--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, Diane Hendee <diane_hendee@...>
wrote:
>
> Diane,
> I was wondering if you have kidney pain?  I had kidney pain beginning shortly
after having eight mercury fillings replaced with composite.   This pain
continued for three months until I did the Hulda Clark kidney cleanse found here
on Dean's web
site:http://www.livingnetwork.co.za/drclarknetwork/kidney_cleanse.html
>   My test results were serum creatinine 1.04 and GFR 56 which was slightly out
of range.  These results were before beginning chelation and before the kidney
cleanse.  I have not retested since to see if chelation has changed anything.  I
hope you are able to find something that works for you.
> Diane H.



Diane H.,

Do you feel better since the chelation and kidney cleanse? I have had kidney
pain on and off but not recently.

You can get Perque products at www.naturamart.com

A friend who likes their multivit just told me that's where she gets her Perque
stuff.

Tanya

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "Sally" <sally@...> wrote:
>
> Where do you get the Vit C?
>

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "jessicagalligani"
<luckylot@...> wrote:
>
> We have done 9 rounds of chelation with our 4 year old, 35 pound son. At round
6, I added ALA and we had HORRIBLE issues with whole body itching and stimming
which we normally don't see with our high functioning child. For the next round,
we reduced it and he did fine, but again, the itching was evident and this time
it didn't subside for a very long time. It might have been related to yeast, but
I am not sure. I am also doing a supplement break to see which supplements might
be adding to this issue. Anyway, the reason I am writing, is
> because I JUST noticed (literally minutes after dosing him his first pill in
round 10) that R-ALA is not recommended and that is exactly what we are using.
Can anyone explain this? I had read that the R-ALA is better utilized by the
body, is this not true?

==Jessica,  Here is what Andy says...basically all the research has been done
with ALA not R-ALA.
http://onibasu.com/archives/fdc/1525.html
http://onibasu.com/archives/am/224667.html

If you do an onibasu search with R-ala and andycutler or andrewhallcutler you
will get Andy's perspective on this.

Good luck.  It must be tough chelating your child with so much contradictory
information!

Colette

doesn't seem to be doing much anymore. As soon as I read that about the R-ALA I
immediately gave him 2 charcoal capsules. I hope that might help any negative
effects? So I RE-split
> his capsules and supplements (I combine C, moly, milk thistle, and magnesium
so they are dosed together round the clock) and now we are doing just DMSA
again. I decided that since we haven't seen gains for a few rounds, to just
increase the DMSA this time around, by just under half. Can someone give me
direction on this so I know what to do with our next round.
>
> Thanks
> Jessica
>

I'm not sure what to say about the dose of DMSA because you didn't say what
doses you were using.  Try severl rounds at the dose you have decided on to make
sure there are no or little side effects.  When adding ALA, make sure it is
regular ALA.  Discard the R-ALA.    The recommended starting dose for any
chelator is 1/8 mg/lb.  If the side effects are too much at that dose, then
lower the dose.

Linda



--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "jessicagalligani"
<luckylot@...> wrote:
>
> We have done 9 rounds of chelation with our 4 year old, 35 pound son. At round
6, I added ALA and we had HORRIBLE issues with whole body itching and stimming
which we normally don't see with our high functioning child. For the next round,
we reduced it and he did fine, but again, the itching was evident and this time
it didn't subside for a very long time. It might have been related to yeast, but
I am not sure. I am also doing a supplement break to see which supplements might
be adding to this issue. Anyway, the reason I am writing, is
> because I JUST noticed (literally minutes after dosing him his first pill in
round 10) that R-ALA is not recommended and that is exactly what we are using.
Can anyone explain this? I had read that the R-ALA is better utilized by the
body, is this not true? Have I potentially caused harm to my child using this
instead of plain ALA? We actually stopped it for two rounds, I was adding it
back in this time to try it again, since the DMSA doesn't seem to be doing much
anymore. As soon as I read that about the R-ALA I immediately gave him 2
charcoal capsules. I hope that might help any negative effects? So I RE-split
> his capsules and supplements (I combine C, moly, milk thistle, and magnesium
so they are dosed together round the clock) and now we are doing just DMSA
again. I decided that since we haven't seen gains for a few rounds, to just
increase the DMSA this time around, by just under half. Can someone give me
direction on this so I know what to do with our next round.
>
> Thanks
> Jessica
>

Thanks for posting that. It's amazing isn't it? Good luck with the operation.

Mary

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "Kimberley" <kradwick@...>
wrote:
>
> Just wanted to say that I went to my pre-op on Monday for the foot surgery I
will be having on Friday.  My doctor did an EKG and was shocked at the
comparison between this one and the one she did 3 years ago.  I had to see a
cardiologist as the doctor believed I had a mitral valve prolapse problem. 
Anyway, the cardiologist told me that they believed it was just starting.  Three
years later, post amalgam removal and 6 months chelation....my doctor could not
believe my heart was strong and NO irregularities!  Wow!  Thank God and Thanks
to Andy too!!!
>
> I am strong enough to have the surgery to repair the left drop foot!  I know
it is all going to be good!  I have come to the conclusion that God does want us
well!  I have to keep on with the chelation but will wait until 6 weeks post
surgery before resuming!
>

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "Stephanie" <spiritharp@...>
wrote:
>
> Hi everyone,
> I finally had a hair test done - hoping I might gain some financial support
from family so far as having my amalgams replaced if I can demonstrate more
clearly that my amalgams are a primary cause of my long-standing health issues.
>
> It's test #303. Sorry for the longish health history, but it all seemed
relevant.
>
> Unfortunately, I don't yet have a copy of the hair test book, but from what I
gather, these results do meet the counting rules >(positive for #3).


Yes.  With 5 elements in the red zone, mineral transport is disorderly and you
can be sure that mercury is involved in your health problems.



> And I think also indicates adrenal and thyroid insufficiency.


Those are not clear from the hair test.  You would need to go by symptoms and
then do a 4x per day saliva cortisol test plus blood tests for free T3 and free
T4.  Adrenal problems do seem to be indicated in your history.  It is important
to treat the adrenals before the thyroid, so important in your case to determine
the severity of the adrenal problems before doing a trial of thyroid meds.



> I'm especially curious about the very high lithium level, wondering if that is
indicative of body levels.



Not when mineral transport is deranged.  I really can't explain why yours would
be so high.



> I've never taken any lithium drugs or supplements. Also while it was omitted
unintentionally on the supplement list, I was taking some iron during the
previous 3-6 months before the test, although inconsistency due to finances (my
iron level shows up very low - which does probably relate to body levels in my
case - I tend to be anemic).
>
> Thanks in advance for any opinions and insights.
>



The best thing would be to get those 6 amalgams out as soon as possible. 
Perhaps your family can be encouraged to support you.

Good luck.

Linda



> ~Stephanie
>

1) What are the symptoms of adrenal problems?
2) How can I tell if my problems are adrenal, or thyroid?
3) What is Adrenal Insufficiency?
4) Is Adrenal Fatigue the same thing as Adrenal Insufficiency?
5) How do I test the condition of my adrenals?
6) Is saliva testing as accurate as blood labs for cortisol levels?
7) How can I produce all of that saliva to fill up the tubes?
8) Can I test my cortisol levels if I am taking HC or Isocort or
other adrenal glandular?
9) Will my Dr agree with the 24 hour cortisol test (saliva testing)?
10) Will my Dr agree to treat my adrenals?
11) What if my doctor refuses to treat my adrenals because I don't
have Addison's?
12) Can you help me understand my 24 hour cortisol saliva labs
13) Is stress the only thing that causes Adrenal Fatigue?
14) I have bloodwork for the adrenals, can you help me interpret the
results?
15) How can I order some lab tests?
16) Do adrenal glandulars work?
17) Isocort does not require a prescription - where do I get it?
18) What else should I be doing to help the adrenals?
19) What medications are prescribed for the adrenals?
20) How do I start HydroCortisone?
21) Where do you get the dosing information?
22) How do I dose 20mg, 25mg, or 30mg of HC?
23) Why take more HC in the morning?
24) Why can't I take a lower amount of HC, such as 10mg per day?
25) What if I feel nauseated, or shaky?
26) Why do I have trouble sleeping after starting HC?
27) How can I tell if I am low on cortisol, or too much?
28) Aren't steroids dangerous - don't they have side effects?
29) If I take HC or Isocort, will it put my adrenals to sleep?
30) How much cortisol does the body normally produce?
31) What is stress dosing - what if I get sick?
32) What is the difference between Primary and Secondary Adrenal
Insufficiency?
33) What causes Primary Adrenal Insufficiency?
34) What causes Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency?
35) How do I test for Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency?
36) Why does it matter if I am Primary or Secondary?
37) Will I be stuck on HC for life?
38) Will I be able to wean off the HC?
39) How do I wean off HC?
40) Will HC kill my immune system?
41) What is a physiologic dose of cortisol?
42) What precautions should I consider before starting HC?
43) Do some people have a reaction to the medication?
44) What is a "Thyroid Dump"?
45) What is an adrenal crisis? (AKA "addisons crisis")
46) The HC doesn't seem to last long enough - what is Medrol?
47) How do I dose Medrol?
48) Can I take time-release HC, Prednisone, or other steroid to treat
the adrenals?
49) Are there other adrenal hormones that I need to worry about?
50) What are the symptoms of low aldosterone?
51) Why should I test renin along with aldosterone?
52) What sequence do I treat the hormones? What about the sex
hormones?
53) Will hormone medication affect my blood pressure?
54) Do these hormones affect fluid retention?
55) Will I recover 100% and feel normal?

