I understand so much of what you have experienced as far as work & the cost of meds goes! I can't be much help on the reflux, because since I started Heather's diet, I don't seem to be having that problem--here is my advice:
WORK: When I first REALLY started having BAD problems last year, I was three months into a new job that I absolutely love with great pay. I commute in very heavy traffic that is frequently in a stand still (let's just say I know how to drive through a grassy median to turn around and get to the last place that has public restrooms!) ANYWAY, I was very honest with my Regional Manager as well as the VP that I report to about what was going on--probably to the point of TMI, but I had to do what I had to do, as I lost my job partly due to other health-related issues. They were both very understanding, and gave me all of the tools I needed to be able to work at home as needed, including forwarding my office phone to my cell. Through the last few months as the docs were deciding what combination of meds would best help while they were determining my diagnosis, I kept them informed--most days calling them after an appointment before my husband or family. I have also provided countless doctor's excuses for most of my absences. This has really helped with the fact that I am still very new in the position and missing a lot of time from work. They are pleased with my progress and I am getting back to my normal work ethic as I get more stable each day.
MEDS: Find a local neighborhood-type pharmacy, not a big chain and talk to the pharmacist--my local pharmacist helped me out last year when I was not working and only had major medical, and despite the fact that I have awesome insurance, he still helps me out, as my current meds copay is over $200/month combined (I don't even want to calcs the annual expense)--I am only paying him a fraction of this as most of my meds do not have generics available. I know that he is still making money from me or he would not be helping me out. He knows that I have a very good job, but also understands the overall circumstances that I have with all of the tests and other medical bills that I have incurred over the past months, not to mention the months that I was unemployed and still trying to catch up from. Also, I have a friend who works in the pharma industry and many companies now have programs to help with the cost of meds--I even found a coupon on-line for one of my meds--look up the manufacturer on the web and see how they can help you.
I hope that this helps a bit!
--------------------
Beth
IBS-D, IBD, Pain
Working toward stability
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Re: Just back from the doctor - need some advice(repeat)
