Alpha, i believe you said you didnt want to take pain meds because you didnt want to feel like a zombie. What were you taking? For years i resisted taking pain meds for those same fears, but it got to the point where i couldnt funtion due to the pain. I now take a variety of meds that even for a few hours give me some relief. People like us need a break not just for the physical relief but also the mental. Dealing with pain 24/7 takes its toll on us and gives us no real quality of life. The meds give me a break to try to re-energize my body and my mind if only for a while which is better then nothing. I wont lie, there are negatives such as your body adapts to the meds and you may need higher doses in time, but the docs told me i wont get better, only worse as will the pain so i decided to take the chance and try to get some relief or lose my mind from trying to deal with this after 9 years. Sometimes the pain and aches are so bad nothing helps, but sometimes they do help. Try to find a reputable pain specialist, not one that just wants to dope you up, talk to them about your fears and if they are good they will work with you and try to find the right combination of meds that may help you. A reputable doc wont just load you up on pain killers and send you on your way. My heart goes out to you, i know what your going through, sometimes you have to take a leap of faith and try something, if it doesnt work for you, then at least you tried...hang in...Joe
I'm Wrecked & Bonkers!
- Thread starter Walrus
- Start date
- th_trl_thread_readers 0
-
- Tags
- myvaporstore
- Status
Very good advice Joe. I can't wait for my insurance to kick in and get to a pain doc. I am so tired of hurting. I think just about all of on here are. It gets old really quick. I'm like alpha, I hate to take pain meds. In the beginning, right after my wreck, my doc used to get mad at me for not taking them more and calling in for refills. He told me we would worry about addiction later. The last thing I needed at that point was rehab on top of everything else. I understand about them making you woozy too, but there are many new and different meds that can help you. Like Joe said, get a good pain doc and you will see a big difference.
Hi Jules,
Once you start on the meds dont worry if the first couple of days you feel woozy or tired, thats normal, your body needs to adapt. Once it does, that woozy feeling will go away or just be there for a little bit. When i take them, i try to relax for the first hour, just let them kick in. Just sit back and relax and they seem to work better then if i take them and immediatly try to do something, plus if you feel a little woozy at first, being in a relaxed state wont tense you up and make it worse. If that feeling keeps up or gets worse, tell your doc, maybe lower your dose at first. I know about being tired of hurting, it is so draining and so hard for others to understand what your really going through which adds to your frustration. I hope it works for you, the time you have with some relief will be great for you, physically and mentally. Let me know how it works and if i can be of some help, dont hesitate to ask...Joe P.S your avitar with the tear rolling down is just so sadly beautiful if that makes sense.
Once you start on the meds dont worry if the first couple of days you feel woozy or tired, thats normal, your body needs to adapt. Once it does, that woozy feeling will go away or just be there for a little bit. When i take them, i try to relax for the first hour, just let them kick in. Just sit back and relax and they seem to work better then if i take them and immediatly try to do something, plus if you feel a little woozy at first, being in a relaxed state wont tense you up and make it worse. If that feeling keeps up or gets worse, tell your doc, maybe lower your dose at first. I know about being tired of hurting, it is so draining and so hard for others to understand what your really going through which adds to your frustration. I hope it works for you, the time you have with some relief will be great for you, physically and mentally. Let me know how it works and if i can be of some help, dont hesitate to ask...Joe P.S your avitar with the tear rolling down is just so sadly beautiful if that makes sense.
Joe, You are up late! I am headed off to bed..I did want to say Mike's meds put him to sleep. The pain relief just knocks him out.
