And it gets better! LoL.
I've managed to now break my foot. A little bone on the bottom of the foot, below the big toe, called the selanoid. Not sure how, but apparantly that's why my foot has been hurting for the past 6 months. Because it's been so long it's possible it won't heal on it's own, which would require more surgery. Ugh. We'll see how it goes, it just figures because I was working out and have to put it on hold. :( Started taking a vitamin pack from GNC and have been feeling SO MUCH BETTER though! Highly recommend it.
I know this is short, and I apologize. It's late and I'm beat; I didn't sleep very well last night at ALL.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Menopausal weight gain SUCKS.
Well I've found good news and bad news.
Turns out my hormone therapy ISN'T steroidal. Yay! That makes me happy. But why in the HELL have I gained 20 lbs?
Turns out it's the menopause itself. Here's the skinny on what I've found...
When in menopause/periomenopause, the body stops/decreases production of certain hormones. These are the ones affected by surgical menopause specifically.
Estrogen: Responsible for causing monthly ovulation. As the body produces less, it looks for other places to get it. Fat cells can produce estrogen, so the body works harder to convert calories into fat to increase the estrogen supply.
Progesterone: More a cause of water weight gain.
Androgen: Responsible for sending the weight directly to the midsection.
The best things to do, according to my research, are alter my diet, exercise exercise exercise, get plenty of sleep, and reduce my caffeine intake. (That last one is going to be a toughie, I LOVE my sweet tea!).
I feel better knowing that I have SOME semblance of control over the situation, but devastated that at the same time, I don't. I'd thought it was something as simple as changing my hormones or getting put on a new one; unfortunately, it's not. I'm going to start doing everything recommended, and just work to be healthy. Because of my back I have to be careful, but there's so much I CAN do, so I'm going to focus on that. I'm still depressed (I've now gained 20 lbs. for goodness sake!), but I've got to pull myself up by the bootstraps and get a move on.
Zumba anyone?
Turns out my hormone therapy ISN'T steroidal. Yay! That makes me happy. But why in the HELL have I gained 20 lbs?
Turns out it's the menopause itself. Here's the skinny on what I've found...
When in menopause/periomenopause, the body stops/decreases production of certain hormones. These are the ones affected by surgical menopause specifically.
Estrogen: Responsible for causing monthly ovulation. As the body produces less, it looks for other places to get it. Fat cells can produce estrogen, so the body works harder to convert calories into fat to increase the estrogen supply.
Progesterone: More a cause of water weight gain.
Androgen: Responsible for sending the weight directly to the midsection.
The best things to do, according to my research, are alter my diet, exercise exercise exercise, get plenty of sleep, and reduce my caffeine intake. (That last one is going to be a toughie, I LOVE my sweet tea!).
I feel better knowing that I have SOME semblance of control over the situation, but devastated that at the same time, I don't. I'd thought it was something as simple as changing my hormones or getting put on a new one; unfortunately, it's not. I'm going to start doing everything recommended, and just work to be healthy. Because of my back I have to be careful, but there's so much I CAN do, so I'm going to focus on that. I'm still depressed (I've now gained 20 lbs. for goodness sake!), but I've got to pull myself up by the bootstraps and get a move on.
Zumba anyone?
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Hello out there in Menopause land!
Grr. I am not a happy camper. NOT. AT. ALL.
I was so excited about 8 months ago; after much hard work, I lost 30 lbs. NOT an easy feat. Then I had my surgery, and got put on hormones. I really, really wish someone had told me the hormones were steroids.
I've not gained all the weight back; only about 8 lbs. But it's staying, and I'm PISSED.
So I called my doctors office and apparently in order for me to change my medication, I HAVE TO GET ANOTHER REFERRAL FROM TRI-CARE.
Seriously?
I swear. I'm already fighting with them because they don't want to pay for the last ER trip I had to make (at 6 weeks post-op) because they don't think that abdominal pain warranted the trip. I personally think they're just asshats.
My skin has started breaking out again too. I got a sunburn last weekend (air show), so for now it looks pretty good (until it starts to peel!). But my biggest problem isn't even on my face, it's my neck and shoulders; SO embarassing.
And has anyone else out there in Menopause land noticed that they sweat more? I don't just mean the "night" sweat thing; for the most part that seems to have been eliminated. It's the sweating everywhere else that's making me nuts.
Sorry that the first time I post in awhile and it's nothing but me bitching. On a bight note I got to go visit with an old friend today that I haven't seen in awhile; she asked about this blog, and I realized that I'm not keeping up with it as I should; I know I've said it before, but I WILL be trying to get better.
