P.S.

Yes....before I hear this saying; Why didn't you....? Well, I'll tell you one thing...I'll never say that to anyone because you don't really know what you would do in any situation unless it really happens.

Something to forget

This entry I suppose is to open myself up more. Just another hard thing to talk about for me. There will be many things I'll leave out. I also hope that you will understand. Here goes....
1997 was such a great year for me and my family. Finally, things were really starting to happen with my in home business and my modeling! I was getting calls from New York, California, New Orleans, Arkansas and Chicago. Wow! I was actually making it! The California call wanted me for a lot of different things, one being a print add model. But, at that time, they were looking for someone with lighter color hair. I was put on a "hold." The call from New York wanted me for print work as well, but at the time, he told me I had too much of a "friends" look. Like Courtney Cox. Since that was such a big hit then, he needed another look as well, and he put me on a "hold." The one in New Orleans needed a hand and legs model. I got that job! The one in Arkansas wanted me to be in a video and print work! I got that one as well! As a freelance model, I had two contracts drawn up, that I would have signed. A models contract, and the photographer's contract. I was covered that way, no one could own my negatives but me, and the model contract...was very precise, how many hours and the amount I would be paid, etc... I wouldn't do a job unless they were signed and agreed upon. My husband and I had talked to both of them men that wanted me to model for them. We all talked for 3 months. I had to make a choice between the two of them, because of theirs and my time schedul. I picked the one in Arkansas, becasue I thought to be in a video would look good in my resume. Which would give me another leg up in the business. The more you did, the more work you got. Big mistake! I was to go down there for 2 days, on a weekend, and my brother in law was going to go with me as my body guard. The day came for me to leave. I get a call from him letting me know that he would be late because his limo was in Cincinati broke down and his agent and assistant were going to stay with the limo. Ok. He said that the place the limo was, letting him borrow one of their cars. Ok. It sounded legit. A white car pulled up in front of my house and a man wearing a cowboy hat got out. It was the man that I and my husband had spoken to many times. I'll never forget the voice! I got in as he was telling me all about the limo and we need to go get it and drop the car off. Ok. (I always took a plane everywhere else for a shoot) We got to Cincinatti and he was driving around looking for "this place." He said he lost the directions and address. hhhmmm! Red light came on! We stopped to get a soda from a machine. He got it for me. Why, I have no idea, didn't I just get out of the car and run? I can't answer that! The next thing I remember is that he had to go to Nashville for some reason. (no limo, or agent or an assitant by the way, and still in the white car) He scared me so very bad by then. I do remember when we finally got to Nashville, I called my husband. It was 10:00 p.m.! What happened between all those hours, I don't know. He told me what to tell my husband. I did. He wore a 6 inch blade knife and did use it on me. I was scared! I can't remember why my brother in law couldn't come with me....but if he were there at my home, I know I would not have gotten into that white car! The next thing I remember is being in a jazz bar! I remember that he had ordered me a drink. I had went to the bathroom. Big mistake! I remember taking 2 drinks from that glass! All of the sudden, I couldn't move! I could only move my eyes! He picked me up over his shoulders and put me in that car! I vomited white foamy stuff! The next thing I remember was a gas station and I had a pair of my shorts on and a t-shirt! Not what I had on before! I was very dizzy, could move still and passed back out! It was 6:00 a.m.! We were still in Tennesse! Needless to say, I was taken to this shak in Arkansas and raped repeatedly. His guns and the knife scared me into doing what ever was said! I remember that I was out of it most of the time and was put in a small room. Leaving a chunk out, concerning my children. My last night there, he took me and put me in the car, along with duct tape, a yellow nylon rop, 2 sticks with a rope tied to them, a blue tarp, and a blanket! He told me that he was going to kill me! From what I left out, I was not the first, and from what I saw, I believed him! A police officer had pulled him over. He had a tail light out. The officer told him to turn back around and head home! Do what? The officer came to the door on my side and opened it, bent down, and had this smile on his face! It also seemed as if he was glowing! I thought it was because of being drugged. Then I realized he was an angel! Because he did turn around and went back to that shak! The phone rang, andit was my husband! I told him, in between the lines way, the city I was in and to help me! To this very day, I truly believe the officer was an angel! He saved my life and my childrens! My husband got there, and we were held at gun point until he let us leave! I told the police what had happened. Nothing could be done they said! It was my word against his!? Yes...I was drugged with GHB, and something else, I can't remember. The reason I wrote about this is because my husband and I were talking about something similar. It flooded my mind again. I thought I was there for a weekend, but I was there for about a month! I was drugged so much and so out of it, I had no sense of time! It took a long time to get it out of my system. If it weren't for God looking over me and that angel, I wouldn't be sitting here right now! I thank God everyday for giving me another day to live! This was a major life lesson that I learned from and has made me stronger and wiser! God bless all of you! :o)

~Sigh~

It's raining out right now...and glad I'm not going anywhere! :o)
Well, this morning my husband was checking the voice mail...we don't check it as often as we should because we have call waiting. I found out that the Sleep Clinic had called me! Thankfully, they left a message letting me know when my test is......OCTOBER 31!!! A month from now! IF someone would have answered the "other" call while they were on the phone, I could have made the appointment sooner...but I can't! I've already called my doctor and this is what I find weird....I have no way to get ahold of them! What if I couldn't make that time? Oh well...I'm able to, but, again....I have to wait longer! <sigh> So...thats what I have to do! Geesh!
I was playing around with this journal today...dressing it up for halloween! :o) Trying to anyway. :o) I've also tried to do a few graphics earlier....and Chris...you were sooo right! LOL :o) I had to take a break! lol :o) Believe me....the people the do the graphics and offer them really are very talented! :o) It takes a steady hand as well! Whew! :o) I'll go back to it later...my eyes are killing me!
My son and his girl friend went to an amusment park today, and my daughter and grandson went to Bellbrook to visit her dad. :o) Sooo...it's just me and my husband! :o) It's so quite here! LOL I don't like it that way...lol :o) OOOOO! It just thundered and lightened....I really should get off of here!
Thank you all for your comments! God bless all of you! :o)

Prayer is faith passing into action.


                                           -Richard Cecil

Crystal Skulls

I tried to look up more information on the Crystal Skulls...but all I could find was this site that could be easier to understand and read. Of course, I only used Yahoo...didn't use any other search engine. :o)

Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

August, 2005

The lumbar spine (lower back) consists of five vertebrae in the lower part of the spine between the ribs and the pelvis. Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal which compresses the nerves traveling through the lower back into the legs. While it may affect younger patients due to developmental causes, it is more often a degenerative condition that affects people age 60 and older. The discs may become less spongy as you age, resulting in reduced disc height and bulging of the hardened disc into the spinal canal. Currently, it is estimated that about 400,000 Americans, most over the age of 60, may be suffering from the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. There are as many as 1.2 million Americans with back and leg pain related to any type of spinal stenosis.

Lumbar spinal stenosis may or may not produce symptoms, depending on the severity of your case. The narrowing of the spinal canal itself does not produce these symptoms. It is the inflammation of the nerves due to increased pressure that may cause noticeable symptoms to occur. When present, symptoms may include:

Pain, weakness, or numbness in the legs, calves, or buttocks Pain radiating into one or both thighs and legs, similar to sciatica In rare cases, loss of motor functioning of the legs In rare cases, loss of normal bowel or bladder function

Pain may decrease when you bend forward, sit or lie down. Pain may get worse when you walk short distances.

Degenerative spondylolisthesis and degenerative scoliosis are two conditions associated with lumbar spinal stenosis. Degenerative spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebra over another) is caused by osteoarthritis of the facet joints. Most commonly, it involves the L4 slipping over the L5 vertebra. It is usually treated with the same conservative and surgical methods as lumbar spinal stenosis.

