Wellness

[GoneButNotForgotten]

3 years ago I was prescribed steroid for autoimmune hepatitis. Had a check up on Monday and found out that, due to having developed a mild case of cirrohsis, steroids don't work any more and I'm being tapered off.

I did some research and discovered steroids are probably why I've had a backache for 3 years, a 24-hour-a-day headache, and a few other symptoms. I'm so mad that I had to find this out for myself and my stupid doctors never said, oh let's take a look at your meds...WOW steroids for 3 years, no wonder you feel so terrible.

Didn't these people go to medical school or something? (and we all know the old joke about what do you call the person who graduates last in their medical school class? "doctor!" hahaha I think mine must have been one of them)

Just venting...it actually took a specialist to take me off steroids

[wagirl]

@GoneButNotForgotten ---so sorry about all this for you but I can relate--had drug induced side effects from Crestor that led to surgery on both my Achilles tendons that was COMPLETELY  un needed. this was in 2006-7. I didn't know or even thought about that possibility----could have stopped that drug and waited until the effects went away and saved myself alot of pain and money!!!! I know how mad you are---just file this away and now you KNOW ----that you must take all this past history into anything that happens in the future---so sorry again!!!

[Still Raining]

How frustrating.

[SilleeMee]

I have an AI disorder, too. Although conventional treatment often includes them, my rheumy has never put me on steroids and says their long-term effects are not good for me.  I believe her.

[BirkiLady]

This is painful to read. If you had asked questions, done your own research, or had a good pharmacist it could have been avoided. Your physician didn't force you to take those meds; you apparently ageed to them during an office consultation.

Each medication I receive (and each month), my pharmacy provides a 2-3 page print-out of the possible side effects of the drug. Any changes are added to that print-out so I check it each time I pick up my meds. 

It's a nuisance, but my physicians don't have the time to review all meds with each of their patients. I'm given the information on a monthly basis and feel it's my own responsibility to keep up-to-date. 

I also read a lot about the various health problems I have and if I suspect any new advances in treatment, those will be questions for my physician(s) during my next office visit. Usually I remain very happy with the treatment WE (both my physician and I) have chosen. I'm very much a part of my own health-care decisions and would never blame any physician for making the decisions by himself/herself. I ask questions and agree to all treatment or medications. 

Doesn't your pharmacy provide you with a print-out of the side-effects and other pertinent information? Please take control of your own health care in the future. Those decisions are YOURS. There isn't a physician who is forcing you to take any medication. Read and educate yourself for your own safety. 

Glad you are off steriods and going to a specialist. Most of us with autoimmune diseases see specialists for treatment and regular lab work. Best wishes on your health care. 

[Love my grandkids]

Deleted by me. I did @ to the wrong person.

[Sooner]

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@Love my grandkids wrote:

@Still Raining Gee could you be any snottier? Nope.

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@Love my grandkids I agree.  Uncalled for remark from that poster.

[NicksmomESQ]

  I have very little use for doctors these days. The bad ones make it difficult for the good ones to shine.

  I find myself constantly doing my own research & calling out doctors for their bad judgement.Unfortunately, IMO to many of them are businessmen first & doctors second.

 @GoneButNotForgotten  I wish you the best of health💐

[Foxxee]

Sorry to hear about all the problems you are having.

Over the years, I found patients are too trusting of their doctors including veterinarians, but this is normal.  They often are held in reverence by the public.  

I agree with another poster, research every disorder and the side effects of every drug prescribed.  The internet has some very good websites where treatment and drugs are discussed.  

Often doctors follow a protocol.  Prescribe this and that for this condition for everyone, but it might not be good for you long term.  Steroids are great short term, but not good at all long term.  

A nurse said to me one time.  "Some doctors get all A's in medical school.  Some get C's.  All become doctors." 

Doctors don't like to be questioned, but we must.  Patients need to take an active role in their treatment.  I do it all the time.  

Here's hoping you begin feeling better.  

[qbetzforreal]

Metabolic steroids are a magic bullet but the side effects are awful.  A lot of medications taken over a period time can disrupt kidney and liver function.  Which is why funtion tests are conducted periodically while on the medications.

Specialists usually catch the problems that general practioners miss.  @GoneButNotForgotten -Sorry your Drs dropped the ball.  What happened to you, happens to others more often than not.