to me before even looking at my prescription, not another person with a migraine. I have been getting bombarded with filling migraine prescriptions today and he said I have one myself so bad I can't wait until 9PM to go home. This one seems to be worse if I sit up or move around. I feel so bad in my head like I will faint, but my blood pressure was perfect. My mother who is living with me due to a multitude of serious heart problems says that it is psychosomatic and that I am doing all of this to get out of housework and going to work. I just want the doctor to give me medicine so I can be a pill popper. Then, she says to me that I couldn't be all that bad if I was going out with my friend running around. The running around consisted of a trip to the Wal-Mart pharmacy and getting a few grocery items since I haven't been out of the house in days. But, she made sure that I picked up her prescription while I was there. You think that someone who is sick themselves would understand above anyone. However, it seems that she becomes angry with me when I am sick because that is less that I can do for her. It's crazy, but that is what I have to deal with. Well, I just want to get this down to a bearable level so I can cope and get back to work tomorrow. I know this is not my fault, but the rest of the world seems to think it is. I am glad that all of you guys understand, but I am sad to know that you have to deal with the same kind of pain that I do. I know I could do so much more in life if it were not for this problem. Take care... Diann

Hi, This is a great board,and I want to thank everyone on it, for being so great. And to all the Moms out there,"Happy Mothers Day",what would the world be with out you......Mac

I've decided to start a new message because I just can't figure out how to reply and quote -- especially with the migraine I have today from the huge winds blowing a new front into my neighborhood. Here in Minnesota, we are actually smelling smoke from the Montana wild fires. For those of us "blessed" with heads that can predict weather, I'm sure you can understand this was a headache waiting to happen. I am so relieved that my 19 year old daughter has had only one headache that seemed to be a migraine. She's an athlete and I wonder if the exercise helps her. My 22 year old son gets them when he eats too much chocolate -- I wish it was that simple for me. I could avoid chocolate, or at least just eat it on days when I would know I could crash the next day. When we were cleaning out my father's house after he passed away. I found an diary of mine when I was around 13. Almost everyday I wrote something about having a headache either at the beginning or end of the day's events. Somehow, I had problems making it through a whole day. Maybe that's because I couldn't eat on a pattern that would keep my blood sugar even. Maybe it was the lights, the noise, the stress, the early mornings. I don't know. I rememember having maybe three or four migraines a month through college and my twenties. I'm now 46 and these things have been getting worse for about the last five years. My heart aches to think of any child suffering with the chronic headaches I have now. If we can't get our bosses to understand, how to explain to the teacher, the gym teacher, the principal. This reminds me way to much of trying to educate my son's middle school a decade ago when they didn't understand ADD. There are now laws and support groups that help parents with ADD kids. There must be web links or something that would bring together parents of these kid with migraines. If people could share ideas of what worked - school wise, med wise, etc., then everyone would benefit. Jan B. Going off-line soon to find my pillow and blankie

Why? Is he paying by the milligram? I'm doing 20mg of generic lovastatin and it seems to be doing the trick. No side effects I'm aware of.

Hi, just starting the road to recovery. Had quadruple bypass surgery 4/14/03. So want to find support and suggestions and so on. Betty

The best treatment for children with migraines is the understanding, sympathy and support of their parents.

hystorectomy in January. My doctors think that were they seem to be hormonal it will help with them, along with the other stuff too ~*~*~*~*~ Hi Mary & welcome! Please please get another opinion, see another Dr...a GYN before you even think about having a hyst! You, as a nurse, must know that having your uterus removed will not effect your headaches but that having your ovaries out also will put you into immediate surgical menopause & you will have to start on synthetic HRT ASAP. I had my uterus removed via vaginal hyst in April 98 due to other problems, it had nothing to do with my Brain Disorder. I kept my ovaries for 2 reasons, they were functioning ok for my age, 45, & my GYN & I had agreed previously that any synthetic hormones even BC pills would probably increase the frequency & severity of the Migraines considering my 30+ past history. Having the surgery was a good decision for me for the gynecologial problems I was suffering with, but my body did go into a bit of a shock, & we think my ovaries got screwy as well as my hormones levels after the hyst & I did have an increase in the Migraines for a few months after. I actually went on a Leave, I could not work. Mary, research this well. Many women do ok on HRT but many do not, especially those with Migraines. I still have the killers at ovulation, usually 3-4 days worth. The Migraines I have other times don't seem to be as severe as the hormonal ones. Maxalt has been working fairly well for me, as did Zomig & Imetrix but I had rare reactions from them & had to switch. Take care, keep posting! ~Lyn~

I finally found a Migraine support place!! I have read through a lot of the posts here, it's unreal to actually see how many people suffer with the same pain, that I suffer through on a daily bases. I never had a migraine until I had my first son 6 years ago. They started getting real bad about 2 days after I had him. I had no idea what was going on with me, it was very scarey. I had this brand new beautiful baby, that I was having a hard time even getting up to change. Thank god my husband was understanding and patient. I went to a Dr. and he put me on a ton of meds after coming to the conclusion that the headaches where migraines. Classic signs,vomiting, sensitve to light, loud noises, left sided pain, tigling in my arms, the list goes on. I did end up having to quit my job they get so bad. I am a nurse, and calling out sick 3 or 4 days a week, plus being admitted right off the floor while your working doesn't fly with your employer for long. After years of trial and error with the meds I have found that Imeterx, and vicoden, and a Phenergen supp. seem to work the best with me. I have been through all different kinds of meds, the beta blockers, the anti deppresents, the pain meds, and most of the prescription migraine specific drugs. All I can say to that people is, be very careful of what the docs put you on, know all the side effects, and have a loved one keep an eye on you for strange, out of character behavior. I almost ruined my marriage by cheating on my husband, thoughts of suicide, totally manic behavior!! I'm not preaching to anyone, please don't think I am, just be so careful. The latest in my on going battle with the headaches, and a cure, is a hystorectomy in January. My doctors think that were they seem to be hormonal it will help with them, along with the other stuff too. Let me know if any of you out there have had simular experiences.

