Question:
What a lot of garbage. I doubt there is a Doctor anywhere that hard up for patients. — Jo Firey Infections generally re-emerge not because of too
short treatment duration, but because the dosages prescibed are too low… many MDs [knowingly] under-prescribe the dosage (often by half); naturally
they make more money that – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – way. Sheldon
Response:
You reply in the negative but immediately follow with a self-contridictory statement which clearly supports my contention. Thanks.
Oh, sorry. The way I wrote it must have confused you. I’ll give you more information: usually, what I get works. However, as I tend to have problems fighting off infections at times, sometimes the *usual* doesn’t work. I say usual because I’m quite well aware of what I’m prescribed, and I’m quite well aware of the effects of the drugs. Typically, I will get a specific drug at a specific strength to fight a specific kind of infection, and I always do a bit of research to see if what I’ve been prescribed fits. Anyway, there were two times in my life where the usual didn’t work, and as a result I had to go back and get something else. Now, you must understand that I have had a LOT more than just 2 infections, so these 2 were definitely anomalies. The majority if times, my infections clear up within 3 to 4 days (but drag on for months if I don’t seek treatment). Sorry, no contradiction. Maybe in your mind, but not in reality, anyway. You seem to want to be very negative about the medical profession. Why? It is usually those who do not know much about something who desperately want to discredit it. Anyway, I’m *really* not interested in carrying on this thread. Vicky
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – infections, if treated for the usual 7-14 days will seem to come back after the course of antibiotics when in fact they never left in the first place because the course of antibiotics was too brief. Infections generally re-emerge not because of too short treatment duration, but because the dosages prescibed are too low… many MDs [knowingly] under-prescribe the dosage (often by half); naturally they make more money that way. Sheldon isn’t that a testimonial and anecdotal evidence? I don’t know about you but I ceased confering medical doctors with the status of God a long time ago. The practicing of medicine is an art, it is not a science. Sheldon
Is not medicine based on science? Are you placing "Modern Medicine" on equal footing with what we label "Alternative Medicine" or TCM? Only once have I ever had to go back to the doctor for a second round of antibiotics. Generally the doctor agrees with my self diagnosis that I have an infection, whether it be sinus, respiratory or from my removing an ingrown toenail and winding up with a swollen, red, puffy toe from not using good sterile technique. Sure, I’ve had doctor’s do some stupid things, like prescribing a chlorinated topical steroid to use on my face (The Dermatologist I eventually saw said it should never had been used on anyones face). But the original doctor acted in good faith (I believe) not from avarice or deception. And that was the last time I blindly accepted the treatment procsribed. So, no I don’t confer the status of God on any human, not even you, which was why I asked for data regarding your assertion that the medical community commonly underprescribes antibiotics. Since your reply contained only observations about the text found on dosage claims of various medications I’m forced to believe you have no such data to reinforce your assertions. Consequently I should not decrease the respect I have for the medical profession as a whole or its members with whom I have had personal contact.
Response:
anyone with half a brain could figure that out. Lemme ask a question of the general audience; how many times has a doctor begun writing you a prescription and in an authoritive tone said something to the effect of "Let’s (let us- like who the …. is this us?) start you off on a lower dose…"? Anyone?
No. If I go in for any kind of infection and the usual doesn’t take care of it, when I go back I immediately get something pretty strong. One time, I got something called Ceftin, but I had to stop using it due to harmful side effects. This goes back to one of your earlier posts where you claim that there are only mild side effects (I think it was you). Nope. Read about ceflosporins (as usual, I’m not sure of the spelling of that one, so good luck). You don’t even have to be allergic to Ceftin for it to do harm. For some people, it just doesn’t do what it’s supposed to do. That drug made me bleed. It did a number on the infection, though, at least. 
(I had to finish the infection off with another drug, because the bleeding and the pain were just too much) Vicky
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – infections, if treated for the usual 7-14 days will seem to come back after the course of antibiotics when in fact they never left in the first place because the course of antibiotics was too brief. Infections generally re-emerge not because of too short treatment duration, but because the dosages prescibed are too low… many MDs [knowingly] under-prescribe the dosage (often by half); naturally they make more money that way. Sheldon
Isn’t the standard request one for research and published, peer-reviewed reports. Other than your brother (isn’t that a testimonial and anecdotal evidence?) do you have any other data to back-up your assertion? Should I think my doctor (my doctor, not your doctor or your brother) is a money hungry, unethical liar that is willing to knowingly put my health in jeopardy only to allow the pharmacy and pharmaceutical companies make an extra buck on prescription refill?