One more question: Has anyone tried just taking the herbal stuff that's supposed to help menopause? I'm SERIOUSLY considering trying it, but I've not heard anything about how well it works one way or the other. All I know is it takes up to 6 weeks to take effect, and that would SUCK. But it's better than gaining all this weight...
Any input is appreciated, and if you made it through this, THANK YOU.
I was so excited about 8 months ago; after much hard work, I lost 30 lbs. NOT an easy feat. Then I had my surgery, and got put on hormones. I really, really wish someone had told me the hormones were steroids.
I've not gained all the weight back; only about 8 lbs. But it's staying, and I'm PISSED.
So I called my doctors office and apparently in order for me to change my medication, I HAVE TO GET ANOTHER REFERRAL FROM TRI-CARE.
Seriously?
I swear. I'm already fighting with them because they don't want to pay for the last ER trip I had to make (at 6 weeks post-op) because they don't think that abdominal pain warranted the trip. I personally think they're just asshats.
My skin has started breaking out again too. I got a sunburn last weekend (air show), so for now it looks pretty good (until it starts to peel!). But my biggest problem isn't even on my face, it's my neck and shoulders; SO embarassing.
And has anyone else out there in Menopause land noticed that they sweat more? I don't just mean the "night" sweat thing; for the most part that seems to have been eliminated. It's the sweating everywhere else that's making me nuts.
Sorry that the first time I post in awhile and it's nothing but me bitching. On a bight note I got to go visit with an old friend today that I haven't seen in awhile; she asked about this blog, and I realized that I'm not keeping up with it as I should; I know I've said it before, but I WILL be trying to get better.
One more question: Has anyone tried just taking the herbal stuff that's supposed to help menopause? I'm SERIOUSLY considering trying it, but I've not heard anything about how well it works one way or the other. All I know is it takes up to 6 weeks to take effect, and that would SUCK. But it's better than gaining all this weight...
Any input is appreciated, and if you made it through this, THANK YOU.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Tra-la-la...
Hello readers! I know it's been awhile; my laptop crapped out on me. I finally got a new one though, so I'M BACK!!!
Things have been going well. The family and I made a trip to DC, and that was fun. Then the hubs took me to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, which was a BLAST.
Before I went to DC, I started applying more of the hormone gel; up to two pumps per arm. The difference is AMAZING! I'm back to being bouncy and happy. I'm still a bitch (always have been, always will be), but in a good way; I'm back to MONICA. I know my hubby and kids are happier with it, and my girl Elisa said she can't believe what a difference it made. So YAY for that!
Only thing I'm having issue with is my libido. Or should I say, my complete lack of one. It's not that I don't find my husband attractive anymore, because I do; he drives me nuts and is an asshole, but he's MY asshole. I'm just not interested, period. When it's time to go to bed at night I just want to go to SLEEP. I know he's getting frustrated, but I don't know what on earth I can do to change it. Any suggestions?
I know this is short, but I have to get ready to go to the doctor. I'm having problems with my left foot; pain at the ball under my big toe with swelling and tenderness. It's hard to walk, so under threat from the hubs I've finally scheduled an appointment. Oh goody, because I've not seen a doctor recently...LoL.
Things have been going well. The family and I made a trip to DC, and that was fun. Then the hubs took me to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, which was a BLAST.
Before I went to DC, I started applying more of the hormone gel; up to two pumps per arm. The difference is AMAZING! I'm back to being bouncy and happy. I'm still a bitch (always have been, always will be), but in a good way; I'm back to MONICA. I know my hubby and kids are happier with it, and my girl Elisa said she can't believe what a difference it made. So YAY for that!
Only thing I'm having issue with is my libido. Or should I say, my complete lack of one. It's not that I don't find my husband attractive anymore, because I do; he drives me nuts and is an asshole, but he's MY asshole. I'm just not interested, period. When it's time to go to bed at night I just want to go to SLEEP. I know he's getting frustrated, but I don't know what on earth I can do to change it. Any suggestions?
I know this is short, but I have to get ready to go to the doctor. I'm having problems with my left foot; pain at the ball under my big toe with swelling and tenderness. It's hard to walk, so under threat from the hubs I've finally scheduled an appointment. Oh goody, because I've not seen a doctor recently...LoL.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Malpractice?
Yeah, it's been awhile again, I know. Sorry.
I've had a day or two where I forgot my hormones again. Ugh. I absolutely HATE when I do that, and retract my previous statement about leveling out! Wow. It seems to take a day or two to catch up when I forget, and in those days, WATCH OUT. I'm a bitch on wheels and could care less what anyone has to say about it. I've caught up again, and sincerely hope I don't ever forget from here on out. (YEAH RIGHT!)