The bad part is then he can't wake up. I have seen him fall out of bed before I could get to him because he falls asleep sitting up in bed! Thank goodness I outlawed smoking in the bedroom, he was falling asleep with a lit cig. I don't care if he falls alseep with a P.V. LOL
The bad part is then he can't wake up. I have seen him fall out of bed before I could get to him because he falls asleep sitting up in bed! Thank goodness I outlawed smoking in the bedroom, he was falling asleep with a lit cig. I don't care if he falls alseep with a P.V. LOL
What really scares me is what they are going to have to give me that will work. I've been on oxycodone and hydrocodone for almost 5 years now and it's like taking a Tyleniol for me. No telling what's next in line,lol But at this point, I'll do whatever they tell me too. I have a couple more surgeries to go through before I get to the pain clinic stage and I know my doc won't let me hurt thru those. Like the rest of us, I"ll just have to wait and see! Thanks for the great words, they mean a lot!
Hi Mary, i usually dont get to bed before 6:00 am then usually up by 9:00 or 10:00am, dont get to much sleep. I was taking this one med that would just knock me out for hours but i quit those fast..its one thing to get pain relief, another to sleep your life away..dont like that. Sometimes its trial and error to find the right mix...Joe
Hi Jules, i didnt realize you were taking anything. Im on the same meds , oxycodone and hydrocodone with some nerve meds and valium thrown in for good measure..lol..all that and i still cant sleep until usually dayreak but i know what you mean about the effectiveness wearing off. I just had my doseage increased last week. They had me on morphine for awhile but wasnt working to good. The doc said ill eventually have to have a pain pump (havent researched that yet). Have you ever heard of Zoloft, not for pain,but really helps with the mental aspect. Depression is a big part of constant pain and Zoloft really got me through some tough times. You just hang in and i hope the surgeries help you...Joe
Hey Joe,
I'm an all nighter too,lol I do take them but not that often. They don't hardly work anymore. I am on the valium too, 1) to keep me calm and keep my heart rate down and 2) to ease muscle spasms. I can't take morphine, well I refuse to take morphine. The withdrawals I had from the pump after being on it for 3 weeks right after my accident will keep me away from it forever.
For me Zoloft is evil,lol Made me do things I didn't remember and remember things I didn't do,lol I am on Elavil which is a miracle drug for me. Not only does it help with my depression but it also helps some with the chronic pain and most times sleeping. I guess sooner or later things will at least even out!
Hey Jules
I might look into the Elavil. I also take Cymbalta, but i dont really think it does much. Jules, between the two of us we could open up our own pharmacy..lol
I won't bore either, just a quick intro.
Anxiety disorder - depression - chemical sensitivity - ADD.
The nicotine helps with all but the MCS, and is especially helpful for smoothing out the ADD meds.
Discovering e-cigs was awesome for me. I don't feel caught so much between a rock and a hard place anymore.
Ariel, you are welcome to try to bore us! I do have a question, you said you have chemical sensitivity..how does the P.G. or V.G. affect you?
Welcome BTW!
Welcome BTW!
I switched from PG to VG gradually over the last couple of weeks and now am using almost all VG. It seems to help the fibro some (not quite so achy) and I seem to have more energy. Anyone know of a RY4 like MyVaporStore has that's VG? LiquidXpress has Taboo, which I hear is like the Riskee (never got a chance to try Riskee) and it's pretty close to the RY4 I like, just sweeter. They sell the flavoring and 36mg naked VG, so I can mix that up and be close to my fave vape anyway.
Have MRI of C spine tomorrow - not sure I really want to know how bad it looks these days! My chiro is recommending surgery! Now, that is truly frightening! I just hear of so many people that have surgery and it seems to make things worse. I'm still not sure of all the details, but I think it's supposed to be a simple surgery just to protect the nerves as they exit the damaged discs; no fusion involved. Still don't like the idea!
Antidepressants are supposed to help with chronic pain. I was put on Elavil back in the 80s when I was diagnosed with fibro. I never really got along with it - took it at night and was still sleepy for hours the next day. They switched me to doxepin, and I still had the sleepy problem until I realized it took about 2 hours to get into my system and took it 2 hours before bedtime and was pretty much ok in the mornings after that. Several docs have had me try the newer SSRIs, but they just seemed to make me more depressed, so I'm back on doxepin.