1) What are the symptoms of adrenal problems?
Fatigue, anxiety, light-headedness, shakiness, dizziness, nausea, and
difficulty dealing with stressful situations. Dr. Rind says "Most
people have a mixture of poor thyroid and poor adrenal function
rather than purely one or the other, and therefore a mixture of
symptoms". He also says that poor thyroid and/or adrenal function is
the most common cause of low metabolic energy. Metabolism is defined
as the chemical changes in living cells by which energy is provided
for vital processes (Websters). Please refer to this chart of
symptoms http://www.drrind.com/scorecardmatrix.asp

2) How can I tell if my problems are adrenal, or thyroid?
The body's temperature drops as the metabolism drops. Low
temperatures are caused by low thyroid. If the adrenal hormone
cortisol is low, the average daily temperature will fluctuate when
comparing one day's average to the next. We are not talking about
temperature changes during one day - it is normal to wake up with
lower temperatures and hitting a peak in the later afternoon. Take
your temperature 3 hours after waking, again 3 hours later, and again
in another 3 hours. You average those 3 readings to get one single
number for that day. Please read Janie's page
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/temperature/ and follow her link
to Dr. Rind. Look at his examples and download his blank chart. Begin
filling in your temperatures. If you post a question about your
dosing, someone is going to ask about your temps.

3) What is Adrenal Insufficiency?
In 1855, Thomas Addison first described adrenal insufficiency, which
was subsequently named after him. Originally, tuberculosis was the
most common reason for the adrenal gland failure. Currently, Addison
disease most commonly results from autoimmune destruction of the
adrenal gland. The adrenal hormones Cortisol and Aldosterone are
vital for life, so Addison's disease can be fatal.

If you search for information on Addison's disease, you fill find
quotes such as this one: "Adrenal insufficiency occurs when at least
90 percent of the adrenal cortex has been destroyed."
http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/addison/addison.htm

4) Is Adrenal Fatigue the same thing as Adrenal Insufficiency?
No. The person with Adrenal Fatigue may have less severe symptoms,
and there are lots of shades of gray. Here is an example from a
medical site: "A significant number of patients with partial loss of
adrenal function (limited adrenocortical reserve) appear well but
experience adrenal crisis when under physiologic stress (eg, surgery,
infection, burns, critical illness)"
http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec12/ch153/ch153b.html

A person with a more serious case of adrenal fatigue may have chronic
symptoms of fatigue. They may have symptoms associated with low blood
sugar (one of cortisol's jobs is to help regulate glucose). They may
feel light headed upon standing, as another function of cortisol is
to maintain blood pressure.

Dr. Ron Kennedy says "Addison's disease is so rare, and adrenal
fatigue so common, that I prefer to spend most of our space here on
the latter. This syndrome is marked by loss of energy with the
experience of fatigue and oversleeping". http://www.med-
library.net/content/view/75/41/

Dr. Tintera was making comments like this way back in 1955 "a former
hypothesis - that the adrenal cortex functioned according to the
classic "all or none" law - is repudiated as being contrary to both
clinical and experimental evidence. Hypoadrenocorticism may be
congenital or acquired, complete or partial. The two former
subdivisions frequently fail of recognition."
http://www.fred.net/slowup/tint01.html

Many members discovered their adrenal fatigue when they started
thyroid medication - because the increased metabolism strained the
adrenals. http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/things-we-have-learned
Doctor Broda Barnes describes this in his lectures "And the thing
that we have to think of very often, is a partial adrenal deficiency
too. If the blood pressure of a patient is 100 systolic or below, I
hesitate, in fact I won't start them on thyroid, without giving them
5mg of prednisone at the same time. Because, if you raise the
metabolism a little as we're doing with the thyroid, you also have to
have a little more secretion from the adrenal. The normal gland, can
furnish it and do all right. But if the blood pressure is too low in
the beginning, the chances are that this patient is going to get
worse, about four days after you start them on thyroid, they will
become worse than they were." (5 mg of Prednisone is = to 20 mg of
hydrocortisone)

5) How do I test the condition of my adrenals?
Please read what Janie says here
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/adrenal-info/ If your doctor
insists on blood tests for cortisol, that is fine - just order the
saliva labs in addition so you can see the 24 hour cortisol rhythm.
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/recommended-labwork/

6) Is saliva testing as accurate as blood labs for cortisol levels?
Yes. Here is an article citing many medical references
http://www.diagnostechs.com/mainFrame.asp?
refPage=http://www.diagnostechs.com/body_text/articles.htm

7) How can I produce all of that saliva to fill up the tubes?
Sniff on a jar of pickles, relish, or a lemon. Dr Peatfield says to
do the test under routine stress conditions, not on a relaxing day
off.

8) Can I test my cortisol levels if I am taking HC or Isocort or
other adrenal glandular?
No. the medicine will throw off the result of the test.
http://www.macses.ucsf.edu/Research/Allostatic/notebook/FAQs-
salivcort.pdf

9) Will my Dr agree with the 24 hour cortisol test (saliva testing)?
Mine did, he had the saliva lab boxes right in his office. You may
have to drive to a larger city to find a doctor familiar with
treating adrenal fatigue. You can order the lab test yourself, see
what result comes back, and learn as much as you can about this
condition so you will be an educated partner in your health care.

10) Will my Dr agree to treat my adrenals?
Dr. Lam says "Unfortunately, conventional medicine only recognizes
Addison's disease as hypoadrenia, despite the fact that adrenal
fatigue is a fully recognizable condition. As such, do not be
surprised if your doctor is unfamiliar with this condition."
http://www.drlam.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/adrenal_fatigue.cfm

Some members, especially those that are shackled by the constraints
of "health insurance" approvals, have difficulty when their doctor
doesn't recognize their condition. Please review this page
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/how-to-find-a-good-doc/ You can
ask if the doctor is familiar with the book "Safe uses of Cortisol"
by Dr Jefferies http://www.ccthomas.com/details.cfm?
P_ISBN13=9780398075002 or the books by Dr Peatfield
http://featherstone.bravehost.com/thyroid/peatfieldadrenal.html

11) What if my doctor refuses to treat my adrenals because I don't
have Addison's?
You might explain to him that even people with Addisons have varying
degrees of hormone production, as per this guide that you can
download "Addison's disease is not an `all or nothing' condition. In
the early stages of the disease many individuals are still able to
produce some cortisol and enough aldosterone. This is partly why
individuals with the disease take varying amounts of medication and
why the amount of medication you need may alter over the years."
http://www.addisons.org.uk/info/manual/adshgguidelines.pdf

12) Can you help me understand my 24 hour cortisol saliva labs
A normal cortisol rhythm is higher in the morning, tapering off later
in the day. In the early stages of adrenal fatigue, there can be
excessively high levels of cortisol as the body responds to stress.
Dr Lam explains the stress response here
http://www.drlam.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/adrenal_fatigue.cfm

As adrenal fatigue progresses, the cortisol rhythm becomes disrupted,
and often "flattens out". This can happen even with somewhat normal
levels of cortisol being produced - but the "below normal" morning
cortisol tends to indicate that there is a problem. Often the person
lacks adrenal reserve. During times of stress the adrenals cannot
produce the extra cortisol required by the body.

As the problem gets worse, the "flattened" cortisol rhythm becomes so
severe that the pattern is "flat-lining" closer to the bottom of the
chart. This person could be said to have Adrenal Failure, also known
as Adrenal Insufficiency. The combined cortisol readings of all 4
points of the day (called the "cortisol burden") will be below normal
range. As the adrenal fatigue progresses, the amounts of DHEA
produced by the adrenals often become lower as well. Dr Lam's article
explains the reason for this. Low DHEA can be a clue to the condition
of the adrenals.

You can compare your labs with the examples shown in this article
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=12149

13) Is stress the only thing that causes Adrenal Fatigue?
No - there are actually a number of things that can be wrong. Please
keep reading, and we will explore some of the causes of adrenal
problems.

14) I have bloodwork for the adrenals, can you help me interpret the
results?
Emedicine.com says this:
The preliminary test for adrenal insufficiency is the measurement of
serum cortisol levels from a sample of blood obtained in the morning.
Because of variations in cortisol levels due to the circadian rhythm,
blood should be drawn when the levels are highest, usually between
6:00 and 8:00 am.
- Morning cortisol levels greater than 19 mg/dL (reference range, 9-
25 mg/dL) are considered normal, and no further workup is required.
- Values less than 3 mg/dL are diagnostic of Addison disease.
- Values in the range of 3-19 mg/dL are indeterminate, and further
workup is needed.
http://www.emedicine.com/derm/topic761.htm
Over the years, members have posted their lab results and symptoms on
numerous adrenal forums. When the morning cortisol is not greater
than 19 mg/dL the members tend to complain of low cortisol symptoms.
In the book "Safe uses of Cortisol" Dr Jefferies says "It is
important to be aware that test results that fall within the "normal
range" do not rule out the possibility that a patient might have mild
adrenal deficiency". If you want to determine the CAUSE of adrenal
problems, additional tests must be done prior to starting treatment.
Please continue reading these FAQ's for additional information.

15) How can I order some lab tests?
Many blood labs, can be ordered directly by the patient from
https://orders.directlabs.com/dl-locator/order_tests.aspx including
the elusive aldosterone test. They also do the Renin test but it is
not listed on the website, you have to call them and ask for it. Many
other blood tests can be ordered from www.healthcheckusa.com and the
saliva cortisol labs can be ordered directly by the patient from
www.canaryclub.org

16) Do adrenal glandulars work?
There are some members with very mild cases of adrenal fatigue who
feel some improvement from over-the-counter supplements. But most
often we hear members complain that they wasted their time and their
money because most of these products have the hormones removed, and
did not provide the adrenal support they needed. One exception is
IsoCort.