Griselda, Have you tried Glucosamine and chondroitan for your knee pain? I have OA in alot of joints including knee and this stuff really works. It has changed my life. I even think it is helping my low back pain. A year ago I could hardly get out of bed in the morning I was so stiff. It used to take me 20-30 min. of exercises and it still was very hard. Now, I just POP out of bed -no problem. I rarely have any joint pain now. Hope this helps. Linda I can relate to this. In addition to my migraines, I also have chronic knee pain from severe arthritis, Tourette's Syndrome, depression, and fatigue (not Chronic Fatigue in the sense of the recognized syndrome, just tired ALL the time). I don't get out much, if at all.

I haven't been here for a while, just checking my mail. I, too, wake up with a headache every morning. It's getting so I can tell which ones will get really bad. Most days once I drag myself out of bed, get some fresh air and eat and relax I feel pretty good -- and, of course, I'm late for work. But there are days like last Tuesday when I can recognize it is a stronger headahce, then I take a fiorinal and go back to bed. I can't use any Zomig until the radiologist looks at the results of the stress echocardiogram I take on November 9th. There have been mornings that I know a zomig tablet would have helped. But for now it's Excedrin Migraine or Fiorinal. I've been taking nortytaline for almost two months, plus I've had some physical therapy to loosen the very tight muscles in my upper back. I've actually had less headaches...or fewer of my headaches have gotten really bad. Have you ever been surprised to discover one day (one in a hundred maybe) but you feel different and realize (knock on wood) that you are feeling good! It's not fair that feeling good should be such a surprise. Now that we're into fall and soon-to-be winter here in Minnesota, the weather is less of a problem. We have many more weather fronts going through in the spring and summer. But I can remember waking up at 3:00 AM last winter with a splitting headache, and then I heard the wind just whipping around the house. More than one reason to go back under the covers! Take good care of yourself everyone. Jan B.

Cassi wrote: Is that how most of you started to get them, something triggered it and they just never went away or did you just wake up one day with a migraine and they kept recurring? ------- Mine started with puberty (11) and are mostly cyclical in nature. I do have foods that I avoid, however.

Good morning all, Don't we all wish we were just fixable !!! My migraine /HA's started daily when I was going thru a severe 14 yr.old rebellion with my daughter...I was always terrified that when she walked off ,she wouldn't come back...She would be found dead...When she was 17 she disappeared --- Jan. 15 ,1991 the day the Golf war started...That is the day these H/A's became daily.. I didn't hear from her for weeks - my heart was completely broken - all I could do for 4 yrs. of her life is cry and condemn myself for her behavior. She finally called me and we made arrangements for her to come home ..BUT my daily H/A's have never ceased. She is now 25 ..... She has chosen to disappear again BUT at least she does contact me quite often to let me know she is OK My husband and Mom our my only support. Everyone else thinks because I can somewhat motivate they must have just went away. You know NO ONE HAS HEADACHES FOR YEARS !!!A few hours maybe...maybe a few days. So what is wrong with me ??Some just think they are all in my mind - well they sure to affect my mind- my thinking capabilities. I am sorry - I know I sound angry and sometimes I am because the people that should be closest to me are not available. I should send some of this list to some of my friends that just can't understand or can't believe. It feels so good to know I am NOT the ONLY one ... Thanks all for being here and willing to share. We don't have to be afraid here that others just won't believe us or understand what it is like to live with these. Heart to heart, head to head, Karen

Well I start cardiac rehab tomorrow (5/8/03). To the guy that had the operation on 4/16/03,good going on the walking. If I tried to walk 45 min. AM & PM, I would fall over. I'm still very short of breath, and still get very sharp pain in the center of my chest,with very little excertion. I walk as much as I can, maybe a block or two, but then I have to rest,or fall over. I suck on my Voldyne breather,but am still winded most of the time. Called my Dr. and he said give rehab a shot,and that each CABG recipient heals at his, or her own pace. What one person can do in a month, may take another 2 months or more.That stuff they told me about this being a piece of cake, is still ringing in my ears. I know I'm crabby tonight, my wife already told me,LOL. I know the day will come that this is all behind me,bear with me guys,when I have to scream into the keyboard. Thanks...Mac

Hi All, A lot of migraine sufferers I have spoken to have said that they get support from one or two people in their families and that the rest don't understand. My parents have never really understood my migraines or supported me in that regard. They seem to think it's psychological : that I get migraines when I want to attract attention or avoid commitments. The fact my migraines are entirely weather related seems to have escaped them. And to need emotional support is to be weak. The rest of my family is sceptical as well and their concern is patronizing, so I tend to avoid them when I'm not doing so well. The only people I get genuine support from are my husband and my brother. They don't understand the pain, but they make sure I have what I need and then give me the space I need to get through an attack - I don't like people hovering. Take care, Lisa. Knysna, South Africa

I am a complete newbie to all of this. So, i ask your forgiveness if i ask or say something out of line. Just found this group tonite, so please bear with me?? Maybe i just(a) wanna rant, or cry, or gather support/comfort/hatred/disgust, heck i don't even know at this point. I had a heart attack (my 1st) just last week (tues Apr 29th) I haven't yet called the doc for a follow-up. But i remember it being mentioned that i should get a by-pass in approx 6 weeks. At this point i'm wondering why i should even bother with it. Like what happens if i dont? I know the pain of a heart attack now, and am thinking, just hoping that no one will be around next time, and then all this will be done and over. No burden to anyone, anymore. Life was really pretty pointless to me before all this, why should i continue the charade. I know, waa, waa. waa, lol. But anyway i gather most of you folks have been here before, and been thru these same feelinmgs, etc. Any advice??

