HockeyCrystal
05-17-2003, 01:48 AM
I have sclerosing of my left sacroiliac joint... It's closing off onto a nerve and causing tremendous pain through my leg and butt...I also have hyperlordosis... I had x-rays and all that, went to an orthopedic surgeon a few months ago, and he told me to take Ibuprofen 800's (3 a day, and it's tearing up my stomach) and do some stretches and it would get better. It's been a few months, and I've been doing all of this, but no progress..Not even slightly! A chiropractor didn't help either, in fact it seemed to get worse, and I did all the "treatments" that were supposedly necessary. Also I've had BAD stomach pains after my gallbladder removal in 01 (at 19 years old), and it still seems like I'm never getting any better. I've been to all kinds of doctors, but no one seems to care to help me. It's like they all just ignore me and pass me along to someone else...if even that. I know I'm only 21, but I'm IN PAIN, BAD PAIN. And these doctors just act like I'm a kid who whines too much. That's why it took the doctors 4-5 years to figure out my gallbladder was bad and needed out (No stones). Does anyone know why I could still be having problems? I'm not just some whiny kid...I'm actually in a lot of pain. I have bad arthritis also in my knee, fingers, wrists, and one of my ankles, because of sports injuries and even other types of problems like bursitis and tendonitis in my shoulder. I just don't know what to do anymore. I can't get any kind of sympathy from any doctor I try, and I don't know how to get across to them. I've had EXCRUTIATING headaches since I was a kid also, and they don't even try to figure out what is wrong with me, and why I get the headaches, they just prescribe some meds for the headaches (with no refills)...And the meds aren't very strong...It's not like I'm getting big time pain pills. But when I need a refill (they go pretty quick with my headaches) they say "well, she needs to come in so we can check her" but WHY?! It makes no sense to me, when they don't do anything in the first place! Sorry I'm venting a little, but any advice would be so greatly appreciated you just don't even know! I'm just so sick of being in pain, because if one thing doesn't hurt, something else does... Thanks for any help you can give me.
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Sponsor
Jack Beanstalk
05-17-2003, 02:09 AM
Hi HC,
Sounds like you have some really genuine pain issues that need to be addressed by a Pain Medicine Dr.I can tell you a few steps to take that will get you going in the right direction,the rest will be up to you.Go to a good search engine(Google,Lyco,etc.)and type in"Physicians that practice Pain Medicine in Wichita,KS."Look at the responses,write names and phone numbers,call them,ask them if they treat chronic pain,feel them out.make sure you are OK with going to see them,get a referral from your family doc or someone,if they require it.That,s the best way to start.Ask your Pharmacist,they know the Pain Dr.,s.Ask friends,family,forums.You can take these steps and,in,time,you will find a dr. that will help.Good-Luck,HC!! jack beanstalk
Sounds like you have some really genuine pain issues that need to be addressed by a Pain Medicine Dr.I can tell you a few steps to take that will get you going in the right direction,the rest will be up to you.Go to a good search engine(Google,Lyco,etc.)and type in"Physicians that practice Pain Medicine in Wichita,KS."Look at the responses,write names and phone numbers,call them,ask them if they treat chronic pain,feel them out.make sure you are OK with going to see them,get a referral from your family doc or someone,if they require it.That,s the best way to start.Ask your Pharmacist,they know the Pain Dr.,s.Ask friends,family,forums.You can take these steps and,in,time,you will find a dr. that will help.Good-Luck,HC!! jack beanstalk
HockeyCrystal
05-17-2003, 02:19 AM
See this option has never been brought up to me, and I didn't know if I would "qualify" or whatever. Thanks for this idea..I think when I go in to my family doctor to get my headache meds, I'll address this issue with her. Perhaps she'll be able to refer me to one...I hope this will help me get going in the right direction. Thanks for your quick reply, I really appreciate it!
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HERMIT
05-17-2003, 02:51 AM
Insist on being referred to a pain specialist. Sometimes you gotta be a little pushy. I learned the hard way in medical circles the squeaky wheel gets the grease. Good Luck.
Autumn Angel
05-17-2003, 02:57 AM
You would qualify but some places you need a referal from your family doc so I would ask for one and tell your doc since he isnt treating your pain issues you want someone who will. My family doc was great about treating my pain but still gave me a referal to a pain doc incase he had a better treatment that my family doc was missing. I have the best Pm doc ever he explains my pain so I can understand it not just treat it. In my opinion you need a pain doctor. Check around some dont require referals from your family doc. Take care and best of luck.
Autumn.
Autumn.
HockeyCrystal
05-17-2003, 03:13 AM
You guys are great with all your quick replies. Thanks again to Jack, and thank you Hermit and Autumn. I appreciate your quick replies! See I've been watching here for a while, reading posts for several days before I post anything, but I'm like these people have pain and they're going to pain management places...and that option was never even given to me...It got me to thinking maybe I would be able to do something like that, but I would've had no idea how to go about it..In fact I don't know if I ever would've even tried had it not been for you all's encouragement... But now, I will definitely tell my doctor that I need someone to address my pain issues, and if it won't be her, then I need someone else. Another question...Should I not take the ibuprofens? I'm worried they're going to make my stomach worse! I don't want that, that's for sure! But they're already tearing up my insides, or at least they feel like it sometimes.... Well thanks again, and any other replies I'll still be very appreciative.
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chriztene
05-17-2003, 08:15 AM
Crystal,
You have received great advice from the caring posters...I had a similiar situation and I finally had to request from my urologist to refer me out to a pain management doctor.
Fortunately, I had joined and Interstitial Cystitis network and met a women from my state who really provided helpful information, as she had already been through the same situation you are in.
I was visiting a pain mangement message board (probably this one) and someone mentioned to do a search for 'pain medicine physicians.' This was really helpfull information/advice!
I was referred to one pm doctor and I found another one on the American Academy of Pain Medicine; which I now see and whom is an awesome, caring, knowledgable doctor.
It's a good idea to mention this to your pcp immediately as most pm specialtist have a long waiting list to get into see them once you are referred. Yes, most(if not all)pain management doctors do require a referral with a diagnosis from your pcp, urologist, etc.
I wish you the best,
Chriztene
You have received great advice from the caring posters...I had a similiar situation and I finally had to request from my urologist to refer me out to a pain management doctor.
Fortunately, I had joined and Interstitial Cystitis network and met a women from my state who really provided helpful information, as she had already been through the same situation you are in.
I was visiting a pain mangement message board (probably this one) and someone mentioned to do a search for 'pain medicine physicians.' This was really helpfull information/advice!
I was referred to one pm doctor and I found another one on the American Academy of Pain Medicine; which I now see and whom is an awesome, caring, knowledgable doctor.
It's a good idea to mention this to your pcp immediately as most pm specialtist have a long waiting list to get into see them once you are referred. Yes, most(if not all)pain management doctors do require a referral with a diagnosis from your pcp, urologist, etc.
I wish you the best,
Chriztene
Autumn Angel
05-17-2003, 11:14 AM
Crystal...Stop taking them girl..I took every kind of NSAID for 12 years they ruined my stomach to the point where one night I had a horrible attack that landed me in the ER with heart attack symptoms (it wasnt but I didnt know that) It was burning everywhere my stomach my chest my throat it felt like there was an open sore in my stomach it hurt so bad all because of the NSAID use. They immediately told me to stop taking them and put me on a narcotic this was 2 years ago. If you can grab some Zantac or an acid reducer do it you know the ones that prevent the stomach from making too much acid? Untill you can get in to the doc for the heavy duty stomach pills which I think you need. I am presently on Ranitidine which is prescription Zantac because mine is now under control but when it was bad I was on Nexium and Losec 20mg they are one a day pills that heal the damage as well as prevent it from returning. I would say you need them twice a day to start like I did and as it gets better you will need less. Ask for an upper GI like I did to make sure you have no damage there. I am trying to think of what you could take in the meantime if you go off your Ibuprophen. I would suggest a trip to the Er or walk in clinic they might give you the Nexium then and there but they might not perscribe a narcotic painkiller your best bet would be the ER rather than a walk in clinic or taking the new tylenol 8 hour through the weekend. I know how it feels when it get bad dont wait for that ok? Please keep me posted on what you decide to do ok and if I can help anymore I will.
Autumn.
Autumn.
grizzk62
05-17-2003, 11:23 AM
Crystal,
i have to agree w/Autumn. Stop taking those NSAIDS. I had a bleeding ulcer that landing me in the ER as well and a couple of nights stay. I'm now on Prilosec and zantac everyday because of that . I also have a Hiatal Hernia as a result as well. I'm on Bextra now and because of all the immflamation in my spine I will probably be on them the rest of my life. Get the OTC acid reduces like Autumn said of go to a Dco in the Box and have them perscribe the heavy duty ones. I hope that you get this resolved ASAP. NSAIDS land 10s of thousands of people in the ER because of their destructive nature. I hope this Helps...
Matt
i have to agree w/Autumn. Stop taking those NSAIDS. I had a bleeding ulcer that landing me in the ER as well and a couple of nights stay. I'm now on Prilosec and zantac everyday because of that . I also have a Hiatal Hernia as a result as well. I'm on Bextra now and because of all the immflamation in my spine I will probably be on them the rest of my life. Get the OTC acid reduces like Autumn said of go to a Dco in the Box and have them perscribe the heavy duty ones. I hope that you get this resolved ASAP. NSAIDS land 10s of thousands of people in the ER because of their destructive nature. I hope this Helps...