17) Isocort does not require a prescription - where do I get it?
It is not typically found on store shelves and must be ordered. Read
this page for more on IsoCort
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/isocort/

18) What else should I be doing to help the adrenals?
Good sleep is very important, and try to keep a consistent schedule
every day. 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt mixed with a large glass of water in
the morning, and again later in the day. Small but frequent meals (to
help with blood sugar). Vitamins including B-complex after meals.
There are good recommendations from Dr Lam
http://www.drlam.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/adrenal_fatigue.cfm and
this from Dr Jay Mead
http://www.thecompounder.com/hormonesadrenalprotocol.php

19) What medications are prescribed for the adrenals?
In Dr Peatfield's book, he says "Undoubtedly for the physician, the
replacement of choice is hydrocortisone, since this though
synthetically produced, is identical to naturally produced cortisone.
http://featherstone.bravehost.com/thyroid/peatfieldadrenal.html
Hydrocortisone requires a prescription, and is sold under the brand
name Cortef, as well as the generic names such as "Hydrocortone".
Some patients do better with a Medrol because it has a longer half
life. Keep reading for more information on Medrol.

20) How do I start HydroCortisone?
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/adrenal-info/how-to-treat

21) Where do you get the dosing information?
In Dr Peatfield's book, he says "the initial approach has to be
restrained and cautious, and the lowest possible dose given at the
start. I find that 1/4 of a 10 mg. hydrocortisone (that is 2.5 mg) is
an excellent starting point.
…The 1/4 tablet a day is increased to 1/4 tablet twice a day; then
after a few days, three times a day and up to a 1/4 four times a day
spread out throughout the waking day. The reason for this is that it
is not store by the body and gets rapidly used; 2 or 3 hours will see
it pretty well used up completely. Since a smooth level of support is
desirable, the dose does need to be spread out. The final dose is
usually 20 mg. daily, that is 1/2 tablet four times a day; but
careful adjustments relating to the response, may take the dose to 25
or 30 mg. daily, exceptionally even 40 mg. These higher doses are
related more to absorption in the stomach, not to deficiency, but low
adrenal reserve reaching Addisonian levels may make such doses
necessary."

22) How do I dose 20mg, 25mg, or 30mg of HC?
To dose for 20mg: 10 - 5 - 2.5 - 2.5 (4 hours apart, sooner if needed)
To dose for 25mg: 10 - 7.5 - 5 - 2.5 (4 hours apart, sooner if needed)
To dose for 30mg: 10 - 10 - 5 - 5 (4 hours apart, sooner if needed)

23) Why take more HC in the morning?
To follow the body's natural cortisol rhythm, which is higher in the
morning. For example In Wilson's book, Adrenal Fatigue 21st Century,
he recommends the following: 12 mg. first thing in the morning, then
5 mgs at noon, then 2 mgs at 3 pm, and finally 1 mg at 6 pm.

You don't want to dose too high in the morning, or the body will
sense the extra cortisol and the pituitary gland will reduce it's
request for the body's natural cortisol production - and this can
make you tired later in the day.

24) Why can't I take a lower amount of HC, such as 10mg per day?
Dr Jefferies states: "Most patients can be maintained on between 20
and 30 mgs. daily in divided doses. Although some patients may feel
well on less than 20 mg. daily, it seems preferable to give at least
this much cortisol, even to patients with low adrenal reserve,
because it takes the strain off of the residual adrenal tissue and
provides for more functional reserve in times of stress. Under some
circumstances, it appears to provide an opportunity for residual
tissue to regenerate. A few patients with low reserve have
demonstrated evidence of recovery of reserve after months of even
years of such treatment, but most seem to require some replacement
for the remainder of their lives."

Keep in mind that when you take a small dose such as 10mg of HC per
day, the body is going to sense that cortisol in the blood and "down
regulate" it's own production of cortisol somewhat. So it is not just
adding to your cortisol, but reducing it to some extent at the same
time. The same thing happens when you take thyroid hormones, the body
lowers its own thyroid hormone production by lowering the TSH. But if
the adrenal (or thyroid) hormones are below optimum levels, this is a
decision the patient and doctor need to make.

25) What if I feel nauseated, or shaky?
These are symptoms of low cortisol - you should take your next dose
even if it hasn't been 4 hours. Some people need to move their doses
closer together, or switch to a longer lasting medicine such as
Medrol. Shakes can also result from low aldosterone, which is
mentioned later in the FAQ's. Too much cortisol can cause shakes. Low
blood sugar can cause shakes - and for persons with adrenal issues
this can be a big problem. This is why Dr Lam (and others) stress not
to skip breakfast, and eat frequent small meals.

26) Why do I have trouble sleeping after starting HC?
When cortisol is too high, or low, it can affect your sleep. And when
members comment that they have more trouble sleeping after starting
HC, it is often within the first month as the body's metabolism is
starting to wake up. During this "honeymoon" period, it is important
to get good sleep - even if that means slowing down on the "normal"
dose schedule, or taking a sleep remedy such as melatonin.

There are a variety of published medical articles and books saying
not to take HC past the afternoon - yet many patients find that after
they become accustomed to the medicine this is not a problem. If you
let your cortisol get too low at night, it can wake you up with low
blood sugar symptoms. Eating a small amount of protein, and a small
dose of HC as you are getting to bed may help you sleep.

27) How can I tell if I am low on cortisol, or too much?
As mentioned before, take your temperature and see if the daily
average is consistent day to day, within .2 degrees measured by a
dependable thermometer. Do the "blood pressure test" to see if your
adrenals are supported. In order to learn the symptoms of too much
cortisol, please do a search for "cushings syndrome".

It is vital for anyone on this journey to keep a daily log, a journal
with how you are doing, your dosing schedule, and any changes that
you make. Write something in it every day, and review what you wrote
for clues if things aren't going well. Resist the urge to change more
than one thing at a time, and be patient. Don't change your dosing
every day - try to be consistent within medically accepted amounts.

28) Aren't steroids dangerous - don't they have side effects?
Cortisone type medications are often prescribed for arthritis, severe
allergies and asthma because of their anti-inflammatory qualities.
For someone with low cortisol, the info sheet from Merck puts this
into perspective: Your doctor has prescribed Hydrocortone for you
because your body is not making enough hydrocortisone, either because
part of the adrenal gland isn't working, or because of injuries,
surgery or other stressful events. Steroids are also used by people
with other illnesses. Some of the side effects and other warnings in
this leaflet may apply more to them than to you. Because your tablets
are being given to you to replace natural hormones that your body
lacks, you should be less likely to get side effects.

"Cortisol is a normal hormone, essential for life." McCormack
Jefferies MD, Safe Uses of Cortisol

Doctor Lam says "Supplementing With Natural Hydrocortisone or
cortisone acetate in doses of 2.5 to 5 mg two to four times a day can
be a safe and effective way to replenish depleted adrenals. However,
this should be done under the guidance of a physician and it is a
prescription drug."

There is a potential danger if you start supplementing cortisol, then
stop suddenly or skip doses. See "What is an adrenal crisis" below.

29) If I take HC or Isocort, will it put my adrenals to sleep?
There are some doctors that simply do not prescribe HC, and warn
their fatigued patient that it will put their adrenals to sleep. If
the doctor tested the adrenals, he may find that patient is already
suffering from low levels of adrenal hormone. They may already
be "asleep".

In his book "Safe Uses of Cortisol" Dr Jefferies says "It has been
demonstrated that when subjects with intact adrenals receive less
than full replacement dosages of cortisol, endogenous adrenal
function is suppressed only sufficiently to achieve a normal
glucocorticoid level. For example, subjects receiving 20 mg (5 mg.
four times) daily of cortisol have their endogenous adrenal steroid
production decreased by approx. 60%, and subjects receiving 10 mg.
(2.5 mg. four times) daily have their adrenal steroid production
decreased by approx. 30%."
"endogenous" means "originating within or produced by the body"
"glucocorticoid" means "any of a group of corticosteroids (as
cortisol) that are involved especially in carbohydrate, protein, and
fat metabolism, that are anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive, and
that are used widely in medicine (as to alleviate the symptoms of
rheumatoid arthritis)" (Websters).

But what if you do not HAVE a normal glucocorticoid level? There have
been studies on Chronic Fatigue patients taking "hydrocortisone - 25
to 35 mg per day: leads to a 20 to 35% decrease in endogenous ACTH
and cortisol production... After stopping, it may take several days
to several weeks to recover the previous adrenocortical status."
http://www.intlhormonesociety.org/ref_cons/Ref_cons_3_mild_glucocortic
oid_deficiency.pdf

30) How much cortisol does the body normally produce?
In doctor Peatfield's book, he says "The natural output of
hydrocortisone is actually variable and may be as much as 200 mg.
daily under stress and 40 - 6o mg. in a normal resting state.
Obviously then, a dose significantly greater than 40 mg. daily will
tend to take over the adrenal production of cortisone, and the
adrenals could shut down completely. It must be said at once, so long
as this suppression doesn't last too long, the adrenals will pick
themselves up again, and restart producing the necessary cortisone
for themselves as before."
http://featherstone.bravehost.com/thyroid/peatfieldadrenal.html

31) What is stress dosing - what if I get sick?
As Dr Peatfield just said, the body makes more cortisol during times
of stress. In Dr Jefferies book he says "A patient with untreated
mild adrenal insufficiency or low adrenal reserve may function
reasonably well when environmental conditions are optimum but tends
to tire more easily, and if strenuous physical exercise is undertaken
or a meal skipped, hypoglycemic symptoms may develop. If an infection
such as a common cold develops, symptoms tend to be more severe and
last longer than in a person with normal adrenocortical
reserve." "When a patient with adrenal insufficiency encounters
stress, additional cortisol is necessary to maintain normal health
and sense of well-being."

The first rule is to take as little as you need to get through the
stress. This does NOT mean to run your body low on cortisol, but to
only dose if you really need it.

ILLNESS: for colds or slight fevers unrelated to a flu take 20MG at
the first sign of illness, even at bedtime. According to Jefferies
some people need up to 80MG a day to get through an illness.

FLU: Take 20MG four times a day till symptoms subside. Flu viruses
attack the adrenals and the cortisol directly so you need a lot extra
for this.

