Author: Ron Eagle

Battling Setbacks: My Third Week on LDN and the Fight to Keep Going

As I enter the third week of my Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) journey, I find myself facing new challenges that test my resolve. Despite my initial hopes, the stomach cramps and gastrointestinal issues have not only persisted but have actually gotten worse. This has been a significant setback, and it’s been difficult to stay positive amid the discomfort.

Adjusting the Dosage: A New Approach

Given the worsening symptoms, I’ve decided to take a three-day break from LDN to allow my body some time to recover. After this pause, I plan to restart at a much lower dose of 0.25ML. This new approach involves diluting the LDN pills in distilled water, a method recommended by the LDN Trust. For those interested, here is a guide to diluting LDN pills to achieve precise dosages.

Dealing with Discouragement

It’s disheartening to experience these setbacks, especially after feeling some initial hope. The pain has also spread to my hands and wrists, adding to the daily challenges. However, I am determined not to give up. Adjusting the dosage and giving my body time to adapt is a necessary step in finding the right balance.

Staying Active: Pushing Through the Pain

On a broader scale, I’m trying to stay active and incorporate exercise into my routine, despite the pain. Regular physical activity is known to benefit those with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Fibromyalgia, and I’m hoping it will help alleviate some of my symptoms in the long run. For more information on how exercise can benefit those with CFS and Fibromyalgia, you can read this helpful resource.

Finding Resilience

Navigating this journey with LDN has been anything but straightforward. The side effects have been challenging, and there have been moments of doubt and frustration. However, I am committed to finding a path that works for me. It’s important to listen to my body, make necessary adjustments, and remain hopeful that relief is possible.

I am sharing these experiences not only to document my journey but also to provide support and insight for others who may be going through similar struggles. If you are on a similar path, know that setbacks are part of the process, and it’s okay to feel discouraged at times. What matters most is the determination to keep moving forward and the willingness to try different approaches until you find what works best for you.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your support and shared experiences mean a lot. Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to share your own stories and tips in the comments. Together, we can support each other in our pursuit of better health and well-being.

Disclaimer: This blog post is based on my personal experience and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Navigating the Second Week on Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN): Challenges and Adjustments

Entering the second week of my Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) journey, I felt a mix of anticipation and cautious optimism. Unfortunately, increasing the dose to 1.5MG brought about some unexpected challenges that have tested my resolve and optimism.

Understanding LDN and Its Potential Benefits

For those unfamiliar with Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN), it’s a medication that has gained attention for its potential to help manage various autoimmune conditions. Originally developed in the 1980s to treat opioid addiction at high doses, LDN is now being used at much lower doses to modulate the immune system. The idea is that LDN can reduce inflammation and autoimmunity by promoting the production of endorphins and enkephalins, which are natural painkillers and immune modulators. It’s being studied for its benefits in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Upping the Dose: New Side Effects

As I increased the dosage to 1.5MG, I encountered significant gastrointestinal pain, particularly along the belt line, which proved to be the most troublesome and lingering side effect. This discomfort, combined with persistent fatigue and joint pain, left me feeling discouraged. The elevated levels of fatigue and joint pain continued to be major hurdles, impacting my daily routine and overall well-being.

Despite these challenges, I understood that LDN works by temporarily blocking opioid receptors, which leads to an increase in endorphin production. These endorphins can help modulate the immune system, potentially reducing the symptoms of autoimmune disorders. However, the path to finding the right dosage and achieving these benefits can be a delicate balance, as my recent experiences have shown.

Taking a Step Back: Adjusting the Approach

In response to these side effects, I decided to take a two-day break from the medication. This pause allowed me to reassess my approach and consider alternatives. My plan now is to restart LDN using a diluted liquid form, beginning again at a lower dose of 1MG/ML. This adjustment aims to ease my body into the treatment more gradually, hopefully minimizing the adverse effects while still reaping the potential benefits.

Staying Positive Amidst Challenges

Despite the setbacks, I am trying to remain positive. Interestingly, one of the more pleasant side effects has been the vivid dreams I’ve been experiencing. These dreams, though unusual, have added a curious and sometimes erotic aspect to my nights. While my sleep remains fairly consistent, I still struggle with achieving deep sleep, which is crucial for my overall recovery and health.

Exploring Complementary Therapies

In addition to adjusting my LDN dosage, I am exploring complementary therapies to help manage my symptoms. I have scheduled a couple of cryotherapy sessions, which I have read can be beneficial for chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, headaches, and autoimmune disorders. Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for a short period, which can reduce inflammation and pain. Learn more about the benefits of cryotherapy here.

Additionally, I have an acupuncture appointment tomorrow. Acupuncture has shown promise in alleviating various symptoms associated with chronic conditions. The practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, which can help increase blood flow and promote the body’s natural painkillers. Discover how acupuncture can help with chronic fatigue and autoimmune disorders here.