Matt
HockeyCrystal
05-18-2003, 07:01 PM
Thank you all for your caring help. I will stop taking the NSAIDS..I don't like them anyways. I actually cut way back after all the stomach pain they were causing..Just taking them when I *REALLY* needed something a little stronger. I have to have surgery on Tuesday so I haven't been taking them at all for almost 2 weeks (can't take anything but tylenol since it doesn't thin the blood)..But I haven't taken much tylenol either...my stomach pains have calmed down a bit...I still have pain, but that's more from the trouble my gallbladder has been causing since it was removed... Anyways, I'm going in to my PCP as soon as I heal up from the surgery I'm going to have behind my ear, and tell her that I need a referral and perhaps something to cope until I do get into one. I appreciate everything you guys have advised me on, and if I can ever help in any way, I most certainly will. And I'm glad now I have some people to ask if I happen to need any more advice. I'll keep you guys posted on what I'm going to do...Thanks again for all of your help! :)
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chumbo
05-18-2003, 08:16 PM
Sorry to hear that you are being made to live with such terrible pain. What type of meds do you take for your headaches?
I go to a PM Dr, and have talked to many of other Pt's in waiting room, there are several people I have met there that see the Dr due to headaches. I agree with all of the other reply's that said to find a Pm Dr via internet search. I am sure you will have success, with finding the right Dr to help you.
Good Luck
Chumbo
I go to a PM Dr, and have talked to many of other Pt's in waiting room, there are several people I have met there that see the Dr due to headaches. I agree with all of the other reply's that said to find a Pm Dr via internet search. I am sure you will have success, with finding the right Dr to help you.
Good Luck
Chumbo
HockeyCrystal
05-20-2003, 04:59 AM
Oh yeah by the way, The surgery to remove the lymph node behind my ear is today (Tuesday) at about 10am CDT. That's in about 7 hours, but I have to be there at about 8:45...And I haven't had anything to eat/drink since about 3 1/2 hours ago. I'm scared, but I just wanted to let everyone know what's going on, and tell you guys I'll let you know how I'm doing after I get home (it's a same day surgery)... I also will check on the PM dr after I heal up a bit in a few days. Everyone have a good day! Pray that my surgery goes well. :) Goodnight for now.
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HockeyCrystal
05-20-2003, 05:03 AM
Oh and I was given Fioricet for my headaches.. (which doesn't hardly work anyways, but it's better than tylenol.)
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mokita
05-20-2003, 07:30 AM
Good Luck HC!!! I will be saying a prayer for you!!! :angel:
The fioricet is probably the most popular med that I have seen headache sufferers mention on different boards. Perhaps there will be others that can tell you different ones.
Let us know how you are as soon as you are able! :)
Karen
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9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
The fioricet is probably the most popular med that I have seen headache sufferers mention on different boards. Perhaps there will be others that can tell you different ones.
Let us know how you are as soon as you are able! :)
Karen
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9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
HockeyCrystal
05-20-2003, 03:23 PM
Everything went okay, except I woke up in the operating room during the operation. They didn't put me back to sleep either, so I'm a little ticked off about that, luckily they had used some local also, but now I'm back home, and the local hasn't quite worn off yet, but it's starting to. It's throbbing a bit, and my incision is about 1 1/2- 2 inches long and stitched up...No dressing which is weird since it's bleeding, but oh well. I am going to go lie down and possibly get some food in my stomach so I can take my pain meds as soon as they get home for me. I'll keep you all posted...
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Soxy
05-20-2003, 04:00 PM
Dear HockeyCrystal, hope you find a good pain doc fast. Just my 2 cents but when I feel a migraine coming on I take fironal (sp) not the firorecet(sp). It works for me. Sounds like you went through quite an ordeal today. Hope you get some good rest and somehow less pain at least for the rest of the day. Take care.
Soxy
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Believe in Miracles!!
[This message has been edited by Soxy (edited 05-20-2003).]
Soxy
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Believe in Miracles!!
[This message has been edited by Soxy (edited 05-20-2003).]
HockeyCrystal
05-21-2003, 07:04 PM
Thanks Soxy. I will ask my doctor also about the headache meds you take. I haven't been in a lot of pain since my surgery, but thank God they actually gave me something strong enough to help the pain of post-op. And if I have any of my Perc 7.5's left, I'm going to keep them for when I have my stomach pains, and bad headaches..Well I'm going to go lie down. I'll keep you guys updated.
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HockeyCrystal
06-08-2003, 01:19 AM
So, I'm finally getting healed up after my surgery...I have been in quite a bit of pain..I went to see my regular doctor this past week...I wanted more answers..I got some...Unfortunately I'm still not getting much relief. He explained my back pain a little better...Apparently it's something I was born with, where my S1 vertebrae is being transitional and not fused with the rest of the Saccral vertebrae...I didn't know any of this when I had the x-rays done a while ago..The main reason I went to see him was because I had a sore throat, and really sharp pain in my shoulder that has gotten worse everyday (aside from the low back pain)....I am wondering if anyone knows what I can do for my shoulder, because I'm out of pain meds, all I have left is muscle relaxers, but they don't help at all. I have tried ice, heat, muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatories, and pain meds. Not even my percocet 7.5's helped hardly at all. I am getting really tired of being in pain. I'm going to call on Monday morning to see if he will give me something stronger, because to me it feels like I have a pinched nerve or something...The shoulder pain is actually between my shoulder blades and it feels kind of tingly but sharp like I have a knife in my back..I have almost gone to the ER a few times I'm in so much pain. I don't even know if he'll give me something stronger for the pain, because he acted like it was nothing while I was in there...I'm just really sick of it :( and wonder if anyone knows what I should do... I still have to see if I can get into a PM doctor, but until then I'm just dealing with my regular doctor. Any help will be appreciated...Thanks guys...
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Jack Beanstalk
06-08-2003, 01:52 AM
Howdy HC, I sure hate the way those docs seem to think that you,re not really hurting that bad and sorta shrug it off.I,m afraid that you are gonna get that response a lot,until you get to a CARING pain specialist.I really don,t think calling the Dr. will do you a bit of good.The nurse will probly tell you to put some heat on it and "rest",that it is "normal" after surgery.Well,it may be normal,but it ain,t doin you a bit of good to be sittin there in agonizing pain!Do you have a family member,friend,anyone who could take you up to see the doc?If so,I,d call his office or answering service,whatever,and tell them you need to see the doc ASAP!!Don,t let them dictate how you feel ,they don,t know how you feel,you know that you are in tremendous pain and it is in-humane for a dr. to let a patient suffer in that manner!TELL them you need to be seen and if you get a runaround,have him"refer"you to the ER if he will not help you by giving you more meds or something to ease your discomfort.Go right to the ER and when you go in,tell the triage nurse you are in terrible post-surgery pain and your dr. referred you there.I think you stand the best chance of getting relief by following this plan.I,ve seen too many stories just like yours,and almost all of them ended up doing this to get the relief they needed.Be strong,stand up for your right to not have to be forced to suffer!!Pain is treated as a vital sign by law as of 2001.Maybe you need to remind your dr. incase he "forgot".Good-Luck,HC!
Jack Beanstalk
Jack Beanstalk
HockeyCrystal
06-08-2003, 02:07 AM
See I don't know that the pain is really from my surgery. I had surgery behind my ear...But about a week after surgery I was still in bad pain still in my neck and around my ear, but then a few days later my shoulder just started killing me. Could it be post-op pain? I didn't know if this was even connected...Or if it was connected with the strep throat....Or if it was just something new that popped up. Thanks for your advice, I appreciate it so much. By the way, do you mean I should try to get ahold of my doctor tonight instead of waiting until Monday?
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HockeyCrystal
06-14-2003, 08:56 PM
I went back to the doctor again. He gave me Ultracet for my shoulder pain, but it doesn't seem to be working very well..He gave me the little samples, and I got a total of 18 pills. I have 7 left and have to make it until Monday afternoon. He only told me not to take more than 4 doses in a day. I thought this meant one pill not more than 4x a day..But I looked up on the net about ultracet just a few minutes ago, and it says normal dose is 2 pills and don't exceed 8 in a day...Does anyone know how much I should be taking? I am afraid to take more than 1 but I know the 1 isn't enough...But I also don't want to run out of pain meds....PLEASE HELP!!
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HockeyCrystal
06-15-2003, 12:04 PM
I would normally be sleeping right now, but due to my wonderful pain I'm awake still. Haven't been able to sleep ALL NIGHT. It's 10am here, and i haven't gotten an ounce of sleep...I am so sick of this feeling like there's a knife in my back. I want so much to take my ultracet, but I only have 5 left. That has to last me until 3pm tomorrow...Which I guess isn't too bad, but I'm afraid he won't give me anymore...And even though it doesn't help much, it's better than nothing...And I guess it might not be helping because I need to take 2 instead of 1...?? Does anyone know? Or taken it before? Please help, I'm so exhausted, but yet, in too much pain to fall asleep! :(
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Soleil11
06-15-2003, 01:39 PM
Oh, Crystal, sorry about all this. Soleil here, one with the knife pain in back. Anyway, Ultracet isn't strong enough obviously. So, when you go to the appt. cry if need be. But, be honest. Tell him it isn't touching the pain and you need something more EFFECTIVE prescribed. Tell him you can't function in this kind of pain and it is inhumane to be in this kind of chronic pain. Ask to please have something more effective prescribed and tell him that if he isn't comfortable treating your pain, to please refer you to someone who can treat the pain, but that you aren't leaving the office until something is done one way or another. Tell hi Ultracet is like taking candy tablets for what is going on and what can be done right away. Hope this helps. Once, I didn't leave a drs. office because I was crying and couldn't stop because of his insensitivity. I told that dr. this.... that I felt I'd been thrown in a river w/out a paddle . Keep us posted, Soleil
HockeyCrystal
06-17-2003, 09:15 PM
It's me again. I went to the doctor yet again yesterday. Thank God he bumped me up to 2 ultracets for pain, but I'm still in horrible pain..And I think he made it even worse when he tried to pop me. Now it hurts to turn my neck to the right. I hate this pain. I have to go back to the doctor again next Monday...I'm sick of going every week and getting no relief...And he makes me cry every time I'm in there.. He's a good doctor, but I don't want to be popped so roughly...That's why I quit going to my chiropractor to begin with! And I try to make it clear to him how much pain I really am in, and he knows I'm in this terrible pain, but won't give me anything stronger than this ultracet stuff....I'm getting so frustrated with this all...I don't know what to do anymore..This pain is almost more than I can take. I just wanted to tell you guys what's going on now...
