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the unknowns of fentanyl

That is an apt title. I have been thru HCV and successful treatment. I have CLL, but my oncologist practually swears
that my condition is unrelated to my ongoing fatigue. My gastroenterologist states the same. I do not have cirrhosis
and all blood tests come back as near normal. My problem is fatigue that is close to being incapacitating. This has
been hounding me for 12 to 14 yrs. I have been using the fenfanyl patch for for over 10 yrs., and as high as 50 units
a day. Having eliminated practically all other possible causes, I can only conclude that the fentanyl is the most likely
cause of my lethargy. I don't believe I need the pain mgt. and keep applying and/or chewing the patch to keep from
becoming ill. I want to stop using if only to find if it is the cause of my fatigue.My question is ,have others experienced
similar problems w/fentanyl. If this is the case,  please respond. I know I have the ability to stop using the patch,but
could use responses to solidify my approach.Please, no suggestions about Dr's or religion.Thank you much.
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Avatar universal
Dolph -

Just wanted to let you know that I share your problem in dealing with combined pain and deep fatigue. I have decompensated ESLD, due to a chronic liver disease, as well as other systemic diseases. Everyday is like having a bad flu that doesn't go away, it's there 24/7. When I collapse in bed, it is literally that, the fatigue is truly amazing, and I used to be a very active, competitive athlete - not anymore.

I've tried just about everything but I finally had to accept my body's new limitations. So I make sure I get plenty of rest (naps are a requirement) and limit myself to only one or two tasks a day.

We're all different of course, so I hope you're able to work something out. I've found that my pain, if left unchecked, will make my fatigue far worse. So I have a PM routine, with the help of my doctor, that reduces the pain in half and this seems like a manageable solution.

Good luck and hope things come together for you soon.
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Avatar universal
I had entered a question under post fentanyl w/d problems and mentioned
the possibility of thyroid being an  issue. There was a response from someone who had problems related to their thyroid. They indicated that the
thyroid treat'mt did wonders for them. Not too many details, but it was very
encouraging. If only I have the same response. Now I'm getting even more
excited. Trying to remain somewhat cool about it, but that is about all there
is on my mind. This has to be the week. It's about all I can handle. Until then
fingers crossed( don't really know what that means), but I think I'll try it,Dolph
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I'm hoping that for once in your life it will be just that easy for you.  After all you've been enduring you certainly deserve this break for once!  :)

Can't wait to see the developments that will be coming your way.

Waiting with "great" anticipation!  ...... Sherry :)
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Avatar universal
Thank you Dusty. As promising as my situation seems, I just can't accept
that it will be as easy as it seems.I .guess it stems from previous disappoint-
ments. I'll just have to wait and see what developes next week. There are no
words to describe how great I would feel if this has a positive outcome. I know all of you have been through probably much worse. I wish you all well
and want to thank you for the help and support you have offered. It has made a difference, and made this period much more bearable.So again,thanks,and
it's time to wait and see again. Be well, and I'll keep you informed of any
news, good or disappointing, Dolph
Helpful - 0
547368 tn?1440541785
... and thinking and praying!

Hope you obtain the right meds to control your thyroid issues - and that your extreme fatigue will be a thing of the past.

Take Care My Friend,
~Tuck
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Avatar universal
Hey, I'll be your press secretary. These geeks running now shouldn't even
show their pics, much less try and speak. Can you believe these robots
actually run the country. Where's MGovern now. Or McCarthy. I like Bernie,
and I'm not Jewish. Poot guy doesn't stand a chance. Yes, those were the
good old days. Can't help but digress. Hopefully some thyroid pills, and all
will be right in the world. Right? At least in mine. Happiness to all! You all
seem so nice. Wish everyone only the best. Dolph, wishing and hoping.
Helpful - 0
547368 tn?1440541785
Dolf, no letter yet?  Please Mr. Postman!!  You need to sing harder - I'm singing for you too.

Phil - Ohhh but I do remember "Til There Was You." I never liked "A Taste of Honey." I recall those sixties - some of the best years of my life! You're right Phil - the world seemed young, full of hope and promise. Now I realize it was us -  that was young!

I was going to be the "First Woman in Space."  I placed first in some Statewide science test - and was in our State Paper with my dream in headlines! Hah! I now hate to fly and am scared to death to get 10 feet of the ground!

President Phil! Yes! I think you should run also. An honest Sheep Doctor will do better than anyone currently running. You have my vote. If I can still count - that's two! Hail the Chief!  We'll manage your campaign.
Helpful - 0
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