DAILY STRESSES: At the first sign of nausea or shaking that can't be
controlled take 5MG, wait 20-30 minutes for it to work and if nausea
or shakes are still present, take another 5MG, repeat till it stops.
After a few such times you will learn the dose that works for you,
usually 5-10 MG will handle most usual stresses.

SURGERIES: Make sure your anesthesiologist knows you have adrenal
insufficiency! ASK for solumedrol in the anesthesia IV. It is a
normal precaution they will readily do for you for safety.

EXERCISE: While it is preferable you do not exercise to the point of
needing extra cortisol, some feel it is a necessity of life to
continue strenuous exercising while on adrenal meds. If you are
exhausted after exercise, or take hours to recover, STOP. You are
doing more damage to your adrenals and are undoing any good you might
be doing by treating them. If you just need energy boost to do light
exercise, try 5-10MG before starting the exercise. The trick is to
supply the cortisol before your adrenals are being beat up for not
having it.

Tapering off stress doses: If over three days, then you must go down
slowly, no more than dropping 5MG every 2-3 days, but if it was just
3 days then you can drop 10MG every 3 days. If you start to feel
exhaustion or especially flu like symptoms, go back up immediately
and slow the decrease down.

32) What is the difference between Primary and Secondary Adrenal
Insufficiency?
"Failure to produce adequate levels of cortisol can occur for
different reasons. The problem may be due to a disorder of the
adrenal glands themselves (primary adrenal insufficiency) or to
inadequate secretion of ACTH by the pituitary gland (secondary
adrenal insufficiency)."
http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/addison/addison.htm
ACTH is an abbreviation for adrenocorticotropic hormone, produced by
the pituitary gland, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce
cortisone. As you know, the pituitary also controls the amount of
thyroid hormones by secreting Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). It
is a similar concept.

There is no cure for Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency, the missing
hormones will need to be taken for life.

33) What causes Primary Adrenal Insufficiency?
Tuberculosis remains a cause of Addison's disease in undeveloped
countries, but the most common reason today is an autoimmune attack
on the adrenal gland - which can be determined by blood test. Those
situations will gradually destroy the adrenal glands. There can be
lesser degrees of insufficiency of the adrenal glands - and you could
say that if the problem is not a progressive destruction of the gland
it is not addisons. In Dr Gerald Poesnecker's book, Chronic Fatigue
Unmasked, he talks about simple heredity - some people are born with
weak adrenals. If you do an internet search using the terms "adrenal
enzyme deficiency" you will discover that some people are born with
genetic issues that affect the body's ability to make cortisol (and
sometimes aldosterone). This is not as rare as you might think: "The
estimated prevalence is 1 case per 60 individuals in the general
population." http://www.emedicine.com/ped/byname/congenital-adrenal-
hyperplasia.htm

These can be rather permanent - something to keep in mind if you have
been trying to restore full adrenal function by taking supplements.
The adrenal glands can also be affected by viral and fungal
infections. Dr Hans Selye's early work demonstrated how stress can
affect the adrenal glands - and many doctors believe that this type
of adrenal fatigue can be reversed.

34) What causes Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency?
Low functioning of the pituitary (hypo-pituitary) can be caused by an
impact to the head, a tumor on the pituitary gland, antibodies to the
pituitary (no lab test for this), or simply being born that way. In
the books by Dr's Jefferies and Teitelbaum they discuss severe
illness such as flu affecting the pituitary - adrenal hormone
production. Some doctors believe that Epstein Barr and other viral
infections can affect the pituitary gland, resulting in lowered
request for cortisol.

35) How do I test for Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency?
Someone with Primary Adrenal Insufficiency would have high levels of
ACTH in the blood, but low levels of cortisol because the adrenals
were failing. With Secondary AI, the amount of ACTH in the blood is
below normal. The pituitary should be asking for more cortisol, but
it isn't. A "serum ACTH" test will help answer this question.

Your Dr. may want to just check serum ACTH and Serum cortisol levels
before ordering more tests - or the lab could draw blood for those
tests and then proceed immediately to an ACTH stimulation test, where
artificial ACTH is injected, and serum cortisol levels are measured
from blood samples drawn after 30 and 60 minutes. If the amount of
cortisol produced by the adrenals responds adequately to the
injection, you will be able to learn if the problem is with the
adrenal gland itself, or the pituitary.

Sometimes both can be a source of trouble - for example the low
pituitary output of ACTH has gone on so long that the adrenal gland
has atrophied. And there can be shades of gray with the pituitary
production of ACTH. Hypo-pituitary problems are not always a
simple "black and white" lab result. Dr Jefferies says "Mild
secondary adrenocortical deficiency is characterized by a baseline
plasma cortisol level either low or in the low normal range, but with
a normal response to Cortrosyn stimulation." (Cortrosyn is a
synthetic acth that is injected to determine the adrenal gland's
response to stimulation).

The members of the hypo-pituitary forum are familiar with these
various blood tests for adrenals, and the educational materials
listed on that forum will help you to interpret your results.

Remember - you cannot test for cortisol or ACTH if you are already
taking HC. Blood tests for cortisol should be done early in the
morning, and without food (eating will raise cortisol levels - the
ranges are for fasting).

36) Why does it matter if I am Primary or Secondary?
These concepts are important to understand, because you may be seeing
a well meaning holistic practitioner who is selling you bags full of
supplements to "heal" your adrenals - rather than doing a lab test to
determine if there is a problem, and why. Some practitioners are
vitamin experts - but unable to write the prescription you need, or
order medical tests. There is no "cure" for secondary adrenal
insufficiency, the replacement hormones need to be taken for life.
Over-the-counter supplements will not provide the missing hormones,
and will not restore your adrenal function to normal if you have
secondary adrenal insufficiency. One medical site says that secondary
adrenal insufficiency "is much more common than primary adrenal
insufficiency and can be traced to a lack of ACTH."
http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/addison/addison.htm Remember,
saliva based lab tests are great for measuring cortisol levels at
various points in the day, but will not tell you if the problem is
with the adrenal glands (primary) or with the pituitary (secondary).
None of these tests can be performed while you are taking HC,
IsoCort, or adrenal glandulars, or licorice supplements - so consider
getting all testing done before starting medication.

37) Will I be stuck on HC for life?
Maybe. It depends on the severity of your condition, and the cause of
your adrenal problem. This is a decision that the patient and doctor
need to consider before starting. My adrenal insufficiency was not
diagnosed for many years. Taking the proper remedy was like putting
on glasses, and being able to see clearly for the first time. You
wouldn't have a problem wearing glasses every day, if you needed
them. If I don't wear my glasses (or contacts) I cannot see well
enough to drive. I am thankful to be born in a century where glasses
are available, and I can buy pills to replace my missing hormones.

38) Will I be able to wean off the HC?
In Dr Peatfields book he says "The length of time necessary to
provide adrenal support is really infinitely variable. My normal
practice has usually been to obtain the best result with thyroid and
adrenal support, and after six or eight weeks, start to tail off the
cortisone supplement. If there is no adverse result it may then be
stopped - taking, say, four weeks in the process. Sometimes the
patient starts to lose ground; and it must then be restarted, and in
another eight weeks or so another attempt to tail off is made.
Sometimes, the adrenals have been so badly hit that the adrenal
support may be required for months; and if the adrenals never fully
recover, for a more indefinite time. Again I emphasis, that if
adrenal support is required, it must be given for as long as it
takes; there is no risk to this since one is simply restoring the
situation to normal, in the same way, and for the same reason, that
thyroid support may have to be given indefinitely."

39) How do I wean off HC?
Remember, Dr Peatfield just told you to obtain the best result with
thyroid and adrenal support. And after six or eight weeks, start to
tail off the cortisone supplement. In other words, you wouldn't want
to wean off HC before you gradually worked up to your optimum dose of
Armour's thyroid. That is the whole point of supporting the adrenals
for many members - so they can tolerate a replacement dose of Armours
(which for the average adult is at least 3 grains).

Wean off HC very gradually, starting with a 2.5mg reduction in the
morning dose, and hold this for at least a week to 10 days. By
reducing the first dose of the day, you are giving the body a chance
to start "ramping up" it's own production of cortisol. If you
experience low cortisol symptoms such as nausea or extreme fatigue,
then you are not ready to wean off.

The next dose reduction could be taken from a later part of the day,
and again hold that reduction for at least 7-10 days. Next, take 2.5
out of the middle of the day and try to adjust your reduced dosing so
the rhythm is natural as possible.

While on the reduced dose, be alert for the need to "stress dose"
rather than suffer through symptoms of low cortisol. This will help
your chances of successfully weaning off. And if you do wean
completely off HC, be alert for the need to stress dose if there are
signs of low cortisol during times of stress or illness.

40) Will HC kill my immune system?
Too much cortisol can suppress immunity, so it is listed as one of
the possible side effects on the warning label. But if a person is
low on cortisol, there may be other problems, as Dr Ron Kennedy
says "Anyone who is especially susceptible to infections probably has
weakened adrenals, thyroid gland, or both — therefore, a weakened
immune system." http://www.med-library.net/content/view/200/41/

Dr Jefferies says "The mobilization of at least some of the
components of the immune response may depend upon the presence of
adequate cortisol, since adrenally insufficient subjects are not able
to produce a normal immune response. Hence, administration of
physiologic dosages of cortisol may help to prevent the lowering of
resistance that enables an infection to start or, after an infection
has started, may assist the immune response and enable the person to
recover more quickly. If, however, an excessive amount of
glucocorticoid is present before an infection develops, the immune
response may be blocked or misdirected, allowing infections to
develop and progress abnormally."

Dr Jefferies also says "Most patients can be maintained on between 20
and 30 mgs. daily in divided doses." From this, you could assume that
doses beyond 30 mg HC would not be good for the body's natural immune
system.

