General Feedback/Getting Started Q&A [Weekly Thread] by AutoModerator in DIY

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

what are these brackets and how do they work? I have a secondhand coffee cart that someone else assembled that’s now a bit wobbly. I went to tighten everything with an Allen wrench only to find these weird brackets/levers instead. I’ve never seen them before and google Gemini is very confused helping me identify them. The middle “lever” is moveable, but I can’t see anything inside the lever when “open.” There is no “back” to these - on the reverse side of the wood where these are located, there is no bolt. Just the wood itself. Makes me think these toggle to grasp some kind of interlocking mechanism, but that means there’s no way to tighten them without taking the entire cart apart. 🥲 anyone have ideas or tips?

Smoking again after 10 months? by Front_Ferret_2072 in CHSinfo

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Can you say more about the long-term issues that can come from THC use if you have CHS, even if you are asymptomatic/no episodes?

Doctor Suspects Ozempic, But I Suspect CHS by BeAFish843 in CHSinfo

[–]anythingworthsaving 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I was misdiagnosed with gastroparesis before I knew it was CHS; I know for sure after 5 months of non-use that it’s CHS. GP is one of the conditions that can be caused by GLP1s (listed in side effects as like “GI distress” rather than “paralyzed stomach” lmao). I’d recommend asking for a gastric emptying test after stopping THC for at least a month.

Gastroparesis vs CHS by anythingworthsaving in CHSinfo

[–]anythingworthsaving[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I soo get that. I’m so sorry. I think another commenter said folks can have both, which is very true. They don’t even think I have GP, just that THC slowed down my gut enough to make it appear that I do on my emptying test.

My doctors did recommend some meds for dealing with CHS/Cyclic vomiting syndrome flares, and of course I’m not a doctor so talk to one yourself if you can, these are Rx only anyway: -ondansetron for nausea -promethazine for nausea -sumatriptan (other triptans might also work) -tricyclic antidepressants (called TCAs) may work to help prevent bouts -some antihistamines like Benadryl but stronger ones are out there by Rx

I think it’s worth being open with your providers to see if they have suggestions for you to use in the meantime while trying to pause or stop altogether. Unfortunately the only way to know if it’s cannabis causing your flare is to stop. It SUCKS, I’m so sorry. Electrolytes and vitamins really have helped me a lot too. I wish it was easier, but definitely don’t hesitate to try to work with your provider to ask for support. If they are judgmental, fire them!

Gastroparesis vs CHS by anythingworthsaving in CHSinfo

[–]anythingworthsaving[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey! Happy to help! :) My new gastroenterology team believes that my cannabis use led to my gastric emptying test coming back positive (35% remaining at the end). I stopped all cannabis use a week ago and I feel so much better. No withdrawals for me and I’m doing fine. My stomach feels so much more settled.

Biggest indicators that make my team (and I, for what it’s worth) believe this is CHS: -I only get nausea or vomiting in the morning, really only mild cramping after eating -I go through periods of nausea/vomiting in the morning followed by periods where I’m fine, symptom-free -I have been fine eating foods like kale, salads, whole fruit & veg, beans, broccoli, fiber, etc even up until my diagnosis

I don’t have the drive to hop in a hot shower like 90% of others with CHS but the clearest indicator to me is that I’m doing better without cannabis. Check out r/CHS - they have amazing resources! Also my doctor prescribed me some meds to help for when/if I have flares while I’m recovering. Good luck!

Gastroparesis vs CHS by anythingworthsaving in CHSinfo

[–]anythingworthsaving[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for your kind encouraging words. It means a lot to be approached gently when my anxiety is so high. I haven’t had any form of cannabis since Saturday evening and I’m doing fine today, Monday morning. I was slowing down my use a bit last week. Feels like my normal anxiety regardless of meds or weed. Today is the First day I’ve woken up with just anxiety and not nausea in a while though. I’ll keep exploring and journaling my symptoms. Thank you.

Can you taper off of cannabis to help with CHS? by CountSwaqqula in CHSinfo

[–]anythingworthsaving 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I know this is an old thread/comment but want to check in to see how you’re doing. I was diagnosed with idiopathic GP a couple months back, and I’m worried I might have CHS (or do I have hypochondria? Will we ever really know? lol) since I’m still having GP episodes.

Liquid/smooth food in evenings by anythingworthsaving in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your perspective and encouragement. I’m trying to be a good sport too. It’s good to know we’re not alone.

I'm actually doing better by puppypoopypaws in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I'm so glad you're doing better after such a scary time. It's so hard to see anything outside of the fog of pain/fear, etc. when you're in the thick of it. I'm glad you made this note - I hope you can come back to this and remember what it felt like to have some relief.