Hi, I'm a 62 year old male five months out from a triple bypass, and have had an excellent recovery. The rehab was great and I now walk 45 minutes a day, 5 days a week. My question is this, one of the bypasses came from the mamary artery in the chest. The doctor has said that this will cause more "discomfort" in the chest. In my case the left side of my chect is somewhat larger than the right side. Lately there has been a feeling of something being stretched or pulled taut when I twist or turn in a certain way or if I inhale very deeply. The doctor said they have heard this before and believe it has to do with nerves in the chest attempting to reconnect themselves. Has anyone out there had this experience, or any information on it? Thanks, I find the message board very helpful. Bill

In a message dated 5/1/03 12:13:57 AM Central Daylight Time, korina_flying_v@... writes: << I was 29 when I had my first MI, and within three months of the first angioplasty each of the 3 vessels was showing signs of narrowing. Let me see, 46 angioplasties between age 29 and 35, comes to one angioplasty every 7 weeks ! Is that right? Did your insurance cover that? What about your employer?

Hi Folks, I've posted here a couple of times about my post CABG pain, including daily multiple episodes of angina. I am a 46 year old woman with no risk factors and I had double bypass surgery 3 mos. ago. A month ago, the angina pain started up again. Last week, I was admitted to local hospital through ER and had negative thallium stress test, and was told the pain was not heart-related, probably heartburn. Two days later, back to ER for CAT scan of chest -- again, no problems, pain not heart-related. I was happy because the pain was not heart-related. Then a cardiologist friend of mine said the tests were not reliable for recent CABGs, and that I must have a heart cath to be sure. The next day, I took a nitroglycerin tablet supplied by a friend, and the angina pain went away in 2 minutes! Called my doc, went to ER of hospital in Boston where I had the CABG done. Ended up having heart cath which showed the grafts blocked, probably by scar tissue. A few balloons and stents later, and the problem is hopefully solved. Good thing my friend told me that, or I'd be dead within a couple of weeks, according to the cardiologists in Boston. In 6 weeks, the docs will do whatever they do to find out whether the stents and balloon angioplasty worked (probably another cath?). I'm going to write letters to the cardiologists at the local hospital (which has a great rep for dealing with heart disease, of all things). They must know that they were wrong and their mistaken beliefs could have killed me. Maybe they will be more careful with the next recent CABG who shows up in ER with normal cardiac enzymes and EKGs, and other test results short of the heart cath. I still have not had a heart attack and there is no damage to my heart muscle. The docs also said that because of where the biggest blockage is located, the next thing to try is some sort of radiation technique, if the stents/balloons didn't work. I am lucky to be alive, by all accounts. Aileen

Hello,here I am again with more questions. It is Sat. 5/3/03. On 4/29/03 I woke up and felt on top of the world,we walked a local mall.had lunch,walked around some more,no pain. I may have overdone it,but went to bed feeling tired,but ok.Woke up the next day with heart pain every time I do the slighest bit of moving around. Not the normal soreness in my chest,but sharp heart pain. I start cardio rehab on 3/8/03. All I have to do is sit down and the pain eases up in a few minutes.My question is,did I over-do it at the mall,or am I just experiencing good day, bad day symtoms. I feel that 34 days post op that I should be getting stronger. The day after they took the fluid build-up from around my lung,(4/18/03) I was walking the hospital hallways without any pain at all. I hate not knowing what is normal and not normal. I read all the posts on this board and gain strength in the fact that we all share some CABG related symtoms. I have no one in my immediate family to relate with,they all say hang in there,your looking great. But when that pain hits, I'm on my own,and scared out of my wits. Like one of the previous posters, I've never had a bad EKG,bloodtest,any test. Sorry again for sounding negative, I just have to vent.Looking forward to any feed-back. I hope a speedy recovery to everyone. Thanks for being here....Mac

Hi Annie and all, Yes, I tried it and stuck with most of it for more than 4 years. I did it out of desperation ...just trying to find something-anything that might help. It was the only way I could think of to reclaim my life and some sense of control. I still cannot believe I went without chocolate and cheese for almost 5 yrs. The only things I've been able to pinpoint are coconut oil, pecans, msg and probably cheddar. Blessings, Linda Hi again. I was wondering if anyone has tried Elimination diets in an attempt to pinpoint any dietary culprits for their migraines?

