Hello!

I'm 32 years old, female, and have been diagnosed with Buerger's disease a few
days ago. First felt incredible pain on my right toe
November last year. Couldn't understand why. I'm a very active person, hit the
gym regularly, always on the go, and suddenly woke up
one day with a throbbing big toe that got worse and worse every day.

First my doctors, of which I saw plenty, thought it was just plain infection.
Many agreed to have my toenail removed, and so by
February this year I agreed--much to my regret. (Until today my toenail refuses
to grow properly.) By March I found myself back to the
hospital, in a wheel chair this time, with my whole right foot inflamed. Was
diagnosed with cellulitis, confined for three weeks,
bedridden for two months. By May, my doctor had to remove my growing toenail.

Finally, by July, I was able to walk again with the aid of a walking cane. Poor
healing of wound and nail growth despite normal
blood test results (sugar, etc.) forced my doctors to make me undergo
arteriogram early this week. Result shows I have Buerger's
disease. On top of that, I also have mitral valve stenosis. This has been the
most terrible year for me, and the worst affliction there is.

I have quit smoking since June 3, and I have no plans on lighting up ever again.
I don't know what to do anymore. My doctors say I
should wait for at least two years before results to start kicking in. Is there
anything else I should do that could help my condition,
aside from taking my prescribed medications? Any advice would be greatly
appreciated.


anne