Soliel, I hope your pain has gotten better... Keep me updated.
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Soliel, I hope your pain has gotten better... Keep me updated.
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lilah
06-18-2003, 01:42 PM
I hate to burst a thought bubble but there are some types of pain that the neds just don't seem to touch. I have been on 60+ mgs of ms contin 2x a day with morphine sulfate ir 30 mgs for break through pain and even this much of such heavy stuff frequently doesn't begin to touch the pain. It will sometimes put me out for a while though and that brings a bit of relief. I don't know what to suggest for you other than to sit down with your doc as others have suggested and be really honest about how this is effecting your life. Perhaps there are some other things the two of you could come up with which would help (like massage instead of adjustment or physical therapy of a gentle sort). I'm sorry to hear you are so young with such problems but really don't think that stronger pain meds would necessarily make that much of a difference. Even if they helped some to be on them for chronic conditions at your age does not provide you with a very happy looking future. Good luck and I hope you try talking openly with your doctor. Definately the harsh adjustments to your neck sound like a horrible experience and you do need to tell him that it hurts you as much as it does. *hugs*
HockeyCrystal
06-19-2003, 01:55 AM
Thanks for your ideas lilah, but I'm sure I'd get relief if he'd give me something a little stronger.. I had some percocet 7.5's and lortab 10's left over from surgery last month, and I've taken them with the ultracet (before I ran out of course) and I did actually get some relief. My mom gave me a few lortab 10s the other day to help me out, and I've been feeling better... But she only gave me 4. I called my doctor today and I told the nurse I talked to that the Ultracets just weren't helping at all. He is going to call me tomorrow and I'll see then if he'll change my meds... I'm not wanting terribly strong meds, just something to help take some of the edge off, I don't even expect the pain to disappear at all while taking them, I just want to function normally. And it really bothers me that a guy I know (an older guy) goes into my dr's office once a month and complains of some non-existant abdominal pain and gets way stronger pain meds than he's giving me. This guy TOLD me he doesn't have this pain, he just says it to get pain meds. It's really sad that people who aren't in pain get the meds, and people that really ARE in pain are getting shafted because of the people that are abusing their doctors this way. It's just not fair. Because I'm young they just think I'm trying to get pain meds for recreational purposes... :( I hate to think of people in worse pain than me getting turned down for the pain meds they so desperately need. It's really really sad.... My pain is legitimate, and my doctor knows it is too. I have this deformity I was born with, and some other back problems too, proven all by x-rays and such, but this guy has stomach pains that he fakes just to get pain medicine. *sigh* Sorry for venting, but I just had to...It's all so aggravating...
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HockeyCrystal
06-21-2003, 01:41 AM
My doctor finally gave me something better than ultracets...Lortab 5's...Not much better, but at least its bringing my pain down from about an 8.5 to about a 5.. I can at least get up and move around without crying all the time... But with the tolerance I have to lortabs I'll probably have to be bumped up to something stronger sometime soon.
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catgirl
06-22-2003, 02:43 PM
HockeyCrystal,
What doctor are you going to?
Some docs here in Wichita just don't care & other's think that since your so young you CAN'T be having these problems. I know I experienced it when I was your age. Get tough with them. Bug them every hour if you have too. Lose it on the phone with them. This really works. When I call my doc's office now, they JUMP. It's actually quite funny cause I let them jack me around for a week before I lost it, now they can't work fast enough to please me!! Cat
Oh, btw, I take imitrex for my migranes. Finally...something that works!
[This message has been edited by catgirl (edited 06-22-2003).]
What doctor are you going to?
Some docs here in Wichita just don't care & other's think that since your so young you CAN'T be having these problems. I know I experienced it when I was your age. Get tough with them. Bug them every hour if you have too. Lose it on the phone with them. This really works. When I call my doc's office now, they JUMP. It's actually quite funny cause I let them jack me around for a week before I lost it, now they can't work fast enough to please me!! Cat
Oh, btw, I take imitrex for my migranes. Finally...something that works!
[This message has been edited by catgirl (edited 06-22-2003).]
HockeyCrystal
06-22-2003, 05:41 PM
I know what you mean about those doctors...I go to Bumguardner out in Andover... He finally gave me Imitrex for my migraines a couple weeks ago.. I haven't tried it yet, but next bad migraine I get I am going to try it. I've had a couple since I got it, but it wasn't with me (Now they're in my purse!) so I had to take something else or just sleep it off, but I'm hoping it works for me too. I'm hoping my doctor will learn that I'm not just some young kid he can jack around because he's a doctor...I want him to treat my pain, and the root of my pain...And stop judging me on my age. He knows i'm in real pain that's why it bugs me so much. Anyways, who do you go to?
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catgirl
06-22-2003, 06:58 PM
Hocky, get tough with her/him if you have to. If not, find someone who will actually listen to you. After leaving Christman, I went through quite a few doctors until I found 1 that would actually listen to me & not tell me I'm crazy http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif.
Anyway, Ketterman is my family doc, Wolff is my osteopath (this is the office I had to get tough with). Eyster is my Orthopedic Surgeon & he referred me to the KS Anthesoligist (sp) & Pain Management center to perform the epidural & do whatever else is necessary to deal with recovery on my neck.
I used to go to Dr. Crook until January of this year when I finally had the last straw with their office management, they lost my test results, so when they never called me with my results I went to another doc who called them for the results & wolah "they lost them". Basically, they couldv'e cared less about me especially when they sent me a note "continue current course of treatment" for the yeast infection I had that they WERE NOT treating. Geeeezzzzz, comeon medical profession. Your supposed to be helping me, not hurting me more!!! :mad:
But on a lighter note, I just realized Wolff is a funny name for a doc. I ought to post that on the strange names for doc's thread.
Anyway, Ketterman is my family doc, Wolff is my osteopath (this is the office I had to get tough with). Eyster is my Orthopedic Surgeon & he referred me to the KS Anthesoligist (sp) & Pain Management center to perform the epidural & do whatever else is necessary to deal with recovery on my neck.
I used to go to Dr. Crook until January of this year when I finally had the last straw with their office management, they lost my test results, so when they never called me with my results I went to another doc who called them for the results & wolah "they lost them". Basically, they couldv'e cared less about me especially when they sent me a note "continue current course of treatment" for the yeast infection I had that they WERE NOT treating. Geeeezzzzz, comeon medical profession. Your supposed to be helping me, not hurting me more!!! :mad:
But on a lighter note, I just realized Wolff is a funny name for a doc. I ought to post that on the strange names for doc's thread.
HockeyCrystal
06-22-2003, 07:35 PM
I know what you mean about those doctors and not wanting to treat anything...Luckily my doctor isn't like most in the sense that he is in and out in less than 5 minutes.. He DOES sit and listen to me, and talk to me to explain things and whatnot, it just seems like he doesn't want to give me pain meds for the severe pain that I have...If I can get him to treat my pain, I'll have a wonderful doc. I'm glad you have straightened out your docs. I hope you're having a good day despite our hot weather http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/blob_fire.gif
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HikingFan
06-22-2003, 08:03 PM
HockeyCrystal-
I feel for you with the whole age-discrimination stuff. I am 25, and have been dealing with some serious spine and back issues since I was 23.
I finally am seeing a Doctor who instead of having the disbelieving attitude of "You are too young to be in this much pain," he has a very empathetic attitude of, "You are too young to be forced to suffer through something like this without appropriate care." IT is imperative that you find a Doctor with this attitude. IT took me almost a year to figure this out, and I hope that you will be able to do it sooner....I want to pass along a couple of pieces of advice which helped me get the approriate care I needed.
I forgot the username of the person eariler in the post who told you that you need to ask your DR. to either treat your pain, or refer you to someone who can, and I completely agree!!!! Primary care doctors are not specialists in pain management (I'm not sure if you are still seeing a PCP??) so I recommend getting to a physical medicine or pain management doctor. They are specialists in pain, and know a lot more about these issues than PCP's. If you are in an HMO, this is going to take a good deal of insistence..,they will try not to send you to specialists unless its a last resort (because of the cost.)
Before you go into your appt., sit down at a computer, and type out the following info (see below). Do it when you feel the most pain-free so you are clear-headed and can compile a comprehensive list. when you try to verbally tell a Dr. all this in a rushed appt., you end up forgetting things.