Turns out my insurance wants me to fill out a "third party liability" form before they'll pay the hospital for my surgery. Hmm. I'll be interested to see how it goes; my husband is convinced I got a hack job done, but I don't know if he's come to that based on what happened or because he's my husband and protective. I DO think my doctor had NO bedside manner; she showed up 15 minutes late for the surgery, then I didn't see her again until it was time for me to be discharged! I was in the hospital, BY MYSELF at NIGHT getting a BLOOD TRANSFUSION because of her, and she didn't even show up! Anyway, sorry. It pisses me off, can you tell? Lol. But I don't know that there's anything I can do as far as a malpractice suit (as my hubby wants me to). Isn't one of the things in the forms you fill out a line stating you understand the risks of surgery and that's one of them? Anyway, I'll keep you posted.
There's not a whole lot else going on. My family and I are going to Washington D.C. on Friday, and I can't wait! It's going to be awesome, and it's a MUCH needed vacation. Hope everyone else is doing well...I'm off for a nap. Hey, I'm menapostal, bite me.
I've had a day or two where I forgot my hormones again. Ugh. I absolutely HATE when I do that, and retract my previous statement about leveling out! Wow. It seems to take a day or two to catch up when I forget, and in those days, WATCH OUT. I'm a bitch on wheels and could care less what anyone has to say about it. I've caught up again, and sincerely hope I don't ever forget from here on out. (YEAH RIGHT!)
Turns out my insurance wants me to fill out a "third party liability" form before they'll pay the hospital for my surgery. Hmm. I'll be interested to see how it goes; my husband is convinced I got a hack job done, but I don't know if he's come to that based on what happened or because he's my husband and protective. I DO think my doctor had NO bedside manner; she showed up 15 minutes late for the surgery, then I didn't see her again until it was time for me to be discharged! I was in the hospital, BY MYSELF at NIGHT getting a BLOOD TRANSFUSION because of her, and she didn't even show up! Anyway, sorry. It pisses me off, can you tell? Lol. But I don't know that there's anything I can do as far as a malpractice suit (as my hubby wants me to). Isn't one of the things in the forms you fill out a line stating you understand the risks of surgery and that's one of them? Anyway, I'll keep you posted.
There's not a whole lot else going on. My family and I are going to Washington D.C. on Friday, and I can't wait! It's going to be awesome, and it's a MUCH needed vacation. Hope everyone else is doing well...I'm off for a nap. Hey, I'm menapostal, bite me.
Friday, September 17, 2010
The PB&J incident.
Day before yesterday, I forgot to put on my hormones.
Oh boy, right?
Surprisingly it wasn't TOO bad. A hot flash or two, but otherwise I was pleasantly shocked. And as soon as I put on the hormones yesterday, I was fine. Hooray! I think my body is finally leveling out.
I also went out and bought a full size of the face wash I'd been using before; Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging face wash. I love that stuff, and I really hope it continues to make my face clear up.
Since I can't ONLY write about menopause, well, you're going to be subjected to other things as well.
MY DAUGHTER IS MAKING ME INSANE, I SWEAR. Yesterday she wanted one of those Smuckers crustless PB&J sandwiches. I took it out of the freezer, defrosted it in the microwave, then put it back in the freezer because who on EARTH wants a warm PB&J?
She does apparently.
SHE FREAKED. I took it out of the freezer and you'd have thought I pulled out a cats head or something. I put it on the table and told her to hush and eat and went to get ready to take the kids to the bus stop. When I came out she was sitting UNDER the table, playing with her Polly Pocket stuff. I took it from her and told her to eat; 5 minutes later she was back under the table, and at this point it was time for us to leave. So I told her I guessed she'd be hungry (she eats lunch wicked early, so I wasn't AS worried about it) and to get her backpack. She starts having a conniption fit, telling me no, no, she'll eat. I told her it was too late, so she screamed, grabbed the sandwich, and squished it in between her fingers. GRRR. Which leads me to a question...
What do you do when your daughter is as stubborn and obtuse as you are?
LoL.
I'm off to find something to bitch about.
Oh boy, right?
Surprisingly it wasn't TOO bad. A hot flash or two, but otherwise I was pleasantly shocked. And as soon as I put on the hormones yesterday, I was fine. Hooray! I think my body is finally leveling out.
I also went out and bought a full size of the face wash I'd been using before; Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging face wash. I love that stuff, and I really hope it continues to make my face clear up.
Since I can't ONLY write about menopause, well, you're going to be subjected to other things as well.
