Unbearable pain

[RunningMom]

I'm currently having a flare up with is leaving me in unbearable pain.  It's my fault.  I took my kids to a dog show this past weekend.  I thought I was safe because my parents had their motor home there and I brought my ice packs.  Boy, was I wrong.  These flare ups last for weeks and the pain medicine doesn't even take the edge off of the pain.  I'm so cranky and my anxiety has gone up too.  The good thing is, the kids had a blast!

Another good thing is that I was able to reschedule my next appointment to this Friday vs next Wednsday for the muscle relaxer change.  I let the scheduler know that my pain is unbearable, but I doubt they put anything in my file.  I will have to wait it out like always.  

My NP pain doctor is on leave for having a baby.  I will see the new intern on Friday.  I'm not sure how I feel about that.  I really like my current NP.  I hope she hurries back from her maturnity leave.

[mellie4]

I'm waiting on an appointment with a pain psychiatrist now.  I don't want any more meds but I am hoping he'll work with me on other treatments, like acupuncture, etc.  (And I'm told he does.)  

Anxiety can definitely increase pain (as can depression.)  But anxiety can come in so many ways, sometimes we don't even know the cause of it.  Having something to help with it is a good thing.  And it's something you can often take as needed rather than on a regular basis.

[RunningMom]

Not to mention I woke up on my back this morning and now I have a raging migraine. Ugh..

[RunningMom]

We do have a pain psychiatrist right at the clinic.  The idea has popped in my head to see them.  However, I really want to hold off on extra medications if I possibly can.  I do not like taking any types of medicine and I hold off as long as possible.  I did not know that anxiety can increase pain.  I always known that pain can increase anxiety.  I do have physical symptoms of anxiety, like right now I'm having heart palpatations.  That is due to my pain being so high and unbearable.  I have two more full days/nights before I see the doctor.  I hope my doctor appointment goes well.  I'm nervous to see the new doctor too.  Thank you all for your support.

[namnam46]

I just wondered whether or not you have considered seeing a Pain Psychiatrist? I never have but I've NEVER had any type of panic attacks because of my pain. Btu from what others have said on here, they are really a God send to MANY CP Patients on here. He/she might be able to help you accept what is happening to you. It's just a thought that you might ask your Dr. about.

Hope that you are feeling better....Sherry

[Sarajmt]

Please ask for something for your anxiety.  The anxiety and panic attacks can up your pain levels dramatically.  Your doctors should at least be aware that you're experiencing panic attacks and anxiety.

I do understand the reluctance to ask for it.  So I'd at least talk to the doctor about your panic attacks and anxiety.  They will prescribe something for you

Keep in mind that depression and anxiety are chronic pain's constant companions.

[RunningMom]

Thank you everyone.  So far this clinic is awesome.  They will let me come in at any time I need to, even if it means rescheduling my appointment.  I am seeing another one of their NP's in August and she is really good too(not the intern).  They are very busy this week.  I don't take anything for anxiety.  Sometimes I think I should, since I've had this injury I will have frequent panic attacks.  Especially when the pain is so high like this.  I'm afraid to ask for it though.

[Sarajmt]

This is just awful.  It's so frustrating to try to do something you believe you can do and then end up in worse pain than before.  Mary is right.  We all are prone to overdoing  when it comes to our children.

Are you currently receiving anything for anxiety?  If not, I'd surely ask for something.  And lets pray you get in sooner than Friday. One day in pain is like a month.  It's too much.  Please accept my deepest sympathy for your pain and my greatest hopes for a quick resolution.
Sara

[namnam46]

Oh my dear, I'm SOOO sorry that you are having one of your Flare-ups!!! I hope and pray that you are wrong and it DOESN'T last as long as you fear.

How lucky that you were able to switch your appointment times! I, also hope that you and the new intern hit it off. Do you have an option to see a different NP or Dr. if you don't feel comfortable with an intern as I sensed your hesitancy in seeing the intern?

We will ALL be looking for your update on Friday and keeping you in our Thoughts and Prayers....Sherry

[mellie4]

Sorry you're in a bad flare-up!  Some of mine are worse than others.  The ones that last weeks are the worst.  I think most of us probably overdo it when it comes to our kids.  Ice never really works for me; it usually makes it worse.  I love heat.  And I love those ThermaCare heating pads; they make them for nearly every part of the body!

Good luck with your appointment.  I find it hard to see someone new.  It takes me a long time to feel comfortable and build my trust with someone.