So I have given the Dothep (50mg), Naturopathy and Imovane treatment a good 7 to 8 months now and I can actually say that there has been improvement. The pain used to feel like someone was stabbing me with a knife, and this occurred daily. Now that symptom is less often. Even the symptoms during my period have improved.
So I am definitely going to continue this treatment.
Unfortunately I still have daily symptoms but definitely a lot more tolerable. I am able to be much more active now and even am happy to go back to work part-time.
Hard to quantify something like this, but I will try. Overall I would say a 65% improvement.
My gastroenterologist wants me to take Dothep (50mg) for a minimum a year anyway. So far it has been 7-8 months.
I still have to take Imovane at times, because lack of sleep still does severely disrupt my days. I believe the Imovane helps to relax the gut muscles a little, which is probably why it helps. And also of course gives me a good nights sleep. Please do not take Imovane every night. You will get addicted to it.
I am also still taking the Naturopathy medicine. Some in the morning and some in the evening. I believe this also helps to sooth the gut. The naturopathy liquid remedy includes the following:
- Gentian
- Worm wood
- Melissa
- Mentha
- Matricaria
(Unfortunately I am unaware of the quantity levels of each item).
My diet remains simple. Only eat easy-to-digest foods. No red meats. Avoid chilly, onions and fried foods. Do not eat too much sugar at any one time. Small meals at a time. Avoid preservatives, and other chemicals. No msg. Eat vegetables. Porridge every morning is a good idea if you can have gluten. Stay warm and comfortable. Learn how to relax (I play guitar and computer games). Go to the park when the weather is nice. Stay away from toxic environments if you can.
Because healing is soooooo slow I probably will not write again for another 6 months. I do not believe I can add much value in between.
xoxo
Shikz
Wednesday 4 March 2015
Tuesday 24 June 2014
Dothep (Dothiepin) & Imovane
I realise that I haven't written in some time. I apologise. I was just trying to give my current treatment a decent amount of time before I commented.
Before, however, I discuss about results I would like to mention that a gastroenterologist analysed my situation and condition and believes that there really isn't anything seriously wrong. It is more leaning towards a miscorrelation of functionality within the gut and the nerves within the gut. Basically my gut isn't reading the signals correctly. So he prescribed me to take a medication called Dothep (aka Dothiepin).
Dothep is an anti-depressant. He gave me a low dose (25mg) to take nightly. The purpose is to take the edge off and numb the pain. This medication has been around for a long time. I have been taking it for over a month now and so far, unlike Endep, it has not aggravated the symptoms. Whether it is helping in any way I cannot tell.
In addition to the Dothep and naturopathy treatment I occasionally take a medication called Imovane (7mg). It's a sleeping pill that I only take around 3 times a month when absolutely required. In honesty I usually require it during my period because the pain is enormously intolerable during that time. Warning: if you take this drug be extremely careful because it is highly addictive. If you take it every night over a lengthy period guaranteed that you will not be able to fall asleep on your own without it if you tried. This is why I only take it when I absolutely need to, a backup, and I am thankful for it because if, on top of aggravating intolerable pain, I do not get sleep the pain and symptoms only get worse. IT IS A VICIOUS CYCLE. So the Imovane at least helps to break that cycle when needed.
So...
Currently treatment includes Naturopathy, Dothep and Imovane. So far, out of all the treatments I have tried over the past 4 years, this combination appears to be helping. Of course, wish I could say right now that I feel completely normal and absolutely am pain free.
*Takes a deep breath*
I will remain patient, and a little hopeful.
Note to self: probably not the best idea to write posts at 1am in the morning.
Shikz
Before, however, I discuss about results I would like to mention that a gastroenterologist analysed my situation and condition and believes that there really isn't anything seriously wrong. It is more leaning towards a miscorrelation of functionality within the gut and the nerves within the gut. Basically my gut isn't reading the signals correctly. So he prescribed me to take a medication called Dothep (aka Dothiepin).