MY DAUGHTER IS MAKING ME INSANE, I SWEAR. Yesterday she wanted one of those Smuckers crustless PB&J sandwiches. I took it out of the freezer, defrosted it in the microwave, then put it back in the freezer because who on EARTH wants a warm PB&J?
She does apparently.
SHE FREAKED. I took it out of the freezer and you'd have thought I pulled out a cats head or something. I put it on the table and told her to hush and eat and went to get ready to take the kids to the bus stop. When I came out she was sitting UNDER the table, playing with her Polly Pocket stuff. I took it from her and told her to eat; 5 minutes later she was back under the table, and at this point it was time for us to leave. So I told her I guessed she'd be hungry (she eats lunch wicked early, so I wasn't AS worried about it) and to get her backpack. She starts having a conniption fit, telling me no, no, she'll eat. I told her it was too late, so she screamed, grabbed the sandwich, and squished it in between her fingers. GRRR. Which leads me to a question...
What do you do when your daughter is as stubborn and obtuse as you are?
LoL.
I'm off to find something to bitch about.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
And we're back. :)
I can't believe I've let it go this long since I blogged!
A little catch up: That pain I was having, well, it's still there. I've had an abdominal CAT scan and an ultrasound now, and they have no idea what is going on. The muscle isn't ripped, the hematoma has healed completely. So I've been referred out to a general surgeon and put on Neurontin.. I guess we'll have to just wait and see!
In related news, I forgot to put my hormones on today. Should be interesting to see how this goes! So far I seem to be doing well; none of the usual symptoms. But we'll see if it lasts. Today my baby boy is 7, and wants to go to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. IF I can make it through the whole day, PLUS dinner without going beserk, I'd say I'm doing well.
My skin is breaking out again though. Grr. I was using Peter Thomas Roth anti-aging face wash (it has 1% glycolic acid and 1% salicylic acid) and my skin was AWESOME. Ran out (it was a month-long sample size) so went back to my stuff, and I break out! (I've been using my other stuff for over a month now.) Guess who is stopping at Sephora tonight?
I still haven't found anything to get the oil under control, either. It's so frustrating, my makeup ends up "slipping" off within an hour of application. Very annoying.
I'm also in the process of attempting to lose more weight. Nothing unreasonable, mind you. And I'm doing it the right way~diet and exercise. I've been eating some spicy foods, stuff with cinnamon, drinking COLD water (all help speed up metabolism), plus lean meats and cheeses. The hardest is giving up my sweets. Boo. Any other tips from anyone? I know it's the little stuff that helps.
Found a new site, by the way, for all you ladies that have recently had or are going to have a hysterectomy: www.hystersisters.com. They have discussion boards and forums, a shop, all sorts of stuff. They have info on alternatives to hysterectomies too. Worth a look at least!
I know it's not much, but I have presents to wrap before my baby boy gets home. I promise to be better about keeping up with this, even if it's only a paragraph a day!
A little catch up: That pain I was having, well, it's still there. I've had an abdominal CAT scan and an ultrasound now, and they have no idea what is going on. The muscle isn't ripped, the hematoma has healed completely. So I've been referred out to a general surgeon and put on Neurontin.. I guess we'll have to just wait and see!
In related news, I forgot to put my hormones on today. Should be interesting to see how this goes! So far I seem to be doing well; none of the usual symptoms. But we'll see if it lasts. Today my baby boy is 7, and wants to go to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. IF I can make it through the whole day, PLUS dinner without going beserk, I'd say I'm doing well.
My skin is breaking out again though. Grr. I was using Peter Thomas Roth anti-aging face wash (it has 1% glycolic acid and 1% salicylic acid) and my skin was AWESOME. Ran out (it was a month-long sample size) so went back to my stuff, and I break out! (I've been using my other stuff for over a month now.) Guess who is stopping at Sephora tonight?
I still haven't found anything to get the oil under control, either. It's so frustrating, my makeup ends up "slipping" off within an hour of application. Very annoying.
I'm also in the process of attempting to lose more weight. Nothing unreasonable, mind you. And I'm doing it the right way~diet and exercise. I've been eating some spicy foods, stuff with cinnamon, drinking COLD water (all help speed up metabolism), plus lean meats and cheeses. The hardest is giving up my sweets. Boo. Any other tips from anyone? I know it's the little stuff that helps.
Found a new site, by the way, for all you ladies that have recently had or are going to have a hysterectomy: www.hystersisters.com. They have discussion boards and forums, a shop, all sorts of stuff. They have info on alternatives to hysterectomies too. Worth a look at least!
I know it's not much, but I have presents to wrap before my baby boy gets home. I promise to be better about keeping up with this, even if it's only a paragraph a day!
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