It has been some time since I've posted on here. I've just been very busy. I hope to have time to post an update soon. I'm sure I'll find the time.

For now, I'll say that I was at the doctor today because of an infection on my finger that just became too much to handle. It's nothing too serious, but in addition to draining it, the doctor gave me a 7 day course of Cephalexin, 500 mg 3 x day. I hope it's not one the really bad ones. I had no time to research it, since I'm so busy. Perhaps later tonight. I already have a side effect after a single dose though, soar throat.

Regardless, it's nice to be posting something on here again.

Hi David

Good to see you back - sorry I didn't get back to this thread sooner - been away a few days.

Sorry to report that the antibiotic you're on; Cephalexin, is included among those known to cause neuropathy. It's in a class of antibiotics called Cephalosporins. Here's a link to an article which specifically mentions them. (scroll down to you find the section on Cephalosporins)

Neurotoxic effects associated with antibiotic use: management considerations

I sincerely hope you don't have any further reactions and increased PN symptoms. I know you've dealt with these before but it still sucks. The only slightly positive news I can give you is that I had (undiagnosed) PN when I was given Metrondiazole (Flagyl). My PN went from feet and hands to intense full-body. While I still have full-body PN the intensity/frequency has slightly reduced - although summer and heat still ramps it up.

All the best - let us know how you're doing.

Hi Bluesfan,

Thank you for your helpful response, and the article. I read it and found it helpful and interesting. I'm sorry I didn't see your response and respond sooner. I haven't logged on for some time again. I hope to check in here more regularly.

I ended up taking it for a few days, and stopped once the infection was gone. I don't think it caused me any problems, but with full-body neuropathy, I can't be sure. Anyway, there was no noticeable change. I'll avoid it in the future.

I'm sorry to read about your story, or this part of it at least. Hearing these things always makes me sad, but I'm glad there was respite from the intensity of the symptoms.

Hopefully I'll have a chance to write a more general post about how I'm doing. But in general, almost 3 years in and there's still no hope for discovering what's going on with me. It's depressing and not something I want to think about, so I just throw myself into my work and not think about it as much as I can.

Thanks again!
David

Hi David

Good to hear back from you - like you I've been M.I.A for a while - computer snafu's meant I was offline for a while - I think I may have lost a few days of postings.

I've also been supporting my elderly friend through the recent illness of her husband - sadly the funeral is this afternoon - he was suffering terribly so while we are all devastated at his loss we are relieved it hasn't been drawn out - the prognosis was it could have been years.

I understand your not wanting to think about the PN - it's an all-consuming illness that if you let it, it can get you down. As well as throwing yourself into work I've found it helpful to get involved in something you're passionate about that's just for you - I'm currently in a battle against bureaucracy to save a unique place, that's special to me, from being closed permanently. It's uplifting (and a good distraction) to be able to take the frustration with my illness and vent it into writing scathing letters that illuminate the mistakes of the decision makers. Fortunately I'm working with a group who feel as passionate about this as I do and we're supporting each other through this.

I hope your summer isn't too hot and is giving you the chance to get outside and enjoy nature.

Cheers bluesfan

Bluesfan,

I'm sorry for your loss. But, as you say, no one wants someone suffering so much to continue suffering. And I understand this, since I've had such events in my own life, one as recently as this past autumn. Regardless, it's never easy, and I wish you all the best in dealing with your loss.

Thank you also for your thoughts on the issue I mentioned. I couldn't agree more. I see the truth of what you write when I have no passion in my life. Without passion, and without a worthwhile cause, I don't see the value of life. I have such things too. And I admire your cause. My wife is also involved in a campaign to save a historic building where we live, and I see how passionate and driven she and he colleagues are. I hope you and your group are successful, and the ignorant listen!

And I am definitely getting out and spending time in the sun this summer. The heat is not as bad as the cold is for me. It has always been like that, even before SFN. I hope the same for you. We have to do our best to be consumed by the sun and by passion.

Sending you good vibes,
David