Here's a PSA

Public Service Announcement, not Prostate Specific Antigen............(well, get that checked too if you're a guy).

If you haven't visited your doc, or even if you have make sure they are running blood panels on you, at least a BMP that checks out your Creatinine and GFR--two vital kidney values. With the amount of meds that are dispensed, amount of tests using contrast dye) you really need watch your kidney's health.

Changes in you Creatinine values can vary, but there's a small range that can indicate that you've been hit and might have kidney damage. Just a PSA to make sure your docs are running blood panels for long term use of medications at least.

I have blood-work at least 3x a month, so I'm monitored closely. My last cath may have caused some problems with my kidney function, or a medication may have caused a value.

None of use needs an extra problem, so make sure you work with your docs and get the labs done too--and don't be a bonehead. If they're ordered don't sit on them.

Good luck and carry on.

-PF

Good Info! My doc's been watching a specific liver enzyme for the same purpose, although we both heaved a sigh of relief when we noticed it dropped when we lowered the dosage of a specific med. Your liver's really important for any of you on Tylenol 3/Percocet/APAP and codiene.... Any med with Tylenol (acetaminophen/APAP) can be hard on your liver.

Didn't wanna derail your thread Mark, but I figured I'd throw in my plea to watch your liver along with your kidney plea.

My father in law is having one of his kidney's removed, too many years of battling alcoholism are beginning to take their physical toll, he developed a growth on the one that's scheduled for removal.

No Problem Sara!

Our docs should be watching our livers like hawks, because most medications are metabolized by the liver. Mine's by monitored for about 18 years--I have a genetic problem that my liver makes waaaay too much cholesterol. One measure, GGT, has always been elevated--about 2-3x high level norm. I've had a liver biopsy about 14 years ago. It's about time for another.

The lab studies are important. Long term use of medications and monitoring them can help catch problems before they become major issues. Right now my kidneys have been acting up. We have to see what's going on due to all the contrast dye from my heart catheterizations, plus the radiation exposure.

Crazy stuff--keeps us on our toes!

Take care,
PF