How long?

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Hi! I got an apparent viral UTI from a hot tub in February 2007. I had gotten round skin sores from the same tub the one other time I was in it, and another person in the tub got what looked like "eye herpes."  My UTI (it was my first) progressed quickly to Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome). I also got nerve pains which started in my back, legs, and crotch.. then spread through my arms, hands, fingers, feet, eyebrows, cheeks, etc. I also have a LOT of twitching muscles, and my fingers fall asleep often.  I've been diagnosed with post-viral neuralgia and have been taking Lyrica to control it for 7 months. Could anyone on this forum take a guess as to how much longer I will need to take this brain-numbing drug? I work in live radio and it's been difficult to speak clearly while taking it, but if I skip a dose the pain comes back EVERYWHERE. Thanks!

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

I'm sorry to learn that the pain still has not abated which usually disappears by 6 months to one year.  In very uncommon situations, such as your case, these pain experiences can persist longer than what is expected (even years after the initial event) and tons of patience are indeed required.  However, I suggest that you go back to your doctor once in a while to check if there are any new findings.  Also, you should report to him or her, any changes in symptoms that you might notice.  Some patients would consider alternative treatments such as accupuncture or homeopathy to address the pain, but this should be discussed first with your doctors.  I hope you can get rid of this pain soon.  Be strong.  Regards and God bless.

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Thank you so much. My neurologist is very quiet and doesn't explain much, but he did tell me Friday that viruses move into the (something) Ganglion of the spine, and the pain everywhere does not mean the virus is everywhere. I look forward to the day my bladder heals, as the diet restrictions in my case are extreme. And l will try to be patient with the nerve pains and just focus on MOVING ON from all this!