I was lucky enough to be able to go to the University of Calif San Francisco Pain Clinic after my neck/head injury, and they helped me get the pain pretty much under control. Biofeedback helped, as did acupuncture. Can't get acupuncture now though, Medicare doesn't cover it. I did end up on a pretty high dose of oxycontin, but after a cervical epidural, I got that cut back for several years until the nerves got involved again a few months ago. Dose is back up to about 1/2 - 3/4 of what I was taking before I cut back. A quick course of steroids (the 6 day dose pack) cut the nerve pain back about 75%, so I'm happy with that for now. May have to do another epidural, but that's for later....much later...the stenosis has decreased the spinal space so much that it's rather risky sticking needles in there! The guy that did my first one was the same doc who treated Joe Montana and lots of other athletes and really knows his stuff. Hmm, a mini trip to SF again?
I think we all do a great job of functioning at our best level even through all the pain. I was actually able to push through for 11 days straight....of course, I'm totally wiped out today and taking it easy. And my SO is so understanding! Makes it easier to not feel guilty (&/or lazy) when I have to take a down day or 2. I worry that I sap his energy even though he says I don't.
Hang in, everyone!
______________
Have MRI of C spine tomorrow - not sure I really want to know how bad it looks these days! My chiro is recommending surgery! Now, that is truly frightening! I just hear of so many people that have surgery and it seems to make things worse. I'm still not sure of all the details, but I think it's supposed to be a simple surgery just to protect the nerves as they exit the damaged discs; no fusion involved. Still don't like the idea!
Antidepressants are supposed to help with chronic pain. I was put on Elavil back in the 80s when I was diagnosed with fibro. I never really got along with it - took it at night and was still sleepy for hours the next day. They switched me to doxepin, and I still had the sleepy problem until I realized it took about 2 hours to get into my system and took it 2 hours before bedtime and was pretty much ok in the mornings after that. Several docs have had me try the newer SSRIs, but they just seemed to make me more depressed, so I'm back on doxepin.
I was lucky enough to be able to go to the University of Calif San Francisco Pain Clinic after my neck/head injury, and they helped me get the pain pretty much under control. Biofeedback helped, as did acupuncture. Can't get acupuncture now though, Medicare doesn't cover it. I did end up on a pretty high dose of oxycontin, but after a cervical epidural, I got that cut back for several years until the nerves got involved again a few months ago. Dose is back up to about 1/2 - 3/4 of what I was taking before I cut back. A quick course of steroids (the 6 day dose pack) cut the nerve pain back about 75%, so I'm happy with that for now. May have to do another epidural, but that's for later....much later...the stenosis has decreased the spinal space so much that it's rather risky sticking needles in there! The guy that did my first one was the same doc who treated Joe Montana and lots of other athletes and really knows his stuff. Hmm, a mini trip to SF again?
I think we all do a great job of functioning at our best level even through all the pain. I was actually able to push through for 11 days straight....of course, I'm totally wiped out today and taking it easy. And my SO is so understanding! Makes it easier to not feel guilty (&/or lazy) when I have to take a down day or 2. I worry that I sap his energy even though he says I don't.
Hang in, everyone!
______________
Ariel -
Can I just say that your avatar made me laugh hysterically last night? It was about midnight and my brother had been telling me to GO TO BED for about 20 minutes b/c he knew I would be tired today if I didn't.
Then I click on this thread and see the hideous clown and the words GO TO BED and about fell on the floor!
LOVE IT! Laughter really is the best medicine! (though I'm tired as he!! today)
Can I just say that your avatar made me laugh hysterically last night? It was about midnight and my brother had been telling me to GO TO BED for about 20 minutes b/c he knew I would be tired today if I didn't.
Then I click on this thread and see the hideous clown and the words GO TO BED and about fell on the floor!
LOVE IT! Laughter really is the best medicine! (though I'm tired as he!! today)
That avitar scared me! LOL I am sure you are a lovely person..maybe a butterfly..fairy..rainbow
Kamanjah, so how did the MRI go?