Degenerative scoliosis (curvature of the spine) occurs most frequently in the lower back and more commonly affects people age 65 and older. Back pain associated with degenerative scoliosis usually begins gradually, and is linked with activity. The curvature of the spine in this form of scoliosis is often relatively minor, so surgery is required when conservative methods fail to alleviate pain associated with the condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by a neurosurgeon based on your history, symptoms, a physical examination, and results of tests, including the following:

• X-ray: Application of radiation to produce a film or picture of a part of the body can show the structure of the vertebrae and the outline of the joints.
  
  
  
• Computed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan): A diagnostic image created after a computer reads x-rays; can show the shape and size of the spinal canal, its contents, and the structures around it.
  
  
  
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A diagnostic test that produces three-dimensional images of body structures using powerful magnets and computer technology; can show the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding areas, as well as enlargement, degeneration, and tumors.
  
  
  
• Myleogram: An x-ray of the spinal canal following injection of a contrast material into the surrounding cerebrospinal fluid spaces; can show pressure on the spinal cord or nerves due to herniated discs, bone spurs or tumors.

Nonsurgical treatment

• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain, and analgesics to relieve pain. Most pain can be treated with nonprescription medications, but if your pain is severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend prescription medications.
  
  
  
• Epidural injections of cortisone may be prescribed to help reduce swelling. This treatment is not recommended repeatedly and usually provides only temporary pain relief.
  
  
  
• Physical therapy and/or prescribed exercises may help stabilize your spine, build your endurance, and increase your flexibility. Therapy may help you resume your normal lifestyle and activities.

Your doctor may recommend surgery if conservative treatment options, such as physical therapy and medications do not reduce or end the pain altogether. He or she will talk to you about the types of spinal surgery available, and depending on your specific case, will help to determine what procedure might be an appropriate treatment for you. As with any surgery, a patient’s age, overall health, and other issues are taken into consideration when surgery is considered.

You may be considered a candidate for spinal surgery if:

• Back and leg pain limits normal activity or impairs your quality of life
  
• You develop progressive neurological deficits, such as leg weakness and/or numbness
  
• You experience loss of normal bowel and bladder functions
  
• You have difficulty standing or walking
  
• Medication and physical therapy are ineffective
  
• You are in reasonably good health

There are several different surgical procedures which can be utilized, the choice of which is influenced by the severity of your case. In a small percentage of patients, spinal instability may require that spinal fusion be performed, a decision that is generally determined prior to surgery. Spinal fusion is an operation that creates a solid union between two or more vertebrae. This procedure may assist in strengthening and stabilizing the spine and may thereby help to alleviate severe and chronic back pain.

Surgical treatment

The most common surgery in the lumbar spine is called decompressive laminectomy in which the laminae (roof) of the vertebrae are removed to create more space for the nerves. A neurosurgeon may perform a laminectomy with or without fusing vertebrae or removing part of a disc. A spinal fusion with or without spinal instrumentation may be recommended when spondylolisthesis or scoliosis occurs with spinal stenosis. Various devices (like screws or rods) may be used to enhance fusion and support unstable areas of the spine.

Other types of surgery, including several methods of spinal fusion to treat lumbar spinal stenosis and associated conditions:

• Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF): Removal of the degenerative disc by going through the lower abdomen. Bone graft material or a metal device filled with bone is then placed into the disc space.
  
  
  
• Foraminotomy: Surgical opening or enlargement of the bony opening traversed by a nerve root as it leaves the spinal canal, to help increase space over a nerve canal. This surgery can be done alone or together with a laminotomy.
  
  
  
• Laminotomy: An opening made in a lamina, to relieve pressure on the nerve roots.
  
  
  
• Laparascopic Spinal Fusion: A minimally invasive procedure involving small incisions in the abdomen, through which a graft is placed into the disc space.
  
  
  
• Medial Facetectomy: Surgical procedure to remove part of the facet (a bony structure in the spinal canal), to increase the space.
  
  
  
• Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF): Removal of the posterior bone of the spinal canal, retraction of thenerves, and removal of the disc material from within the disc space, followed by insertion of bone graft and sometimes hardware in order to fuse the bones. This procedure is called an "interbody fusion" because it is performed between the “bodies” of the vertebral bones and across the diseased disc space. This procedure is typically performed on both sides of the spine.
  
  
  
• Posterolateral fusion: Placing bone on the back and side of the spine to achieve a fusion.
  
  
  
• Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): Removal of the posterior bone of the spinal canal, retraction of the nerves, and removal of the disc material from within the disc space, followed by insertion of bone graft and sometimes hardware in order to fuse the bones. Similar to a PLIF, but frequently performed from only one side.

The benefits of surgery should always be weighed carefully against its risks. Although a large percentage of lumbar spinal stenosis patients report significant pain relief after surgery, there is no guarantee that surgery will help every individual.

~No subject~

By the way....some of you noticed a color change....I thought I'd go with orange and brown for the season! I had the lettering turn a medium blue as well. :o) It does make a differance! But I did it last weekend..lol :o) Maybe I have too many graphics on the side bar that makes it harder to notice! :o)
I just had to share a few photo's of my grandson! The other day when he woke up from his nap...lol...he had a major case of "bed head!" LOL :o) He looks so cute! lol Today, my daughter found a Bengals hat for children! YAY! So, I had to get photo's of him wearing it! He doesn't like to wear hats, so I knew to jump on that right away! :o)
Didn't do anything different today. It was pretty out side. :o) My eyes are very sensitive to light anyway...so I didn't sit out on my porch to enjoy the nice weather. With my eyes hurting the way they do normally and then add on this pain I'm having...It would have felt like poring acid in my eyes! Yikes! No way! I can't seem to find sun glasses dark enough for me.
It has really cooled down a lot in the past few days....which is kind of good for me. I'm still over heating! Right now it's 46 out! Wow...big change! Soon...I'm going to have to bring all my plants in from the porch! I don't have as many as I did last year, and we had a hard time finding places to put them all, and we have less room now, so this will be a task in trying to put them places so they don't die. I bought a couple of plant lights to go in the basement, where we kept a few down there last year because there is one window that the sun light comes in.
I've joined a few graphic groups to give me something to do as I love art. But....I've yet to be able to do anything! No one in the groups have sent me anything or told me how to do them! LOL :o) I've emailed and asked several people....but I'm just to wait I guess! LOL Or use the paint program! :o) So, as soon as I figure out how to do it, I'll be able to make my own and give them to you! :o)
As it seems so far....it feels as though I'm going to be awake for awhile. Getting used to this....not a good thing. :o) Oh well...I was able to get some sleep last night, so I'm VERY grateful for that! :o)
I'm going for now....going to go play some games on Pogo! :o)
Thank you so much for your comments! God bless all of you! :o)

Good stuff!

..............."One reason a dog can be such a comfort when you're feeling blue is that he doesn't try to find out why!"

                                ---Anonymous

Think BIG!

YOU'VE GOT TO THINK BIG TO BE BIG

If you don't have a dream, how are you going to make it come true? High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation. You'll always hit what you aim for in the long run. Why not aim high? Have the courage to follow your dreams. It's the first step towards attaining your destiny. Big thinking always precedes big achievement.

