Through The Mud Clearly

My challenge for February; no bread; is just about over. I really thought it was going to be incredibly difficult; but actually it was quite easy. God's grace perhaps. So, tomorrow I can resume bread eating. However, that doesn't mean I am going to go "hog wild" and eat tons of bread. I've learned I really don't need it! I'm not saying I will never eat bread again(because I surely will) but I wont be eating it at every meal. I've noticed during this "fast" if I don't have bread; then I don't buy processed lunch meat and I have been cooking different..healthier food. Now I am gearing up for my March challenge...walk 20-30 minutes daily. This begins tomorrow March 1st. March, march, march-pun intended.

That is what my doctor asked me today. Crazy! He said he couldn't find my records and doesn't remember me. He then left the room. When he returned he said he found them. I am skeptical about that. Anyway; after describing my ongoing symptoms he concluded that I have a history of migraines thus I have chronic migraines. Duh-I had already self-diagnosed that! Then he said the other thing that I might have is Allydonia but he is waiting on what the Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist says about my ear pain. He said my ear looks fine then  gave me a referral for the ENT and I will be making that appointment soon.

He also gave me a choice of an Rx or OTC pain reliever for the migraines.  I chose an OTC medication. He also said it would help if I ate less cheese, chocolate and coffee.Actually he said to eliminate them from my diet And reduce stress! I will see what I can do.

But; it appears I wrote it and that is all! The original title was: The Pillsbury Doughboy Is Not My Super Hero.  What is this about you ask? Well a few posts ago I stated that for the month of February I was going on a bread fast. On February 1st I went to my favorite bread aisle and took pictures and said...goodbye bread, bagels, English muffins, biscuits etc... Of course I had to take pictures to make my torture complete! Actually, so far, it hasn't been that bad except I really want some Italian Cheese Bread from Little Caesar's Pizza. But; I am going to stay strong!!

Every year at my place of employment we are required to take a certain amount of training classes. Things like Ethics, Safety, Court Policy and Procedure, Customer Service etc.. A new class was offered this year; "Civilian-How to Deal With an Active Shooter". In the wake of the recent spate of shootings; I thought it would be a good idea to take this class. It was taught by sheriffs deputies and the Department of Homeland Security. It is unfortunate there is a need to know this information but I believe it is good to know about such things...being prepared for any situation is important. I liken it to keeping oil in your lamp! Anyway, it was a very informative class and I learned from it. Run, hide and if all else fails fight back...you may lose your life but if you are able to incapacitate the bad guy you may have saved countless lives. Sacrificing your life for others...an interesting concept!

I can't remember when or where (facebook, blog or email) but I know I've written about this before. But I didn't have a name for it. I am referring to my weird headaches, panic/anxiety attacks and quite possibly the worst symptom; the sore, painful to the touch scalp; AND hair. That's right; my hair hurts to touch it let alone get it cut! Fortunately my head and hair isn't always like this; but when it is it is miserable. This has all been going on for several years and I have been researching for just as long. I finally decided to keep a "headache diary" and record the symptoms, frequency and any other noteworthy items. although there is pain everyday to some degree; the really intense headache etc occurs about every 3-5 weeks, lasting an average of 7 days of varying intensity. It usually starts with something called an "aura" or a warning signal/sign. In my case this aura begins with tingling in the upper arms followed and incredible urge to sleep day and night, an intermittent stabbing pain in my right ear and cravings for salty snacks, Chinese food and chocolate. Followed by panic/anxiety attacks, neck stiffness and headaches that seem to move around at will. While the headaches are in full gear; the scalp and hair tenderness begins. The few things that eases these symptoms are Advil (can't take too much..not good for you), gallons of coffee and standing in a HOT shower. So; my self diagnosis is.....drum roll please....Migraine Headaches with Allodynia. I know you all know what Migraines are but; let me tell you what Allodynia is. It is pain from a "non-painful stimulation". There are several factors associated with this condition. Symptoms include migraine with aura (have), stressful childhood with emotional abuse (had) and being overweight (am). Allodynia develops over a period of time and many migraine sufferers are prone to it. It is a manifestation of central nervous system sensitization. I can't really explain it any further but if you Google it you can get more complete information. I am going to print that information out and give it to my Doctor on my next visit; along with this blog. Actually; I wrote this particular post with that intention. I am going to ask him for a caffeine drip. LOL! I am more convinced than ever that the "sinus" headaches I had as a kid were actually migraines! Oops, I forgot a few symptoms; grouchy, light sensitivity and certain noises really bother me. 

So a friend and I were talking about the recent influx of people who are allergic to seemingly everything. While some of these are true, legetimate allergies; I wonder just how much of this trend is just a passing fad; like the Pet Rock or The South Beach Diet? I have heard and read about people who are now on gluten free diets, suddenly lactose intolerant, "sugar reactive" and other such stories. Is red dye number 7 really the cause of your child's "meltdown" or is he having a tantrum because he can't have a new toy? Now, before you get all upset; let me say I don't begrudge anyone for trying to eat a healthier diet. I know that allergies are real and I, myself am allergic to pork and have been for many years; also limes. So, if someone asks me over for a meal I always let them know about the allergy. I get it. But, come on people; could some of you be jumping on the bandwagon because it is the popular thing?