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – infections, if treated for the usual 7-14 days will seem to come back after the course of antibiotics when in fact they never left in the first place because the course of antibiotics was too brief. Infections generally re-emerge not because of too short treatment duration, but because the dosages prescibed are too low… many MDs [knowingly] under-prescribe the dosage (often by half); naturally they make more money that way. Sheldon Where do you get this information? Is this the way you do business? — Don Elton Columbia, SC I’m not a medical doctor, but I notice you’ve all of a sudden removed the "MD" from your sig. 
But my brother is a medical doctor, as well as once being the chief hospital administrator for the City of New York, under Ed Koch. Didn’t I mention that hospitals also make more money (lots more) from MDs under-prescribing dosages… gee, I musta forgot… or I must have thought anyone with half a brain could figure that out. Lemme ask a question of the general audience; how many times has a doctor begun writing you a prescription and in an authoritive tone said something to the effect of "Let’s (let us- like who the …. is this us?) start you off on a lower dose…"? Anyone? Sheldon
Actually, I added the "MD" to the sig the first time. My normal sig doesn’t mention it as most of my emails/postings aren’t to medical groups. I’m sorry to hear your brother is unethical. I assure you that most physicians do not knowingly underprescribe medications to try to get more business from their patients. I’m really surprised anyone with a computer would think so but perhaps you’re just trolling. To anyone else who isn’t sure, dosage recommendations for various medications are widely published. Anyone can check their prescription bottle against the PDR among other sources if you doubt you’re getting the right dose. Of course, some nuts will figure that there’s a vast medical conspiracy to hide the true doses from the public but there are medicines for them too and I’m not talking about antibiotics. — Don Elton Columbia, SC http://www.midcarolina.org
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In my experience, I have seen several people with chronic sinusitis (for years have taken ’scientifically’ proven medicines) only to get the infection again after finishing their round of medicine, and on top of that get secondary infections due to the harmful side effects all the antibiotics caused.
Most sinus infections treated are done so without proof there even is a sinus infection in the first place. Some of the real infections require treatment with strong antibiotics for 4-5 weeks before they’ll clear up (based on CT scanning). These infections, if treated for the usual 7-14 days will seem to come back after the course of antibiotics when in fact they never left in the first place because the course of antibiotics was too brief. – Don Elton, MD, FCCP Columbia, SC http://www.midcarolina.org
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infections, if treated for the usual 7-14 days will seem to come back after the course of antibiotics when in fact they never left in the first place because the course of antibiotics was too brief. Infections generally re-emerge not because of too short treatment duration, but because the dosages prescibed are too low… many MDs [knowingly] under-prescribe the dosage (often by half); naturally they make more money that way. Sheldon
Where do you get this information? Is this the way you do business? — Don Elton Columbia, SC http://www.midcarolina.org
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In my experience, I have seen several people with chronic sinusitis (for years have taken ’scientifically’ proven medicines) only to get the infection again after finishing their round of medicine, and on top of that get secondary infections due to the harmful side effects all the antibiotics caused. They have benefitted greatly from Kali Bic, (a homeopathic remedy), and several other herbal preparations made by natural ‘medicine’ companies. They’ve also used Echinacea preparation, Thymus preparation, live acidopholis, and others to boost immune system and regeneration ‘friendly’ bacteria.
Well, homeopathic medicine is described as ‘the ultimate fraud.’ And with good reason – in order for the theory to be correct we have to throw the laws of chemistry, physics, and mathematics out the window. Here is a question for you – since you are recommending echinacea – what is the relevance of asthma to this herb? (And why are you not posting a disclaimer every time you mention it in this newsgroup?) This herb is an example of just how dangerous these ‘remedies’ really are – the people selling the stuff _know_ about the hazard but will not tell you as it may harm sales. Natural medicines have been a positive, health promoting experience for millions of people – It certainly has been my choice, although, I don’t rule out the use of conventioanal medicines when necessary. I have not had to use any of the latter for atleast 10 years.
