Pain

[Tklein9495]

I had a mastectomy of the right breast with immediate reconstruction via Tram Flap on May 15,2008.  I am doing okay, but still have pain in and around my right breast and under my right arm.  I was taking about four (4)  7.5/500 mg tabs of hydrocodone a day which was very helpful and had been prescribeld by my PS.  Last Friday the PS said that I had received all of the pain medication I should need for my condition, although I am still having pain, and suggested I use ibuprofen.  I spoke with my regular surgeon about my pain and he stated it was normal and would probably hurt for a while and advised I take ibuprofin as well. I've been using the ibupofen the past few days, but am still experiencng quuite a bit of pain and can't rest as night.  I go to see my oncologist tomorrow for the first time after the surgery and am wondering if I should ask him about pain meds.  I would call my other doctors, but they make me feel like I'm a druggie or something.  What should I do and who do I go to?  Any one who could provide any assistance would be appreciated.  

[Greta_L]

TK,
It's Greta again.  I answered your other post about healing. I remember reading that having a Tram Flap was going to feel like getting hit my a Mack truck!.  You don't get over that in just 2 or 3 weeks.  My plastic surgeon continued pain meds in reduced amounts for more than that first month. If your seeing that oncologist anyway they may take over that aspect.  Studies show that uncontrollled pain slows healing. I eventually went to a pain clinic for a different issue and wonder why I waited so long.  Don't suffer.

[Tklein9495]

Thank you so much for responding.  It helps just to know that there is someone out there who understands.  I will definitely talk to my oncologist about the pain and referring me on to a pain specialist.  Again, thanks for taking the time to reply; it meant alot to me.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

I'm sorry to learn that you are experiencing this pain.  I agree with your surgeon that this pain may eventually disappear as the surgery completely heals, but I also agree with you that the present pain cannot be discounted.  Oncologists usually have pain control and treatment as part of their training and I believe that he or she can help you with dealing with the pain.  Also, you may want to ask regarding referral to a specialized pain clinic where the pain specialist is usually an anesthesiologist specializing in pain.  For now, I suggest that you continue with the medications they prescribe, and have adequate rest.

I hope this pain will go away soon.  Regards and God bless.