Why I Joined a Clinical Trial In this edition of PatientsLikeMe’s series “Why I Joined a Clinical Trial,” we feature the story of Ginger Hermes Ortiz, who has been living with chronic myeloid leukemia and systemic lupus erythematosus. She shares why participating in one trial helped her learn how to manage the mental toll of… Continue reading How Participating in a Cancer Trial Gave Me a Life Skill That Helps Me Manage My Lupus
Category: Conditions
Living with a health condition? On the PatientsLikeMe blog, find helpful health information and patient stories about being diagnosed, trying different treatments, and living day-to-day with a chronic condition.
Being in a Clinical Trial Taught Me a Lot About My Disease
Why I Joined a Clinical Trial In this edition of PatientsLikeMe’s series “Why I Joined a Clinical Trial,” we feature the story of Ay Me Han, age 44, who was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus at age 15. She explains why she’s always eager to participate in new research. My Story: Ay Me Han Every… Continue reading Being in a Clinical Trial Taught Me a Lot About My Disease
Can Kidney Disease Cause Heart Problems Even in Early Stages?
When you think about the side effects of kidney disease, your mind probably first goes to problems like fatigue or swelling. But what many people do not realize is that kidney disease also affects your heart, sometimes even before the kidneys have lost a lot of function. Early stage CKD can still have an affect… Continue reading Can Kidney Disease Cause Heart Problems Even in Early Stages?
Can I take Semaglutide and HRT for Menopause Symptoms?
Semaglutide medications (Ozempic and Wegovy) have exploded in popularity over the last year. GLP-1 medications that were once only known as a diabetes medication are now more popularly known as a weight loss drug. Many people experiencing menopause notice their bodies changing, especially around their tummy area and wonder can a weight loss drug work… Continue reading Can I take Semaglutide and HRT for Menopause Symptoms?
What’s Causing Your CKD Night Cramps and How to Get Relief
Have you ever been woken up (or kept up) late at night by a sudden tightening in your muscle? Muscle cramps are unexpected, painful spasms that can keep you from getting a good night’s sleep. If you have chronic kidney disease, you may notice that these cramps happen often, disturbing your sleep and leaving your… Continue reading What’s Causing Your CKD Night Cramps and How to Get Relief
How to Manage Heat Fatigue with CKD
Hot summer days can make for incredible memories. Spending time at the pool or beach, getting together for a barbecue, and going on late walks as the sun sets are all classic activities to enjoy. However, the summer also brings heat! And lately, as days get warmer, the heat can make bring special risks for… Continue reading How to Manage Heat Fatigue with CKD
Stage 2 Kidney Disease Lifestyle Changes That Actually Slow Damage
With stage 2 chronic kidney disease, your kidneys are working a little less efficiently, but you might not have any symptoms yet. For many people at the early stages of this disease, it does not feel like major changes are needed! After all, if there are no symptoms, how bad can the damage to your… Continue reading Stage 2 Kidney Disease Lifestyle Changes That Actually Slow Damage
Is Protein Bad for Kidneys?
Surprise surprise! The foods you eat impact how well your body functions. Most of us have heard of the three main macronutrients that we all need to survive: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These three nutrients together give us energy and support a wide range of different body functions. For people with chronic kidney disease (CKD),… Continue reading Is Protein Bad for Kidneys?
Summer Carbs That Don’t Spike Blood Sugar
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh produce and seasonal dishes, but if you’re living with chronic kidney disease and watching your blood sugar, navigating carbohydrates can feel tricky. The good news is you don’t have to cut out all your favorite foods, like potatoes, corn, and watermelon. With a little strategy, you can… Continue reading Summer Carbs That Don’t Spike Blood Sugar
Four Tips For Mindful Eating and Enjoying Eating Food
Having chronic kidney disease means making careful choices about what you eat. It can be hard to enjoy meals when you are always thinking about what you cannot have! But there is a simple change you can make that can help bring more satisfaction and peace to the table: practicing gratitude and mindfulness. Gratitude and… Continue reading Four Tips For Mindful Eating and Enjoying Eating Food