I went to see my acupuncturist for unrelated health issues besides my AN. I have osteoarthritis in my neck and back, degenerative disk disease with osteophytes. Anyway, when I got there she asked how I was doing and I said "not bad because I've been poping Ibuprofen like candy the last month". So, I told her my AN problem, and the reason I'm having to take ibuprofen is because of the swelling around the tumor. Steroids clear it instantly, but I can't take them alot. Her immediate response was "I can help you". She knew about the tumor being in the 8th cranial nerve, etc. So, I let her. She wants to see me again next week.
Now, I've always been a real skeptic about alternative medicine. I went the traditional route with my arthritis and neck issues. Celebrex, physical therapy, cervical pillows and back chairs. I even have a $700 neck traction unit that insurance paid for (cadiallac of neck traction, let me tell you). Although it made it better, I was still plagued with pain and discomfort on a 24/7 basis. Plus, I think the celebrex wasn't good. So, I thought what the heck. I heard about this great chinese lady, that the St. V's docs go to, she doesn't have to advertise. I've seen her since May on a regular basis. My discomfort and pain is probably down 90% WITHOUT celebrex, physical exercises or neck traction. I'm such a believer, I can't even believe it! LOL! I went each week for a month, then 2 week, 3 weeks, 4 weeks. etc.
Anyway, she wants me to take no more that 400 mg of ibuprofen at the most...200 mg if I can handle it (I was taking probably 1200-1800 day for awhile). I'll let everyone know if it effects the swelling around the tumor (which is what is affecting my hearing).
Tisha