pain mgmt - adhesions

[broadindaylight]

Hi all, this is a longish intro post: apologies.

After close to 10 years of various problems, I've been diagnosed with fibroids, adhesions that are "all over" my bowel (doc's wording) as well as possible adenomyosis. After my most recent laparoscopy, I was told that
a hysterectomy--until now, my option of last resort--was not even an option due to complications of adhesions.
I've also been told to closely monitor any stomach issues in case I suddenly get a bowel blockage. After being told all this, my gyn of several years told me to seek pm, as there was little else she could do but wait and see.

Anyone have any advice to offer? I feel like I've been 'dismissed' by my doc, although I saw her for several years & she tried several different therapies before I was diagnosed (pills, lupron, depo provera etc.) If I go to pain mgmt...where else is there to go but a lifetime of pain meds (and ulcers developing because of them)? I use heat often (almost every day) along with vicoprofen.

I'm feeling frustrated & a bit depressed today. There don't seem to be many female pain mgmt drs. in NYC either. Thanks for letting me vent. This seems like a good community.

[concerned621]

Never ever feel bad about that.  A good doctor does not mind working as a team with other doctors.  You were not rambling.  A lot of information which is what you provided helps. A female doctor is usually my preference. Go prepared explain what you've been through but be prepared to sum it up in a way that best explains your frustrations. Stress that you are not interested in a life time of pain meds if that can be avoided.  If I were you I'd want a concise diagnosis so you can select a direction that is both medical and possibly natural.  Tuck is correct, ulcers are a result of bacteria, something in my opinion can be helped by pro-biotics.  Adding good bacteria to your system will help you. Also I am a huge advocate of enzymes.  Taking one with each meal helps neutralize acids in the stomach.  If you are not drinking water try to add that.  Drinking distilled water is an excellent idea for you, it's recommended for fibromyalgia people which I am, because it is the cleanest, purest form of water you can drink. I drink about 100 ounces a day. It helps me with stomach issues I have, that and taking enzymes with each meal.  Take care and let us know how you do.

[broadindaylight]

@Tuck and concerned: Thanks so very much for the kind welcome. I was trying not to ramble & yet that's expressly what I did. :-) And yet you still understood where I was coming from.

I found a FEMALE pain doc in my area and my appt. is for next week. My gyn is being a little weird about sending over my records but I'll do whatever I have to do to get this rectified. I'm scared because of the issues but excited to get a new eye on this whole thing. Thanks again.

[concerned621]

Get a second opinion.  Especially if you feel dismissed.  I just had a 2nd opinion for a foot problem and a foot problem is minor compared to what you are going through.  The first doctor I went to was ready to operate, cut my achelles tendon, and put me on crutches for 6-9 months.  The 2nd doctor did an MRI and the problem I have is a .4 centimeter calcification in my heel.  While it does give me pain hardly a reason to rush in to what the first doctor thought he saw.   Each doctor sees things a little differently and every doctor I've been too and I've had 7 surgeries on my spine, each doc seems to be either really passionate about what they do and they continue to learn and grow in what they do. That's the kind of doctor you want to see for something like this.  Instead of another pain management doc try another gyn.  Get another opinion for what is going on.  I would if I were you. I'm sorry this is happening to you. Please try not to be depressed for long. Spring in to to action and don't let a doctor make you feel this way.  It's your body and imagine it healthy and well.  Best to you.

[Tuckamore]

Hi Broadindaylight,

Welcome to the Pain Mangement Forum. I am sorry I am a bit tardy in my response. I am glad that you found us but sorry to hear about your condition and pain.

If you are not comfortable with the your PCP diagnosis and options, by all means seek another opinion. I certainly would. You may hear the same options but at least you will know that two physicians have the same opinion. Find one that is affiliated with a large university teaching hospital. They are up on all the best and newest procedures. I have similar issues and had been told surgery was not an option until I saw a University Surgeon. She, yes she, said they would do surgery with a team of surgeons from different specialities. So don't give up until you have that second opinion.

I like you prefer female physicians. I am blessed that in my state it is your PCP that treats and follows their chronic pain patients. I have had good male physicians and they are out there. If you need to see a PMP and can't find a female remember that they probably won't even examine you. They treat and prescribe for chronic pain.

Additionally most pain medications do not cause "ulcers". It is a fact that ulcers are from a bacteria. Some medications can cause GI distress but the PMP are aware of this and prescribe accordingly.

We understand your frustration and depression. It can go hand in hand with untreated chronic pain. When I was told, "this is as good as you will ever be....it will only get worse" it was a difficult adjustment. I fought it at first and was in denial. Eventually I learned to accept my fate. I use to think my life was over and it was as I knew it but know I know it's just a different way of life.

You can vent here any time. We all support one another and vent from time to time. We are glad to welcome you to our community. It helps to share with others that know the challenges that you are experiencing.

Please consider becoming an active member of our community. We will look forward to your updates and input. Best of luck to you and take care of yourself.

Peace,
Tuck