Kamanjah, so how did the MRI go?
ThanksAriel, you are welcome to try to bore us! I do have a question, you said you have chemical sensitivity..how does the P.G. or V.G. affect you?
Welcome BTW!
My chemical sensitivity mostly manifests as a reaction to chemical fragrances. I have no problem at all with the PG or VG.
My sense of smell is coming back. It's definitely a double-edged sword. At least now I can pick up more often on why I might be getting a headache, or chest pains, and do what I can to correct the situation.
I like this avatar because it's memorable (*ahem*)
.. and people either seem to love it or hate it. That, and I like to stay up way too late sometimes.
I'm much nicer in person.
Hi all,
From the group title it seems like I belong here.
Wrecked: Charcot Marie Tooth disease (hereditary neuropathy), Barrett's Esophagus, GERD, IBS, food sensitivities, and sleep apnea. (inherited the best from both parents).
Bonkers: Bipolar disorder (depression predominant) in my young adulthood that manifests itself as generalized and social anxiety disorder these days.
I'm on plenty of meds as you might imagine.
Nice to have a place to hang out!
From the group title it seems like I belong here.
Wrecked: Charcot Marie Tooth disease (hereditary neuropathy), Barrett's Esophagus, GERD, IBS, food sensitivities, and sleep apnea. (inherited the best from both parents).
Bonkers: Bipolar disorder (depression predominant) in my young adulthood that manifests itself as generalized and social anxiety disorder these days.
I'm on plenty of meds as you might imagine.
Nice to have a place to hang out!
Welcome Chad, nice to see you..or at least see your eye!
Feel free to post in any thread! Start one of your own too.
I never hear of Charcot Marie Tooth disease (hereditary neuropathy), Barrett's Esophagus. But they don't sound nice.
Boy did we ever Hijack Walrus's thread! Sorry big guy!
What forum rule does this violate? Rule 2 or 3?
Doesn't matter (except to Walrus of course) this is a social group..members only..yeah right!
Feel free to post in any thread! Start one of your own too.
I never hear of Charcot Marie Tooth disease (hereditary neuropathy), Barrett's Esophagus. But they don't sound nice.
Boy did we ever Hijack Walrus's thread! Sorry big guy!
What forum rule does this violate? Rule 2 or 3?
Doesn't matter (except to Walrus of course) this is a social group..members only..yeah right!
Boy did we ever Hijack Walrus's thread! Sorry big guy!
What forum rule does this violate? Rule 2 or 3?
Doesn't matter (except to Walrus of course) this is a social group..members only..yeah right!
Ack! I didn't realize I was a thread-jacker.
My humble apologies Walrus. From the title and some of the posts I truly thought this was an Intro thread. Is there an Intro thread?I'd better go and re-read all the forum rules. No better way to start off on the wrong foot than to make a social error. Sorry about that.
Greetings to all, I just feel like venting and sharing a little so I hope no one minds.
Physical pain has become a way of life for me. While in the Air Force I had a large piece of equipment fall from a shelf and knocked my jaw askew. Fortunately the equipment, though heavy, was encased in padding for air dropped protection. I had a wonderful surgeon who repaired the disc in my jaw joint. Unfortunately, a bone spur that had developed over time resulted in the loss of half the disc, required my mandible to be filed down, and resulted in scar tissue. One would never know about this problem by looking at me...the scar is in the fold of the ear and virtually invisible.
Luckily I was given free dental care via the VA because any problems with my teeth would aggravate the jaw. But the workers at the dental clinic, though helpful, are of the opinion that I do not belong there. I've had to file a complaint letter with patient affairs to prevent the inevitable question of authorization. One merely had to look at the computer for benefits listeds under my name. Dental office employees do not decide eligibility, regional offices do. My presence for an appointment would seem to be ample enough evidence that I was an authorized patient, otherwise I would not be scheduled.