List: 1) all the meds you've tried, 2) what other treatments or specialists you've been through, 3) The major symptoms, and descriptions of the affected areas 4) HOW YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE IS AFFECTED...like, "I used to hike 4 times a week, but this week I was bedridden 75% of the time because of pain" 5) any pertinent questions/concerns on your mind. Don't leave until he/she has answered and addressed each question and concern. Write down each answer so they will be forced to address each one succiently (and you'll have on record what you've been advised.)
Ask them to keep this printed list in your chart!!!! It is so important to have all of this documentation with your record so if you have to file a formal complaint (or request a transfer to another doctor), you'll come out on top. Also, if you have to see another Doctor in the future, you can refer him to this list to get a breif history before you come in for your appt. Keep this list on your desktop and add to it after each appt/new prescription so you have your own personal history on record....every so often, print it out and bring it in to your doc to attach to your record.
Also, I know that I sometimes would have a hard time expressing my pain and suffering (I would be so upset, my voice would shake, and I would forget all the things I planned to say) to the Doctor. If this happens with you, say something like this "I must not be expressing my pain and discomfort appropriately, because the meds you are prescribing are just not working. Maybe if you take a look at this pain diary, it will help outline better the severity of the issue, and how I feel before and after the meds." Then,
present a daily journal which tracks how the pain flucuates; rate it every couple hours on a scale of 1-10 (I posted the pain scale on another thread you could print out), note what the current pain medicine does to bring to pain down (or not). Note when the pain is at its worst (in the AM, late at night?) ASK THEM TO KEEP IT WITH YOUR CHART!! If you have this on record, and your Doctor is letting you stay at a 7-8 without offering you further treatment (if not stronger meds, a referral to a PM doc, or similar) your doctor is negligent, and you can bring this to the attention of the Department Head. This is illegal to not help you, and if you have it tracked in a journal of sorts, you Doctor is more likely to take you serious and treat you accordingly. It shows you are doing everything possible to help yourself. Start the journal today!
I hope some of this advice helps. I've just run the gammet with a million doctors, and this is my best advice of what is effective. I think doctor's are impressed if you really take the time to write stuff down and think through this stuff before coming into an appt. It makes their job a little easier.
If you need to talk, pull up my profile and drop me an email. I know how annoying it is to be looked at like you are crazy for possibly being in pain just because you are not 100 years old and falling over.
Thanks for listening...hope this helps.
I feel for you with the whole age-discrimination stuff. I am 25, and have been dealing with some serious spine and back issues since I was 23.
I finally am seeing a Doctor who instead of having the disbelieving attitude of "You are too young to be in this much pain," he has a very empathetic attitude of, "You are too young to be forced to suffer through something like this without appropriate care." IT is imperative that you find a Doctor with this attitude. IT took me almost a year to figure this out, and I hope that you will be able to do it sooner....I want to pass along a couple of pieces of advice which helped me get the approriate care I needed.
I forgot the username of the person eariler in the post who told you that you need to ask your DR. to either treat your pain, or refer you to someone who can, and I completely agree!!!! Primary care doctors are not specialists in pain management (I'm not sure if you are still seeing a PCP??) so I recommend getting to a physical medicine or pain management doctor. They are specialists in pain, and know a lot more about these issues than PCP's. If you are in an HMO, this is going to take a good deal of insistence..,they will try not to send you to specialists unless its a last resort (because of the cost.)
Before you go into your appt., sit down at a computer, and type out the following info (see below). Do it when you feel the most pain-free so you are clear-headed and can compile a comprehensive list. when you try to verbally tell a Dr. all this in a rushed appt., you end up forgetting things.
List: 1) all the meds you've tried, 2) what other treatments or specialists you've been through, 3) The major symptoms, and descriptions of the affected areas 4) HOW YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE IS AFFECTED...like, "I used to hike 4 times a week, but this week I was bedridden 75% of the time because of pain" 5) any pertinent questions/concerns on your mind. Don't leave until he/she has answered and addressed each question and concern. Write down each answer so they will be forced to address each one succiently (and you'll have on record what you've been advised.)
Ask them to keep this printed list in your chart!!!! It is so important to have all of this documentation with your record so if you have to file a formal complaint (or request a transfer to another doctor), you'll come out on top. Also, if you have to see another Doctor in the future, you can refer him to this list to get a breif history before you come in for your appt. Keep this list on your desktop and add to it after each appt/new prescription so you have your own personal history on record....every so often, print it out and bring it in to your doc to attach to your record.
Also, I know that I sometimes would have a hard time expressing my pain and suffering (I would be so upset, my voice would shake, and I would forget all the things I planned to say) to the Doctor. If this happens with you, say something like this "I must not be expressing my pain and discomfort appropriately, because the meds you are prescribing are just not working. Maybe if you take a look at this pain diary, it will help outline better the severity of the issue, and how I feel before and after the meds." Then,
present a daily journal which tracks how the pain flucuates; rate it every couple hours on a scale of 1-10 (I posted the pain scale on another thread you could print out), note what the current pain medicine does to bring to pain down (or not). Note when the pain is at its worst (in the AM, late at night?) ASK THEM TO KEEP IT WITH YOUR CHART!! If you have this on record, and your Doctor is letting you stay at a 7-8 without offering you further treatment (if not stronger meds, a referral to a PM doc, or similar) your doctor is negligent, and you can bring this to the attention of the Department Head. This is illegal to not help you, and if you have it tracked in a journal of sorts, you Doctor is more likely to take you serious and treat you accordingly. It shows you are doing everything possible to help yourself. Start the journal today!
I hope some of this advice helps. I've just run the gammet with a million doctors, and this is my best advice of what is effective. I think doctor's are impressed if you really take the time to write stuff down and think through this stuff before coming into an appt. It makes their job a little easier.
If you need to talk, pull up my profile and drop me an email. I know how annoying it is to be looked at like you are crazy for possibly being in pain just because you are not 100 years old and falling over.
Thanks for listening...hope this helps.
HockeyCrystal
06-22-2003, 09:33 PM
HikingFan, You brought up some very VERY impressive ideas. Thanks for all of your insight. I will start my journal right now...I have this little notebook I bought for a class last semester thats just wasting away. I'll put it to good use. Thank you so much. You've brought some things to my attention that I was not aware of. I give you Kudos, and express my utmost gratitude. Thanks a lot! You're my :angel: hahaha... Thanks again!!
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HockeyCrystal
06-23-2003, 02:34 AM
I have an appointment with my Doc tomorrow (He's a D.O. but he's also my PCP...I haven't been even advised to see anyone else... Tomorrow I plan on asking if I should be seeing my Orthopedic surgeon or anyone else instead) and I started my pain journal tonight. I plan on presenting him with this tomorrow and show him that I am serious about my pain. And I plan on keeping it updated! I want to thank you again for your suggestions...I also started my list of the meds I've tried, and all of that. Thanks again HikingFan!
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HikingFan
06-23-2003, 04:32 AM
You made me smile BIG-TIME to know that I could be of some help. I so wish I had discovered this board in the first year of my problems. Everyone here has such a wealth of knowledge and ideas, its really a fantastic thing.
PLEASE let us know how things go at this next appointment. You had so many people read and respond to your post...I hope this lets you know that we all care, are concerned, and wish you the best :) Hang in there!!!!
Lots of love and best wishes,
HikingFan
PLEASE let us know how things go at this next appointment. You had so many people read and respond to your post...I hope this lets you know that we all care, are concerned, and wish you the best :) Hang in there!!!!
Lots of love and best wishes,
HikingFan
HockeyCrystal
06-23-2003, 08:16 PM
HikingFan,
Maybe my doctor just doesn't really believe me at all. I did everything you said. I showed him everything. I did the pain journal, and showed it to him. He read it, and he realized I wasn't getting much sleep because of the pain. He gave me some kind of anti-depressant, which I don't see how it will work, but oh well.. I told him the lortabs were only bringing my 8.5 pain down to about a 7, and he told me that's all I could expect, FROM ANY PAIN MEDICATION, even if he gave me something stronger, I "Won't get any more relief than a 7 when the pain is that strong" Which I think is B.S. cuz lortabs are barely a strong pain killer... Does anyone know why he is so stuck on making me suffer? I came home in tears because all I could think of was another week in this pain. If I was given stronger pain relievers, I wouldn't have the problem sleeping....Right? Who's heard of this anti depressant, tofranil??? Is there a chance this is going to help my pain or help me sleep? I'm pretty upset with my doctor...I got home and just about lost my mind. I'm about to just say **** it and go to a different doctor. i'm sick of this ****. Sorry for b**ching a lot, I need to go get this stupid prescription filled (I don't want ****ing antidepressants.) Talk to you guys later
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
Maybe my doctor just doesn't really believe me at all. I did everything you said. I showed him everything. I did the pain journal, and showed it to him. He read it, and he realized I wasn't getting much sleep because of the pain. He gave me some kind of anti-depressant, which I don't see how it will work, but oh well.. I told him the lortabs were only bringing my 8.5 pain down to about a 7, and he told me that's all I could expect, FROM ANY PAIN MEDICATION, even if he gave me something stronger, I "Won't get any more relief than a 7 when the pain is that strong" Which I think is B.S. cuz lortabs are barely a strong pain killer... Does anyone know why he is so stuck on making me suffer? I came home in tears because all I could think of was another week in this pain. If I was given stronger pain relievers, I wouldn't have the problem sleeping....Right? Who's heard of this anti depressant, tofranil??? Is there a chance this is going to help my pain or help me sleep? I'm pretty upset with my doctor...I got home and just about lost my mind. I'm about to just say **** it and go to a different doctor. i'm sick of this ****. Sorry for b**ching a lot, I need to go get this stupid prescription filled (I don't want ****ing antidepressants.) Talk to you guys later
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HikingFan
06-23-2003, 08:52 PM
Sorry your appt. went so crappy. The best I can advise you now is this:
Try to do what he said, take the meds he wants you to try, and KEEP your pain journal through it all. After you've given the meds a chance to work (YOu have to at least try it, even if you are sure it won't work, which means probably at least 5-6 days) either go back to him and INSIST he treat your pain with something stronger, and if he won't, go home, call the department head, and demand to see another doctor. He has to let you, its a law. But you are going to have to try and do what he tells you first with these new meds, or else the Department head has no obligation to allow you to see another doc. I think doctors are forced to follow a protocol that tries the most conservative approach first (meaning, he won't put you on morphine until you've tried everything else under it, because of the addiction danger with narcotics). I'm certainly not defending the doc, but he/she has to answer to the State Medical Board, and the doc might be scared of having to explain why he/she jumped you up from Lortabs to something very strong. This is just a guess on my part.?????