Hi all, It is because I hit reply to write to the group and I have learned that some systems I can't do that. Even my sons. I have to hit new and start over here goes.....my previous posts... Just to say My MOM is the only that SEES when I have a headache and tries to comfort me. Right now in our beautiful new house we have these gorgeous large windows facing to the South BUT with my head ..It is like where are the shades.....We have yet to buy them. I have tried some of the elimination diet...Cheese,wine,hot dogs these a re a few of my culprits]along with light and scents. Heart to Heart, Head to Head, Karen HI all, I am very photo and scent sensitive.I am able to use the soft musks - not much else.I use very soft candles and incense.I handled all my major problems with this by not being around people and trying to stay away from bright lights.Not the best way as I have become so alone.. I also quit talking about my pain- I think people just don't want to hear it anymore .Then they begin to think it is better and it isn't.They don't see me everyday.Just my poor and patient husband.We just had to evacuate our old house and move into our new house.STRESS I am a volunteer at our local animal shelter, but my sister will call and say "Why aren't you here? We really need you" and I want to be . I will have to try the Clariton in the AM. This is the major reason I work 2nd shift. "Usually" by 3P I can have my HA somewhat under control. Last week I had that HA that wouldn't respond to nothing. I "almost"went to the Dr. But I even dislike going to him for a" HA". I try to take just ONE day at a time..get up in the morning and handle it as it comes. I am very tense most the time as I know it will come. I am also very anxious about running out of meds or the Dr. deciding to stop giving them to me. My Imatrex helped for about TWO hrs. Perhaps in Germany a cure will be found for all of us - don't we wish !!!! Heart to Heart Head to Head, Karen I have secluded myself from society; and yet I never meant to do such a thing. I have made a captive of myself and put me into a dungeon, and now I cannot find the key to let myself out. NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE I am now the most miserable man living. If what I feel were equally distributed to the whole human family, there would be not one cheerful face on earth. Whether I shall ever be better I cannot tell. I awfully forebode I shall not. To remain as I am is impossible. I must die or be better it appears to me. ABRAHAM LINCOLN WHO SUFFERED FROM DEPRESSION MOST OF HIS ADULT LIFE His wife, MARY, experienced migraines and such depression that her son ROBERT had her put in a home for the MENTALLY ILL. Mary lost a 2 yr.old son,(while still living in Illinois),a 9 yr. old son (while they were at the White house),then assassination of her dear husband, followed by the death of her 18 yr. old son while they were on a trip to Europe.She had one son left ,ROBERT( he was their firstborn) who appeared to lack compassion and understanding of all her pain and sorrow.I would be more then depressed !! I would hope that someone somewhere would understand and care. IF we only know a little of the troubles are friends have went through and also have an understanding of how certain chemicals fail to Good morning, Do you all wake up with headaches of one kind or another???Mine in the AM are more like the brain type or like a sinus headache. Then about 11 or noon it turns into a migraine.That is when I start taking my meds... It really bothers me that people close to me just cannot understand what it is like to wake up everyday like this and for the day to go on for a migraine to develop...I think it can be compared with someone with a other chronic but not lethal illnesses. And the DEPRESSION that happens and the feelings of WORTHLESSNESS.....I try so hard to do what I need to do BUT I get so very tired of the struggle...It would be so much easier just to give up...like I have so many other things in my life...I try to catch the good moments and hold them very tightly . Heart to Heart and Head to Head, Karen I am MORE then JUST a HEADACHE !! function correctly in our brains we can have empathy for those of us who suffer with these terrible afflictions. Thanks to all of you for being here and willing to share . Heart to Heart, Head to Head, Karen Good morning, Do you all wake up with headaches of one kind or another???Mine in the AM are more like the brain type or like a sinus headache. Then about 11 or noon it turns into a migraine.That is when I start taking my meds... It really bothers me that people close to me just cannot understand what it is like to wake up everyday like this and for the day to go on for a migraine to develop...I think it can be compared with someone with a other chronic but not lethal illnesses. And the DEPRESSION that happens and the feelings of WORTHLESSNESS.....I try so hard to do what I need to do BUT I get so very tired of the struggle...It would be so much easier just to give up...like I have so many other things in my life...I try to catch the good moments and hold them very tightly . Heart to Heart and Head to Head, Karen I am MORE then JUST a HEADACHE !!

Molly, Yes, I can read karen's posts. I can't help with your problem since I know next to nothing about computers. Good luck! Linda Karen, Every post I see from you shows only these 3 characters that I don't even know how to do on the keyboard. Anyone else get the messages?

Just to say My MOM is the only that SEES when I have a headache and tries to comfort me. Right now in our beautiful new house we have these gorgeous large windows facing to the South BUT with my head ..It is like where are the shades.....We have yet to buy them. I have tried some of the elimination diet...Cheese,wine,hot dogs these a re a few of my culprits]along with light and scents. Heart to Heart, Head to Head, Karen

Hi Molly, Karen & All, I also had this happen. My usual email program is Outlook 98 and this can't decipher the HTML-format emails that Karen posts. However, I also have Outlook Express loaded on my PC (comes with MS Internet Explorer) and this reads that format perfectly. Just importing the messages from Outlook 98 to Outlook Express did the trick. Karen's plain text message come through okay though. Maybe you should stick to plain text Karen, as I think your emails are really worth reading and it would be a pity for some folks to miss out on them . . . Take care, Lisa. Knysna, South Africa

I just wanted to say hello to everyone. I'm a 35 y/o male, with a history of CAD, hyperlipidemia, hypertension. I have had 3 surgeries so far, 2 CABG's and one laser surgery that was a study, it's called a TMR or transmyocardial laser revascularization. I have had countless angiograms, and have had 46 angioplasties, including 14 stents. The last one was 2 weeks ago. It's good to know that there are groups that support this disease and that it's not only an elderly disease. I hope to read more of the past messages, and get to know some of you as well. Thanks- Dean

Hi again. I was wondering if anyone has tried Elimination diets in an attempt to pinpoint any dietary culprits for their migraines? I am toying with the idea at the moment, but as it's sooo restrictive, I am hesitating a bit. I have tried keeping a food log to see if there are any common threads, but so far there seems to be no rhyme or reason. My migraines started during pregnancy and I did little research into the whole affair as I thought they would stop after delivery. Now that they seem to be here to stay, I was wondering how others coped during pregnancy (drugs etc) as we are thinking about another baby soon. Hope you all had a good day, Annie.

I am so glad that I found this board,all the responses have been great. I saw my family doctor yesterday and he seems pleased with my progress.This is my 30th day since surgery and I start cardiac rehab next week.Don't know the exact schedule but my brother thinks it's twice a week.My chest pain is worse in the evening then early on, I am trying to get by on Tylenol during the day,then one percocet at bedtime. I woke up on my side this morning,thought I might be really sore,but seems to be ok. I'm so afraid I'll break a wire or mess something up if I sleep on my side. This 1st month has been something else,but as I read all your posts,I'm sure it will get better.Thanks again to everyone.....Mac

HI all, I am very photo and scent sensitive.I am able to use the soft musks - not much else.I use very soft candles and incense.I handled all my major problems with this by not being around people and trying to stay away from bright lights.Not the best way as I have become so alone.. I also quit talking about my pain- I think people just don't want to hear it anymore .Then they begin to think it is better and it isn't.They don't see me everyday.Just my poor and patient husband.We just had to evacuate our old house and move into our new house.STRESS I am a volunteer at our local animal shelter, but my sister will call and say "Why aren't you here? We really need you" and I want to be . I will have to try the Clariton in the AM. This is the major reason I work 2nd shift. "Usually" by 3P I can have my HA somewhat under control. Last week I had that HA that wouldn't respond to nothing. I "almost"went to the Dr. But I even dislike going to him for a" HA". I try to take just ONE day at a time..get up in the morning and handle it as it comes. I am very tense most the time as I know it will come. I am also very anxious about running out of meds or the Dr. deciding to stop giving them to me. My Imatrex helped for about TWO hrs. Perhaps in Germany a cure will be found for all of us - don't we wish !!!! Heart to Heart Head to Head, Karen

Boy, am I in trouble. That list of foods to avoid included *everything* I like. I've learned I can't live on BLT's, and a steady diet of preserved cold cuts (nitrates/nitrites) is out, and wine went the way of all alcohol. But give up chocolate, pickled herring, *real* corned beef, old fashioned chopped liver, etc., etc. -- !! If I followed the prohibited foods list strictly, life would be less worthwhile than it is with the headaches. Sometimes you just gotta make compromises.