On my last visit, while getting my teeth cleaned, the tech proceeded to bash the vets under her care by declaring the the dental clinic did not make any money. She went on and on about beneficiaries that want something for nothing.
The last time I checked...the VA was a non-profit endeavor. The dental clinic could not turn a profit because there are no monetary charges to the Vets. The funding is via taxes which also provides the jobs for these people who are paid to simply do their work via their contract and not judge their patients. Honestly, I think some people simply haven't a clue!!!
I worked with alot of equipment that emitted radiation which upset my endocrine system. Thus my hormone balance was effected and primarily manifested in hypothyroidism. Replacement meds 25 years later paired with a petite frame and genetics has resulted in osteoporosis. So I guess in my old age I'll lose a little height. At 52, I can take meds to delay bone loss and engage in more weight bearing exercise but the intervention has come far too late. I requested the Dexa Scan that normally isn't given until a woman is 65. I recommend that anyone who ever smoked, has thyroid problems, is petite, or has a family member with osteoporosis to request this scan for early intervention. Sometimes the back and leg pains are due to this disorder.
Ok...that was my wrecked. Bonkers is my middle name according to my 3 boys and husband! I once left my car keys in the ignition with my car running for 6 hours while I went to an amusement park with my grandkids. Duh!!! When a nurse asked me what I smoked during an office visit my reply was an e-cig and Dorals....she meant quantity!!! I suspect that I serve as an entertainment source for my family and friends. My quirks make me laugh too!
Physical pain has become a way of life for me. While in the Air Force I had a large piece of equipment fall from a shelf and knocked my jaw askew. Fortunately the equipment, though heavy, was encased in padding for air dropped protection. I had a wonderful surgeon who repaired the disc in my jaw joint. Unfortunately, a bone spur that had developed over time resulted in the loss of half the disc, required my mandible to be filed down, and resulted in scar tissue. One would never know about this problem by looking at me...the scar is in the fold of the ear and virtually invisible.
Luckily I was given free dental care via the VA because any problems with my teeth would aggravate the jaw. But the workers at the dental clinic, though helpful, are of the opinion that I do not belong there. I've had to file a complaint letter with patient affairs to prevent the inevitable question of authorization. One merely had to look at the computer for benefits listeds under my name. Dental office employees do not decide eligibility, regional offices do. My presence for an appointment would seem to be ample enough evidence that I was an authorized patient, otherwise I would not be scheduled.
On my last visit, while getting my teeth cleaned, the tech proceeded to bash the vets under her care by declaring the the dental clinic did not make any money. She went on and on about beneficiaries that want something for nothing.
The last time I checked...the VA was a non-profit endeavor. The dental clinic could not turn a profit because there are no monetary charges to the Vets. The funding is via taxes which also provides the jobs for these people who are paid to simply do their work via their contract and not judge their patients. Honestly, I think some people simply haven't a clue!!!
I worked with alot of equipment that emitted radiation which upset my endocrine system. Thus my hormone balance was effected and primarily manifested in hypothyroidism. Replacement meds 25 years later paired with a petite frame and genetics has resulted in osteoporosis. So I guess in my old age I'll lose a little height. At 52, I can take meds to delay bone loss and engage in more weight bearing exercise but the intervention has come far too late. I requested the Dexa Scan that normally isn't given until a woman is 65. I recommend that anyone who ever smoked, has thyroid problems, is petite, or has a family member with osteoporosis to request this scan for early intervention. Sometimes the back and leg pains are due to this disorder.
Ok...that was my wrecked. Bonkers is my middle name according to my 3 boys and husband! I once left my car keys in the ignition with my car running for 6 hours while I went to an amusement park with my grandkids. Duh!!! When a nurse asked me what I smoked during an office visit my reply was an e-cig and Dorals....she meant quantity!!! I suspect that I serve as an entertainment source for my family and friends. My quirks make me laugh too!
- Status
Similar threads
- Locked
