I just to stay distracted with hobbies and WWF. Try to keep upbeat. It's hard most days but I can't remain negative

How am I handling it? Not well. My feet hurt and burn all the time. Neuropathy began around ten years after I began treatment for major depression. The two don't do well together for me. I'm working with a pain specialist, but nothing we've tried has helped the pain. I'm considering a spinal cord stimulator. Right now, I take morphine sulfate contin, Cymbalta, Clonazepam, Oxycodone, Bupropion, Lidocaine cream, and things for allergies, plus vitamins, hoodia, and experimenting with Marijuana. I've been quite active the past couple of months, but depression and suicidal ideation have been worse, partly because of the change of season which reduces the amount of activity. I just try to take life a day, or an hour at a time.

I have diabetes 2, cancer in almost every organ, and constant peripheral neuropathy.

GOD BLESS YOU! I just keep praying that something could be done for us who live in constant pain!!

When we hurt like this, who wouldn't get depressed? But there are days when I am in tears! My general doctor wanted to put me on a anti depression medication but I didn't do it yet. I don't like them and besides I can't afford an other pill. I try to stay busy, but when I use my arms.....Well.....

Hello, Sister, I hope you'll find some hope and help in this forum. I think anyone who posts on sites like this will tell you that depression and pain can be like constant companions. It's as if they feed off one another. I saw in your post that your fibromyalgia diagnosis and your auto accident occurred close to the same time. It's important to get both under control, and I hope you're under the care of specialists in psychiatry, and neurology or pain management. This isn't something your primary physician should be treating her/himself without at the very least being in consultation with specialists.

Getting the right match for antidepressant medication often takes trial and error. There's no one 'fix' for it; however, there are many good and effective medications you and your psychiatrist can experiment with until you find what's right for you. Sometimes it will be a combination of medications. Exercise, to the extent you're able, and healthy eating are just as important. I notice you're only a few years older than me. When we were growing up, the doctor was the 'boss', and didn't like to be questioned. It's vital that you have a doctor who is willing to work WITH you because you are also in charge of your health. As difficult as it is sometimes, try not to be too discouraged during the process of finding what will work for you, and don't suffer in silence.

The same goes for whoever is treating your pain. You may have to try different strategies before you find what works for you. Physical therapy might help too.

I have a history of depression; however, this pain thing is more new to me. I was handed off to two specialists before receiving a diagnosis of myofascial pain syndrome. You can read about it on the Mayo Clinic and other web sites if you're interested. I don't think it's necessary to go into great detail in this communication; pain is pain. I mentioned my diagnosis because sometimes similar therapies are used to treat myofascial pain and fibromyalgia.

I took a second look when you mentioned your auto accident. I was very recently injured in one myself. Thankfully, I'm alive and able to write to you, but I also feel like I've been hit by a freight train, and the medications to treat the resulting pain are only intended for short-term use.

I hope to see more posts from you on this forum, telling us of your progress. May God bless you and keep you, look upon you kindly, and give you peace.
Susan
User ID sistergoldenhair

Most people don't understand our pain because it can't be seen. We are our only advocates in our health. Have to talk to docs. I unfortunately have exhausted all pain relief except meds. Don't want to take them. Just trying to keep positive

I have Fibromyalgia and depression along with 3 herniated discs in my back and stress fractures. I also have kidney disease and high blood pressure. Some days are very hard to even get out of bed. I know what suffering with severe pain is all about About 4 months ago I saw a Gerontologist and she prescribed Cymbalta , and Tramadol twice a day. The Cymbalta has helped some. I used to be on Tramadol 4 times a day and felt much better, but because it's a narcotic she won't prescribe any more than twice a day. I also take Tylenol and use an ice pack and heating pad. I am 82 years old and I can't cry with the pain because the movement makes it worse. I hope you can find some way to feel better. It helps to talk with someone or read all the post on the board.

Thank you so much for your response!  I too am on Cymbalta and another anitdepressant whose name I can't remember now.  Then the neurologist prescribed the Lyrica and Tramadol.  My doc said I could take it every six hours; wish doctors were all on the same page.  I've just begun to use heat and cold and they do make some difference.  It sounds like you've got some additional very difficult conditions...I'm sorry and hoping you have some special Thanksgiving plans.  If not, know that this Benedictine community is praying for you.  Meggie

Thank you for taking time to respond.  I am trying, and your saying it helps, to stay positive.  I admire you for being able to do this without medication.  Meggie