Moving Forward

While the journey with LDN has not been straightforward, I am committed to finding the right balance and approach that works for me. It’s important to listen to my body and make adjustments as needed, all while maintaining a hopeful outlook. This process may involve some trial and error, but I am determined to find a path that offers relief and improves my quality of life.

The potential of LDN to modulate the immune system and reduce symptoms of autoimmune conditions is promising, but it requires patience and careful management. As I continue to navigate this journey, I will keep documenting my experiences and adjustments. Sharing these insights not only helps me process the challenges but also provides valuable information for others who might be on a similar path.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to share your experiences and tips in the comments. Together, we can support each other in our pursuit of better health and well-being.

My First Week on Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN): A Personal Journey

Last Sunday, I embarked on my new journey with Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) by taking my first 1.25 milligram dose. Here’s a detailed account of my experiences during this initial week.

Initial Improvements

One of the most notable changes I experienced was a marked improvement in brain fog. For the first time in a while, my thoughts felt clearer and more organized, which was a significant relief. It may sound strange, but I felt like I was seeing things more clearly and the feeling of my head being inside an aquarium was gone. However, this improvement was accompanied by persistent fatigue, suggesting that while LDN helped with mental clarity, it didn’t immediately alleviate all my symptoms.

Joint Pain and Discomfort

Interestingly, I noticed an increase in joint pain, particularly in my left elbow and both shoulders. This was unexpected and somewhat concerning, as it contrasted with the improvement in brain fog. It’s possible that my body is still adjusting to the medication, and I’m hopeful that this pain will subside over time. The elbow pain is pretty severe and I’m going in on Wednesday to have an ortho take a look and make sure it’s not structural.

Sleep Patterns

On a positive note, I observed that I was getting more sleep overall. However, the quality of that sleep was inconsistent, particularly in terms of achieving deep sleep. I’ve been taking the pill a few hours before bedtime, and I plan to experiment with the timing of my dose to see if that helps improve the consistency of deep sleep.

Dry Eyes and Other Side Effects

Since starting LDN, I’ve experienced unusually dry eyes. I’m not sure if this is directly related to the medication, but it’s worth noting. Additionally, one of the known side effects of LDN is vivid dreams. True to form, I did have some vivid dreams, including two nightmares that woke me up during the night.

Looking Ahead

As I prepare to increase my dose to 1.5 milligrams this week, I’m curious to see how my body will respond. I plan to continue monitoring my symptoms and adjusting as needed. I’ll report back on any new developments or changes in my condition.

A Call for Shared Experiences

If you’ve had experiences with LDN, whether similar or different from mine, I’d love to hear from you. Sharing our stories can help us better understand how this medication affects us individually and collectively.

Feel free to comment below or reach out to me directly. Your insights could be invaluable as we navigate this journey together.

Stay tuned for next week’s update!

References

Your feedback and shared experiences are welcome! Let’s learn from each other and support our health journeys.

Battling the Fog: Dealing with Fatigue in the Face of Autoimmune Disorders

Living with autoimmune disorders brings a myriad of challenges, but none quite as pervasive and debilitating as fatigue. It’s not just about feeling tired; it’s an overwhelming sense of listlessness that seeps into every aspect of daily life. For those of us grappling with chronic fatigue, each day can feel like a Herculean struggle.

The Overwhelming Weight of Fatigue

Fatigue, in the context of autoimmune disorders, isn’t the kind of tiredness that a good night’s sleep can fix. It’s a relentless, all-consuming exhaustion that leaves you feeling drained, no matter how much rest you get. There are days when even lifting your head off the pillow feels like an impossible task.

The Medication Maze

In my quest to find relief, I’ve tried various medications. One such medication was Amitriptyline, often prescribed to help with sleep and pain management. While it did help me sleep, the irony was that it also made my fatigue worse. Instead of waking up refreshed, I found myself even more sluggish and foggy-headed.

Navigating the world of medications can be daunting. Each new prescription brings a mix of hope and apprehension—hope that this will be the solution, and apprehension about the potential side effects. Unfortunately, the journey with Amitriptyline was one of those times when the side effects overshadowed the benefits.

The Daily Struggle

Mornings are the hardest. The battle begins the moment the alarm goes off. The sheer effort required to get out of bed, get dressed, and face the day is often overwhelming. There are days when deciding what to wear feels like an insurmountable challenge. The mental and physical energy needed to prepare for work can leave me feeling defeated before the day has even begun.

Yet, despite the fatigue, life doesn’t stop. Responsibilities and commitments don’t wait for us to catch our breath. So, we push through. We dig deep, muster every ounce of strength, and take it one step at a time. Some days are better than others, but each day is a testament to our resilience.