And it has also harmed the health of many people. My rule is never take a remedy where nobody has ever done basic safety testing. Show me the results of the safety testing and I’ll then start looking for actual evidence of effectiveness. But unless somebody can demonstrate that it at least meets minimal safety standards – I recommend that nobody touch it. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off." General Colin Powell
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just read a lot of your comments and wondered if someone could shed some light on my situation. I had a sinus infection and was given erythromycin. Several days later I had pain in my chest when I breathed. I was told I had pleurisy and given another pill to treat the pain. That progressed to the feeling like someone was sitting on my chest and that I couldn’t get enough air. No coughing or wheezing. I had blood work, EKG and chest xray done. All they say is that my lungs are enlarged (I am not a smoker) and have given me an inhaler (albuterol/ipratropiu) which does relieve the pressure. But I would love to know what is really going on and they don’t seem to know. I have no history of any lung/breathing/asthma stuff. Any feedback would be great. And, I also read on an asthma website that erythromycin could trigger an asthma attack, but have been unable to find any other information an this. Since this was the antibiotic I took, I am quite interested in finding out about this. Thanks, Beth
Lung disease can be diagnosed using lung function tests; ask for referral to a pulmonologist [chest doctor]. Asthma is a reversible disease; lung function tests are measured before and after using a bronchodilator inhaler like Ventolin; a significent improvent in lung function after using the Ventolin indicates asthma. Little or no improvement would suggest COPD or the need for a methacholine challenge test. Ipratropium is not usually prescribe for asthma in the US, but is used for COPD. If it helps use it, it’s a fairly safe drug. There is a type of hereditary emphysema, A1AD, that requires a blood test; can occur in those of northern European ancestry. http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/eryst.htm erythromyacin I don’t see asthma listed as a side effect of erythromyacin. However read the Warnings and Side Effects Albuterol [Ventolin] is the rescue inhaler for asthma. Ellis
Response:
In my experience, I have seen several people with chronic sinusitis (for years have taken ’scientifically’ proven medicines) only to get the infection again after finishing their round of medicine, and on top of that get secondary infections due to the harmful side effects all the antibiotics caused. Which "harmful" side effects and from what medicines… very few antibiotics are attributed with reported instances of side effects more severe than mild annoyances/discomforts, ie. digestive tract disturbances, not harmful or long lasting, and certainly not with any permanency…
This is simply not true. If you search for any antibiotic on the Internet you can find lots of information about side effects mild & severe, common & uncommon. One which is always there is not to take the drug if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, either the active drug or the bits & pieces used to turn it into pills, tablets, capsules or whatever. These warnings are found on OTCs as well in the UK. I have also sometimes been given a medicine with the insert, which has always contained a long long list of possible side effects. perhaps no more harmful side effects than from overdosing on raisin bran, which for folks of your ilk would no doubt be classified as a most desireable/beneficial/welcome side effect. Therein lies an example from my experience, which to date has not been disproven nor can it be proven to be in any way less valid than yours. Sir, I’d like to conduct a small scientific experiment, if you will be so kind as to afford me a small favor; when you next arise from a night’s sleep inspect your pillow for impressions left by your ears and tell us truthfully, are there not redolent brown stains present. Sheldon
– Surfer!
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – In my experience, I have seen several people with chronic sinusitis (for years have taken ’scientifically’ proven medicines) only to get the infection again after finishing their round of medicine, and on top of that get secondary infections due to the harmful side effects all the antibiotics caused. They have benefitted greatly from Kali Bic, (a homeopathic remedy), and several other herbal preparations made by natural ‘medicine’ companies. They’ve also used Echinacea preparation, Thymus preparation, live acidopholis, and others to boost immune system and regeneration ‘friendly’ bacteria. Well, homeopathic medicine is described as ‘the ultimate fraud.’ And with good reason – in order for the theory to be correct we have to throw the laws of chemistry, physics, and mathematics out the window. Here is a question for you – since you are recommending echinacea – what is the relevance of asthma to this herb? (And why are you not posting a disclaimer every time you mention it in this newsgroup?) This herb is an example of just how dangerous these ‘remedies’ really are – the people selling the stuff _know_ about the hazard but will not tell you as it may harm sales.
Well, since our local herb salesman either 1) is not aware of the potential safety problems of his products or 2) does know and is attempting to suppress the information so as not to harm sales: Echinacea is Expressly Contraindicated for people with asthma or allergies due to the risk of allergic reactions that are potentially life threatening. Combined with the fact that there has been _No_ actual proven health benefits to the herb – places it in the ’should be banned from the market’ category. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off." General Colin Powell
Response:
In my experience, I have seen several people with chronic sinusitis (for years have taken ’scientifically’ proven medicines) only to get the infection again after finishing their round of medicine, and on top of that get secondary infections due to the harmful side effects all the antibiotics caused. They have benefitted greatly from Kali Bic, (a homeopathic remedy), and several other herbal preparations made by natural ‘medicine’ companies. They’ve also used Echinacea preparation, Thymus preparation, live acidopholis, and others to boost immune system and regeneration ‘friendly’ bacteria. Natural medicines have been a positive, health promoting experience for millions of people – It certainly has been my choice, although, I don’t rule out the use of conventioanal medicines when necessary. I have not had to use any of the latter for atleast 10 years. Howla — Or visit me @ www.2healyou.com — A Very User Friendly Approach to Natural Healing … And please, treat yourself to our unique SOY Bakery!