My docs have given me anti-depressants before too, because they sometimes have similar effects to skeletal muscle relaxers, and they bring on drowsiness. They did help me sleep, although I remember one in particular caused bad nightmares (Topamax, I think).
Are you still getting the Lortabs? I am not sure that your Doctor will prescribe anything stronger without referring you to pain management or physical medicine doctor. At least with my insurance company, if you are in need of anything stronger than vicodin or percocet, a PCP cannot write that script. Have you had an MRI done? None of my problems were recognized until an MRI was done. My problems wouldn't show up on x-ray, so I suffered needlessly for 7 months. If you haven't had an MRI, insist on it.
One more thing...do you have a pushy mom or dad (or aunt, uncle, sister, whatever..) that might be able to come with you to appts.? This always seemed to work for me when I was younger to get the quality of care I needed. I would be upset, and unable to speak up, and then my mom would take over, and MAN! did she ever scare the crap out of the doc into getting me whatever I needed.
But give the new meds a chance...they might make a difference, you never know. I'm overly optimistic, but I know you are probably not feeling that way right now. Sorry for such a crappy day.
Good Luck.
[This message has been edited by HikingFan (edited 06-23-2003).]
Try to do what he said, take the meds he wants you to try, and KEEP your pain journal through it all. After you've given the meds a chance to work (YOu have to at least try it, even if you are sure it won't work, which means probably at least 5-6 days) either go back to him and INSIST he treat your pain with something stronger, and if he won't, go home, call the department head, and demand to see another doctor. He has to let you, its a law. But you are going to have to try and do what he tells you first with these new meds, or else the Department head has no obligation to allow you to see another doc. I think doctors are forced to follow a protocol that tries the most conservative approach first (meaning, he won't put you on morphine until you've tried everything else under it, because of the addiction danger with narcotics). I'm certainly not defending the doc, but he/she has to answer to the State Medical Board, and the doc might be scared of having to explain why he/she jumped you up from Lortabs to something very strong. This is just a guess on my part.?????
My docs have given me anti-depressants before too, because they sometimes have similar effects to skeletal muscle relaxers, and they bring on drowsiness. They did help me sleep, although I remember one in particular caused bad nightmares (Topamax, I think).
Are you still getting the Lortabs? I am not sure that your Doctor will prescribe anything stronger without referring you to pain management or physical medicine doctor. At least with my insurance company, if you are in need of anything stronger than vicodin or percocet, a PCP cannot write that script. Have you had an MRI done? None of my problems were recognized until an MRI was done. My problems wouldn't show up on x-ray, so I suffered needlessly for 7 months. If you haven't had an MRI, insist on it.
One more thing...do you have a pushy mom or dad (or aunt, uncle, sister, whatever..) that might be able to come with you to appts.? This always seemed to work for me when I was younger to get the quality of care I needed. I would be upset, and unable to speak up, and then my mom would take over, and MAN! did she ever scare the crap out of the doc into getting me whatever I needed.
But give the new meds a chance...they might make a difference, you never know. I'm overly optimistic, but I know you are probably not feeling that way right now. Sorry for such a crappy day.
Good Luck.
[This message has been edited by HikingFan (edited 06-23-2003).]
catgirl
06-23-2003, 09:19 PM
Hockey Crystal,
Hiking Fan is absolutely right on all the above. Listen to her she knows what she's talking about. On the anti-depressant (AD) I'm not sure what that is unless it's a form of Trazone. That's a common AD that is given to help depressed people sleep (I think anyway, I was given this when I was in the throes of my depression & anxiety). At the top of this board is a section entitled drugs. Do a search on the drug he gave you & it should give you lots of information. I'll do the same & if you have any questions I'll be on periodically throughout the evening & tomorrow. Hang in there girl, I know it's tough, but we've got to be strong. Cat
Hiking Fan is absolutely right on all the above. Listen to her she knows what she's talking about. On the anti-depressant (AD) I'm not sure what that is unless it's a form of Trazone. That's a common AD that is given to help depressed people sleep (I think anyway, I was given this when I was in the throes of my depression & anxiety). At the top of this board is a section entitled drugs. Do a search on the drug he gave you & it should give you lots of information. I'll do the same & if you have any questions I'll be on periodically throughout the evening & tomorrow. Hang in there girl, I know it's tough, but we've got to be strong. Cat
catgirl
06-23-2003, 09:36 PM
Hey girl,
I just did a search on the AD he wants you to take & it belongs to the trialycic family of A/D's. I also did a search of a A/D that I have been taking to help me sleep & I discovered that your AD & the 1 I have begun taking recently have similar drug families even though mine is a benzaphine.
Basically, & I'm no doctor, but I think this will help with your muscle spasms, which in turn will help with your pain level, & help you sleep as well.
Print off a list of both your drug & mine (I'm taking clonazepam for sleep) & see if there are drugs listed on both lists that are quite similar. Then I would call your doc tomorrow & ask if the Tofranil has muscle relaxant properties in it.
I'm thinking of you girl. Cat
I just did a search on the AD he wants you to take & it belongs to the trialycic family of A/D's. I also did a search of a A/D that I have been taking to help me sleep & I discovered that your AD & the 1 I have begun taking recently have similar drug families even though mine is a benzaphine.
Basically, & I'm no doctor, but I think this will help with your muscle spasms, which in turn will help with your pain level, & help you sleep as well.
Print off a list of both your drug & mine (I'm taking clonazepam for sleep) & see if there are drugs listed on both lists that are quite similar. Then I would call your doc tomorrow & ask if the Tofranil has muscle relaxant properties in it.
I'm thinking of you girl. Cat
HockeyCrystal
06-26-2003, 05:39 AM
I've been trying the anti-depressants as you guys have suggested. I'm not giving up on them yet, but this is the third night I've taken them, Monday night I was up until about 5 or 6am until I could finally get some sleep, and last night I couldn't fall asleep until almost 8am...And didn't sleep very long...and now it's 3:30am, and still no sleep... But I know those things can take up to a few days to get into your system...
Anyway, I have been at 8-9 the past 3 days without any relief from anything I've tried still. I'm just hoping I don't go crazy before next appointment on Monday. I'm still keeping my pain journal as well as you guys also advised me.. Which I was going to keep anyways. My doctor told me to keep it, and I wanted to keep it anyways. I just wanted to let you guys know what all was going on. I'm pretty stressed over all of this, and it sucks that I'm not getting any relief from my lortabs, but I hope to God that he'll finally up me if even to percocets next appointment, or send me to pain mgmt. or whatever, AS LONG AS I GET SOME RELIEF FROM THIS AWFUL PAIN. :(
Well, I'll keep you guys updated. Thanks for caring so much and helping me out when I need to vent or talk or whatever. You don't know how much you do actually help even if you don't really give much info, just the fact that you're there means an awful lot. Thanks again.
Write more tomorrow...
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
Anyway, I have been at 8-9 the past 3 days without any relief from anything I've tried still. I'm just hoping I don't go crazy before next appointment on Monday. I'm still keeping my pain journal as well as you guys also advised me.. Which I was going to keep anyways. My doctor told me to keep it, and I wanted to keep it anyways. I just wanted to let you guys know what all was going on. I'm pretty stressed over all of this, and it sucks that I'm not getting any relief from my lortabs, but I hope to God that he'll finally up me if even to percocets next appointment, or send me to pain mgmt. or whatever, AS LONG AS I GET SOME RELIEF FROM THIS AWFUL PAIN. :(
Well, I'll keep you guys updated. Thanks for caring so much and helping me out when I need to vent or talk or whatever. You don't know how much you do actually help even if you don't really give much info, just the fact that you're there means an awful lot. Thanks again.
Write more tomorrow...
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
catgirl
06-26-2003, 10:33 AM
Hey Girly Girl,
Those AD's can take up to 2 weeks to a month before they kick in & begin working.
Another suggestion..............Stress intensify's pain. Try to relax, soak in a hot tub, read a good book, get your mind off your pain & you may experience some slight relief.
Glad your keeping us posted & Girl, please try to relax. I think it will help you in the long run. Cat :)
Those AD's can take up to 2 weeks to a month before they kick in & begin working.
Another suggestion..............Stress intensify's pain. Try to relax, soak in a hot tub, read a good book, get your mind off your pain & you may experience some slight relief.