In a message dated 4/29/03 3:54:07 AM Central Daylight Time, morris@... writes: << We got one of these toys recently. What are safe levels for ex-CABG patients to work at? Or does it depend on the individual? Sylvia My Cardiac Rehab Nurse told me to exercise enough to raise my heart rate from the resting number by 20 to 30 beats per minute. At 6 weeks post op, I found this too 'easy' and my Cardiologist cleared me to 120 BPM which I usually pushed to 130 at peaks. After rehab, he cleared me to 90% of my maximum recommended Heart Rate (220 - AGE) X 0.9 I believe the usual recommended exercise range is 60 to 80% (or 85%?) of the age determined maximum HR. BEFORE beginning any exercise program, it is highly recommended to get clearance and a maximum level recommendation from your Doctor (preferably your Cardiologist). 'AL'

Food Your Miracle Medicine How To increase HDL Some components of cholesterol are dangerous to arteries, while others are beneficial. Furthermore, what you eat may actually detoxify detrimental cholesterol so it cannot harm arteries. Regardless of cholesterol's complexities, one thing is undeniable: What you eat can put a striking dent in dangerous cholesteroland more spectacularly, according to new findings,change its character so it is not so deadly! This radical way of controlling cholesterol by *detoxifying* it, according to new research, promises to dramatically slow the progression of atherosclerosis by 50 to 70 percent and even help reverse existing artery clogging by shrinking the clumps of plaque on artery walls, says leading researcher Daniel Steinberg, M.D., at the University of California School of Medicine in San Diego. "We can now attack the disease at the artery wall as well by simply lowering LDL cholesterol. It's very exciting," he says. HOW YOU CAN USE FOOD TO CONTROL CHOLESTEROL Essentially, you should eat in a way to lower one type of cholesterol, called LDL (low-density lipoprotein), and boost another type, known as HDL (high density lipoprotein). That's because the LDLs are "bad-guys" that serve as raw material to clog arteries. In contrast, the good-guy HDLs gobble up the LDL "villains" and cart them to the liver, where they are annihilated! Obviously, the more HDL and the less LDL you have in your blood, the safer your arteries. Certain foods help bring this about by destroying detrimental LDLs and creating beneficial HDLs. Now enters an exciting new theory that promises to make it possible to control cholesterol with food in ways unimagined even a few years ago. According to that new theory put forth by Dr. Steinberg and many others, here's how arteries get clogged: Special forms of oxygen known as *free radicals* in the blood collide with fatty *LDL* cholesterol molecules, *oxidizing* them. The LDL then turns rancid, much as unrefrigerated butter does. In this altered form it is quickly gobbled up by cells called macrophages. Stuffed with fat globules, the macrophages enlarge into dreaded "foam cells" which insinuate themselves *into* artery walls, triggering artery destruction! If you can prevent this toxic transformation, your LDL cholesterol may remain relatively harmless. So the issue is not just how much LDL cholesterol your blood contains, but how much of it is "Toxic Oxidized LDL," capable of clogging your arteries. Dr. Steinberg and many others now believe that LDL cholesterol is not so dangerous to arteries unless it is converted into a toxic form by oxygenated "free radicals" in your blood. That's where diet can be a powerful "weapon". Mounting evidence shows you can block LDLs *toxic* transformation, and thus its awesome hazards, by eating foods packed with protective antioxidants. This means you might intervene at the very "genesis of atherosclerosis" at every stage, blocking the cascade of arterial events that create clogged arteries, heart attacks and strokes. It is a thrilling prospect. Bottom Line: To combat hazardous blood cholesterol, reduce bad LDL cholesterol, boost good HDL cholesterol, and keep as much as possible of your LDL from becoming toxic to your arteries. Here are your best bets for doing it with diet. Foods that Raise *Good* HDL Cholesterol: Onions, raw Leeks, Scallions Garlic (fresh is best) Alaskan Salmon, sardines(in spring water), tuna (no msg) and other fatty fish (avoid farmed varieties) Oysters, Mussels Grape Seed Oil Almonds Macademia Nuts Avocadoes Extra Virgin Olive Oils Vitamin C rich foods (bell peppers, broccoli, oranges) Beta-carotene-rich foods (carrots, spinach, broccoli) Wine, beer, alcohol in moderation Caution: Diets containing hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils and fats *depress* HDLs. From: "Food your Miracle Medicine" (How Food can Prevent and Cure Over 100 Symptoms and Problems) by Jean Carper

Although the discussion seems to be focusing on marijuana, I was actually referring to the fact that what requires a prescription vs. over-the-counter is very different in different countries. Also, I have heard that in Germany they provide headache relevant weather forecasts. When I first started researching migraines on the 'net I was amused to see how many papers came back in German (for a long time the leading organic chemists).

I wear slightly tinted reading glasses to cut the blue glare from florescents (for eye strain)and it helps a bit with the headaches (10 percent brown -- not visible but cuts the blue). What really bums me out is to go out on a beautiful day and have the bright sunlight bring on a headache.