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You might want to try alternative treatments for sinusitis – The right ones have healed many, even individuals with chronic sinusitis. With herbal and homeopathic remedies, you can heal your sinus infections and avoid harmful side effects. You will also need to strengthen your immune system and return your friendly bacteria to normal levels especially after the effects of the erythromycin. Can you name any herbal or homeopathic remedies that have demonstrated effectiveness in ’strengthening the immune system’ or treating chronic sinusitis to current scientific standards? Odd, that the only proven effective methods to boost your immune system are those your doctor will tell you – and this is only because they do not involve purchase of somebody’s patent remedy. Here are the scientifically proven ways to boost your immune system: 1) Maintain a sensible weight 2) Engage in some sort of exercise program. 3) Eat a generally balanced diet. 4) Reduce stress. 5) Get plenty of sleep. The alt med people will never tell you this because they cannot turn a profit on it. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off." General Colin Powell
Response:
You might want to try alternative treatments for sinusitis – The right ones have healed many, even individuals with chronic sinusitis. With herbal and homeopathic remedies, you can heal your sinus infections and avoid harmful side effects. You will also need to strengthen your immune system and return your friendly bacteria to normal levels especially after the effects of the erythromycin.
Can you name any herbal or homeopathic remedies that have demonstrated effectiveness in ’strengthening the immune system’ or treating chronic sinusitis to current scientific standards? Odd, that the only proven effective methods to boost your immune system are those your doctor will tell you – and this is only because they do not involve purchase of somebody’s patent remedy. Here are the scientifically proven ways to boost your immune system: 1) Maintain a sensible weight 2) Engage in some sort of exercise program. 3) Eat a generally balanced diet. 4) Reduce stress. 5) Get plenty of sleep. The alt med people will never tell you this because they cannot turn a profit on it. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off." General Colin Powell
Response:
I just read a lot of your comments and wondered if someone could shed some light on my situation. I had a sinus infection and was given erythromycin.
Erythromycin is known to be ineffective against many bacterial sinus infections. And if the sinus infection is not cured, it can easily spread to the ears, lungs, and even into the brain! I am surprised you were prescribed that antibiotic. There is a similar but more powerful drug, Biaxin, that is effective. — Steven D. Litvintchouk Disclaimer: As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein are not those of my employer.
Response:
You might want to try alternative treatments for sinusitis – The right ones have healed many, even individuals with chronic sinusitis. With herbal and homeopathic remedies, you can heal your sinus infections and avoid harmful side effects. You will also need to strengthen your immune system and return your friendly bacteria to normal levels especially after the effects of the erythromycin. Get well soon, Howla Or visit me @ www.2healyou.com — A Very User Friendly Approach to Natural Healing … And please, treat yourself to our unique SOY Bakery!
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just read a lot of your comments and wondered if someone could shed some light on my situation. I had a sinus infection and was given erythromycin. Several days later I had pain in my chest when I breathed. I was told I had pleurisy and given another pill to treat the pain. That progressed to the feeling like someone was sitting on my chest and that I couldn’t get enough air. No coughing or wheezing. I had blood work, EKG and chest xray done. All they say is that my lungs are enlarged (I am not a smoker) and have given me an inhaler (albuterol/ipratropiu) which does relieve the pressure. But I would love to know what is really going on and they don’t seem to know. I have no history of any lung/breathing/asthma stuff. Any feedback would be great. And, I also read on an asthma website that erythromycin could trigger an asthma attack, but have been unable to find any other information an this. Since this was the antibiotic I took, I am quite interested in finding out about this. Thanks, Beth
Response:
I just read a lot of your comments and wondered if someone could shed some light on my situation. I had a sinus infection and was given erythromycin. Several days later I had pain in my chest when I breathed. I was told I had pleurisy and given another pill to treat the pain. That progressed to the feeling like someone was sitting on my chest and that I couldn’t get enough air. No coughing or wheezing. I had blood work, EKG and chest xray done. All they say is that my lungs are enlarged (I am not a smoker) and have given me an inhaler (albuterol/ipratropiu) which does relieve the pressure. But I would love to know what is really going on and they don’t seem to know. I have no history of any lung/breathing/asthma stuff. Any feedback would be great. And, I also read on an asthma website that erythromycin could trigger an asthma attack, but have been unable to find any other information an this. Since this was the antibiotic I took, I am quite interested in finding out about this. Thanks, Beth
Response:
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