~Hodge Podge~

This is going to sound funny...lol...but the above graphic looks heavy...right? Well....thats how 'my' head feels right now! lol :o) The graphic does remind me of the Crystal Skulls, if anyone else knows about them...I think they're beautiful! They haven't found them all as far as I know, but each one that has been found are amazingly beautiful! :o)
I did get some sleep last night!!!!! YAY!!! It felt so odd! LOL :o) Don't know how many hours, but even if it were 1...that would be great! :o) I know it was more then just 1 though, and my body is all tingly! Not nearly as swollen as I was yesterday! Whew! What a site that was! LOL :o) I can still feel from my waist down, how swollen I am....it just doesn't feel right at all. Like I'm made of cement or something like that. As for the sleep test, I still haven't gotten the call yet for when! As soon as I'm done here...I'm getting on the horn! :o) I would love to be able to have it tonight! I know that couldn't happen though, but nice to think it! :o) My eyes are still feeling odd as well. There really isn't a way to describe how they feel. They just hurt in an odd way! Oh...what I did last night to help me get some sleep....gosh...see, I got off track..lol...oh wel...we had a storm come through! I really don't like them, they've always made me feel uncomfortable, but, the sound of it does relax me! So...I used it! :o) My sound machine just doesn't do it for me anymore.....but the real thing did! :o)
I did something last night that I know I shouldn't have in 2 ways really....firstly, because I have no strength and secondly, it's bad for my health! I guess thats the samething then! LOL :o) Oh well....but I've been so hungry for homemade friend chicken! And...thats what I made for dinner! Yes...my husband and my son helped! Boy was it good! I haven't made it since we've lived here, and it will be 2 years in November! Wow! It did wear me out tremdously, but was very worth it!
I really want to thank you all that have written me and made such sweet and caring comments! Those are what help keep me going! And thank you for all of your prayers....as you can tell, God hears them and I was able to get some sleep! :o) Thank you so very much! I know how much I've been praying! God has me!
I need to go for now. I need to try and relax some more. When I got on line this morning...I was so amazed at how many emails I had! Whoa! A little over 300! And that was going through and deleting all the junk emails! Wow! It took me soooo long just to get through them all...I mean it took litteraly hours! LOL I did it, even all of my reply's and visiting a few journals! Now I really need to relax. :o)
Again...wow! Thank you all so much for your emails and comments! I truly mean it! :o) God bless all of you! :o)

Checking in.......

Well....good evening! :o) I was visiting Viv's jouranl tonight, and I really liked something she had written! And it's sooooo true! :o) "I'm too blessed to be stressed!" Thank you viv....I love it! :o) I just wanted to share that as well. :o)
Ok....update! Yesterday and today has been the very worse days I've ever encountered! :o( I prayed so hard for the strength I so desperatly need right now. No,,,I have not gotten sleep still! This is scaring me totally now! Not joking! So much has happened to my body just since this past 2 weeks! Right now I'm having such difficulty in seeing....it's like I have a "glaze" over my eyes! Everything is soooo bright! I had to wear my sunglasses in the house today just to see and ease the pain in my eyes! It's like looking through wax paper. Very frustrating and kind of scary as well. This entry alone is taking a lot of time just to type. Geesh! :o) or Bo) <-----sunglasses! :o) This morning I decided that I wasn't getting anywhere be trying to call my sleep specialist and the pain clinic! For some reason....no one was answering the phones! Odd I thought! Sooooo, I was in no mood to mess around and not get any help. I got to my car, and drove myself to the next town, and wanted to let my sleep specialist know that the pills he gave me were not working! I know I look horrid and a bit witchy...but I walked up to the desk to tell the receptionist that to let the doctor know the pills weren't helping me. Like I did the last time last week! I let her know...and the look on her face was pricless...lol...sorry...just had to laugh! :o) The office was packed, and she told me, without taking her eyes off of me, that I would be next to see the doctor! I was only there to maybe get another medicine. I mean I knew how horrid I looked...lol....but I suppose I look a lot worse then I thought! But...I was very glad that she did. :o) I was taken back and seen imediatly! Wow, I thought! The doctor came in and looked at me the same way! Bless his heart....he felt so bad for me that the medicine didn't help. :o) My whole body is swollen, My eyes are going nuts on me, I'm the weakest that I've ever been and in more pain then I've ever been in, I can barly hold my head up because it feels like it weighs at least 200 pounds! Which in turn is making my neck hurt tremendoulsy! I can make it to my bed then back to this chair....anyone that knows my home, knows the distance this is. I've been having more problems with urinating myself! I have that problem more so at night anyway....but I am now having that problem during the day, and I can't seem to do anything about it! It just happens! It honestly feels like my body is just doing things on it's own that I can not control! This is scary! Litterly! Anyway...my doctor is setting up 2 sleep studies for me to see what is going on! Thankfully! :o) The last time I went through this....and it was him that I was seeing, is when I went through a sleep study and found out that I had 3 sleep disorders. He is very concerned about my heart as well. He checked it thouroly and it is still beating very differently, and he is also concerned about me having 3 seizures so very close together as well....which isn't a very good sign! He brought up a theory that maybe I could be having seizures that I am not aware of....check out the differnt types of seizures I've posted....which could be in some way messing up my brain in a way that is telling my body not to sleep! Which does make a lot of sense to me! I have to go through an EEG as well when I have the sleep test done which I am glad about. :o) That will tell a lot! :o) I came home...dragged myself in, and got in bed to at least get my legs up, and I asked my daughter to make a post for me....Too sweet she is! :o) This evening...she was in here on my bed studying, and I got up to do my walking, and I started to fall over....and then it happened! I fell right on my right side, which is the wrose pain wise! Yeeouchie! I laned right on my right knee, hip and upper arm and shoulder! My knee started to swell more so and turned red, and now my should has a "crunchy" sound when I try to move it! It hurts like you know what! My daughter got me up....and then we had to laugh! LOL Because when I fell....it looked funny! ROFL!!! I fell in slow motion! lol Too funny! :o) I seem to be "ok," Everyone else is in bed when this happened. And now I'm still awake and in pain, and am afraid to get up again...even to go to the bathroom! But I push myself...I feel I need to do this for my brain...to keep it active, if that makes sense. I just hope I won't fall again. I have, though, decided if I do again tonight, I will take myself to the er! Because I have to! In my opinion....this is in humane! I honestly can't beleive that any doctor, or anyperson in their right mind is letting me be out on my own! I know that sounds terrible, but thats just how I feel....I feel that I shouldn't even be alone right now, and I should be monitored! I don't know. So, it brings me to right now! I can't be on the computer much at all right now...and I'll have my daughter post anything if something happens! :o) Please take care of yourselves and thank you so very much for your comments! God bless all of you! :o)

My mom..this is her daughter Nena

This is Lisa's daughter Nena. She wanted me to type an entry for her..so here it goes. My mom isn't getting any better. She went to the sleep specialist earlier to let them know that the sleep medicine isn't working. When he saw her physically, he actually wanted to see her because he was VERY concerned. The doctor has not put her on any new medications, but scheduled her to 2 sleep tests and is concerned about her seizures. She just wanted to let everyone know and the PSP groups that she is resting. She said she is sorry she is not online right now, but will have to make it up later...lol.

 

Success

Success

Philippians 4:13 --- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens
me.

The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called
Failure, a
loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called
Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flats called Jobs.
But,
if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance,

insurance called Faith, a driver called Jesus, you will make it to a
place
called Success.

"Being defeated is often a      temporary condition.
    Giving up is what makes it permanent."
            ~Maryilyn vos Savant~

~Simple Me~

As you've all noticed...I have posted a few more information on things I have. And I'm not done yet! LOL :o) And....yep...I'm up!
I just want to say...."Wow!" Thank all of you for your comments! :o) As my "friends" know....I'm not out to hurt anyone, or make anyone mad or upset at me. :o) Thank you for your support! :o) I honestly feel that I have a purpose to post about what I have and go through to only help educate! :o) Nothing more. :o)
Well....I rested in bed watching more home movies again today! LOL ;o) I laughed and cried! I tell you...I would not ever change one thing in my life! I'm very proud of myself for the faith and strength I have! Which no one can ever take that away from me! :o) I'm so limited right now in my abilities, but I have life and God in my heart guiding me with His light! :o) I know that I'm on the right path...His path! And I haven't been happier! :o)
I was able to get a hold of my doctor at the pain clinic today....which it took me 2 1/2 weeks to do! Good Grief! Fianlly! I have an appoinment October 4! Really now...I honestly don't think he will give me injections this time since thay are not lasting as long as he assumed. I wonder what he will do to me this time! lol I do know that WOW those injections hurt pretty bad! Yikes! As he puts the needle in my muscle, he then has to keep turning the needle as he is injecting the medicine, in circles to make sure the whole muscle gets the medicine! Geesh! Soooo, I suppose it will be back to the drawing board! :o) Fine by me....just as long as it gives me some relief, more then I have now. :o) Now tomorrow....I'm going to try again to get a hold of my sleep specialist....I really need to let him know that the medicine he gave me is by far NOT helping! :o) I like to make sure that I at least give new medicines a few days to see if they will work or not! :o) And....it's not! :o) Oh well....I have full trust!
I recieve The Good News magazine and Joyce Myer in the mail, and it's very inspirational for me! Very uplifiting as well! :o) I highly recommend them both! :o)
I should go try once again to get some sleep! :o) Thank you all for you comments...and God bless you! And I know He has! :o) A great feeling! :o)

~RLS Syndrome~

What is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them for relief. Individuals affected with the disorder describe the sensations as burning, creeping, tugging, or like insects crawling inside the legs. The sensations range in severity from uncomfortable to irritating to painful.