Dothep is an anti-depressant. He gave me a low dose (25mg) to take nightly. The purpose is to take the edge off and numb the pain. This medication has been around for a long time. I have been taking it for over a month now and so far, unlike Endep, it has not aggravated the symptoms. Whether it is helping in any way I cannot tell.
In addition to the Dothep and naturopathy treatment I occasionally take a medication called Imovane (7mg). It's a sleeping pill that I only take around 3 times a month when absolutely required. In honesty I usually require it during my period because the pain is enormously intolerable during that time. Warning: if you take this drug be extremely careful because it is highly addictive. If you take it every night over a lengthy period guaranteed that you will not be able to fall asleep on your own without it if you tried. This is why I only take it when I absolutely need to, a backup, and I am thankful for it because if, on top of aggravating intolerable pain, I do not get sleep the pain and symptoms only get worse. IT IS A VICIOUS CYCLE. So the Imovane at least helps to break that cycle when needed.
So...
Currently treatment includes Naturopathy, Dothep and Imovane. So far, out of all the treatments I have tried over the past 4 years, this combination appears to be helping. Of course, wish I could say right now that I feel completely normal and absolutely am pain free.
*Takes a deep breath*
I will remain patient, and a little hopeful.
Note to self: probably not the best idea to write posts at 1am in the morning.
Shikz
Friday 14 February 2014
Leaky Gut Syndrome, Damaged Microvilli, Magnesium Deficient, Parasites
Ok, so recently, a few days ago, I went to see a different naturopath. Although my previous naturopath was good after following her guidance for 4-5 months I noticed no improvement so figured time to move on.
I have an aunty who went through something similar to myself when she was in her 20's for 10 years. She recommend I go see her naturopath. She claims her naturopath cured her. So I decided to give it a go.
This naturopath was extremely busy. Managed to get an earlier appointment due to a cancellation, otherwise I would have to wait over a month to see her. She is also very expensive, but hey, if I get better it will be all worth it.
During the appointment she was very professional and explained everything. She had a look at my iris and even showed me a chart similar to this:
Through her analysis she found that I could possibly still have parasites that were not detected previously, that I have leaky gut syndrome where my microvilli are damaged and that I am magnesium deficient.
Here is a great article explaining Leaky Gut Syndrome:
http://scdlifestyle.com/2010/03/the-scd-diet-and-leaky-gut-syndrome/
So she has given me some magnesium supplements to take twice daily, some slippery elm capsules to make sure it hits the gut and a composition of mixed liquid herbs that is, well, disgusting. But if it's that digusting its gotta be good for you right? She also gave a time frame of 3 months like they all do, so am a little skeptical.
If she is correct with this diagnosis that would explain a lot that other practitioners have failed to provide explanation for. So fingers crossed that this works.
Extra note. In regards to the magnesium deficiency, I did recently get a blood test which showed no signs of a magnesium deficiency, however, she mentioned that pathology can only test levels from the blood stream and not levels from the blood in the muscle where magnesium is pivotal. The deficiency she noticed from the muscle, not the blood stream.
So I guess I will see how things are in three months time. I have slight hope, but of course, because I have done so many treatments now, I am not expecting much.
I have an aunty who went through something similar to myself when she was in her 20's for 10 years. She recommend I go see her naturopath. She claims her naturopath cured her. So I decided to give it a go.
This naturopath was extremely busy. Managed to get an earlier appointment due to a cancellation, otherwise I would have to wait over a month to see her. She is also very expensive, but hey, if I get better it will be all worth it.
During the appointment she was very professional and explained everything. She had a look at my iris and even showed me a chart similar to this:
Through her analysis she found that I could possibly still have parasites that were not detected previously, that I have leaky gut syndrome where my microvilli are damaged and that I am magnesium deficient.