41) What is a physiologic dose of cortisol?
Dr Jefferies says "When applied to hormone actions, a "physiologic"
dosage implies one that promotes normal function, whereas
a "pharmacologic" dosage is one in excess of normal requirements and
hence, one that might alter normal function." Doses of HC up to 30 mg
may be considered a "physiologic" dose per doctors Jefferies and
Peatfield.

42) What precautions should I consider before starting HC?
You should have enough medicine so that you never run out, and always
take a few extra days worth of medication with you whenever you leave
the house. Dr. Jefferies says "Patients with adrenal insufficiency
should be cautioned to carry ID cards stating their diagnosis,
treatment, etc." A medical bracelet is a good idea. If a person is
not going to be consistent with taking their medicine, skipping
doses, or leaving the house without their pills, it may be better not
to start.

43) Do some people have a reaction to the medication?
If someone is going to have an adverse reaction to HC, it will
usually happen within an hour of taking the medicine. This is
important to remember, because there is a completely different
reaction that can happen a few hours after taking the medicine, which
is a LOW CORTISOL reaction (different than a reaction to the
medicine). The person's ACTH will be lowered somewhat by the HC, then
after a few hours the HC begins to run out, and the person may feel
fatigue, nausea, or shaky. The solution is to take the next dose, and
consider smaller doses closer together.

If the person starts with the small 2.5 mg HC dose recommended by Dr
Peatfield, reactions to the medicine are rare. We have seen some
members who had to cut that dose in 1/2, and stay on it for a week
before introducing the 2nd dose. In his book, Dr Peatfield
says "Normally there are no symptoms good or bad; but everyone is
different and occasional marked sensitivity occurs. In such a case
the hydrocortisone will be stopped for a day or so, and a much lower
replacement level will be sought for. The most valuable alternative
is the use of an adrenal glandular, such as "Adrenolyph" from Nutri
Ltd, or in the USA, Isocort, which being natural adrenal extracts,
require no prescription. The amount of cortisone is extremely low,
only in trace amounts, but will be sufficient to start the adrenal
support going."
http://featherstone.bravehost.com/thyroid/peatfieldadrenal.html

44) What is a "Thyroid Dump"?
Persons who have been low on cortisol may have had the thyroid
hormones "pooling" in the blood. One of the reasons to start HC with
very small doses, and increase gradually, is to avoid a sudden rush
of thyroid hormones into the cells of the body. When that happens,
you may feel extreme anxiety, racing heart, and/or other
uncomfortable symptoms. If you feel this discomfort, even after
decreasing the Armour, patients find it helpful to stop the Armour
completely for a day or two or more, then raise back up.

45) What is an adrenal crisis? (AKA "addisons crisis")
An abrupt life-threatening state which is caused by insufficient
production of cortisol by the adrenal gland. A typical finding in
Addison's disease. Individuals who have been taking corticosteroids
(glucocorticoids) for a prolonged period of time (weeks to months)
are at risk for acute adrenal crisis if the medication is stopped
abruptly. For this reason, corticosteroid medication are withdrawn
slowly on a diminishing dosing schedule.
Symptoms include low blood pressure (shock), weakness, headache,
vomiting, fever chills, tachycardia and sweating.
Treatment includes blood pressure support and intravenous
hydrocortisone.

http://cancerweb.ncl.ac.uk/cgi-bin/omd?adrenal+crisis
tachycardia means "Rapid beating of the heart, conventionally applied
to rates over 100 per minute"

If you are consistent with your medication and always bring a pill
box with you so that you can stress dose, you can avoid this problem.
Persons with severe adrenal insufficiency are advised to wear a
medical bracelet stating "adrenal insufficiency"

46) The HC doesn't seem to last long enough - what is Medrol
Dr Peatfield says that HC is "not stored by the body and gets rapidly
used; 2 or 3 hours will see it pretty well used up completely." Some
people metabolize HC faster than others. If a person has symptoms of
low cortisol despite gradually working up to about 30mg of HC, they
may want to talk with their doctor about trying Medrol. Depending on
the persons metabolism, the 1/2 life of Medrol can range from 18 to
36 hours.

47) How do I dose Medrol?
Conversion tables will tell you that 1mg of Medrol = 5mg of HC.
Persons who are already on HC can gradually switch over to Medrol,
and typically end up with about 6mg of Medrol spread out through the
day. It does not need to be taken every 4 hours like you would with
HC, but a typical dosing schedule might be 3 mg at wake, 2mg in the
afternoon, and 1mg at bedtime. Further discussion about Medrol can be
seen here
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=9933
and here http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/community/viewtopic.php?
t=9783

48) Can I take time-release HC, Prednisone, or other steroid to treat
the adrenals?
Although a number of members have tried time-release HC, we have not
seen people staying with it. 1 mg of Prednisone is equivalent to 4 mg
of HC, but is harder on the liver to process, so Medrol seems to be
the better choice for long term cortisol replacement.

49) Are there other adrenal hormones that I need to worry about?
Dr Lam says "As adrenal fatigue progresses to more advance stages,
the amount of aldosterone production reduces. Sodium and water
retention is compromised.. As the fluid volume is reduced, low blood
pressure ensues. Cells get dehydrated and become sodium deficient."
http://www.drlam.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/adrenal_fatigue.cfm
Although the adrenals make more hormones than just cortisol and
aldosterone, persons with severe adrenal insufficiency usually take
simply cortisone, and if needed, supplement aldosterone with
Florinef. Further information about aldosterone can be found here
http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=8562

50) What are the symptoms of low aldosterone?
Persons with low aldosterone are unable to retain sodium, and it
spills into the bladder, taking water with it. This results in
frequent urination, dehydration, and heat intolerance. Electrolytes
become imbalanced, resulting in muscle twitches, heart palpitations,
and the pupils of the eyes are unable to stay "constricted" when
subjected to light (they "flutter"). See the article above, and
follow it's links to learn more about aldosterone, and how to treat
it.

51) Why should I test renin along with aldosterone?
If you didn't get a full range of adrenal tests to determine if you
were Primary or Secondary adrenal insufficient before starting HC,
you may be able to gain insight on this by testing Aldosterone with
Renin. The article mentioned above will explain this for you.

52) What sequence do I treat the hormones? What about the sex
hormones?
If the adrenals are weak, It is best to treat the low cortisol before
working up to high levels of thyroid medication. And it is best to
fully support these 2 before attempting to supplement the sex
hormones, as they can change after the adrenals and thyroid are
supported. To put it another way, if there is an imbalance of the
adrenal and thyroid hormones, it can cause problems with the other
hormones. If you know that you have an imbalance it is fine to
address it, but be alert for changes as your treatment progresses.

53) Will hormone medication affect my blood pressure?
Yes, cortisol and aldosterone both have a direct affect on blood
pressure. Persons with adrenal fatigue typically have low blood
pressure, but this is not always the case. If you have a history of
high blood pressure, you should monitor this at least once a day and
note what is going on in your journal. If you are on blood pressure
medication, you should research how it may affect cortisol and
aldosterone. If you are taking Florinef because of low aldosterone,
the dose may need to be reduced in order to avoid raising a blood
pressure that is already high.

54) Do these hormones affect fluid retention?
They can, especially when aldosterone levels are not right. The very
bottom of this web page has more information
http://www.tuberose.com/Adrenal_Glands.html Low levels of thyroid can
also cause fluid retention, and in turn this can raise blood
pressure. Persons with these difficulties would want to note any
changes in symptoms in their daily journal in order to learn what is
helping, or worsening these conditions.

55) Will I recover 100% and feel normal?
You want to feel better. If hormones are not balanced, some
improvement will occur as you supplement those that are low.

Many of us suffer from other issues that are not strictly due to a
hormone shortage. For example, Hashimoto's is the leading cause of
low thyroid. Many people with these thyroid antibodies can have
other "autoimmune" disorders that affect their well being. We see a
lot of people with hormone issues that also have diabetes. Or going
through menopause.

After 6 months of adrenal and thyroid support, I noticed that my skin
was no longer dry, cracking, and bleeding. These type of changes will
help you understand that you have made progress. There may be other
aspects that are not directly addressed, but you will have a better
chance of success once the body's metabolism engine is functioning.
_________________
Bob H, Co-Moderator Adrenal forum. Please read the FAQ's - click on
this link: http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/adrenal-info/faq/
My information is not meant to replace the relationship between you
and your Dr.

Welcome to the FDC Forum,

   [Please] read and familiarize yourself with the information in the files
section and links section on this site before posting -
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/frequent-dose-chelation/files/.
It will help you tremendously in finding chelation information that has
already been organized, will answer many questions and aid as reference
material and this forums purpose - rules, etiquette etc.

   I have a suggestion for all those starting chelation using Andy's protocol.
Regardless of the dosage recommendations in the book [by weight], I and
a number of others with years of experience suggest starting with a much lower
dosage.

We suggest starting with 12.5mg or less for 4-5 rounds to see how you respond
to the chelator [DMSA, DMPS or ALA].  Many people find that using the dosage
recommendation in the AI book to be way too much and it can cause side effects
that can be very severe and long lasting.  It is much safer to start with lower
dosages and [slowly] work up.  This way you do not harm yourself and it doesn't
take that much longer.



TK - FDC moderator

When we started the DMSA only, our first round was at the 1/8mg per pound, but
he reacted severely, so our next round was about half that and he has been doing
great on that for 10 rounds.  I just increased it by just under half that dose. 
So essentially, we were dosing him at 1.5mg (every 3 hours during the day and 4
hour at night) and now we are dosing 2.08mg of DMSA.  When we started the ALA,
it was also at 1.5mg and the second round we did with it, I reduced it by a
little bit, but now we are holding off completely on that.  I have to get some
ALA (versus the R-ALA).