Is there any treatment?

For those with mild to moderate symptoms, many physicians suggest certain lifestyle changes and activities to reduce or eliminate symptoms. Decreased use of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco may provide some relief. Physicians may suggest that certain individuals take supplements to correct deficiencies in iron, folate, and magnesium. Taking a hot bath, massaging the legs, or using a heating pad or ice pack can help relieve symptoms in some patients.

Physicians also may suggest a variety of medications to treat RLS, including dopaminergics, benzodiazepines (central nervous system depressants), opioids, and anticonvulsants. In 2005, ropinirole became the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically for the treatment of moderate to severe RLS.

What is the prognosis?

RLS is generally a life-long condition for which there is no cure. Symptoms may gradually worsen with age. Nevertheless, current therapies can control the disorder, minimizing symptoms and increasing periods of restful sleep. In addition, some patients have remissions, periods in which symptoms decrease or disappear for days, weeks, or months, although symptoms usually eventually reappear.

What research is being done?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and other institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct and support RLS research in laboratories at the NIH and at major medical institutions across the country. The goal of this research is to increase scientific understanding of RLS, find improved methods of diagnosing and treating the syndrome, and discover ways to prevent it.

Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.

Organizations

Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation 819 Second Street, SW Rochester, MN   55902-2985 rlsfoundation@rls.org http://www.rls.org Tel: 507-287-6465 Fax: 507-287-6312	National Sleep Foundation 1522 K Street NW Suite 500 Washington, DC   20005 nsf@sleepfoundation.org http://www.sleepfoundation.org Tel: 202-347-3471 Fax: 202-347-3472
WE MOVE (Worldwide Education & Awareness for Movement Disorders) 204 West 84th Street New York, NY   10024 wemove@wemove.org http://www.wemove.org Tel: 212-875-8312 Fax: 212-875-8389	National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) P.O. Box 1968 (55 Kenosia Avenue) Danbury, CT   06813-1968 orphan@rarediseases.org http://www.rarediseases.org Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673) Fax: 203-798-2291

~TMD~

Temporomandibular Disorders

From: The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

You may have read articles in newspapers and magazines about "TMD"—temporomandibular (jaw) disorders, also called "TMJ syndrome." Perhaps you have even felt pain sometimes in your jaw area, or maybe your dentist or physician has told you that you have TMD.

If you have questions about TMD, you are not alone. Researchers, too, are looking for answers to what causes TMD, what are the best treatments, and how can we prevent these disorders. The National Institute of Dental Research has written this pamphlet to share with you what we have learned about TMD.

TMD is not just one disorder, but a group of conditions, often painful, that affect the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint, or TMJ) and the muscles that control chewing. Although we don't know how many people actually have TMD, the disorders appear to affect about twice as many women as men.

The good news is that for most people, pain in the area of the jaw joint or muscles is not a signal that a serious problem is developing. Generally, discomfort from TMD is occasional and temporary, often occurring in cycles. The pain eventually goes away with little or no treatment. Only a small percentage of people with TMD pain develop significant, long-term symptoms.

What Is the Temporomandibular Joint?

The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw, called the mandible, to the temporal bone at the side of the head. If you place your fingers just in front of your ears and open your mouth, you can feel the joint on each side of your head. Because these joints are flexible, the jaw can move smoothly up and down and side to side, enabling us to talk, chew and yawn. Muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joint control its position and movement.

When we open our mouths, the rounded ends of the lower jaw, called condyles, glide along the joint socket of the temporal bone. The condyles slide back to their original position when we close our mouths. To keep this motion smooth, a soft disc lies between the condyle and the temporal bone. This disc absorbs shocks to the TMJ from chewing and other movements.

What Are Temporomandibular Disorders?

Today, researchers generally agree that temporomandibular disorders fall into three main categories:

myofascial pain, the most common form of TMD, which is discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function and the neck and shoulder muscles;

internal derangement of the joint, meaning a dislocated jaw or displaced disc, or injury to the condyle;

degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the jaw joint.

A person may have one or more of these conditions at the same time.

What Causes TMD?

We know that severe injury to the jaw or temporomandibular joint can cause TMD. A heavy blow, for example, can fracture the bones of the joint or damage the disc, disrupting the smooth motion of the jaw and causing pain or locking. Arthritis in the jaw joint may also result from injury. Other causes of TMD are less clear. Some suggest, for example, that a bad bite (malocclusion) can trigger TMD, but recent research disputes that view. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces and the use of headgear, has also been blamed for some forms of TMD, but studies now show that this is unlikely.

And there is no scientific proof that gum chewing causes clicking sounds in the jaw joint, or that jaw clicking leads to serious TMJ problems. In fact, jaw clicking is fairly common in the general population. If there are no other symptoms, such as pain or locking, jaw clicking usually does not need treatment.

Researchers believe that most people with clicking or popping in the jaw joint likely have a displaced disc—the soft, shock-absorbing disc is not in a normal position. As long as the displaced disc causes no pain or problems with jaw movement, no treatment is needed.

Some experts suggest that stress, either mental or physical, may cause or aggravate TMD. People with TMD often clench or grind their teeth at night, which can tire the jaw muscles and lead to pain. It is not clear, however, whether stress is the cause of the clenching/grinding and subsequent jaw pain, or the result of dealing with chronic jaw pain or dysfunction. Scientists are exploring how behavioral, psychological and physical factors may combine to cause TMD.

TMD Signs and Symptoms

A variety of symptomsmay be linked to TMD. Pain, particularly in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint, is the most common symptom. Other likely symptoms include:

limited movement or locking of the jaw,

radiating pain in the face, neck or shoulders,

painful clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth.

a sudden, major change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.

Symptoms such as headaches, earaches, dizziness and hearing problems may sometimes be related to TMD. It is important to keep in mind, however, that occasional discomfort in the jaw joint or chewing muscles is quite common and is generally not a cause for concern. Researchers are working to clarify TMD symptoms, with the goal of developing easier and better methods of diagnosis and improved treatment.

Diagnosis

Because the exact causes and symptoms of TMD are not clear, diagnosing these disorders can be confusing. At present, there is no widely accepted, standard test to correctly identify TMD. In about 90 percent of cases, however, the patient's description of symptoms, combined with a simple physical examination of the face and jaw, provides information useful for diagnosing these disorders.

The examination includes feeling the jaw joints and chewing muscles for pain or tenderness; listening for clicking, popping or grating sounds during jaw movement; and examining for limited motion or locking of the jaw while opening or closing the mouth. Checking the patient's dental and medical history is very important. In most cases, this evaluation provides enough information to locate the pain or jaw problem, to make a diagnosis, and to start treatment to relieve pain or jaw locking.

Regular dental X-rays and TMJ x-rays (transcranial radiographs) are not generally useful in diagnosing TMD. Other x-ray techniques, such as arthrography (joint x-rays using dye); magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which pictures the soft tissues; and tomography (a special type of x-ray), are usually needed only when the practitioner strongly suspects a condition such as arthritis or when significant pain persists over time and symptoms do not improve with treatment. Before undergoing any expensive diagnostic test, it is always wise to get another independent opinion.