Here is a great article explaining Leaky Gut Syndrome:
http://scdlifestyle.com/2010/03/the-scd-diet-and-leaky-gut-syndrome/
So she has given me some magnesium supplements to take twice daily, some slippery elm capsules to make sure it hits the gut and a composition of mixed liquid herbs that is, well, disgusting. But if it's that digusting its gotta be good for you right? She also gave a time frame of 3 months like they all do, so am a little skeptical.
If she is correct with this diagnosis that would explain a lot that other practitioners have failed to provide explanation for. So fingers crossed that this works.
Extra note. In regards to the magnesium deficiency, I did recently get a blood test which showed no signs of a magnesium deficiency, however, she mentioned that pathology can only test levels from the blood stream and not levels from the blood in the muscle where magnesium is pivotal. The deficiency she noticed from the muscle, not the blood stream.
So I guess I will see how things are in three months time. I have slight hope, but of course, because I have done so many treatments now, I am not expecting much.
Wednesday 8 January 2014
Melbourne Indian Mandaps
Hey Guys,
Ok, this is unrelated, but I recently created a website…
http://www.melbournemandaps.com
For those getting married check out this website. The family is starting a small business.
Short description:
We pride ourselves in providing simple, elegant and stylish Mandaps for Indian weddings across Melbourne. Our focus is on providing the freshest flowers at an affordable price. These flowers, depending on season, come in a range of colours to compliment the theme of your wedding. If you are looking for something simple your Mandap can just be decorated with customised soft drapings with a few bouquets of flowers.
Our services also include fresh flower wedding garlands.
Our fresh flower Mandaps start from only $1,500. Please give us a call for a free quote.
Below is an example of a beautiful red and white fresh flower with red drapes and bouquets Indian mandap created by Melbourne Mandaps. It's 3x3 metres. I forget the height.
Ok, this is unrelated, but I recently created a website…
http://www.melbournemandaps.com
For those getting married check out this website. The family is starting a small business.
Short description:
We pride ourselves in providing simple, elegant and stylish Mandaps for Indian weddings across Melbourne. Our focus is on providing the freshest flowers at an affordable price. These flowers, depending on season, come in a range of colours to compliment the theme of your wedding. If you are looking for something simple your Mandap can just be decorated with customised soft drapings with a few bouquets of flowers.
Our services also include fresh flower wedding garlands.
Our fresh flower Mandaps start from only $1,500. Please give us a call for a free quote.
Below is an example of a beautiful red and white fresh flower with red drapes and bouquets Indian mandap created by Melbourne Mandaps. It's 3x3 metres. I forget the height.
Saturday 9 November 2013
Stelbid
Ok, so I have tried Stelbid a few times, on an as need basis, and noticed that it didn't really do anything for me. Let me give you some information on Stelbid.
Firstly you cannot buy Stelbid in Australia. My father picked some up for me from India.
The ingredients include Isopropamide Iodide and Trifluoperazine and is largely used for gastrointestinal disorders.
Isopropamide is an anticholinergic which block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain. Pretty much they help reduce spasms in the gut.
Trifluoperazine is an antiphsychotic that blocks receptors in the brain's dopamine pathways and also act on serotonin receptors. So this I guess helps with the pain levels and emotional side of things related to the gut.
My doctor informed me to just take as a need to basis. So when I was feeling bad I should take the medicine. So I tried that about 4-5 times and noticed no improvement in symptoms.
It has been a while since I have given you an update on symptoms. Currently I am still in pain everyday, mainly mornings and evenings, but the afternoons get their fair share of pain at times. So basically, have I improved much? I would say no. Although my diet does help a little, I am not close to being cured.
:(
Firstly you cannot buy Stelbid in Australia. My father picked some up for me from India.
The ingredients include Isopropamide Iodide and Trifluoperazine and is largely used for gastrointestinal disorders.
Isopropamide is an anticholinergic which block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain. Pretty much they help reduce spasms in the gut.