I tried finding anything I could on the R-ALA in Andy's book, on onibasu, on the
Autism-Mercury board, on this board, I couldn't find ANYTHING helpful.  The
search criteria was too large and anything else brought up nothing other than
another poster's comments here or there.  It's been very hard for me to find
anything on this topic which is why I finally chose to post.  I just hope I
haven't harmed my child in any way!  He has only gotten better as we progress
(just during the rounds with the ALA, he was a little rough to handle) so I am
hopeful that we haven't been set back at all.  The only negative changes we have
seen recently are some hyperactivity, but his focus is still good, and the
itching (which also seems to be under control now too).  His BMs have become
normal (except during chelation) in between rounds.  Our constant battle is with
yeast and/or bacteria.

Thanks for the replies!
Jessica

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "Linda" <lindajaytee@...> wrote:
>
>
> I'm not sure what to say about the dose of DMSA because you didn't say what
doses you were using.  Try severl rounds at the dose you have decided on to make
sure there are no or little side effects.  When adding ALA, make sure it is
regular ALA.  Discard the R-ALA.    The recommended starting dose for any
chelator is 1/8 mg/lb.  If the side effects are too much at that dose, then
lower the dose.
>
> Linda
>
>
>
> --- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "jessicagalligani" <luckylot@>
wrote:
> >
> > We have done 9 rounds of chelation with our 4 year old, 35 pound son. At
round 6, I added ALA and we had HORRIBLE issues with whole body itching and
stimming which we normally don't see with our high functioning child. For the
next round, we reduced it and he did fine, but again, the itching was evident
and this time it didn't subside for a very long time. It might have been related
to yeast, but I am not sure. I am also doing a supplement break to see which
supplements might be adding to this issue. Anyway, the reason I am writing, is
> > because I JUST noticed (literally minutes after dosing him his first pill in
round 10) that R-ALA is not recommended and that is exactly what we are using.
Can anyone explain this? I had read that the R-ALA is better utilized by the
body, is this not true? Have I potentially caused harm to my child using this
instead of plain ALA? We actually stopped it for two rounds, I was adding it
back in this time to try it again, since the DMSA doesn't seem to be doing much
anymore. As soon as I read that about the R-ALA I immediately gave him 2
charcoal capsules. I hope that might help any negative effects? So I RE-split
> > his capsules and supplements (I combine C, moly, milk thistle, and magnesium
so they are dosed together round the clock) and now we are doing just DMSA
again. I decided that since we haven't seen gains for a few rounds, to just
increase the DMSA this time around, by just under half. Can someone give me
direction on this so I know what to do with our next round.
> >
> > Thanks
> > Jessica
> >
>

Thank you Colette, not only for the information that I had so much trouble
finding myself, but also for realizing how much of a struggle this is:
researching for ourselves, implementing treatments, contradictions, supplements
galore....it's a struggle, but I am so grateful for the assistance I receive
here!!

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "cann7899" <cann7899@...> wrote:
>
> --- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "jessicagalligani" <luckylot@>
wrote:
> >
> > We have done 9 rounds of chelation with our 4 year old, 35 pound son. At
round 6, I added ALA and we had HORRIBLE issues with whole body itching and
stimming which we normally don't see with our high functioning child. For the
next round, we reduced it and he did fine, but again, the itching was evident
and this time it didn't subside for a very long time. It might have been related
to yeast, but I am not sure. I am also doing a supplement break to see which
supplements might be adding to this issue. Anyway, the reason I am writing, is
> > because I JUST noticed (literally minutes after dosing him his first pill in
round 10) that R-ALA is not recommended and that is exactly what we are using.
Can anyone explain this? I had read that the R-ALA is better utilized by the
body, is this not true?
>
> ==Jessica,  Here is what Andy says...basically all the research has been done
with ALA not R-ALA.
> http://onibasu.com/archives/fdc/1525.html
> http://onibasu.com/archives/am/224667.html
>
> If you do an onibasu search with R-ala and andycutler or andrewhallcutler you
will get Andy's perspective on this.
>
> Good luck.  It must be tough chelating your child with so much contradictory
information!
>
> Colette
>
> doesn't seem to be doing much anymore. As soon as I read that about the R-ALA
I immediately gave him 2 charcoal capsules. I hope that might help any negative
effects? So I RE-split
> > his capsules and supplements (I combine C, moly, milk thistle, and magnesium
so they are dosed together round the clock) and now we are doing just DMSA
again. I decided that since we haven't seen gains for a few rounds, to just
increase the DMSA this time around, by just under half. Can someone give me
direction on this so I know what to do with our next round.
> >
> > Thanks
> > Jessica
> >
>

I know everyone is so busy and many are not well but if you can please post
your improvements, there are none for 2009 and I know I need those reports and
prob many do.  Thanks

Well I have my life back - how's that for improvement?  I'm not done yet,
but there's no comparison between now and before.



The only negative about chelation is that progress is slow as molasses.  So
you just have to stop getting excited about seeing any kind of quick
response and just keep slogging away at it.  The changes are slow slow slow
but they happen.





Dean



   _____

From: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of email4ebay2005
Sent: Saturday, August 01, 2009 11:05 AM
To: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [frequent-dose-chelation] Please post your improvements on the
cutler protocol.





I know everyone is so busy and many are not well but if you can please post
your improvements, there are none for 2009 and I know I need those reports
and prob many do. Thanks





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Yes, I had much improvement on the kidney cleanse.  After removal of my fillings
I had kidney pain for about three months until I did the cleanse and within
three days of starting the cleanse my pain was gone.  (I did a total of about
three weeks on the cleanse)  I know what works for one person may not work for
someone else but it did help me.  I have only been able to do five rounds of
chelation since I am dealing with adrenal problems and family scheduling.  I
hope to be able to try chelation again within the next few weeks.  If you decide
to do this make sure you get fresh herbs, that is important.  This is where I
ordered mine:http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/
Best wishes for improvement.Diane H.

--- On Fri, 7/31/09, jersey2cats <dsstreak@...> wrote:

From: jersey2cats <dsstreak@...>
Subject: [frequent-dose-chelation] Re: Please help with kidney problems
To: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, July 31, 2009, 7:29 PM













 





                   --- In frequent-dose- chelation@ yahoogroups. com, Diane
Hendee <diane_hendee@ ...> wrote:

>

> Diane,

> I was wondering if you have kidney pain?  I had kidney pain beginning shortly
after having eight mercury fillings replaced with composite.   This pain
continued for three months until I did the Hulda Clark kidney cleanse found here
on Dean's web site:http://www.livingne twork.co. za/drclarknetwor k/kidney_
cleanse.html

>   My test results were serum creatinine 1.04 and GFR 56 which was slightly out
of range.  These results were before beginning chelation and before the kidney
cleanse.  I have not retested since to see if chelation has changed anything.  I
hope you are able to find something that works for you.

> Diane H.



Diane H.,



Do you feel better since the chelation and kidney cleanse? I have had kidney
pain on and off but not recently.


































[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I have no more paranoia.

dmsa reg 39.99, now 19.99 for 100 mg 45 capsules. Someone listed the website
previously. Good time to stock up a lit. I bought 10 bottles.

Hello all,

Just wanted to express gratitude again for the existence of this list
and the searchable database at http://onibasu.com/

Last night, shortly after taking my 6 pm dose of DMSA 12.5/ALA 6.25 I
started getting a burning esophagus... very unpleasant in a myriad of
ways, seeing that my appetite is already taking a big hit when I am
ON round -- just not hungry, and I get hypoglycemic symptoms and feel
terrible if I don't eat.  But while on chelating round, food seems to
fill me up in just a few bites.  So I eat a lot of very small meals
all day long.  The burning would make eating miserable. I couldn't
lean over to pet my animals or hug my kids, or garden (my absolute
mental therapy), and even just sitting hurt.

I jumped on that searchable database, and lo and behold, a bunch of
posts showed up when searching for burning esophagus -- namely
slippery elm and DGL.  Thank you all!  Last night, I sent hubs out
for me to pick up some slippery elm and WOW!  I wanna do a little
happy dance because the burning went away so completely and I was
able to do my night doses without a single reoccurrence of that awful
sensation.  Surely, I would not have had a restful night (albeit
interrupted so I could take my doses, drink water and take more
slippery elm) if I hadn't had this list to lean upon.  It would have
been a miserable night.

Thank you list!!!!!  <3  What an incredibly helpful, useful
resource!  Because indigestion and such is an issue for me anyway,
I'm sending hubs out today to find some DGL to see if I can stop the
other symptoms I get, too, even when off round.

Otherwise, this round is going much better with the ALA in it instead
of just DMSA.  I feel clearer, a bit more energetic, and certainly
think I'm more pleasant to be around for my family.  I've noticed
that I have similar sensitivity to certain loud sounds now, same as
my kids have always had, but just on round.  I feel less achy and flu-
ish this time, too.  I find it easier to clear my head to meditate on
my thoughts and to use my mind to visualize and manifest my
increasing health with each round, getting rid of the toxin, and
filling the space with nutrients, excellent health, and golden
light... Okay... so this works for me.  ;)  It may not for everyone.
It helps me a lot.

Thank you list.  Thank you Andy and Linda and everyone else for being
here and caring enough to put together one of the (if not THE) most
useful databases of information anywhere on the web.

Good Health!
Miriam




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "email4ebay2005"
<email4ebay2005@...> wrote:
>
> Well I haven't got all my life back as Dean has but I am still in process...49
rounds.  I go agree with him it is as slow as molasses.

My improvements:

No more numbness in left arm and leg
No more reflux
No more bladder freqency
No more little flashes of blue lights in my eyes
No more depression
Weight gain after incredible unstoppable weight loss
A lot less swaying and aggitation
more normalized menstral cycle
No brain fog
Improved memory
Improvement in dizziness- from daily to a couple times a month.

I am sure there are more I don't have my notes beside me :)
Colette

I once read something written by a very smart doctor who specialized in a
sort of trigger-point therapy for pain.  He wrote that if a patient comes to
him with 10 pains, and he gets rid of 9 of them, the patient will leave his
office just as miserable as he was when he arrived.  That 1 pain will now
fill his consciousness, and subjectively nothing will have improved.