One of the most important areas of TMD research is developing clear guidelines for diagnosing these disorders. Once scientists agree on what these guidelines should be, it will be easier for practitioners to correctly identify temporomandibular disorders and to decide what treatment, if any, is needed.

Treatment

The key words to keep in mind about TMD treatment are "conservative" and "reversible." Conservative treatments are as simple as possible and are used most often because most patients do not have severe, degenerative TMD. Conservative treatments do not invade the tissues of the face, jaw or joint. Reversible treatments do not cause permanent, or irreversible, changes in the structure or position of the jaw or teeth.

Because most TMD problems are temporary and do not get worse, simple treatment is all that is usually needed to relieve discomfort. Self-care practices, for example, eating soft foods, applying heat or ice packs, and avoiding extreme jaw movements (such as wide yawning, loud singing and gum chewing) are useful in easing TMD symptoms. Learning special techniques for relaxing and reducing stress may also help patients deal with pain that often comes with TMD problems.

Other conservative, reversible treatments include physical therapy you can do at home, which focuses on gentle muscle stretching and relaxing exercises, and short-term use of muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory drugs.

The health care provider may recommend an oral appliance, also called a splint or bite plate, which is a plastic guard that fits over the upper or lower teeth. The splint can help reduce clenching or grinding, which eases muscle tension. An oral splint should be used only for a short time and should not cause permanent changes in the bite. If a splint causes or increases pain, stop using it and see your practitioner.

The conservative, reversible treatments described are useful for temporary relief of pain and muscle spasm—they are not "cures" for TMD. If symptoms continue over time or come back often, check with your doctor.

There are other types of TMD treatment, such as surgery or injections, that invade the tissues. Some involve injecting pain relieving medications into painful muscle sites, often called "trigger points." Researchers are studying this type of treatment to see if these injections are helpful over time.

Surgical treatments are often irreversible and should be avoided where possible. When such treatment is necessary, be sure to have the doctor explain to you, in words you canunderstand, the reason for the treatment, the risks involved, and other types of treatment that may be available.

Scientists have learned that certain irreversible treatments, such as surgical replacement of jaw joints with artificial implants, may cause severe pain and permanent jaw damage. Some of these devices may fail to function properly or may break apart in the jaw over time. Before undergoing any surgery on the jaw joint, it is very important to get other independent opinions.

The Food and Drug Administration has recalled artificial jaw joint implants made by Vitek, Inc., which may break down and damage surrounding bone. If you have these implants, see your oral surgeon or dentist. If there are problems with your implants, the devices may need to be removed. Persons who have Vitek implants should call Medic Alert at 1-800-554-5297 for more information.

 

Heart Failure

Medical Encyclopedia: Heart failure

URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000158.htm

Alternative names   

CHF; Congestive heart failure

Definition   

Heart failure, also called congestive heart failure, is a life-threatening condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors   

Heart failure is almost always a chronic, long-term condition, although it can sometimes develop suddenly. This condition may affect the right side, the left side, or both sides of the heart.

As the heart's pumping action is lost, blood may back up into other areas of the body, including:

• The liver
  
• The gastrointestinal tract and extremities (right-sided heart failure)
  
• The lungs (left-sided heart failure)

With heart failure, many organs don't receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which damages them and reduces their ability to function properly. Most areas of the body can be affected when both sides of the heart fail.

The most common causes of heart failure are hypertension (high blood pressure) and coronary artery disease (for example, you have had a heart attack). Other structural or functional causes of heart failure include the following:

• Valvular heart disease
  
• Congenital heart disease
  
• Dilated cardiomyopathy
  
• Lung disease
  
• Heart tumor

Heart failure becomes more common with advancing age. You are also at increased risk for developing heart failure if you are overweight, have diabetes, smoke cigarettes, abuse alcohol, or use cocaine.

Symptoms   

• Weight gain
  
• Swelling of feet and ankles
  
• Swelling of the abdomen
  
• Pronounced neck veins
  
• Loss of appetite, indigestion
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
• Shortness of breath with activity, or after lying down for a while
  
• Difficulty sleeping
  
• Fatigue, weakness, faintness
  
• Sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations)
  
• Irregular or rapid pulse
  
• Decreased alertness or concentration
  
• Cough
  
• Decreased urine production
  
• Need to urinate at night

Infants may sweat during feeding (or other exertion).

Some patients with heart failure have no symptoms. In these people, the symptoms may develop only with these conditions:

• Infections with high fever
  
• Anemia
  
• Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
  
• Hyperthyroidism
  
• Kidney disease

Signs and tests   

A physical examination may reveal either an irregular or a rapid heartbeat. There may be distended neck veins, enlarged liver, swelling of the limbs (peripheral edema), and signs of fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion).

Listening to the chest with a stethoscope may reveal lung crackles or abnormal heart sounds. Blood pressure may be normal, high, or low.

An enlargement of the heart or decreased heart functioning may be seen on several tests, including the following:

• Echocardiogram
  
• Heart catheterization
  
• Chest x-ray
  
• Chest CT scan
  
• Cardiac MRI
  
• Nuclear heart scans (MUGA, RNV)
  
• ECG, which may also show arrhythmias

This disease may also alter the following test results:

• CBC
  
• Blood chemistry
  
• Serum sodium
  
• BUN
  
• Creatinine
  
• Liver function tests
  
• Serum uric acid
  
• Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP)
  
• Urinalysis
  
• Urinary sodium
  
• Creatinine clearance
  
• Swan-Ganz measurements (right heart catheterization)

If excessive fluid has accumulated around the sac surrounding the heart (pericardium), you may need to have the fluid removed through a pericardiocentesis.

Treatment   

If you have heart failure, your doctor will monitor you closely. This means having follow up appointments at least every 3 to 6 months, figuring out any underlying cause and treating it, and periodic testing of your heart function. For example, an ultrasound of your heart, called an echocardiogram, will be done once in awhile to give an estimate of how well your heart is pumping blood with each stroke or beat.

It is also your responsibility to carefully monitor yourself and help manage your condition. One important way to do this is to track your weight on a daily basis. Weight gain can be a sign that you are retaining fluid and that the pump function of your heart is worsening. Make sure you weigh yourself at the same time each day and on the same scale, with little to no clothes on.

Other important measures include:

• Take your medications as directed. Carry a list of medications with you wherever you go.
  
• Limit salt and sodium intake.
  
• Don’t smoke.
  
• Stay active. For example, walk or ride a stationary bicycle. Your doctor can provide a safe and effective exercise plan based on your degree of heart failure and how well you do on tests that check the strength and function of your heart. DO NOT exercise on days that your weight has gone up from fluid retention or you are not feeling well.
  
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
  
• Get enough rest, including after exercise, eating, or other activities. This allows your heart to rest as well. Keep your feet elevated to decrease swelling.

Here are some tips to lower your salt and sodium intake:

• Look for foods that are labeled “low-sodium,” “sodium-free,” “no salt added,” or “unsalted.” Check the total sodium content on food labels. Be especially careful of canned, packaged, and frozen foods. A nutritionist can teach you how to understand these labels.
  
• Don’t cook with salt or add salt to what you are eating. Try pepper, garlic, lemon, or other spices for flavor instead. Be careful of packaged spice blends as these often contain salt or salt products (like monosodium glutamate, MSG).
  
• Avoid foods that are naturally high in sodium, like anchovies, meats (particularly cured meats, bacon, hot dogs, sausage, bologna, ham, and salami), nuts, olives, pickles, sauerkraut, soy and Worcestershire sauces, tomato and other vegetable juices, and cheese.
  
• Take care when eating out. Stick to steamed, grilled, baked, boiled, and broiled foods with no added salt, sauce, or cheese.
  
• Use oil and vinegar, rather than bottled dressings, on salads.
  
• Eat fresh fruit or sorbet when having dessert.