Glad your keeping us posted & Girl, please try to relax. I think it will help you in the long run. Cat :)
HockeyCrystal
06-26-2003, 11:10 PM
I really have been trying to relax, although it's hard with all the bull*hit i've been dealing with the past few months. Everyday I try to do something relaxing, but nothing really helps. I try not to think about the crap I have to deal with, but I have everyday reminders. I've been fighting for unemployment for 4 1/2 almost 5 months, and I've ALMOST got it, but I have to go through another appeal process which will take ANOTHER 4 weeks. I lost my job back in Feb and I got really screwed by my old employers. Luckily I've been getting it back on track slowly but surely. I thought I had it, but then I found out I'm going to have to fight one last issue again. I'm really sick of it. In fact I need to go write my letter of appeal tonight to get the process started...
Today my leg has been hurting (from the transitional S1 thing that presses on nerves and shoots down my left leg...) But anyways....
I know stress makes things worse, but no matter how hard I try, I can't just forget about the numerous bills i have that I can't pay...or the fact that my little brother might get pushed off onto me (he's my half brother, and his mom and step-dad are ridiculously idiotic parents)....My brother got in trouble, and the courts won't put him in the home with his parents now, so they asked him where he wanted to live, and he said with his older sister...So I'll get to take on the care of a teenager. Which isn't my responsibility at all, but what can I do? I'm the only one that seems to give a s**t...so oh well. Plus I think the pain makes me even more stressed and the stress makes it worse.
I really DO try to relax... But one can only relax so much under such tense conditions. Thanks for being here for me.
I don't believe that my pain would be extremely better if I were to calm down though either. Because this pain started BEFORE most of this other crap started... (not the entire unemployment process, but this last part of it)... In fact before I lost my job I was having a lot of back pain problems...And I had no stress really...
Well, I need to go write that letter real quick, so I'll update later. Have a good night everyone.
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
Today my leg has been hurting (from the transitional S1 thing that presses on nerves and shoots down my left leg...) But anyways....
I know stress makes things worse, but no matter how hard I try, I can't just forget about the numerous bills i have that I can't pay...or the fact that my little brother might get pushed off onto me (he's my half brother, and his mom and step-dad are ridiculously idiotic parents)....My brother got in trouble, and the courts won't put him in the home with his parents now, so they asked him where he wanted to live, and he said with his older sister...So I'll get to take on the care of a teenager. Which isn't my responsibility at all, but what can I do? I'm the only one that seems to give a s**t...so oh well. Plus I think the pain makes me even more stressed and the stress makes it worse.
I really DO try to relax... But one can only relax so much under such tense conditions. Thanks for being here for me.
I don't believe that my pain would be extremely better if I were to calm down though either. Because this pain started BEFORE most of this other crap started... (not the entire unemployment process, but this last part of it)... In fact before I lost my job I was having a lot of back pain problems...And I had no stress really...
Well, I need to go write that letter real quick, so I'll update later. Have a good night everyone.
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
catgirl
06-28-2003, 11:03 AM
Hi again, sorry I didn't reply yesterday. I had one of those days & I didn't want to be rushed when I responded to you.
Anyway, it's no wonder it's difficult for you to relax, what with everything your dealing with. But, if it's any consolation, I know what your going through. I went through a whole load of problems all at once several years ago, including an extremely high pain level...........thus that is why I am now on AD's. You might consider that. They really have been a lifesaver for me & have allowed me to get through the rough times as well as learn & apply principals of relaxation. Beside's the AD's will help you relax to begin with.
One of the biggest helper's for me (& I had to say it frequently before I was able to apply it) was.........what are you going to do about the things your worrying about? A lot of it is beyond your control, so why worry about it, it's not going to change anything, so take 1 day at a time, do what you can & throw the rest of those worries away. Your doing everything you possibly can.......so what is worrying going to accomplish.
Another thing that might help is something HikingFan suggested to me. Write all your worries down on a piece of paper. Once they are down on paper then they are out of your head & stuff that piece of paper in a drawer & not worrying about it.
Another suggestion is to make a "To Do List" of everything you want to accomplish that day & not worry about the rest, remember 1 day at a time, & if you don't accomplish everything on your list, remember tomorrow is another day.
Hope this helps. Cat
Anyway, it's no wonder it's difficult for you to relax, what with everything your dealing with. But, if it's any consolation, I know what your going through. I went through a whole load of problems all at once several years ago, including an extremely high pain level...........thus that is why I am now on AD's. You might consider that. They really have been a lifesaver for me & have allowed me to get through the rough times as well as learn & apply principals of relaxation. Beside's the AD's will help you relax to begin with.
One of the biggest helper's for me (& I had to say it frequently before I was able to apply it) was.........what are you going to do about the things your worrying about? A lot of it is beyond your control, so why worry about it, it's not going to change anything, so take 1 day at a time, do what you can & throw the rest of those worries away. Your doing everything you possibly can.......so what is worrying going to accomplish.
Another thing that might help is something HikingFan suggested to me. Write all your worries down on a piece of paper. Once they are down on paper then they are out of your head & stuff that piece of paper in a drawer & not worrying about it.
Another suggestion is to make a "To Do List" of everything you want to accomplish that day & not worry about the rest, remember 1 day at a time, & if you don't accomplish everything on your list, remember tomorrow is another day.
Hope this helps. Cat
HikingFan
06-28-2003, 07:32 PM
Nice advice Cat!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif
Once more thing I'd like to add that helps...
When I was going through some rough times a few years back, my therapist suggested that each night, (after writing down all my worries and putting them away for the night) I should make a list of all the things I am grateful for that particular day. I found that this really helps you go to sleep with positive thoughts on your mind. Its really simple, but effective.
Hope you are having a good day!
Once more thing I'd like to add that helps...
When I was going through some rough times a few years back, my therapist suggested that each night, (after writing down all my worries and putting them away for the night) I should make a list of all the things I am grateful for that particular day. I found that this really helps you go to sleep with positive thoughts on your mind. Its really simple, but effective.
Hope you are having a good day!
mokita
06-30-2003, 11:30 AM
Hi all!
I was just reading what cat & hiking fan said about lists.
I did the Grateful list for awhile when my Dad was so bad w/ alcholism and my husband & I were going through very, very tuff financial bs (cuz of his ex)- anyway.... I would write 5 things I was grateful for each day. It sometimes was as simple as "pretty blue sky" or "saw cardinal - red was magnificent". That really DID make me appreciate the little things in life. Sometimes just getting a good parking spot or hitting all the green lights are simple pleasures, but NOW can bring a smile to my face.
Positivity begets positivity- and vice-versa, negativity.... Wish I could impress this on my (extremely) negative Mother :D .
Good luck w/ everything....
Karen
------------------
9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
New Consult w/ Dept Head Cleveland Clinic 7/8
I was just reading what cat & hiking fan said about lists.
I did the Grateful list for awhile when my Dad was so bad w/ alcholism and my husband & I were going through very, very tuff financial bs (cuz of his ex)- anyway.... I would write 5 things I was grateful for each day. It sometimes was as simple as "pretty blue sky" or "saw cardinal - red was magnificent". That really DID make me appreciate the little things in life. Sometimes just getting a good parking spot or hitting all the green lights are simple pleasures, but NOW can bring a smile to my face.
Positivity begets positivity- and vice-versa, negativity.... Wish I could impress this on my (extremely) negative Mother :D .
Good luck w/ everything....
Karen
------------------
9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
New Consult w/ Dept Head Cleveland Clinic 7/8
HockeyCrystal
06-30-2003, 10:26 PM
Thanks again for being here for me HikingFan and catgirl :) Also thanks for replying mokita...
You guys will be glad to know that due to my pain journal, I was finally prescribed something stronger than Lortabs. He realized that the Lortabs weren't helping *AT ALL* according to what I had written in each entry in my pain journal. Since i'd tried percocet 7.5/500's (I had 2 left from my surgery last month), and it actually brought my pain down from a 9 to a 6.5-7 which to me is tons better than what it's been! So he gave me a script for 50 perc 7.5/500's. Every 4 hrs as needed for pain. I sure hope this will help a lot more than the Lortabs!
Oh and I'm progressing (Shoulder pain-wise) in my adjustments. One of the major points that my pain was coming from has almost completely disappeared, but I had another point move down after that one went away. Apparently, that pain that was lower is a transferred pain (this is I think what the Dr. called it) from my gallbladder removal and adhesions in there that shoots in my back..I also have a rotated disc?? Caused from the slippage from my transitional S1 vertebrae or whatever...I don't remember his exact words...But it's all seeming to get better... The stress will get better because I won't be in so much pain, and I won't be in as much pain cuz I won't be in so much stress!..
I hope anywho...
Haha...Well, I'm in a better mood today, since I *FINALLY* got through to my doctor. It's like today he stopped looking at me as some stupid whiney kid...and saw me as a desperate patient in need of some relief...
Well, I wanted you all to know how thankful I am for your help, because I'm finally getting somewhere.. I still haven't been referred to a PM doc but for now, if my doc is going to help me, I will just do it that way...
Thank you guys SO much for being here for me. I will keep you guys updated on how I'm feeling... I love that you guys are here listening to how I'm doing, and I actually feel like someone cares what I'm going through, and actually UNDERSTANDS what I'm going through... There's a huge difference of someone who cares for you, but doesn't understand what you're going through..and someone who cares, and DOES know what you're going through. Thanks again....