I think in a sense the same goes for chelation, which is why reports of
improvement are so sparse.  At one point I was virtually incapacitated.  Now
whatever problems I still have are very much in the background, and don't
affect my life at all.  But what I notice of course are the discomforts that
remain, not what has improved.  When people ask for success stories my first
reaction is "Not me, I'm not done yet."



Dean









   _____

From: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of cann7899
Sent: Saturday, August 01, 2009 4:26 PM
To: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [frequent-dose-chelation] Re: Please post your improvements on the
cutler protocol.





--- In frequent-dose- <mailto:frequent-dose-chelation%40yahoogroups.com>
chelation@yahoogroups.com, "email4ebay2005" <email4ebay2005@...> wrote:
>
> Well I haven't got all my life back as Dean has but I am still in
process...49 rounds. I go agree with him it is as slow as molasses.

My improvements:

No more numbness in left arm and leg
No more reflux
No more bladder freqency
No more little flashes of blue lights in my eyes
No more depression
Weight gain after incredible unstoppable weight loss
A lot less swaying and aggitation
more normalized menstral cycle
No brain fog
Improved memory
Improvement in dizziness- from daily to a couple times a month.

I am sure there are more I don't have my notes beside me :)
Colette





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I am on my fourth year (3,5) on this protocol, and my guess is that I need a
total of five or six years with chelation until I am 95-100% I was a real mess,
and now I work full time. 

 



From: frequent-dose- chelation@ yahoogroups. com

[mailto:frequent-dose- chelation@ yahoogroups. com] On Behalf Of email4ebay2005

Sent: Saturday, August 01, 2009 11:05 AM

To: frequent-dose- chelation@ yahoogroups. com

Subject: [frequent-dose- chelation] Please post your improvements on the

cutler protocol.



I know everyone is so busy and many are not well but if you can please post

your improvements, there are none for 2009 and I know I need those reports

and prob many do. Thanks



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]




































[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

* so true*  I use a scale from 1-5 for rating my days.  What were my 4s are now
my 3s...so as time goes on and I get better my scale is changing and I rate my
good days harder.  Same concept really.

I have always had ringing in my ears, since my 20s or so....with all the other
symptoms I didn't notice it.  Now, it is in the forefront because the other
symptoms have gone away and I notice it more and it bothers me more :)

We are funny creatures.

Colette--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "Dean" <dmo25@...> wrote:
>
> I once read something written by a very smart doctor who specialized in a
> sort of trigger-point therapy for pain.  He wrote that if a patient comes to
> him with 10 pains, and he gets rid of 9 of them, the patient will leave his
> office just as miserable as he was when he arrived.  That 1 pain will now
> fill his consciousness, and subjectively nothing will have improved.
>
>
>
> I think in a sense the same goes for chelation, which is why reports of
> improvement are so sparse.  At one point I was virtually incapacitated.  Now
> whatever problems I still have are very much in the background, and don't
> affect my life at all.  But what I notice of course are the discomforts that
> remain, not what has improved.  When people ask for success stories my first
> reaction is "Not me, I'm not done yet."
>
>
>
> Dean
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>   _____
>
> From: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of cann7899
> Sent: Saturday, August 01, 2009 4:26 PM
> To: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [frequent-dose-chelation] Re: Please post your improvements on the
> cutler protocol.
>
>
>
>
>
> --- In frequent-dose- <mailto:frequent-dose-chelation%40yahoogroups.com>
> chelation@yahoogroups.com, "email4ebay2005" <email4ebay2005@> wrote:
> >
> > Well I haven't got all my life back as Dean has but I am still in
> process...49 rounds. I go agree with him it is as slow as molasses.
>
> My improvements:
>
> No more numbness in left arm and leg
> No more reflux
> No more bladder freqency
> No more little flashes of blue lights in my eyes
> No more depression
> Weight gain after incredible unstoppable weight loss
> A lot less swaying and aggitation
> more normalized menstral cycle
> No brain fog
> Improved memory
> Improvement in dizziness- from daily to a couple times a month.
>
> I am sure there are more I don't have my notes beside me :)
> Colette
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "andrewhallcutler"
<AndyCutler@...> wrote:

> Have you tried T3/T4 preparations, or only the T4 ones like synthroid and
levoxyl?

I have tried combinations of almost everything. I was on Naturthroid with some
T4 for a very long time. I have autoimmune thyroid. My antibodies are down now
either because of chelation or possibly a gluten free diet. I now know I also
have a reverse T3 issue. However, Cytomel makes me racy then crash. I have a
very high metabolism so I think I use and clear it too quickly. I'm thinking of
trying timed release. I did not know about the GFR related to hypo; the high
creatnine would only be caused by kidney problems though right?


> > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/index.html">Amalgam Illness: Diagnosis
and Treatment</a >
> > >
> > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/hairtestbook.html">Hair Test
Interpretation: Finding Hidden Toxicities</a >
> > >
> > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/nourishinghope.html">Nourishing Hope for
Autism: Nutrition Intervention for Healing Our Children</a >
> > >
> > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/biologicaltreatments.html">Biological
Treatments for Autism and PDD</a >
> > >
> >
>

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, PerK Dragseth <perkrdra@...>
wrote:
>
> I am on my fourth year (3,5) on this protocol, and my guess is that I need a
total of five or six years with chelation until I am 95-100% I was a real mess,
and now I work full time. 
>
Hi,

May I ask what were the symptoms that improved for you?

What were your dosages like, and which chelators?

5 or 6 years is a bit longer than the usual length of time to chelate... do you
think you were more heavily poisoned than most?

Thanks,

Suzanne

My son no longer requires in-home therapy and is often mistaken for a typical
child not on the Autism spectrum.

Pam

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "email4ebay2005"
<email4ebay2005@...> wrote:
>
>   I know everyone is so busy and many are not well but if you can please post
your improvements, there are none for 2009 and I know I need those reports and
prob many do.  Thanks
>

There is a very good Yahoo group that is dedicated to Reverse T3 issues, if
you're interested.  They've been of great help to me in understanding what I
need to do to get my body to tolerate the T3 only thyroid meds.  I also had
problems starting T3 only, but learned how to make the switch over to it and
also how important it is to support your adrenals while doing it.  The other big
reason people have issues with T3 only is low ferritin (storage iron).

The group link is:  http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/RT3_T3/

Ericka

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "jersey2cats" <dsstreak@...>
wrote:
>
> --- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "andrewhallcutler"
<AndyCutler@> wrote:
>
> > Have you tried T3/T4 preparations, or only the T4 ones like synthroid and
levoxyl?
>
> I have tried combinations of almost everything. I was on Naturthroid with some
T4 for a very long time. I have autoimmune thyroid. My antibodies are down now
either because of chelation or possibly a gluten free diet. I now know I also
have a reverse T3 issue. However, Cytomel makes me racy then crash. I have a
very high metabolism so I think I use and clear it too quickly. I'm thinking of
trying timed release. I did not know about the GFR related to hypo; the high
creatnine would only be caused by kidney problems though right?
>
>
> > > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/index.html">Amalgam Illness: Diagnosis
and Treatment</a >
> > > >
> > > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/hairtestbook.html">Hair Test
Interpretation: Finding Hidden Toxicities</a >
> > > >
> > > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/nourishinghope.html">Nourishing Hope
for Autism: Nutrition Intervention for Healing Our Children</a >
> > > >
> > > > <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/biologicaltreatments.html">Biological
Treatments for Autism and PDD</a >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

It sounds strongly to me that you have severe adrenal problems causing you not
to be able to tolerate T3 as well as creating the
RT-3 problem.  Your body is creating RT3 precisely because the adrenals are too
challenged to handle the energy created from the T3; hence, it is turning it in
to RT3 (which is how the body puts the breaks on)

This was explained to me by Dr Rind as the same problem I had.  I discovered him
because he is mentioned on the www.stopthethyroidmadness.com website.   I
consulted him after 2 other doctors couldn't help me.

Synthroid, which I was initially put on for 4 months did absolutley nothing. 
Armour intially helped (for 3 wonderful days) until the exact same deadness
descended as had occurred on Synthroid.   I was about to go on T3 only to
"clear" my RT3 problem as suggested by a new doctor I consulted and as so many
on the stopthyroidmadness website suggested until i had a consult with Dr. Rind.
He explained to me that my body was purposely making RT3 to protect itself
because my adrenals were so challenged.   I was already on Hydrocortisone (HC)
so I didn't understand this as first.

As my adrneals began to heal through the regimen Dr. Rind put me on, I initally
began to tolerate 15 mg of Armour per month.  He refused to put me on T3 only
and to continue to raise up my HC begause he said it would burn out the rest of
what little my adrenals had.  Eventually I began to be able to raise the dosage
a little at a time.  If I tried to raise it any higher, I would get the precise
symptoms you describe - raciness and then crashing.  All of this began in
January of htis year.

6 months later, my adrenals have now healed to the degree that my HC dosage has
been reduced from 20 mg to 10 mg and I am feeling really great on only 60 mg of
Armour.  really really great.  I also have hashi's like you do.

I used to think, as you do, that I also had a very revved up metabolism since I
would always be so racy and revved up even before this probem began - but it
wasn't that - it was lack of cortisol from adrenals that have been challenged
too long from lifestyle, mercury poisoning, improper and very challenging
chelation methods, and long-undiagosed hypothyroidism.   Now that my adrenals
are stronger and I'm not continuing to buredne them through caffeine and
lifetsyle, I am experiencing a stength and peace to my body that is incredible.

fyi, for my adrenals, Rind had me eat 2 tblsp of organic butter per day, salt (I
put 1 tsp in water morning and night and also liberally salted my food), high
ViItamin C, good quality B Complex, and an adrenal glandular.   I discovered
from another doctor that I was also zinc deficient so upped my zinc from 30 to
50 mg.  Rind also had me take 2 tblsp of hydrolized collagen in water that I was
to drink throughout that day.