Your doctor may consider prescribing the following medications:

• ACE inhibitors such as captopril and enalapril -- these medications open up blood vessels and decrease the work load of the heart. These have become an important part of treatment
  
• Diuretics -- there are several types including thiazide, loop diuretics, and potassium-sparing diuretics; they help rid your body of fluid and sodium.
  
• Digitalis glycosides -- increase the ability of the heart muscle to contract properly; prevent heart rhythm disturbances
  
• Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) such as losartan and candesartan which, like ACE inhibitors, reduce the workload of the heart; this class of drug is especially important for those who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors
  
• Beta-blockers -- this is particularly useful for those with a history of coronary artery disease

Sometimes, hospitalization is required for acute CHF. Hospitalized patients may receive oxygen and intravenousmedications such as vasodilators and diuretics. Medicines such as nesiritide (Natrecor) help dilate blood vessels and may also be helpful.

Medicines called inotropic agents help improve the heart's ability to pump blood. Such drugs include dobutamine and milrinone. They are given by IV.

Unstable patients receiving several medications usually need also hemodynamic monitoring with Swan-Ganz catheterization.

Severe cases of CHF require more drastic measures. For example, excess fluid can be removed through dialysis, and circulatory assistance can be provided by implanted devices such as the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and the left ventricular assist device (LVAD). These devices can be life-saving, but they are not permanent solutions. Patients who become dependent on circulatory support will need a heart transplant.

A number of studies have shown that heart failure symptoms can be improved with a special type of pacemaker. It paces both the right and left sides of heart. This is referred to as biventricular pacing or cardiac resynchronization therapy. Ask your provider if you are a candidate for this.

Expectations (prognosis)   

Heart failure is a serious disorder that carries a reduced life expectancy. Many forms of heart failure can be controlled with medication, lifestyle change, and correction of any underlying disorder. Heart failure is usually a chronic illness, and it may worsen with infection or other physical stressors.

Complications   

• Pulmonary edema
  
• Total failure of the heart to function (circulatory collapse)
  
• Arrhythmias including lethal arrhythmias

Possible side effects of medications include:

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  
• Light-headedness and fainting
  
• Lupus reaction
  
• Headache
  
• Gastrointestinal upset (such as nausea, heartburn, diarrhea)
  
• Cough
  
• Muscle cramps
  
• Digitalis toxicity

Calling your health care provider   

Call your health care provider if weakness, increased cough or sputum production, sudden weight gain or swelling, or other new or unexplained symptoms develop.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you experience severe crushing chest pain, fainting, or rapid and irregular heartbeat (particularly if other symptoms accompany a rapid and irregular heartbeat).

Prevention   

Follow your health care provider's recommendations for treatment of conditions that may cause congestive heart failure. These recommendations may include:

• Treat your high blood pressure with diet, exercise, and medication if necessary.
  
• Treat your high cholesterol with diet, exercise, and medication if necessary.
  
• DO NOT smoke
  
• Avoid alcohol use
  
• Take an ACE inhibitor if you have heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
  
• Treat arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and keep your heart rate under control.
  
• Treat an underlying thyroid disorder.

Also, consider the following lifestyle habits, especially if you have a strong family history of CHF:

• Reduce salt intake.
  
• Exercise

Update Date: 7/17/2006

***True love***

Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.

Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.

Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.

He had no army, yet kings feared Him.

He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.

He committed no crime, but they crucified Him.

He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.

Feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us.

In the Bible, Jesus says ."If you deny me

before man, I will deny you before my Father in Heaven."

~Too cute~

http://www.riversongs.com/Flas/today.swf

Speech and voice problems with ms

Speech and voice problems may be one of the daily challenges you face with multiple sclerosis. If any of the five systems necessary to speech and voice production are hindered due to lesions on your brain then you could experience:
Harsh voice Scratchy voice Slurred speech Tremor in pitch Variable breath control

In Living With Multiple Sclerosis, Catanzaro and Kraft give a comprehensive explanation of speech and voice issues:

"The most common cause of speech problems in MS is due to an impairment in the muscles that are needed for speaking. Speech may become slurred and difficult to understand. Speech therapists use a variety of techniques that may improve communication, although the problem cannot be cured.

Another problem arises when chest muscles are weak and the person's voice is soft because he cannot get enough air behind it. Personal amplifier systems are inexpensive and work well to overcome this problem"

Some of the treatments that a speech/language pathologist or an ENT (ear, nose, and throat physician) might recommend are:

Monitoring your own voice with a recorder and practicing vocalization Exercising the body parts necessary to speak, including lips, tongue, soft palate, vocal chords, and diaphragm Using a communication device (e.g., personal amplifier)

Updated: February 11, 2004

~In my opinion~

Firstly...I was able to get 3 hours of sleep this morning! YAY! :o) I was up all night watching home movies! Now that was fun to see and hear my children so young! So cute! :o)
I would like to say..."again"...if you do not like what I right in my journal, then please do us both a favor and stop reading it...ok? Because what I write about is all in my own opinion...thats it. I'm confident enough to keep posting what I do, and write about what I write! No one can take my away anything from me without "my" permission....I'm strong, and I have a very bright light that shines from my heart! :o)
I...once again, don't have much planned to do today. I am going to get ahold of the pain clinic! I have to for insurance purposes, plus to see what else the doctor there will do to help with my pain. Yes...I said it, pain! I'm in pain! The lack of sleep is really playing havic with this body I'm using. :o)
I did find the video that I told someone that I did have of me in one of my seizures. It was taped only for the neurologists purpose. Plus...I don't know what goes on while having one myself, and it was intersting for me to watch. But...it's on a VHS tape and I don't know how to upload it onto the computer. :o)
I put information on my journal to educate others in what I have.....what "I" deal with and go through. And if I can help someone else...thats what counts! :o) When I say the word "Ignorance" I am not at all saying that people that read this journal is an ignorant person! What matters to me is that at least "I" know what I mean, and so do my regular readers. I honestly am getting worse....in so many different ways of all of my illnesses and I'm not at all looking for my ego to be stroked...life is too short for that game! Lisa does not play games anymore! Yes....I'm dying...but, with this time that I still have on God's green earth, I choose to educate people! And in hopes to help others when I'm gone. I know what I'm doing is right! :o)
I'd love more then anything to get to meet all of my friends here! I'd love that! :o)
Since I "know" the true me, and some choose "not" to get to know me....lol...I honestly don't care! You don't and can't hurt me because of that! lol :o) So...write what you want to about me...but it would be nice to see that it is the truth! But...lol...again, I don't care, it's "your" opinion. You can't knock me down! :o)
Thank you all for your comments, and God bless you!

Types of seizures

Please click here for information on different seizures. I seem to bounce back and forth from Myoclonic to Tonic-clonic.

Overcoming ALL fears

Overcoming All Fears

By Dr. Robert Schuller

"God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." - 2 Timothy 1:7

When you and I have yielded ourselves to God, and He has wiped the slate clean, does this mean we will never face fear again? Of course not, but God's promise to the believer is that we can overcome all fear through the power of His love and faith.

Where does fear come from? Not from God! But from the source of all universal negativity - the devil. Philosophically we refer to this source as evil.

Neurotic fear that destroys your creative and constructive planning and productivity does not come from God! "God has not given us a spirit of fear" (2 Tim. 1:7); rather God empowers you with a healthy mind.

How do you overcome fear that encircles you? Read today's Bible verse over again and again. Draw close to God in prayer. Ask Him to possess you with His Spirit of confidence, courage, conviction!

Under the leadership and lordship of Jesus Christ, command that negative thought, that destructive emotion, to get out of your life!

Call upon almighty God to fill your mind and mood with healthy thoughts, loving emotions, and powerful motivations. God will answer your prayer! You will overcome your fears! For God is more powerful than any negative thought.

Thank You, Father, for being so good to me. Thank You for coming into my life to remove all my fear. Thank You for filling me with this kind of faith.

