update...worsening symptoms with Eosinophils...?

[tex]

Kimberley,

Yes, unfortunately, the subsalicylate component of Pepto-Bismol is contraindicated for breastfeeding. Most people view OTC meds such as Pepto-Bismol as a very safe product, but it's not without risk, especially when used at the recommended dosage rate needed to control the symptoms of MC, for an extended period of time. The neurological symptoms that it can cause, are usually limited to the nervous system, but in rare cases, it has been known to cause encephalopathy.

http://doublecheckmd.com/EffectsDetail. ... 7&eid=4792

For most people, though, the 8-week treatment is safe, and you're right in pointing out that it's a good treatment for both the upper and lower GI tract. I can't help but wonder if it couldn't be safely used as a maintenance med, at a reduced dosage rate.

Tex

[ant]

Tex,

Thanks for the explanation on brown/white rice. I assume, if I do have any intolerance to rice (which is in no way proven), it would be from the husk?

Connie

I hope your gut calms down soon. It is really tough to work and deal with this as well. Thanks for the info....you reconfirm that I should not reduce Entocort yet (I have been on 9gm since June 26th). I have not really shaken my flare: D reappeared on Tuesday morning after BMs being firmish Sunday and Monday. (I might have been accidentally "soyed" on Sunday - had lunch with friends who produced grilled pork, which I only later discovered had been marinated with Maggi's Soy Source). I have now started to do Pepto and Entocort I will do it for about a week to test it.

All best, ant

[kimpatt]

Thanks, Tex. Good info. I may feel ok using Pepto hear and there, as symptoms pop up. Sure wouldn't want any encephelopathy! Its good to know I could perhaps go to this after kiddos, though..whenever that may be!

Update on me is that the lower GI symptoms are tapering off, I think. Still some bloating/constipation/gas (Seems I ALWAYS have gas!), but I actually have long stretches of time where its quiet down there. The upper GI issues are still going on. Now, I have a very irritated tongue & mouth area. Burning tongue, inflamed mouth. Its a fairly common problem with eosinophilic esophagitis, along with the irritated throat & cough which I also have. The heartburn, gnawing, etc. got better for a bit, and I didn't have to take Zantac all day Tuesday, and today, I just took one in the evening. So, those symptoms are feeling better, too, as they're less severe and less frequent.

So far, the only change I've made is to strictly avoid all of my skinprick allergens (in addition to intolerances) and taking Singulair. I can't help but wonder if the eosinophilia isn't related to aeroallergens. My son (who is not diagnosed) is also having similar GI & sinus-area allergy problems...

I emailed the Allergy guy in Cinicinnati (Eosinophilic Specialist) who said the only way to know what's going on is by way of endoscopy to count eosinophils. I'll skip that until I have to have it done...

Ant, so sorry that your flare continues. Sorry you were soyed. Ugh---that's frustrating. Sounds like things were headed in the right direction, though, right before your encounter with soy...so that's good, at least!

Will keep you posted on my developments.

[tex]

Thanks for the update.

Tex