I have secluded myself from society; and yet I never meant to do such a thing. I have made a captive of myself and put me into a dungeon, and now I cannot find the key to let myself out. NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE I am now the most miserable man living. If what I feel were equally distributed to the whole human family, there would be not one cheerful face on earth. Whether I shall ever be better I cannot tell. I awfully forebode I shall not. To remain as I am is impossible. I must die or be better it appears to me. ABRAHAM LINCOLN WHO SUFFERED FROM DEPRESSION MOST OF HIS ADULT LIFE His wife, MARY, experienced migraines and such depression that her son ROBERT had her put in a home for the MENTALLY ILL. Mary lost a 2 yr.old son,(while still living in Illinois),a 9 yr. old son (while they were at the White house),then assassination of her dear husband, followed by the death of her 18 yr. old son while they were on a trip to Europe.She had one son left ,ROBERT( he was their firstborn) who appeared to lack compassion and understanding of all her pain and sorrow.I would be more then depressed !! I would hope that someone somewhere would understand and care. IF we only know a little of the troubles are friends have went through and also have an understanding of how certain chemicals fail to function correctly in our brains we can have empathy for those of us who suffer with these terrible afflictions. Thanks to all of you for being here and willing to share . Heart to Heart, Head to Head, Karen

Hi All, This is off-topic but I need help from anyone suffering from migraines and chronic fatigue. Besides the usual migraines I have to contend with, I was diagnosed 7 weeks ago with African tick-bite fever. This is something like Lyme disease, but the long-term implications are less severe. Although I have been able to deal with the fevers and headaches okay, the thing that really gets me down is the chronic fatigue which goes together with this disease. I'm starting to feel and sound like a stuck record. Whenever anyone asks how I am the answer is always : tired. My doctors have told me "this is to be expected" and "things will improve". Which I know, but it doesn't help me cope with it. I've always had problems with insomnia - now I have problems staying awake! My concentration & memory has also been affected. This chronic fatigue is making me very depressed. I've hardly been able to leave the house in weeks. Last week I made the decision to try and get out more - just go and see friends, do some shopping etc. I was fine for about an hour, but by the time I got to the grocery store, I was exhausted again. I just wanted to go and buy something to make for dinner i.e. it wasn't a major grocery shopping expedition. But at one point I just felt like sitting on the floor in the middle of the store and crying I was so tired. I didn't - we migraine sufferers are tough! - made it home before I gave in to the fatigue. I feel I'm being a total baby about this, but as you well know from having migraines yourselves, I have a very high pain/discomfort threshold and just feel this is an extraordinary situation. I'd just like to hear from those of you who are suffering from chronic fatigue - for whatever reason. Have you developed any coping mechanisms? I have been lucky enough to make contact with a Lyme disease specialist in the US (the doctors here treat tick-borne diseases much as they do migraines i.e. you're supposed to just tough it out!) and he has sent me information about which supplements I should be taking etc. But it's going to be a while before I see any major improvement. Thanks for listening. If anyone has any advice you can email me at lbrink@... Take care, Lisa. Knysna, South Africa

Thank all of you who answered my rantings. It sure is a comfort to hear from others with similar problems. Today is a better day (4/27/03) for me,my wife and I went for a drive,and I had 3 short walks down the block. I will be seeing my family doctor tomorrow morning. I am going to ask him about cardiac rehab. Have any of you been down that road? Thats it for now,again thanks.....Mac.

Good morning, Do you all wake up with headaches of one kind or another???Mine in the AM are more like the brain type or like a sinus headache. Then about 11 or noon it turns into a migraine.That is when I start taking my meds... It really bothers me that people close to me just cannot understand what it is like to wake up everyday like this and for the day to go on for a migraine to develop...I think it can be compared with someone with a other chronic but not lethal illnesses. And the DEPRESSION that happens and the feelings of WORTHLESSNESS.....I try so hard to do what I need to do BUT I get so very tired of the struggle...It would be so much easier just to give up...like I have so many other things in my life...I try to catch the good moments and hold them very tightly . Heart to Heart and Head to Head, Karen I am MORE then JUST a HEADACHE !!

Last but not least, I'm a 65 yr old,male,non-smoker for 10 yrs.Retired military and retired construction industry, I have never been hospitalized,prior to the surgery. Started of on this journey by asking my family doctor to check me over, for now and then chest pain, and some shortness of breath. Had 1st heart cath done in Feb.03,60% blockage,since that time period I think that the treatment has been more severe to my body then the disease. Now i'm finished Again, sorry for ranting...Mac

It's been five long years since my CABGX4 and am wondering if any longtimers have experienced what I'm having. After surgery I developed a infection in my sternum that was cleared up by infusing antibiotics every four hours for six weeks. It healed and I was thrilled that I wouldn't have to have additional surgery. But I have never really gotten to the point where my chest feels "good" and for many, many months if not years I have had pain in my chest ......more like feelings of being extremely bruised and if by chance my puppy jumps on my chest it really hurts. Just curious if anyone who had bypass years ago got over the pain in the chest area and it's just a common occurence to remain bruised or perhaps I should investigate this further....... Thanks guys.....love this forum and have learned a lot....even though it's been years I still enjoy reading everyones experiences........ Carol in Atlanta................

I have read all the posts here and find this to be a good board for sharing.On my 14th day post op, I had shortness of breath and sever heart pain. was in the ER 5 hrs on both the 14th & 15th (april,03)I had chest x-rays,spiral cat scan,bloodwork,they found zilch. The next day, 16th I was to see my surgeon,I almost passed out in his waiting room. Back to the ER,they gave me nitro and O2,spent 9hrs on a gurney (no beds)Admitted back into the hospital. Had to try another cardiolite stress test on the 17th,failed. Underwent an echogram morning of the 18th,nothing showed,underwent a sonogram afternoon of the 18th. They found fluid, Pulomnary doctor drew off 1200cc of fluid,between lung and lung sack. Discharged last Sat. 19th. People have told me that a single by-pass is a piece of cake. I asked on of the ER doctors if that was the case. He said imagine that you had no heart problems at all,and that somehow your chest got split wide open. He said think ot the trauma to your muscles and nerve endings being cut in half,your breast bone being pried apart,your body being forced to shut down against its will. He is of the opinion that the grafting is not the real pain cause,but what they have to subject you to in opening you up and putting you back together. He said the most enlighting operation he witnessed in med school,was open heart surgery.I'm sorry to rant on,but i've had no one to share my experience with.....Thanks for listening...Mac

Hi, I had open heart surgery on 3/31/03, single bypass,I still have quite a bit of chest pain,and some weird feelings in my little an ring fingers of both hands. I had 4 heart caths prior to the surgery (all in a three mo period).When do the good feelings come, or am I being a wimp?