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
You guys will be glad to know that due to my pain journal, I was finally prescribed something stronger than Lortabs. He realized that the Lortabs weren't helping *AT ALL* according to what I had written in each entry in my pain journal. Since i'd tried percocet 7.5/500's (I had 2 left from my surgery last month), and it actually brought my pain down from a 9 to a 6.5-7 which to me is tons better than what it's been! So he gave me a script for 50 perc 7.5/500's. Every 4 hrs as needed for pain. I sure hope this will help a lot more than the Lortabs!
Oh and I'm progressing (Shoulder pain-wise) in my adjustments. One of the major points that my pain was coming from has almost completely disappeared, but I had another point move down after that one went away. Apparently, that pain that was lower is a transferred pain (this is I think what the Dr. called it) from my gallbladder removal and adhesions in there that shoots in my back..I also have a rotated disc?? Caused from the slippage from my transitional S1 vertebrae or whatever...I don't remember his exact words...But it's all seeming to get better... The stress will get better because I won't be in so much pain, and I won't be in as much pain cuz I won't be in so much stress!..
I hope anywho...
Haha...Well, I'm in a better mood today, since I *FINALLY* got through to my doctor. It's like today he stopped looking at me as some stupid whiney kid...and saw me as a desperate patient in need of some relief...
Well, I wanted you all to know how thankful I am for your help, because I'm finally getting somewhere.. I still haven't been referred to a PM doc but for now, if my doc is going to help me, I will just do it that way...
Thank you guys SO much for being here for me. I will keep you guys updated on how I'm feeling... I love that you guys are here listening to how I'm doing, and I actually feel like someone cares what I'm going through, and actually UNDERSTANDS what I'm going through... There's a huge difference of someone who cares for you, but doesn't understand what you're going through..and someone who cares, and DOES know what you're going through. Thanks again....
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HockeyCrystal
06-30-2003, 10:27 PM
OOPS! :)
[This message has been edited by HockeyCrystal (edited 06-30-2003).]
[This message has been edited by HockeyCrystal (edited 06-30-2003).]
HikingFan
07-01-2003, 03:07 AM
I'm glad to hear that you finally got some meds that give you some relief. This was probably a great learning experience, about figuring out how to express yourself to successfully get what you need.
One thing I'm worried about....what does your Dr. suggest you do to fix the pain besides take the meds? I am concerned that he is not referring you to a PM doc, or physical medicine doctor. I just want him to help find the root cause of all this pain, not just medicate the symptoms, ya know?
Well its nice to hear you sound so happy in your last post...have a wonderful, pain-free night! Maybe you can actually get some sleep for once.
Good Night!!!
One thing I'm worried about....what does your Dr. suggest you do to fix the pain besides take the meds? I am concerned that he is not referring you to a PM doc, or physical medicine doctor. I just want him to help find the root cause of all this pain, not just medicate the symptoms, ya know?
Well its nice to hear you sound so happy in your last post...have a wonderful, pain-free night! Maybe you can actually get some sleep for once.
Good Night!!!
catgirl
07-01-2003, 09:07 PM
FANTASTIC!!!! Doesn't it feel great to accomplish something :). I'm so happy for you. Especially know that not only is your pain level going to decrease but your stress level as well.
Keep up the good work & keep on that doctor to find the "root of your pain" as HikingFan said.
I'm so proud of you http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif Cat
Keep up the good work & keep on that doctor to find the "root of your pain" as HikingFan said.
I'm so proud of you http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif Cat
HockeyCrystal
07-02-2003, 09:34 PM
I do feel better, and I've been sleeping a little better (not much, but even a little is better than none)... The past couple days though my hips have really been hurting, and though I've been trying to not take a pill every 4 hours, sometimes I have no choice...My doctor is actually looking for where the problems are coming from. My gallbladder pains are because of adhesions, which there isn't a lot they can do for them anyways, because if I have them surgically removed, then in a couple months they'll be back worse than ever, or just as bad as before...
My back pain, most due to the deformity I was born with.. I do think he's trying to figure out the root of my other problems (i.e. my shoulder pain....) .. My hips hurting are because of my transitional vertebrae thing that I was born with....it puts a lot of pressure on my hips... And my rotated disc also from the trans. vert...My doctor has explained to me where most of the pain comes from, and we've been trying to figure out what could've caused my shoulder to start hurting like that...
So don't fret...He's working on figuring out whats going on exactly...But in the mean time, he's FINALLY helping me cope with the pain...Well, I've gotta go get some dinner so I may take my meds... (If I don't, I'll get pretty nauseated)...
Thanks again for being around...Yesterday my pain level stayed around 5-6 when I was on my meds...And it felt great, but as soon as my meds start wearing off, i'm back up to an 8-9...So anyways, I just wanted you to know that the meds are actually helping me..
I will write more again soon. Possibly tonight after I get some much needed relief! I'm at about a 8.5 right now.... (haven't had a percocet in about 7 hours....was too busy to take one until just recently, and now i gotta eat first)...
Talk to you guys soon.
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
My back pain, most due to the deformity I was born with.. I do think he's trying to figure out the root of my other problems (i.e. my shoulder pain....) .. My hips hurting are because of my transitional vertebrae thing that I was born with....it puts a lot of pressure on my hips... And my rotated disc also from the trans. vert...My doctor has explained to me where most of the pain comes from, and we've been trying to figure out what could've caused my shoulder to start hurting like that...
So don't fret...He's working on figuring out whats going on exactly...But in the mean time, he's FINALLY helping me cope with the pain...Well, I've gotta go get some dinner so I may take my meds... (If I don't, I'll get pretty nauseated)...
Thanks again for being around...Yesterday my pain level stayed around 5-6 when I was on my meds...And it felt great, but as soon as my meds start wearing off, i'm back up to an 8-9...So anyways, I just wanted you to know that the meds are actually helping me..
I will write more again soon. Possibly tonight after I get some much needed relief! I'm at about a 8.5 right now.... (haven't had a percocet in about 7 hours....was too busy to take one until just recently, and now i gotta eat first)...
Talk to you guys soon.
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HockeyCrystal
07-04-2003, 05:55 AM
Do you guys know if it's okay if I take 1 1/2 percocet 7.5's at one time? Well not at one time, but an hour and a half after taking one, my pain is still pretty high, and I was going to take a half to see if it would help a little more...Will this hurt me at all? I know there are Percocet 10's, but taking a half also, would equal like 11.25 mg of Percocet and 750mg of Tylenol...
Any answers would be helpful! Thanks guys
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
Any answers would be helpful! Thanks guys
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
jane2
07-04-2003, 12:21 PM
Any type of doctor can treat your pain, but they have to be willing to take treat all you pain problems. Some doctors want to see you every time for prescriptions. Their way of monitoring you.
One option would be a GP, as they are oversee all you medical problems. The other option is a pain clinic. If you go to a pain clinic make sure they treat all the types of pain you have and don't just do shots, which is better for spinal problems (sometimes).
Mane sure you have all your tests and information. So that you can prove you have all these conditions.
One option would be a GP, as they are oversee all you medical problems. The other option is a pain clinic. If you go to a pain clinic make sure they treat all the types of pain you have and don't just do shots, which is better for spinal problems (sometimes).
Mane sure you have all your tests and information. So that you can prove you have all these conditions.
catgirl
07-05-2003, 02:07 AM
HockingCrystal,
If you want to risk running out of your pain meds to early I think taking the 1/2 of percocet is fine. Just remember that when you run out of your pain med you might not be able to get a refill until the appropriate prescription time has elapsed.
Can you try a hot pack, ibuprofen or some other topical type pain relief to get you through? Even just lying down & resting a bit can sometimes ease the pain until it's time to take another pain med.
Sorry your in so much pain & I hope this helps a little. Thinking of you. Cat
If you want to risk running out of your pain meds to early I think taking the 1/2 of percocet is fine. Just remember that when you run out of your pain med you might not be able to get a refill until the appropriate prescription time has elapsed.
Can you try a hot pack, ibuprofen or some other topical type pain relief to get you through? Even just lying down & resting a bit can sometimes ease the pain until it's time to take another pain med.
Sorry your in so much pain & I hope this helps a little. Thinking of you. Cat
HockeyCrystal
07-05-2003, 03:20 AM
cat-
Hey, well I don't really worry about running out early, because I only take like 3 pills in a day, I take them more every 6 hours as need rather than every 4...So instead of taking 4 while I'm awake and 1 in the middle of the night (which is what I was taking the Lortabs at) I'm more taking 3 during the day and usually none in the middle of the night...So I'm saving 2 pills a day by doing that...So if I take a 1/2 every so often, it won't do any harm?? I won't run out early, I'm sure, because I sometimes don't even take it every 6 hrs if I'm not in too much pain.. Usually I try to just relax for a while and wait until the pain is so bad that I need a pain killer...But I don't make it so extreme that I'm feeling like I'm dying of pain and then take a pain pill...But if I'm only at a 7, I will wait until I'm up to an 8 or so before I take a pill, because to me, A 7 is almost bearable (after being in a 8-9 almost constant with no relief at all from the lortabs)...but, I try to take them whenever I really need them so I don't just take them to take them..I want to take them because i REALLY need them. Anyways, I gotta go...Going to my bf's apartment for a little while...I'll keep you guys updated... Today my pain hasn't been too horrible... Only taken 1 Percocet today, and that was several hours ago...Although I'll probably take one soon, so that I won't wake up in horrible pain in the middle of the night...Maybe it's a good sign..Maybe my pain is getting a little less!
I hope so....But I'm not getting my hopes up too high!
Thanks for your replies..