Looking Ahead: The Journey with Low Dose Naltrexone

The journey with autoimmune disorders is ongoing, and the search for effective treatments continues. Recently, I’ve decided to start taking Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN). LDN has shown promise in managing symptoms for various autoimmune conditions, and I’m hopeful it will provide some relief from the relentless fatigue.

Starting a new medication is always a mix of excitement and anxiety. There’s a cautious optimism that this could be the game-changer I’ve been looking for. At the same time, there’s the inevitable worry about potential side effects and whether it will actually work.

I hope to start my dose next week and will be sure to write about my experience as the dosage increases each week to a 4.5mg goal. I’ve read about many people saying less is more with LDN and I’m truly hopeful that I will find the right mix. If you have tried LDN, I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

Embracing the Journey

Living with chronic fatigue and autoimmune disorders is a journey—one that requires patience, persistence, and a lot of self-compassion/reflection. It’s about celebrating the small victories, like making it out of bed and getting through the day. It’s about recognizing that we’re doing the best we can.

To anyone else on this journey, know that you’re not alone. I would love to hear about your thoughts or treatments that have worked for you. While the rational me understands there is not a cure, the fighter wants to dig in and try any and everything to get some of the normal back.

Join the Conversation

How do you manage fatigue with your autoimmune condition? Have you tried Low Dose Naltrexone or other medications? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Together, we can navigate this journey and find strength in our shared experiences.

Traveling with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: The Hilarious Misadventures of a Prednisone-Packed Jetsetter

Ah, traveling for business—the perfect blend of professional opportunity and personal agony, especially when you’re living with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. But hey, who doesn’t love a good adventure? This time, my destination was Seoul, and my journey began at LAX on the luxurious Asiana Airlines A380 in business class. Buckle up, folks; this turned in a sweat soaked ride!

Preparation: The Prednisone Tango

Let’s start with the prep work. When you have fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, packing isn’t just about clothes and toiletries. It’s about medications, heating pads, and a healthy dose of courage. My secret weapon? A prednisone taper. Yes, those tiny little pills, some call “the devil’s tic-tacs” that bring the promise of reduced pain and inflammation. The catch? They also bring the promise of weight gain, mood swings, and sweat. Lots of sweat.

Imagine me, standing in front of my mirror, saying goodbye to my pre-trip shorts and jeans and hello to the stretchier alternatives. Prednisone, you fickle friend, I hope you’re worth it. Alongside my prednisone, I packed a Mission Cooling Towel to wipe my bald head, hoping it would save me in the dreaded warm conference rooms used for executive meetings.

The Flight: A Comedy of Errors

LAX to Seoul is no joke—a solid 13-hour flight. Luckily, I was flying business class on the Asiana Airlines A380, which made the journey a bit more bearable. I boarded the plane armed with my travel pillow, compression socks, and an arsenal of snacks. And let’s not forget the prednisone, which I’m convinced makes me more interesting to the TSA – cause I got picked for extra security. I was quite literally a hot mess. I had worn a loose black hoodie so at least everyone couldn’t see how much I was sweating underneath it.

As I settled into my spacious seat, I realized that sitting still for this long is a special kind of torture for someone with fibromyalgia. Every hour, I tried to stretch, resembling something between a confused yoga practitioner and a marionette with tangled strings. My seatmate looked at me with a mix of curiosity and mild terror.

“Just doing my in-flight calisthenics,” I explained with a smile. He nodded slowly and returned to watching his movie.

Arrival: Welcome to Seoul

Touchdown in Seoul! The prednisone kept the worst of the pain at bay, but I now possessed the appetite of a small bear preparing for hibernation. First stop: hotel. Second stop: food.

After a meal that could sustain a football team, I retreated to my room. Sleep is a fickle mistress, and chronic fatigue syndrome ensures that it’s always a bit of a gamble. I popped a melatonin, said a little prayer, and hoped for the best.

Business Meetings: The Juggling Act

Business meetings are where the real fun begins. Picture this: you’re in a high-stakes meeting, trying to look professional while your body feels like it’s run a marathon. The prednisone had me oscillating between bursts of energy and waves of exhaustion. I nodded along enthusiastically, hoping my colleagues attributed my flushed cheeks to excitement rather than the steroid-induced hot flashes.

To keep the energy up, I relied on caffeine and strategic bathroom breaks for mini stretches. At one point, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror—looking like a frazzled, over-caffeinated chipmunk. And let’s not forget the sweat. Thank goodness for my Mission Cooling Towel, which was a lifesaver during those meetings.

