multiple thoracic disc herniations

[terriebk43]

Hi, I had a sudden onset of thoracic pain, numbness, tingling, etc. When I was 3 hrs. Into my shift at work.  I build cars and work in the body dept., where I lift over 10lds., bend and twist repetatively.  They told me it was a back muscle strain.  I knew they were wrong.  I have never had any back trouble.

Antway, I finally had an MRI approved through my insurance after many attempts.   I got the results they are as follows (trimmed down a bit):

T6-T7 right paracentral disc extrusion causing deformity of thecal sac
T5-T6 small left right paracentral disc protrusion
T3-T4 right paracentral disc extrusion causing deformity to thecal sac
T2-T3 small left paracentral disc protrusion
T12-L1 small osteophyte complex causing minimal deformity of thecal sac

I have not worked in 31/2 months, went through 4 weeks of therapy for weak muscles in region (prior to mri) and have on oxycodone hcl 10 mg. For pain, Diazepam for spasms,  mobic for inflammation.   No other treatment.  

I still have back pain, some chest pain, left leg pain and weakness, left arm pain, weakness and recently tremors.  I had a "worst ever" left side headache 2 wks. Ago.  Last 6+ hours.  Sharp pain upon coughing and any head movement.  Has not reoccurred.  

My concern is that I will continue to acquire symptoms until I am eventually paralyzed or worse.  Any advice on what kind of treatment or prognosis I can expect, would be greatly appreciated and help to ease my stress.

I am a 43 yr old woman.  No history of trauma or back issues. MRI said only mild degenerative changes so I don't feel this is just getting old.

Thank you.
Terrie

[terriebk43]

Thanks for response.  Doctor does believe I am having allergic reaction to oxy, but we are both thinking it might be a bad idea to switch pain med. as the Oxy does seem to manage my back pain well. He told me to take Allegra for reactions, but it gives me other side effects, such as anxiety.  I was on Norco 750 for arthritis and neck pain prior to back injury.  When I hurt my back I had to take 2 for little to no relief.  It caused me to vomit and have stomach pain.  So he put me on the oxy.  Now I get some relief from worst pain and my stomach problems have improved.  Seeing pain management doc next week.  I have 5 children,  youngest 3, so it is essential I be somewhat functional and clear headed, which the oxy affords me.  Thank you.

Terrie

[philnoir]

Sounds like you're allergic to oxycodone. Have you tried an antihistamine like diphenhydramine or cetirizine for these symptoms? If the "hives' improve, you are most likely allergic to oxycodone.
Report these symptoms to your doctor, who will switch you to another opioid analgesic. It is dangerous to take medication that causes an allergic reaction.

[terriebk43]

Also, the oxycodone that I take has been causing me to have daily boughts of hives on various parts of my body for the last 2 months.  I am afraid to stop taking it as it seems to manage my pain well.  

I have also some abdominal ( pain upon eating and bloating during day)and urinary (have trouble urinating during day) issues,  which I am not certain are related to the herniations.  These additional symptoms may be more medication related.  Not sure.  Thanks, again.

Terrie