Hi All, I noticed a couple of you are interested in taking supplements. I have had weather-related migraines since I was 5 years old. I found that none of the preventatives or abortives worked for me and because of the bad reactions I have to most drugs, I had to start looking for other alternatives. I had read about magnesium and Vitamin B2 etc being good for migraine sufferers and the supplement I'm taking now has those in the "right" quantities. It's a vitamin and mineral supplement (i.e. non-herbal) developed specifically for migraine sufferers. After 7 weeks I haven't noticed the dramatic results promised, but then I am also struggling with African tick-bite fever (like Lyme disease) at the moment and this is taking it's toll on my body. It might work better for you . . . If anyone would like the details of what I'm taking, email me at lbrink@... Take care, Lisa. Knysna, South Africa

Hi, and welcome. When you get re-stationed in Germany, look into the different methods they have there for treating migraines...

I have been having episodes of severe pain, usually daily, sometimes several times a day. It comes on suddenly, and radiates from the center of my chest, down my left arm, and into the upper left quadrant of my back. It goes away in 15-30 minutes, and occurs only while I am at rest. The pain is not alleviated by percocet or vicodin, even in double dosages, and even when taken before the pain starts. I took a couple of percocet today for regular chest pain and 1-1/2 hours later, I experienced the episodic pain. I was experimenting to see if I took pain meds at the onset of any pain, whether it would stop this severe pain from occuring. Unfortunately, it did not. I do not medicate for the run-of-the-mill pain because it happens when I've been active (housework, cooking) for 4-5 hours and I view it as a sign that I need to rest. I think it is just muscular pain, and it does not extend into my arms. On my doctor's advice, I have been to E.R. twice this week. My heart is fine, according to the results of a thallium stress test, a CAT scan, EKGs, and cardiac enzyme blood tests. I have an appointment with a cardiologist on May 15, and plan to ask for a heart cath to be absolutely sure this has nothing to do with my heart. Has anyone else had pain like this? It drives me nuts. It's definitely not heartburn, which one doctor suggested. I am a 46 yo woman, had double bypass surgery 2-1/2 months ago. Thanks, Aileen

Certainly safe as long as you don't fall off. But I can't imagine how you could do it if even walking is painful.

Hi, Noticed Lyn.....But the keys are blurred & I'm typing my words dyslexic & have to keep going back. I thought it was only me that did this! I get brain Headaches also ...It scares me as I feel like you said the top of my head is coming off.. I can't think....It reminds me of my Grandma who said they felt like she had windmills in her head. She had headaches. I don't like to be alone then..I get very anxious But like you said I sometimes wish the top of my head would blow off and be done with it. I am so glad I have found this group...I can feel that you really understand what this is like ! Must go for now... Heart to Heart Headache to Headache Karen

You wonder why I think 10 is alot? Because by my experience it is......LOL -- [INLINE]

Hi All. First let me say that I have joined this group because my 63 year old father has triple bypass surgery on April 17, 2003. Everything went great his heart was in great condition the DR was more concerned with is lungs, he was a smoker for 45 years, he hasn't smoked in the last 4 years, since he was diagnosed with emphesyma. I do most of the cooking in our family. I try to cook healthy, but Dad is pretty set in his ways of cooking. I'm trying to find things that I can fix for him that won't make him feel like he's giving so much up. He made it through surgery great. He was off of the respirator within four hours. They said he was the "poster child" of the week. They were expecting him to be in the hospital at least 6-7 days becaue of his lung problems, but he was discharged today, 4 days post- op.He is on 10 different medications, not sure what they are, but is it normal to be on that many meds? I'm sure it is, I have just never been through this experience before and I'm just looking for a little guidance on how I can help my Dad. Thanks in advance for any help, Jennifer in Cincinnati

Hello everyone! Im Missy, 23, mom to Austin 3 1/2, wife to Phillip, an active duty MP. We are currently stationed at Fort Benning, GA but are on orders to Kaiserslautern, Germany in December. I just found this list...didnt know there was one out there. I was first diagnosed with migraines at age 5, while I was still in Kindergarten. Currently I am on prozac, midrin, phenegran, and the imitrex injection. Just wanted to say hello! Missy

Hi, What is Suzy taking 200 milligrams of and does it seem to help ? My headache is still continuing as of 8A. I used 2 Imatrex nasal last night and was able to sleep till 4 this A.M.About 7 I took a Wygesic.Something has got to help. I need to be well enough to go to work at 3 PM.I am a Home Health Aid and work with 1 lady who is bedridden in her home. It usually is very quiet there and I control the LIGHTS and NOISE. Does anyone use Imatrex Nasal and have cold symptoms after using it? I always do. Runny nose and sneezing .. My Dr. has said I have Migraine with Tension Headaches thrown in.In 91 when they started I was going thru much stress with a very rebellious 14 yr. old. I don't have the stress I had them anymore but the H/A's continue.I think I have had 1 day in 9 yrs, without a headache. I really don't know how my husband has managed to live with me. It is so very hard to put on a happy face when hurting. I feel like I am in a haze most of the time.I can't think..... I wish there were a support group here in my area BUT everyone would have headaches and NOT feel like coming. I rarely go anywhere anymore. I usually manage to get to work. Without my meds I don't think I could do that. Oh I take Feorset not Feorinal as I can't take aspirin. I am afraid to try Excedrin because of the aspirin. My son uses Excedrin and he is so thankful for it as it does help him. Yes both my kids who are 34 and 25 have inherited migraines. My husband also has them and swears by his aspirin(his Lifesavers) Thanks for being here :) Karen