Exploring Seoul: Fibro-Friendly Adventures

Despite the meetings, I managed to carve out some time to explore Seoul. With a mix of determination and sheer stubbornness, I hit the streets. The vibrant city was a sensory overload, but in the best possible way. I paced myself, knowing that pushing too hard would result in a fibro-flare that even prednisone couldn’t tame.

I visited the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace, indulged in some shopping in Myeongdong, and of course, feasted on delicious Korean BBQ. My taste buds were thrilled, even if my waistband was not.

The Journey Home: A Reflective Return

After six whirlwind days, it was time to head home. As I sat in the airport, munching on a snack that could double as a meal, I reflected on the trip. Despite the challenges, I managed to navigate a different country, attend important meetings, and even have a bit of fun. Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome may complicate things, but they don’t define me.

The flight back was another exercise in patience and perseverance. I stretched, I snacked, and I nodded off intermittently. When we finally landed at LAX, I was both exhausted and oddly triumphant.

Conclusion: Laughing Through the Pain

Traveling with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome is no walk in the park. It’s more like a hike up a steep hill with a few surprise obstacles thrown in. But with a sense of humor, a bit of planning, and a lot of prednisone, it’s possible to turn even the most daunting trip into an adventure worth having.

To all my fellow warriors out there, keep laughing, keep traveling, and keep living life on your terms. And always remember: stretchy pants are your best friend.

Join the Conversation

Have you traveled with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome? Share your funniest travel mishaps and survival tips in the comments below. Let’s support each other with stories, laughter, and a whole lot of understanding.

Autoimmune: Traveling a New Path

My Journey with Autoimmune Disorders: Finding Strength in Adversity

Living with an autoimmune disorder can feel like a constant battle. The unpredictability, the flare-ups, and the relentless quest for answers can be overwhelming. But in this journey, I have discovered strength, resilience, and a community of warriors who share this path.

The Diagnosis

My journey began over 25 years ago, when I first noticed symptoms that seemed like a heart issue. Chest pain, nerve pain along and down my left arm, random pains around my body and pins and needles/numbness in hands and fingers. After running on countless treadmills and visiting many Emergency Rooms, my heart passed every stress test – thankfully! As the years wore on my focus became my family and career and the fatigue, joint pain, and unexplained rashes became my new normal. After innumerable doctor visits, blood tests, and consultations, I finally received a diagnosis: Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Arthritis.

Navigating the Treatment Maze

The diagnosis was both a relief and a new challenge. Relief because I finally had an answer, but a challenge because it marked the beginning of a complex treatment journey. I tried various medications, from immunosuppressants to biologics, each with its own set of side effects and adjustments.

Embracing Lifestyle Changes

Beyond medication, I discovered the importance of lifestyle changes. I switched my diet and started doing 5:2 fasting. The low calorie days have been easier than I thought and have helped with some of the brain fog.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/the-5-2-diet-guide

Exercise became a crucial part of my routine. Gentle activities like yoga, stationary bike riding and walking helped reduce stiffness and improve my overall well-being. While high-intensity workouts were out of the question, finding a balance that worked for my body was key.

This yoga class is where I started and still find that it really helps before bedtime.

Mental Health Matters

Living with an autoimmune disorder isn’t just a physical challenge; it’s an emotional one too. Anxiety and depression often accompany chronic illnesses. Seeking therapy and connecting with support groups provided me with a safe space to share my fears and frustrations. It was comforting to know I wasn’t alone.

https://www.reddit.com/r/Fibromyalgia/

Find a Support Group
Support Groups Online

Staying Informed and Empowered

Knowledge is power. I made it a point to stay informed about my condition. I read books, followed reputable medical websites, and joined online communities where I could learn from others’ experiences. This proactive approach helped me make informed decisions about my treatment and self-care. If I could go back and give my younger self a piece of advice…it would be better prepared for your Dr. visits. Don’t settle or stay with a Dr. if they aren’t interested in getting to the bottom of your problem. I took needless medications and even potentially surgery looking for answers. I’m 54 years old and it took me into my 50s to understand the Dr. needs to be working for you as much as with you.

Finding Joy in Small Victories

Living with an autoimmune disorder is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrating small victories has become a part of my journey. Whether it’s a day without pain, a new recipe that works wonders, or simply feeling good enough to enjoy a hobby, these moments are worth cherishing.

Looking Ahead

While the journey with an autoimmune disorder is ongoing, I’ve learned to navigate its ups and downs with as much grace and resilience as I can muster. Every day is a step forward, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger.

To my fellow warriors, know that you are not alone. Together, we can face this journey with courage and hope. Let’s continue to share our stories, support one another, and find strength in our shared experiences.

Join the Conversation

I’d love to hear from you. Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder? What has your journey been like? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Together, we can create a supportive and empowering community.