God wanted me to tell you

GOD WANTED ME TO TELL YOU
It shall be well with you this year. No matter how much your enemies try
this year, they will not succeed. You have been destined to make it and you
shall surely achieve all your goals this year. For the remaining months of
the year, All your agonies will be diverted and victory and prosperity will
be incoming in abundance. Today God has confirmed the end of your sufferings
sorrows and pains because HE that sits on the throne has remembered you. He
has taken away the hardships and given you JOY. He will never let you down.
I knocked at heaven' s door this morning, God asked me... My child! what can
I do for you? And I said, Father, please protect and bless the person
reading this message...

"Being defeated is often a temporary condition.
Giving up is what makes it permanent."
~Maryilyn vos Savant~

 

~*****~

Some "eye candy!" :o) I had been messing around with paint! lol I've made my own award...lol! :o)

I couldn't draw a straight line if I had a ruler! lol :o)

...........and so on!

Honestly, I'm really not trying to break some kind of world record of how much sleep you are lacking! :o) It's just working out that way! lol
I posted more information on something else I have. I was diagnosed with epilepsy when I was 6 months old. Soooo...that one I'm kind of used to. I usually will get an "aura" before I have a seizure. The last two weeks, I had 3 seizures for some reason....I mean that I don't usually have them so close like that! Thankfully at a few of the times, my children were here. :o) I am also looking up the things that I have with my heart, and nervous system as well. I really feel like I need to get as much information out there so I can try at least to educate people and to have no more ignorance towards "unseen" medical conditions. :o) I do hope it works and I can help someone. :o)
As you can see....yes, I'm still awake! Honestly, I don't know what to do about this! My sleep specialist isn't doing anything about this. In my opinion, I feel that what I'm going through is not at all right! It has put me in such pain! ......I'm still on the wave riding it out! :o)
Well...I want to thank you all for your comments that really help me through my days! :o) God bless all of you! :o)

Epilepsy

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is an ongoing disorder of the nervous system that produces sudden, intense bursts of electrical activity in the brain. These bursts cause seizures, which may briefly affect muscle control, movement, speech, vision and awareness. People with epilepsy have repeated seizures, usually without warning and for no clear reason. If epilepsy is not treated, seizures may occur throughout a person's life and in some cases become more severe and more frequent over time.

Not all seizures are epileptic. Some are caused by injury, illness or other medical conditions. In these cases, seizures end when the condition improves or goes away.

There are two types of epileptic seizures. Partial seizures begin in a specific location in the brain and may affect only awareness or only one side or part of the body. Generalized seizures begin over the entire surface of the brain and may affect the entire body. Partial and generalized seizures are often treated differently.

Many types of epilepsy can cause partial or generalized seizures. Classifying those types is difficult because they can have more than one cause and can affect individuals in different ways.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although epilepsy is sometimes the result of another condition, many cases have no known cause. Epilepsy most often begins in childhood or after the age of 60, but it can develop at any age. Several conditions can damage the brain and cause epilepsy, including a serious head injury, stroke, hardening of the arteries in the brain, brain tumor, brain infection (meningitis or encephalitis) and Alzheimer's disease.

Such damage can affect the brain's electrical system, causing the type of electrical activity that triggers seizures. Tumors, scar tissue from injury or disease or abnormal brain development may damage a specific area of the brain and cause partial seizures.

In seven out of 10 cases, there is no known cause of epilepsy. Children are more likely than adults to develop the disorder from an unknown cause. A family history of epilepsy may sometimes be a factor, although experts are not sure how the disease is passed from parent to child.

Diagnosis

Making an accurate diagnosis is vital in planning the correct treatment to control seizures. Misdiagnosis followed by the wrong treatment is one reason why people sometimes keep having seizures. Inappropriate treatment also results in unnecessary side effects from medication. However, diagnosing epilepsy can be difficult, and the doctor needs to determine:

• If the event was actually a seizure or something else. Several conditions can appear to be seizures but are not (e.g., breath-holding spells, migraine headaches, muscle twitches or tics, sleep disorders, or psychogenic seizures). Taking antiepileptic medications to treat events that are not seizures can put the patient at needless risk.
  
• The type of seizure and if it was caused by epilepsy
  
• A detailed medical history, which often provides the best clues about epileptic seizures. What happens just before a seizure, during a seizure and right after a seizure can help the doctor make a diagnosis. Taking a medical history can help rule out non-epilepsy conditions that might have caused the seizures.

Routine lab tests may be done to check for other medical conditions that might be causing the seizures. These include:

• Complete blood counts (CBC) to check for infection, abnormal electrolyte levels (such as magnesium, potassium and calcium), signs of kidney or liver malfunction and other common problems
  
• A lumbar puncture (sometimes called a spinal tap) to rule out infections, such as meningitis and encephalitis
  
• Toxicology screenings for poisons, illegal drugs or other toxins

The most useful test in confirming epilepsy is electroencephalalography (EEG). An EEG records electrical activity in the brain through wires taped to the patient's head and hooked to a computer. The computer records the brain's electrical patterns. If the patient has epilepsy, the EEG may show abnormal spikes or waves in electrical activity patterns. Different types of epilepsy cause different patterns.

Video and EEG monitoring can be performed at the same time to record seizures on videotape and computer so that the doctor can see what happens just before, during and right after a seizure. The video records what the body is doing, and the EEG records the electrical activity occurring in the brain. Such monitoring may be used prior to surgery or when repeated EEG tests have not provided enough clues as to the type of seizure or to diagnose psychogenic seizures.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans may be used to evaluate the cause and the location of a possible source of epilepsy within the brain. The scans can reveal scar tissue, tumors or structural problems in the brain. These tests also may be used before epilepsy surgery to pinpoint the exact location of a problem in the brain.

Treatment

For most people with epilepsy, treatment can reduce or prevent seizures and allow many patients to remain free of seizures for the rest of their lives.

Uncontrolled seizures can have a big impact on lifestyle, restricting the individual from driving and limiting their work and leisure time activities. Although seizures themselves usually are not physically harmful to people who have epilepsy, they carry a risk of injury and death. The risk is greater for people who have many seizures, depending on the type of seizure they have. Unexpected seizures can cause falls, drowning or other accidents, and a lengthy seizure condition (status epilepticus) can lead to coma or death. By reducing or stopping seizures, treatment may greatly improve the patient's quality of life and safety.

A correct diagnosis is vital to effectively treat epilepsy. Decisions about treatment are based first on the type of epilepsy and the kinds of seizures that occur. Treatment that controls one kind of seizure may have no effect on other kinds of seizures. Age, health and lifestyle are also important factors. Treatment options include:

• Medication. This is the first and most common approach to treating epilepsy. Antiepileptic medications do not cure epilepsy, but they help prevent seizures in well over half of the people who take them.
  
• Brain surgery. Some patients with partial epilepsy do not respond to medication but have great success with surgery. Surgery is highly effective in treating many pediatric epilepsies that have not responded to other medical therapies.
  
• Vagus nerve stimulator. This device is used with medication or surgery to reduce seizures.
  
• Ketogenic diet. A high-fat diet has been used with some success to treat people (especially children) who have severe, uncontrolled seizures. However, some doctors may not support its use.

Status epilepticus is a prolonged seizure or cluster of seizures that requires emergency treatment whether or not the individual has epilepsy. A seizure or cluster of seizures that goes on for more than 20 to 30 minutes during which the person does not wake up can cause brain damage. Treatment with antiepileptic medications needs to be started immediately for any seizure lasting more than five minutes. Medication used to end the seizure is given through an IV (intravenously) so that it takes effect more quickly. If IV medication is not available, medication may be given rectally or as a shot in the muscle.

~Useless info on me~

~Useless info on me~

I love these things, I know many get sick of them, but I don't, so here goes.........

1. If you lived in a fishbowl would you rather have a pirate ship or a castle and why?
Castle....because I'd be "Queen of the fish bowl!"

 

2.Which 3 things would you have to have if you were shipwrecked on a remote island?
Wisdom, Awareness, and my mind.

 

3.If you could kill anyone you want with no consequences who would it be and why?
No Way! n/a!