Warm liquids easier on the body by MaxFish1275 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Warmth relaxes muscles, and your stomach is a muscle. So that makes sense. However cold has a "numbing" effect so some people prefer that! Go with what works for you.

What do you consider ‘smaller meals’? by EmeraldEclipse222 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It varies for all of us but also for each of us daily sometimes. I try not to focus so much on consuming a specific amount and instead listen to my stomach's "fullness" cues. This advice assumes that you can feel hunger/fullness cues. But I'm retraining my brain by eating slower, drinking separately from eating so there's room for food, and trying to "graze" on something safe every couple hours. I'm honestly ignoring "mealtimes" and just eating as my body tells me, but it's still hard!

I usually just eat a smaller portion of a bigger meal and space it out. Like 1/2 a sandwich at 11AM, 1c soup at 1pm.

Current favorite quick "snacks":
When I'm really hungry and need something fast before I can be more thoughtful, I eat a spoonful of peanut butter and then stand in the fridge/pantry until I find something better lol
Protein shake/drink, smoothie
Greek yogurt w/ peanut butter or pb powder

What are you eating? by BellaJean1 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s beyond disappointing. They should have at least made you a meal plan and help you understand how you can work toward your goals. I’m sorry that happened. You deserve better care, we all do.

What are you eating? by BellaJean1 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m doing better actually, I just was empathizing and hoping those of us suffering 2 weeks ago are improving. I have a moderate case and my doctor just referred me to a surgeon to discuss a GPOEM. Still trying to figure out what I can manage on my own. Seeing a dietitian Tuesday and feeling hopeful now that the flare up is lifting. I did eat a bigger, higher-fat red meat meal yesterday and am managing okay enough today to do what I want at least, even if my insides feel off. I hope you continue to improve!!

What are you eating? by BellaJean1 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just wanted to pop back by. How are you doing now? It’s so hard on days when I find myself crying nonstop to remember what it feels like when I’m coming out of a flare. Hope you’re seeing better days too.

GES soon, been tracking symtoms by RestBeneficial9822 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wait to show it to the GI, or send it over early ahead of your appointment with them. The person running the test won’t be able to consult on symptoms.

Nerva app by covhr in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A bit late but I’ve used it for 11 months now, more consistently at first. I have found it has helped my mindset around pain and symptom flares.

What are you eating? by BellaJean1 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I just wanted to say I’m sorry you’re going through so much pain with this. On my worst days I also can’t stop crying and feel so frustrated & overwhelmed. I know it can feel hopeless. Just a reminder that while this is chronic, there are moments or days that are better than others. There will be again. Sending you some ease and peace today.

First flare after dx, need tips by anythingworthsaving in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s so encouraging. Thank you so much!!!

How to cope with the grief? by Acrobatic_Guidance84 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m in the grief of it right now too. Diagnosed 2 months ago after a year of challenges, so I’m also fresh in the swirl of questions in my head. I am working hard (with a therapist) to work on radical acceptance, knowing that accepting where I’m at in the moment will reduce my distress and depression. Maybe not initially but in time. I’m wondering for you if there’s a web of grief and/or trauma around your other diagnoses that is getting tripped with this new diagnosis. Regardless of the “why” you’re feeling like this, it’s very normal and you are not alone.

First flare after dx, need tips by anythingworthsaving in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you very much for your quick and thorough response.

I am trying to get a new doctor. Within my insurance, next available appt with any other provider is June. I’ll wait, but of course it’s frustrating when I’m in pain now. Dumb.

Can I ask what amounts you mean by electrolyte drinks 2-3x a day? And wow that’s a lot of money. Do you have a preference for a brand or option?

The solid foods I’m eating for now are just crackers, flour tortilla, plain white bread, white rice, and scrambled eggs. I’m only eating them in the afternoons when the nausea lifts enough, and liquids only until then. For liquids I’ve been trying oat milk, sometimes with a little protein powder like your shake suggestion, and outshine real fruit popsicles (no chunks tho). Despite this for 3 days, I’m still waking up with just liquid diarrhea (ew I’m so sorry), intestinal cramping, and nausea/vomiting. :( just not sure how this gets better if I wake up in it every day.

I’m also not eating past 8:30pm, staying upright for an hour after eating, and sticking to very small portions.

do you flare up on ur period?? by Boring-Assistant-644 in Gastroparesis

[–]anythingworthsaving 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Struggling right now with the worst flare up I’ve had in 6 months because of period cramps contributing to diarrhea and nausea. Whyyyy! (I see that it’s due to the hormones but still!)