Trifluoperazine is an antiphsychotic that blocks receptors in the brain's dopamine pathways and also act on serotonin receptors. So this I guess helps with the pain levels and emotional side of things related to the gut.
My doctor informed me to just take as a need to basis. So when I was feeling bad I should take the medicine. So I tried that about 4-5 times and noticed no improvement in symptoms.
It has been a while since I have given you an update on symptoms. Currently I am still in pain everyday, mainly mornings and evenings, but the afternoons get their fair share of pain at times. So basically, have I improved much? I would say no. Although my diet does help a little, I am not close to being cured.
:(
Sunday 15 September 2013
Foods to Avoid
Hi Guys,
Thought I'd just give a bit of an update. So the website www.ibs-experiment.com now has a forum so we can all share our stories and treatments. I'll implement soon on the website a Recipes page. Some good recipes that are gentle on the digestive tract. Feel free to share some of your recipes as well. Am more than happy to put them onto my website.
I'm finding Gut Relief to be quite good. Although I still get pain and discomfort everyday the overall intensity has seemed to lessen a bit. Hopefully by summer I'll be much better and will be able to actually enjoy my summer. Haven't been to the beach in ages!
So yeah, back to topic. Thought I'd mention foods that I avoid.
Red meats
Alcohol
Caffeine
Fried foods
Chilly foods
As much sugar as a can because it feeds bad bacteria. I can't resist so I do eat a little chocolate, but only a spoon of Nutella from time to time.
Lentils
Cabbage
If I eat fruit I only eat a little at a time, such as half an apple instead of the full apple
Processed foods such as packet pasta
Basically what most of it comes down to is that I never eat a large amount of one item in one sitting. For example a pasta dish, I'll have a little pasta with a decent amount of vegetables and salad. This rule I've given for myself seems to be helping. It helps to avoid those crazy horrific pain attacks.
xoxo
Thought I'd just give a bit of an update. So the website www.ibs-experiment.com now has a forum so we can all share our stories and treatments. I'll implement soon on the website a Recipes page. Some good recipes that are gentle on the digestive tract. Feel free to share some of your recipes as well. Am more than happy to put them onto my website.
I'm finding Gut Relief to be quite good. Although I still get pain and discomfort everyday the overall intensity has seemed to lessen a bit. Hopefully by summer I'll be much better and will be able to actually enjoy my summer. Haven't been to the beach in ages!
So yeah, back to topic. Thought I'd mention foods that I avoid.
Red meats
Alcohol
Caffeine
Fried foods
Chilly foods
As much sugar as a can because it feeds bad bacteria. I can't resist so I do eat a little chocolate, but only a spoon of Nutella from time to time.
Lentils
Cabbage
If I eat fruit I only eat a little at a time, such as half an apple instead of the full apple
Processed foods such as packet pasta
Basically what most of it comes down to is that I never eat a large amount of one item in one sitting. For example a pasta dish, I'll have a little pasta with a decent amount of vegetables and salad. This rule I've given for myself seems to be helping. It helps to avoid those crazy horrific pain attacks.
xoxo
Thursday 8 August 2013
Stop telling me I'm too thin
Because of my IBS I have no choice but to stay on a very restrictive diet, not unless I want large amounts of abdominal pain. As such I cannot eat all those foods that help one to gain weight and I can't eat large amounts at any given time. I can't eat fried foods, or lots of chocolate, or lots of hot chips, but I can assure you, sometimes there's nothing more I want to do but to eat those things. Daily I have to stop myself because I know the consequences of eating those types of foods, and that's a lot of physical agonising pain. So when people tell me that I'm too thin and need to gain weight, I'm sorry, but please shut your big gob. I've already got problems, I don't need additional personal self image loathing mind disabilities either, like BDD. Now whenever I look in the mirror all I see is ugly and too skinny. So please please please stop commenting on my weight. It's not helping.
And that's my rant for the day.
Cheers :)
And that's my rant for the day.
Cheers :)
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