 

4.The world is ending?why are you doing this survey?no really, what would you do on this your last night of living? The same as I always do. Nothing any different! :o)

 

5.You have been chosen to repopulate the planet, pick 5 of your friends and why?
n/a...lol....I'm hush on this one because it would embarras me and the ones I pick! :o)

 

6.How many days do you let your dirty dishes sit in the sink?
None.

 

7.$10,000 for 10,000 days without alcohol. Yes or No? Yes!

 

8.So the verdict is in?Would you spend a night with Michael at the Neverland Ranch?
NOt enough money in this world.........NO way! eeegaads!

 

9.You've had a temporary sex change, and are very well endowed, what do you do for the one day you're the opposite sex? Explore! :o)

 

10.Would you rather be a passenger on the Titanic or the Hindenburg and why?
Hindenburg, because it caught fire, and went faster then the Titanic!

.

11.You've just been diagnosed with a mental illness, what is it?
pseudo-insane! :o)

 

12. You are a newly turned vampire and you have to feed, you're in a room with your mother, significant other and your best friend, who gets sucked dry?

Significant other! mmmm! :o)

13.If you could have lived as any dead rock star who would it be and why?

Janas Joplin! Loved her voice!

snagged from; http://journals.aol.com/canyonsun04/TheLifeChaosofMotherhood/

~ASAP~

Good morning to all of my J-Land friends! :o) It's finally the weekend! :o)
There were a few more things that I had said that I would search and post; more of what I deal with...in hopes that the more information that I can get out there, there is no excuse then for ignorance...only understanding of it. :o) I will later on this afternoon. :o)
I was up once again last night. But, however, I was able to get 3 1/2 hours of sleep! YAY! :o) That helps so much! I'm still in a considerable amount of pain though. It's back to having to use my cane and walker, and not being able to stand up straight. But again....just have to ride this wave out as well! :o) ......This too shall pass! I truly want to thank "all" of my friends for being there for me! :o) Through this trial; I now know who my true friends really are! It really goes to show you their true colors! Yikes...not a pretty sight!
I'm hoping that I'll be able to rest/sleep....I'm close to the worlds record of no sleep! LOL Yes...I did look it up! LOL But the man didn't get in a few hours of sleep like I have. I'm very thankful for those hours! :o)
My daughter had a class today, and my husband and I watch our grandson. :o) And oh boy was he wired up this morning! lol My husband was able to lay him down for a nap! Whew...I wish I had his energy! :o) He makes me laugh, and that helps as well to get through these painful days! :o)
I honestly am not able to do very much at all today. I know I'll have to ask someone to help me with a shower. ggrrr! I don't like to do that, I sometimes feel that I'm loosing my "dignity" as well. I am thankful that I do have a very supportive family. ;o)
I truly want to thank all of my friends for your comments! It means so much to me. God bless all of you! :o)

ASAP!

I know God doesn't like for people to put others down. God is all about love and acceptance and healing and giving and caring. Any one who puts others down in anyway is not coming from God, nobody but the devil trying to use people to hurt me. He's slick ,he knows just the right buttons to push to get to others and uses things I love ,like my own journal to make me feel better to write in.We,being human are gonna hurt when someone attacks us.This hurt will pass, and something better is gonna come. God can take a bad situation and turn it into something good.What goes around comes around. God doesn't stand for people pretending to be for him and he doesn't like people hurting his children so I'll just say a prayer for her, and God will handle it.I'm going through alot and I dont need this stress, especially from some stranger on the computer.God is in our hearts, and people who shove church down your throat, won't get very far. If I want to go to church, I will. If I want to sit at home and read my bible and pray alone,I will. God knows what's in my heart, that's all that matters.There is enough hate in the world to push and pick on others. I truly hope that this will be over. I don't feel that I need or have to prove anything to anyone. My light shines very bright. It's not my fault that I enjoyed someone elses comment and wanted to display it on my journal. I felt it was very nice. And I still agree with what he had to say. I have prayed for strength to understand and help. And I will not let anyone ever again, put words in my mouth. From lack of sleep, which gives me pain more then anyone would know, and getting such flack from a simple entry in my journal that I would never in a million years think would happen...remember the next time, don't be so pushy....you get more with hunny! You can not hurt me ever again! I'm in the Lords Army! For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Mark 8:36 God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Galatians 6:7 Dear Heavenly Father, I've asked you to forgive me. And when I pray, I believe that you hear me and forgive. Help me to follow your example and forgive the person who has hurt me so badly today. I'm afraid of being volnerable by forgiving. I'm afraid of being hurt again. But with your help, I can forgive and stand by me. In the blood of Jesus; Amen.
Thank you all for your comments and emails! :o) God bless all of you! :o)

~A public apology~

NO.....I did not say NOT to go to church!
NO....I was NOT bashing churches!
NO....I did NOT say I "thought" I would be treated poorly!
NO...I do NOT "twist" words around to "justify!"
NO....I do NOT use verses to my advantage!

Matthew 18:20

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

This is the verse I was referring to! I do NOT make excuses for "anything" that I say, do, and live! What you see, is what you get! I DO read my Bible, and like I said before, "everyone" understands it in many different ways! Maybe thats why there are so many different religions? Which in my opinion....  <------notice opinion....is something GREAT to have! Freedom of "all" religions!
If you don't like what I write....clicky on the BIG RED X!
There are times when I have problems with coming up with wording things properly....very sorry that the fibro does that! Again....didn't twist my words, happens to be the TRUTH!

~No subject~

I recieved this, this morning....and I can't agree with them more!

Great Job: I'm glad it is you with the desision making and not I. We all need a bit of spiritual uplifting every once in awhile. I'm more inspired by going to a rest home for a visit than to church because the patrens seem to show me what life is all about and have such faith but in the church they seem to show off and not be sincere. I'm a paralyzed Vet in a Electric Wheel Chair and have many of the same health problems as you and it was nice to get your oppinion and thoughts about life and all we may (or may not) endear. I wish everyone a great day and may God Bless Everyone

Now....I'll probably get comments and emails...but I rightly don't care! This is from someone that, as stated above, has illnesses like I do. I don't know how many countles times that I've told a few people that I'd rather not go to a church to worship, when I can do it here, or a place like that, because you know then that it is more spiritually uplifting! It even says it in the Bible that you don't have to go to a church to worship God....look around, God is everywhere! When I tell someone that I'm going to pray for them, I do. I write down the names, and put it in my prayer box. I keep it on my night stand.

Said prayer box.
Off to another subject.... I did get some sleep last night! YAY! :o) My whole entire body is in soooo much pain right now! I just want to scream! (I have) At my doctors appointment yesterday...I didn't write about a few things that transpired! This was my new doctor I seen.....I can't stand him already! He reminds me too much of the doctor that let me go in this pain for many years until I was "finally" diagnosed! I left there red hot mad! As soon as I'm able to, I'm looking for another doctor! I will NOT allow another human treat me in that manner EVER again! Animals are treated better!!!! And I'm not joking! If I were to report the way I was treated yesterday to the Humane Society...the doctor would end up behind bars! But...NO...It's just a plain ole` person! Somethings just not right about this! And I've tried all I could yesterday, and so did my mom....all I can do is look for someone new. And I am! Question; How do you think you would look when you haven't had very much sleep...say around the amount I did? Hmmm? (a reason for that question)
Moving on......I've been praying all morning for help with my health.

.....it has been prayer time for Lisa! Non stop! I know God will help me find a new doctor. I'm to the point right this very second....how much more of this "no sleep" marathon can I take and still be sane?! Not much longer!
Moving on.....I know this is not one of my normal entry's.....I'm just soooo tired, I can't think straight! I've tried all of the remedies that were given to me by everyone that was so nice enough to help. :o) ~still waiting on the Jack though :o)~ I do however want to thank all of you for putting up with me through all of this. :o)
I'm going to go for now....probable do somemore research to put on here to educate. :o) Ignorance is so unbecoming!
Thank you for your support and emails and God bless all of you!