Hi, I have been a chronic daily sufferer of migraines since Jan. of 91.I HATE them. It is so hard to continue to attempt to live some kind of normal life when I am hurting most of the time or under the influence of drugs. I take Imatrex Nasal ,one will last about 2hrs. I have Wygesic,and Fioranal.I use something everyday.... I have talked to the Dr. about rebound H/A's and he has said I would need to go into the hospital and it would probably take 6 weeks w/o medication and they possibly are not rebounds.Oh I sometimes use Ibuprofen. I have a fragile stomach so I have to be careful with what I take. It will be 9 yrs. Jan. 15 .....I go on but sometimes I wonder how. I have succeeded in isolating myself. It can be so hard... Some people just think we have headaches,not HEADACHES !! I took 2 Fiornol at 4 but I haven't got any relief - well I was able to go to sleep for a couple hrs, but as soon as I awoke there it is. I am very concerned that taking all these drugs may in some way damage my kidneys.Right now I need to take more...... There must be more people like us but where are they - like me home alone suffering... Sincerely, Karen

New member. Hi everyone. Had triple bypass on April 1st. (no joke there). Anyway, what is everyone's experience as to how long it takes to resume normal activities like golf, even working around the house. I'm paranoid I'm going to separate my sternum. Thanks, Joe

Hi everyone. I tried to e-mail earlier, but got an error message, so I am trying again. I have been away on disability leave (not migraine related) for the last six weeks, but I am back. I have had a horrible migraine for the last two days straight. I have a new neuro, who gave me Demerol supp. so I wouldn't have to go to the ER, but even that isn't working. Just needed to whine a little...thanks...I've missed this group very much. Suzi Kaplan, MA Haight Ashbury Free Clinics, Inc. Drug Detoxification, Rehabilitation and Aftercare Program Pharmacologic Research Unit 603 Clayton Street San Francisco, CA 94117

My husband asked me to inquire about the healing of the scar on his leg. The scar seems to be healing good but on one place its is hard about 2 inches in diameter below the skin and scar. Is that normal for scar tissue to form like this hard and this quickly? I will be awaiting the answer so I can set his mind at ease. Paula

I do not dream, or at least I don't remember my dreams, except in very rare instances. For the past 10 nights, I plunge right into a nightmare when I go to sleep. I remember it when I wake up, but I go back to sleep soon afterward and then I forget it. In these nightmares, someone stands before me with a device that sprays air at high pressure directly at my face, and I can't inhale. I can't recall what else happens, just that there is more. I wake up in a panic, remember that I have a dog who will warn me if anyone is in house, and take my pulse to make sure my heart is okay. My heart rate is always around 85, so I may feel panicked, but my body isn't reacting to it. Two months after bypass surgery, these nightmares can't be caused by anesthesia, right? Has anyone else had this happen so far out from surgery? I can't figure out what else could be causing this, except that maybe subconsciously I am afraid something will happen to my heart and I will die. Any ideas of how to make them stop or what causes them? Thanks, Aileen

Hi Adair, How much B2, B6 and Magnesium do you take? Keep us posted on the acupuncture and biofeedback! Blessings, Linda P.S. How many headaches were you used to getting?

When I saw my new neurologist in September, I mentioned I had been having some heart palpitations and wondered if I should still use Zomig since it is a triptan -- and they should not be used by a person with heart problems. He sent me for an EKG that he fully expected to be normal. And reduced the dosage of Zomig since 5 mgs. gave me a really sore throat. I guess the EKG got lost somewhere but it made its way to my doctors office last week. His nurse called to tell me the EKG wasn't normal and they had scheduled me to see a cardiologist on Tuesday. I was a little nervous before the appointment, but I expected the doctor to say I had some slight problem and that I should not take triptan meds. Instead, he said the EKG indicates I may have had a silent heart attack. I was stunned. I'm scheduled for a stress echocardiogram in three weeks. Then we should know if I had a heart attack, or if I just have a funky heart beat. I've been a little distracted all week. But I'm trying to eat better and exercise. Perhaps this will help my migraines, too. But I had a huge one yesterday and still managed to go to work for four hours. I made sure I left before the rush hour so there would be fewer cars on the road. I don' t know what could have triggered an attack - maybe a migraine? or one of the meds I've used in the past? Has anyone seen any relationship between headaches and heart attacks? Thanks, Jan B.

Hi Marian~ The med is Maxalt. It is a 'Triptan like Imetrix & Zomig. There is a melt under the tongue version. (MLT) The 'Triptans do work well for many people (me included) but not for every one & not without some side effects & rare adverse reactions (me unfortunately) The ovulation migraines are the killers for me. I had my uterus removed last year but still have my ovaries so I still get all the screwy hormones at ovulation. The Maxalt does ease the brain pain. Hopefully your friend has a DR that will give her some free samples to try. It is very expensive, even with insurance or a HMO (which may limit 6 pills a month). Take care ~Lyn~

My level of pain has finally subsided, 2 mos after CABG surgery. At this point, by the end of the afternoon, I am usually in pain sufficient for me to take a couple of percocet. With percocet on board, I can do more activities for a longer period of time - mostly housework, cooking, taking care of kids. I drive a large SUV, and it hurts quite a bit to turn the steering wheel, so I haven't been going anywhere. Is it too risky on percocet, do you think, to drive short distances (no more than 1-1/2 miles), while I am on it? I don't feel mentally "fuzzy" or sleepy (unless it's close to bedtime). At the same time, I don't want to be a danger on the road, no matter how short the distance. These short trips are not strictly necessary -- just hauling kids to activities, running errands. I'm just tired of interrupting my husband's work to ask him to do this for me. He's been great at filling in the gaps, but he gets a little grouchy about interruptions of his workday. I can't drive his car, which may be easier to steer, because it won't hold 4 kids in booster seats. Does anyone know whether it is risky to drive while taking percocet under these circumstances? Thanks for your advice! Aileen

A friend of mine told me I ought to take vitamins E, C, and B6, in addition to a daily vitamin, to help my heart. Don't know if it matters