-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Optimum Esbriet dosage in the forum Esbriet (Pirfenidone) 7 months, 3 weeks ago
Dear Cecil, When I began taking Esbriet 2 years ago, I was assigned a nurse who gave great advice about diet and managing side effects. Genentech assigned the nurse and she was a lifesaver. The side effects subsided after about 4 months and I am managing very well now. I feel good after being diagnosed with IPF three years ago. Still not on oxygen…[Read more]
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic When You Don't Want to Talk About PF Appointments in the forum Join the Discussion: Welcome to all PF/IPF Patients 9 months, 3 weeks ago
BRAVO. Well said, Darlene. I couldn’t have expressed it better myself.
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Zinc in the Role of Lung Fibrosis in the forum Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness & Advocacy 11 months, 1 week ago
50 MG. Per day.
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Zinc in the Role of Lung Fibrosis in the forum Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness & Advocacy 11 months, 1 week ago
When I had COVID last fall, my pulmonary doctor told me to take zinc. I didn’t know why, but I started taking it and I haven’t stopped. I’m holding my own and feel pretty good for this being my third year living with IPF. Not sure if it’s due to zinc, but it sure hasn’t hurt any. Debra Lowder
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Mental Health & Chronic Illness Advice in the forum Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis: 50+ 12 months ago
Trying to keep that healthy balance between acceptance and being thankful for “good days “, is a challenge. Each step (like needing oxygen for the first time), brings a new level of acceptance that things will get worse. All families are different, but I think mine is typical in that some members are more accepting than others. It’s frustrating…[Read more]
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Coping in the forum Join the Discussion: Welcome to all PF/IPF Patients 1 year, 2 months ago
Dear Laila: I was prescribed Esbriet 6 months after my diagnosis, and I have had good results on CT scans – very little progress with the disease. The side effects were not too bad and they lasted for about 3 months. They are now manageable, and my diet change was a huge factor. The best advice for managing the side effects: Eat well and get…[Read more]
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Coping in the forum Join the Discussion: Welcome to all PF/IPF Patients 1 year, 2 months ago
In response to Laila: I too am in the beginning of accepting this disease (diagnosed April 2020), and my best advice is to exercise. I walk 2 miles a day at a health center where the environment is temperature controlled. I feel good (except for fatigue in the afternoons). I am 68, and still healthy enough to travel. I guess this is as good as it…[Read more]
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Vaccinated PF people and COVID 19 in the forum Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Pulmonary Fibrosis 1 year, 8 months ago
I had the Pfizer in March and tested positive for COVID 2 days ago. I was diagnosed with IPF in March 2020. I ran a fever for 3 days, had a bad headache and cough, with body aches. The worst seems to be over here at day 5. I stayed out of the hospital and do not need oxygen. I’m very thankful for the vaccine and recommend it for everyone.
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Dealing with Side Effects in the forum Join the Discussion: Welcome to all PF/IPF Patients 1 year, 9 months ago
Wendy, I’m taking Gabapentin for pain and as a muscle relaxer. I only take it when I’m going to sleep (at night), so the side effects don’t bother me. What are you taking it for? Debra
-
Debra Lowder replied to the topic Dealing with Side Effects in the forum Join the Discussion: Welcome to all PF/IPF Patients 1 year, 9 months ago
Wendy, I’m taking Gabapentin for pain and as a muscle relaxer. I only take it when I’m going to sleep (at night), so the side effects don’t bother me. What are you taking it for?
-
Debra Lowder became a registered member 2 years, 2 months ago
Welcome to the PF forums Debra, we are happy to have you!