Like Lou who wrote a few days ago, I too wish I could give an optimistic report
but at two years out from my floxing I cannot.
There were times in the last year where I initially thought I was getting better
but it was just ignorance on my part.

Over the last two years I have weathered many symptoms, from my initial muscular
and joint pain that started at 9 mos, to cns symptoms such as vision problems
that started at 14 mos. The most severe problems have hit just within the last
few months. I now am experiencing severe problems with my tendons, ligaments,
cartilage in my right knee, left hip, and left shoulder. All my joints have
'loosened up' to the point where I have to be careful not to damage them during
the most basic of activities. The most depressing thing of all is that just two
years ago, prior to this, I was bicycling 7 to 10 miles a day, and now I cannot
even walk across the local Walmart without having severe symptoms.

Like so many of you, I have overcome quite a bit, having learned to deal with
and cope with the depression and anxiety, also I have learned alot about drugs
(what I can and cannot take), and I have learned not to trust any doctor. I now
research any recommendation made to me by a medical professional. Still, the
constant uphill battle seems too daunting at times.

Anyway, my general Doc, who mostly agrees with diagnosis of FQ damage but says
he cannot help me, is wanting me to go to the Mayo clinic (a decision I have not
made yet). I have one more rheumatologist to go to (mainly to document the
joint damage) then I will decide whether to go or not. However, I refuse to let
this crap define who I am. I have too many depending on me (such as beautiful
young children) to give up yet.

Also, like so many of you, and as Lou so aptly stated, it has changed my life
profoundly.


David

Floxed: July 2007 at age 46
Dose: 750 mg Levaquin for 21 days