Columns

The High Cost of Waiting for Generic Alternatives

Weeks after getting a script for what I hoped would be a cheaper alternative to Restasis (cyclosporine emulsion), I was reminded of why so many prescription medications are unaffordable. Three pharmaceutical companies recently agreed to pay California nearly $70 million to settle allegations that they paid to delay…

I’m Trying Tai Chi to Help Manage My Health Challenges

Before sarcoidosis hit me, I was a Pilates enthusiast and practiced yoga, too. Between classes and my practice at home, I stayed rather active with these two forms of exercise. However, like so much in life, the ability to stay active drastically changed after my diagnosis. But then an…

My Love-Hate Relationship with Prednisone

Twice in the past month, a charley horse in my right calf has ripped me from blissful sleep. Even though prednisone wasn’t to blame for the agonizing 4 a.m. wake-up calls, it’s the first thing I thought about while lying in bed, writhing in pain. I’ve lost count of…

My Journey from Fan to Fanatic

Finding an escape in football Prior to my sarcoidosis diagnosis, the National Football League (NFL) got my attention once a year when the Super Bowl aired. That only changed if my hometown team had a shot of making it to the big game; then, I would tune in for the…

Changing My Diet Helped Me Better Manage My Inflammation

After my diagnosis, I started looking for ways to help myself heal. Through research and conversations with healthcare providers, I learned that individuals with sarcoidosis have higher levels of inflammation than most of the population. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection or injury. It’s necessary for the…

Savings Are There if You Know Where to Look

If you have become disabled as a result of sarcoidosis or another health condition, searching for ways to save on medical and prescription costs is often at the top of your mind. But there are numerous other discounts, ranging from travel to lodging, that you may be overlooking. Travel…