RIP Elimination Diet

Peace.

I quit the Elimination diet. It wasn't doing anything for my feet. It seemed like it was working at the start, but my feet got worse. Especially after it started getting cold. It got so bad in spots that the skin just started to split and bleed. So I went to to the dermatologist. I have issues with the dermatologist.... but she did make a good point. I had restricted my diet so much and my feet were not improving. So.... it's over. The bright side is... I'm back on cheese!

BUT.... The Dermatologist did a reasonably good job and advising me on treatment. (1) I got a cortisone shot. I knew that was coming. And you know what? It has stopped the frank stinging pain of this flare. (2) Topicort for my face seems to have stopped the face flare cold. (3) She told me about a technique called “occlusion”. You shower... while still damp add your intense moisturizer.... wrap afflicted areas with saran wrap.... cover with something. I used long socks... and wait. I did this over a 2 day period. That's as long as I could stand. It only feels strange at first but after awhile it starts to itch more and more. When I took the packing off.... BayBay.... the smell. Yikes! And the dead skin fell off. But my feet and ankles look almost brand new. I had real skin again and some patches that looked like I had been in a fire. Even that sausage toe looked way better and no more splitting.

Since the above treatments worked, I acquiesced and filled the Rx for a topical cream. Hopefully that will give me further relief. Maybe actual cessation... can I dream??? The derm suggested I take a Rx called methotrexate. It targets fast dividing cells like hair, skin, nails but also reproductive cells. I haven't completely closed the door on baby making. If I, at my age and with my history, start taking methotrexate... that could be the end for me and uterus. I'll respectfully pass.

The grimy side of US medicine has reared it's head. I don't have Rx insurance so of course I'm looking for the least expensive price. I mean its a cream already made. All they have to do is put a label with my name on it. It doesn't change the formula whether I pay $10 or $100 for it. Walmart known for their reasonable prices... wanted to charge me $50 for the product. But here at my job... and I work at a hospital.... $25! I would have never thought this place was cheaper than Walmart! Folks go to whomever their Rx card sends them to. Doesn't matter if they are getting the best price or even given options! So not cool.

So I'm a try the cream and get another cortisone shot to get me through the winter. Sometimes you just gotta know when to say uncle....



Peace

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