post-thoracomy pain--no relief from pmclinic- HELP!

[kcello]

Hi all; me again...now it's been more than a month since intercostal nerve injections--no relief whatsoever.  I was initially told that in 2 1/2 weeks I should feel a difference. I AM STILL AS MISERABLE AS I WAS BEFORE I SAW THE DR.!  So, I called the Dr and asked (basically,'what's up') and I was told they could see me in two weeks; to keep taking Diclofenac and keep using the Lidoderm patches, and hang in there until the app't. (Sigh) I called them back and asked if there was ANYTHING they could do in the meantime...I haven't been able to sleep, I have no appetite, I am extraordinarily crabby all the time (my poor family:( ) and I am really at my wit's end.  Despite the horrendous 24 hr pain, I have finally been working since my diagnosis, but unfortunately having to travel quite a bit for my job (I am a professional cellist).   I certainly count my blessings that my cancer surgery went well; however, is there anything anybody who has been through this can recommend for pain relief at least short term until I can see the Dr.?  Apparently, when I DO see them, they will 'modify' something.  That's all they said.  Stronger steroids, maybe??  Any questions I should ask?  I have done research on alot of medicines they regularly prescribe--I don't  feel comfortable with most of those (Lyrica, Cymbalta, Neurontin, Gabapentin, Trileptal) I've already tried some--all with negative side effects.   My brain is fine, my nerves are not, due to two thoracotomy surgeries very close together.  HELP!!  Your comments have alll been very helpful in the past!

[Tuckamore]

SORRY!! Some how I hit the "post comment" button sooner than I wanted!!

Anyway we should all be involved in our medical care and decisions. If you are offered Lyrica, Cymbalta, Neurontin, Gabapentin or Trileptal and you are not comfortable with them or more importantly they were not effective in the past than they should not be forced upon you.  Ask for alternative medications.

I do hope you understand that those medications often DO work on pain, even though they may not have been originally designed for that purpose. That said they have not been effective in my pain control either. However they are very effective for some ppl.

I'd make a list of your questions.... write them all down to take them with you on your appointment. I often do this and it helps me to not miss any thing.

I wish I could offer you more. I do believe we all have the right to be as comfortable as medically possible. No one should be expected to live with uncontrolled Chronic Pain. I am never afraid to express that to my Physicians. I have an excellent relationship with my Medical Providers. I believe that comes from kindly and respectfully speaking my mind, being involved and insisting on knowing all the facts.  I encourage everyone to do the same.

I wish you the very best and hope you'll continue to update us.

By the way, Bravo!! I love the Cello. I played (at it) for six years in Jr High and High School.... 100 years ago. :o)  I admire your talent and wish I could hear you play!

Good Luck and Take Care,
~Tuck

[Tuckamore]

Hi Kcello,

Thanks for the update. It good to hear from you but I am so very sorry that your pain continues!!

Often the injections are effective. It's sad they didn't ease your pain. I'd ask why. Are they certain of the diagnosis? Could it be something else?  

If the diagnosis is correct then what other treatments/procedures are available.

I believe we are partners with our Physicians. We should be involved and included in the decision making process. They are service providers and we hire them.... no different than a plumber or hair stylist...other than the obvious!.... But all in all they work for us!