One drawback from Rind's protocol is that the daily mult vitamin that he put me
on (that I purchased from him) has ALA in it.   After discovering this site, I
immediately stopped taking it.  I have told him about the ALA and the problems
it caused me (leading me to discover this site).  I hope he reformulates his
multivitamin.


.   --- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "jersey2cats" <dsstreak@...>
wrote:
>
> --- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "andrewhallcutler"
<AndyCutler@> wrote:
>
> > Have you tried T3/T4 preparations, or only the T4 ones like synthroid and
levoxyl?
>
> I have tried combinations of almost everything. I was on Naturthroid with some
T4 for a very long time. I have autoimmune thyroid. My antibodies are down now
either because of chelation or possibly a gluten free diet. I now know I also
have a reverse T3 issue. However, Cytomel makes me racy then crash. I have a
very high metabolism so I think I use and clear it too quickly. I'm thinking of
trying timed release. I did not know about the GFR related to hypo; the high
creatnine would only be caused by kidney problems though right?
>

Yes, Yes.  This is exactly my sentiment.  I have been chelating for 10  months
and supplementing ~12 months.  The improvements are nothing less than
miraculous.  But like dean said I'm still "not done yet", but I can see that
"victory" over metal toxicity is in reach.

12 months ago I was bed ridden,  doing my best to not freak out my wife and two
boys, while still trying to explain what was going on and the battle I was in. 
Of course like many here have expressed before, nobody really has a clue the
depth of what metal toxicity takes you. Enduring the scorn & ridicule all the
while trying to remain hopeful and justify the expenditure on supplements and
the strict dosage schedule.  The fruitless efforts of trying to explain what it
is doing to you and the incompetence  of the medical profession in this area....


Anyway, back on topic.  I could list 20 debillitating symptoms that are either
gone or diminished 90%.  I am now looking for full time employment, something I
could not even consider just a month ago.  The pace of detox is excruciatingly
slow and difficult for everyone to comprehend/ appreciate.  Yet progress is
undeniable when looking over the expanse of weeks and months.

I suspect It will take another 6 - 12 months of chelation before I can declare
victory.

JP


--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "cann7899" <cann7899@...> wrote:
>
> * so true*  I use a scale from 1-5 for rating my days.  What were my 4s are
now my 3s...so as time goes on and I get better my scale is changing and I rate
my good days harder.  Same concept really.
>
> I have always had ringing in my ears, since my 20s or so....with all the other
symptoms I didn't notice it.  Now, it is in the forefront because the other
symptoms have gone away and I notice it more and it bothers me more :)
>
> We are funny creatures.
>
> Colette--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "Dean" <dmo25@> wrote:
> >
> > I once read something written by a very smart doctor who specialized in a
> > sort of trigger-point therapy for pain.  He wrote that if a patient comes to
> > him with 10 pains, and he gets rid of 9 of them, the patient will leave his
> > office just as miserable as he was when he arrived.  That 1 pain will now
> > fill his consciousness, and subjectively nothing will have improved.
> >
> >
> >
> > I think in a sense the same goes for chelation, which is why reports of
> > improvement are so sparse.  At one point I was virtually incapacitated.  Now
> > whatever problems I still have are very much in the background, and don't
> > affect my life at all.  But what I notice of course are the discomforts that
> > remain, not what has improved.  When people ask for success stories my first
> > reaction is "Not me, I'm not done yet."
> >
> >
> >
> > Dean
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >   _____
> >
> > From: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of cann7899
> > Sent: Saturday, August 01, 2009 4:26 PM
> > To: frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: [frequent-dose-chelation] Re: Please post your improvements on the
> > cutler protocol.
> >
> >
> >

I struggled with the same thing but know that I know it's the mercury I have
control over it. When I'm feeling foggy or I'm running to the bathroom every 10
minutes I know that I'm not in the best shape to be getting work done. Ever
since I found out I was toxic I slowly started to regain control of my immediate
situation. Now I just plan my days (and nights) around my ups and downs and
things have been going really well. I strongly recommend looking into the GTD
methodology by David Allen. His book "Getting Things Done" has has really helped
me in the past and this was at a time when my life was a living hell. I'm
looking forward to going over the system again now that I know what's been on my
back all these years. Definitely check it out, it's a great system of ideas for
productivity and it should really help you out. As far as procrastination goes I
have heard great things about Brain Tracy's "Eat That Frog" though I haven't
checked it out my self.

PS: Audio books rule.

Andy, I am like 99% sure they are from candida (roots).

Actually recently I neglected the candida diet and got new growth in another
part of the intestine - with all the typical symptoms for me etc -  and those
same rash-like needle puncture like marks on sthe skin appeared.

they also appeard whenever in the past - when my intestinal immunity worked
better -  i took sthg to promote mucosal response or on antfungal meds, or
directly in an enema when exposed to an antifungal solution.

And I showed those marks to my GP doc and he kind of agreed, esp since at the
same time I got a canddia infection in my mouth - tho he is not really familiar
with leaky gut as most 99% docs. So I really dont understand what you expect to
learn from them as we know most of the time they are useless.

And 5 months ago those blisters due to an enema injury appeared exactly in the
some spots where those bleeding marks had appeared beforehand during an
attempted antifungal therapy.

I noiced some kind of blisters appear whenever i get a scatch or thsg - seems
its a normal reponse to injury. So logically what happened to me then is some
injury.

Now the things is - it hasnt healed - and i am havingautimmune eractionsall over
my body - and am getting worse enruolgically. cant take ANY th1 boosting
supplements because they cause nstant autimmueeratciond everywhere.

Again consistent with gut leaking. Skin atrophy  everywhere with inflammation -
tho inflammation not really visible, its like in the dermis i can feel it -
again consisent with gut leaking and leukocyte enzymes attacking it.

But wehy hasnt it healed? I purposefully scratched myself on the hand
1 week ago on sunday - just a surface one - still ahsnt healed.

Do u think andy it might just be lack of prper wound healing in the gut due to
emrcury? That is the only thing i can think of.
I know i need to chelate cate but it takes time and i need to do sthg to shut
down that lekay gut and those autimmune reatcions as they are eating me alive.

>
> I mean when you have bleeding sores.
>
> You mentioned these. If you have them, go get a doctor to look while they are
active and tell you what they think it is.
>
> Andy
>
>
> <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/index.html">Amalgam Illness: Diagnosis and
Treatment</a >
>
> <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/hairtestbook.html">Hair Test Interpretation:
Finding Hidden Toxicities</a >
>
> <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/nourishinghope.html">Nourishing Hope for
Autism: Nutrition Intervention for Healing Our Children</a >
>
> <a href="http://www.noamalgam.com/biologicaltreatments.html">Biological
Treatments for Autism and PDD</a >
>

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "sallyflowers888"
<sallyflowers888@...> wrote:
>
> 6 months later, my adrenals have now healed to the degree that my HC dosage
has been reduced from 20 mg to 10 mg and I am feeling really great on only 60 mg
of Armour.  really really great.  I also have hashi's like you do.
>
Hi Sally,

Thanks for that post.  Both you and Ericka (ejojunk) write great, detailed posts
about the thyroid (and adrenals) - very informative to me.  I don't have
particular issues with my thyroid (as far as I know), but it's probably not
optimal... so at some point, I'll probably look into things like Armour, etc. 
Also, interesting to see how the adrenals play into all that (I have issues with
the adrenals).

You said that your adrenals are now more healed 6 months later... can I ask what
sort of regimen you did during that time to get them there?  (I know you
mentioned some things already in your post)

>> fyi, for my adrenals, Rind had me eat 2 tblsp of organic butter per day, salt
(I put 1 tsp in water morning and night and also liberally salted my food), high
ViItamin C, good quality B Complex, and an adrenal glandular.   I discovered
from another doctor that I was also zinc deficient so upped my zinc from 30 to
50 mg.  Rind also had me take 2 tblsp of hydrolized collagen in water that I was
to drink throughout that day.
>
How does organic butter help the adrenals?  Also, did you eat this raw (off the
spoon), or cooked with it?

What dose of Vit. C did you take daily?  Which adrenal glandular, and dosage?

How does the hydrolized collagen help the adrenals?

Glad to hear you're feeling better.

Thanks,

Suzanne

--- In frequent-dose-chelation@yahoogroups.com, "sallyflowers888"
<sallyflowers888@...> wrote:
>
> It sounds strongly to me that you have severe adrenal problems causing you not
to be able to tolerate T3 as well as creating the
> RT-3 problem.


Thank-you for your reply. I do have adrenal problems as suggested by my salvia
cortisol level being low at all times of the day. I have had this problem for
awhile. I was on hydrocortisone myself two years ago unfortunately during the
pregnancy with my daughter. I hated being on it, it was difficult to control the
dosing and everytime I took some I always got racy heart, anxious/OCD behaviors
(which signal adrenal to me) later in the day causing me to want to take more
hydrocortisone. I know they say that this just means you need more but I would
wake up during the night wanting to stress dose. It never made me feel any
better and actually made me feel worse. I eventually weaned myself off at the
very end of my pregnancy with a stress dose during labor. I have since tried
Isocort and get the same nasty reactions. I don't ever want to go on it again. I
am taking Wilson's adrenal rebuilder which does seem to offer some support but I
think my adrenals are still struggling especially with the stress of chelation.
I feel like the only way to heal them though is to continue to chelate. I feel
great when I'm chelating but I am concerned that I am still hypo (TSH was 4.5
recently) and worried now about the possible kidney problems. I don't want to
damage my kidneys by continuing to chelate. I know that I can tolerate
Naturthroid (hypoallergenic form of Armour) if I work up in small doses. Maybe
this is the better way than T3. Who knows? This is all so frustrating and
complicated. Diane