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
Hey, well I don't really worry about running out early, because I only take like 3 pills in a day, I take them more every 6 hours as need rather than every 4...So instead of taking 4 while I'm awake and 1 in the middle of the night (which is what I was taking the Lortabs at) I'm more taking 3 during the day and usually none in the middle of the night...So I'm saving 2 pills a day by doing that...So if I take a 1/2 every so often, it won't do any harm?? I won't run out early, I'm sure, because I sometimes don't even take it every 6 hrs if I'm not in too much pain.. Usually I try to just relax for a while and wait until the pain is so bad that I need a pain killer...But I don't make it so extreme that I'm feeling like I'm dying of pain and then take a pain pill...But if I'm only at a 7, I will wait until I'm up to an 8 or so before I take a pill, because to me, A 7 is almost bearable (after being in a 8-9 almost constant with no relief at all from the lortabs)...but, I try to take them whenever I really need them so I don't just take them to take them..I want to take them because i REALLY need them. Anyways, I gotta go...Going to my bf's apartment for a little while...I'll keep you guys updated... Today my pain hasn't been too horrible... Only taken 1 Percocet today, and that was several hours ago...Although I'll probably take one soon, so that I won't wake up in horrible pain in the middle of the night...Maybe it's a good sign..Maybe my pain is getting a little less!
I hope so....But I'm not getting my hopes up too high!
Thanks for your replies..
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HockeyCrystal
07-06-2003, 07:40 PM
I have another doctors appointment tomorrow, and I have a new kind of pain to report to my doctor... I have been having a lot of hip pain (in both of my hips) the past few days... I also have been getting headaches a little more frequently than I have recently... (They're getting like they used to be, everyday - every other day).... I'm wondering if I'm getting headaches maybe because of the pain meds, like when I'm waking up I haven't had a pain pill in quite a while so I'm hoping its not some kind of withdraw symptom...I don't know...But oh yeah...I have been sleeping even worse the past couple nights...Waking up like every hour if not more often... And I'm still on the anti-depressant... I don't know why though.... I am glad I have another appointment tomorrow so I can discuss this stuff with my doc..... I'm glad he doesn't have that narisistic (sp?) thing... He will say something, and he will be like "is that ok?" or something, and I'm like "I guess, you are the one that went through medical school, not me" and he will say "Well i appreciate that, but I want to help you, so I want to know what you think"... So that's cool..
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HockeyCrystal
07-09-2003, 12:08 AM
Had my dr appt yesterday...He adjusted me as usual... He didn't really check my shoulder, just my hips which I complained of...I told him I tried to go swimming the other day, but I was in horrible pain afterwards.. I also told him the percocets are no longer working as well as they used to, and only bringing my pain level to a 7 (when I'm lucky) and as far up as a 9 (absolutely no relief sometimes).... He said that's me working up a tolerance, and there's no denying that the percocets are a very strong pain medication... But that's it...And he said "I see you're taking about 4 a day (by looking at my pain journal)...I'd like to get you below that..." And I wanted to bi*ch slap him and tell him if I took even less than 4 a day, I'd be dying from the pain...I already feel like I'm going to.. He told me if I think I'm gonna run out before my next appointment on next Monday (of course I will, I only have 16 left) to come out and he'd write me another script. I'm really stressed today, because it feels like I have another ovarian cyst coming today.. I can feel it starting to stab me... I was lying on the floor in the fetal position earlier... I don't know if I've told you guys about my cysts before, but I've had one burst before...not a fun experience that you all that have experienced ovarian cysts can tell anyone... Well, I am sorry for griping so much today, but I guess I just needed to vent a lot today....I'm kinda upset and in a lot of pain...I feel like I have knives in 4 different parts of my body that are twisting..And the percocets just building their tolerance even higher and higher... making my pain worse and worse... :( I guess I'll go now....I hope someone will give me a little support...I need some encouragement today...
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
HikingFan
07-09-2003, 02:52 AM
hockeyCrystal
Hang in there buddy!! Don't let this one doctor anger you too much. Just always remember that if you try their advice, and it doesn't work, you can go to a different doctor. However, remember that your doc will want to keep you at the lowest level of meds as possible, since once you move up the potency scale, you can't go back down. Since you just started the percs, don't be too quick to want to step up to something stronger...I know that is easier said than done when you are in lots of pain! Take the pain medicine as you need it (within prescribed doses), and don't be afraid to be honest and open with your doc about how your quality of life is affected by the pain.
As for the tolerance factor, this is a pain in the butt that all of us struggle against, and unfortunately is sure to affect you too...its unavoidable. Some suggest taking "drug holidays," where you take days off from your meds to lower your tolerance. This method has to be on a case by case basis, depending on whether you can handle it. For me, I couldn't function right now without my meds, so a drug holiday is out of the question. There have been some weeks in the past though where I can handle the pain with only motrin and muscle relaxers, and once the pain gets bad again, the narcotics work wonders. Unfortunately, this doesn't occur much anymore.
Keep your pain journal, and document all these visits to the doctors, and what they tell you. I'm telling ya, if you have to go to a different doc eventually, having this record of what you've tried etc. will be extremely helpful, and it will prevent you from having to start from square one.
Have you asked your doc to refer you to pain management? Does he have a comprehensive list of all the issues you are having, from your shoulder, to the hips, ovaries, etc.? I would think with your history, he will refer you eventually, because thats a lot to deal with!
Hang in there, and come to the boards and talk to us if you get too stressed!
Hugs,
:wave:
Hang in there buddy!! Don't let this one doctor anger you too much. Just always remember that if you try their advice, and it doesn't work, you can go to a different doctor. However, remember that your doc will want to keep you at the lowest level of meds as possible, since once you move up the potency scale, you can't go back down. Since you just started the percs, don't be too quick to want to step up to something stronger...I know that is easier said than done when you are in lots of pain! Take the pain medicine as you need it (within prescribed doses), and don't be afraid to be honest and open with your doc about how your quality of life is affected by the pain.
As for the tolerance factor, this is a pain in the butt that all of us struggle against, and unfortunately is sure to affect you too...its unavoidable. Some suggest taking "drug holidays," where you take days off from your meds to lower your tolerance. This method has to be on a case by case basis, depending on whether you can handle it. For me, I couldn't function right now without my meds, so a drug holiday is out of the question. There have been some weeks in the past though where I can handle the pain with only motrin and muscle relaxers, and once the pain gets bad again, the narcotics work wonders. Unfortunately, this doesn't occur much anymore.
Keep your pain journal, and document all these visits to the doctors, and what they tell you. I'm telling ya, if you have to go to a different doc eventually, having this record of what you've tried etc. will be extremely helpful, and it will prevent you from having to start from square one.
Have you asked your doc to refer you to pain management? Does he have a comprehensive list of all the issues you are having, from your shoulder, to the hips, ovaries, etc.? I would think with your history, he will refer you eventually, because thats a lot to deal with!
Hang in there, and come to the boards and talk to us if you get too stressed!
Hugs,
:wave:
HockeyCrystal
07-09-2003, 03:11 AM
He is aware of the ovaries, pre-cancer on my cervix (both of which I keep mostly to my ob/gyn)...Also aware of shoulder, low back, hips, gallbladder (removed 2 yrs ago), chronic migraines, chronic tension headaches, knee, ankle, and neck etc...He has been informed of everything that bothers me occassionally or on a day to day basis. When you suggested that I write down all of that stuff, I did do it...All of it.. My doctor hasn't mentioned anything about a pain management doctor, but if I keep not responding to anything the doctor is doing for me, I am going to ask him about it. I know that I'm not a candidate for back surgery right now... And my DO is still trying to figure out what is going on with my shoulder...I do stretches, adjustments, heat, ice, pain meds, and EVERYTHING else the doctor suggests.. I don't want him thinking that I am trying to act like I know more than him or anything...I love my doctor, and this is the very first time I actually got a damn doctor to take me seriously. And I have a lot of that to thank you for, HikingFan. He finally started taking me seriously after I did all the listing of things, and the pain journal. He actually acted like he finally believed me... Thank you so much for all of your support, because without your suggestions, I'm afraid I still wouldn't even be getting *ANY* pain relief as of yet... Thanks to you, I am now being taken seriously. It's not that I'm aggravated with him, I just wish I didn't have such a tolerance already. This isn't the first time I've been on Percocet 7.5's.. I've been px'd them several times... At least 5 times before this, so I obviously had a little tolerance before this time to the percocets. Anyways, I am just glad I have this pain board to talk to you guys and get support and everything... Without this sometimes I think I'd go nuts... I know you guys actually understand how i'm feeling...Maybe not exactly but at least to a point. So God Bless you all on the pain board, and I wish you all the best in your pain conquests... I am sitting here rambling on, http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/gabby.gif but Thanks again for all you guys' help...I'll write again tomorrow or so...Maybe later tonight, but right now I've gotta take another dose of my meds... And then I'm going to go to my bf's house for a little bit... I'm sleepy too... http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/yawn.gif
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif you guys http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif
Oh yeah, and I have tried the "drug holiday" thing too.. but when I do that, I just try to wait until night time (when it's absolutely unbearable usually) to not take any meds)
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
[This message has been edited by HockeyCrystal (edited 07-09-2003).]
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif you guys http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif
Oh yeah, and I have tried the "drug holiday" thing too.. but when I do that, I just try to wait until night time (when it's absolutely unbearable usually) to not take any meds)
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- * HockeyCrystal * -
[This message has been edited by HockeyCrystal (edited 07-09-2003).]