Numerous Pain issues
Over my lifetime so far of 51 yrs and lately over the past 1 1/2 yrs, I’ve been diagnosed with migraines (at 10 yrs), hemangioma that calcified, but still causing pain, fibromyalgia, RA, left lower lobe of my lung is collapsed from pneumonia is 2003, I have a “slipped” disc in my thoracic spine right before the lumbar spine starts, my lumbar spine has many fractures throughout, I have stage 3 kidney failure being monitored. I have Hoshimotos disease causing hypothyroidism, I have an impacted, nonfunctional gallbladder, IBS with both constipation and diarrhea, I have a MVP which causes palpitations often, and lastly I have an unknown blood disorder where my body/bone does not produce enough red blood cells. I am currently prescribed magnesium, iron, b complex, vitD 5000, Cymbalta 120mg, Wellbutrin 150mg, hydrochloridthyozide with losartan 25/20, levothyroxine 25mg, and only 900mg of gabapentin along with 7.5mg of Norco 3 times per day. I am still in a lot of pain every day that some days I can’t walk or other days just too depressed to do anything.
Any advise on what to do?
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I just have so very much compassion for you. With my problems, I look at this and think I have not a thing to complain about. Bless you.
I cannot imagine how difficult life must be for you. You have my heartfelt prayers and thoughts. And as 1kay2 said, much compassion I have pain issues also, low back, cervical disks, and Long Covid but not as difficult as what you describe. May you find help and peace with living.
@dayna73
I am so sorry to hear of your pain and complex medical conditions at such a young age. You really need help to manage all of this and help you advocate for the best care. Are you working with a pain management center since you are still in significant pain despite all of the medications?
Are you currently being managed and treated by a neurologist, rheumatologist, pulmonologist, orthopedic spine specialist, endocrinologist, nephrologist, gastroenterologist, hematologist and cardiologist? Do you have a psychologist and psychiatrist to help you cope with depression due to chronic pain and health decline? Do you have family and friends who can help you and a local church/social workers to provide additional support? Do you get in home care for chores and meals plus personal care?
Here is what artificial intelligence responded with to your current condition:
“ I'm really sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing with your health. Managing multiple chronic conditions can be incredibly difficult, and it's important to approach your situation holistically. Here are some suggestions that may help you navigate your health challenges:
1. Consult with Your Healthcare Team
Regular Check-ups: Ensure you have regular appointments with your primary care physician and specialists (rheumatologist, nephrologist, neurologist, etc.) to monitor your conditions and adjust treatments as necessary.
Medication Review: Discuss your current medications with your doctor. Sometimes, side effects or interactions can exacerbate pain or depression. A medication review can help optimize your treatment plan.
2. Pain Management Strategies
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you develop a tailored exercise program that accommodates your conditions and helps improve mobility and strength.
Pain Management Clinics: Consider consulting a pain management specialist who can offer additional therapies, such as nerve blocks, acupuncture, or other interventions.
3. Mental Health Support
Therapy: Engaging with a mental health professional can provide support for depression and coping strategies for chronic pain. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often effective for chronic pain management.
Support Groups: Connecting with others who have similar health challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice.
4. Lifestyle Modifications
Diet: A balanced diet tailored to your specific conditions (like IBS and kidney health) can help manage symptoms. Consider consulting a dietitian for personalized advice.
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial, especially with kidney issues. Monitor your fluid intake as advised by your healthcare provider.
Gentle Exercise: Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can help improve your physical and mental well-being. Start slowly and listen to your body.
5. Alternative Therapies
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve your overall sense of well-being.
Complementary Therapies: Some people find relief through acupuncture, massage therapy, or chiropractic care. Always consult your doctor before starting any new treatment.
6. Monitor Symptoms and Triggers
Symptom Diary: Keeping a diary of your symptoms, medications, and any potential triggers can help you and your healthcare team identify patterns and make informed decisions about your treatment.
7. Stay Informed and Advocate for Yourself
Research: Stay informed about your conditions and treatment options. Knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
Advocacy: Don’t hesitate to advocate for your needs with your healthcare providers. If something isn’t working, speak up and explore alternatives.
8. Consider Palliative Care
If your pain and symptoms are significantly impacting your quality of life, consider discussing palliative care options with your healthcare team. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving quality of life.
Conclusion
It's essential to approach your health with a comprehensive plan that includes medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and emotional support. Always consult with your healthcare providers before making any changes to your treatment plan. You are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and support available to help you manage your conditions.”
I have a lot of the same things you do. I see pain management to control the pain and I definitely suggest you do the same. They understand pain better than anyone. I am also scheduled to see a nephrologist and neurologist. I would suggest that you definitely see a nephrologist as you need guidance to keep your kidney disease from getting worse. I have stage 3a and am on Farxiga to help control it, which also works on blood pressure. I hope going to a nephrologist I can get more guidance on the do’s and dont’s. And when there is pain there is depression. I have had depression since my early 20’s(40 years) so mine is under control but please speak up if you have that issue. I wish you the best of luck with everything you have going on.
wow! got a full plate of troubles! I have many myself and can relate. depression is a bear! I would urge u to seek help 4 it, hang in there
I’m sorry for your suffering! The comment about complementary therapies was a really good one and held a lot of good information. Hoping that you are seeing the many doctors you need to (which I find depressing sometimes when there’s so many!)I can address your pain medication. You have to have a good pain management doctor that will be open to you finding the right pain medicine, which controls your pain I run from Norco! It makes me feel like a drug addict, which I’m not. I build a tolerance to it very quickly and it makes me want more of the medicine. I have 180 pills left under the sink with a myriad of other narcotic from 2007 which did not work to remind me I am no addict.-. I am in pain. My pain management doctor in 2007 said “don’t worry there’s 1200 different pain medicines. We can try to find the right one for you.“ My painkiller of choice back then was devon for seven years and it was overnight pulled off the market, and Michael Jackson died And Whitney Houston and opioids became the bogeyman. We work together in light of the horrible political scene with opioids and Percocet was the one we landed on. In 2025 I had to make a shift because the Tylenol in the Percocet was irritating my urethra or bladder so we switched again to the OXY. (my 2007 doctor died and I have had multiple in between the latest.) It is really important to have a team of doctors that work well together on your behalf.
God bless you and help you find the right remedies that give you peace and at least lead portions of your day without pain. The only thought I have on your physical condition is the bone marrow anemia disorder, which is rare and that you should be tested for. It’s the only thing that sounds like you haven’t been tested for yet with all the things you know about your body and its situation. For IBS I use the MONASH university FODMAP diet, which is free and searchable, and I’ve never heard anybody who started it who didn’t make a lifestyle change and stay on it because it worked for IBS.
I am 75 years old and have suffered with chronic pain in various parts of my body for years. My therapist suggested I try to connect with people also suffering from chronic pain to learn how they cope. I already have a variety of doctors helping me and take pain medicines but don't know how other people continue with their lives. How do you avoid depression thoughts, for example.
@massler thanks for being here. What have you tried so far for your pain?
Please tell us a bit more about why you have pain. If you don’t feel comfortable, you certainly don’t have to.
For myself, I’m almost 76 y/o, and have chronic pain from several disorders.
I deal with: fibromyalgia, IBS, Polyneuropathy, osteoarthritis (my fingers have had several surgeries) weak tendons in my hands and feet that have required surgery, Occipital Neuralgia, Raynard's disease, and Functional Movement Disorder (FMD, or FND),
Mentally I have bi-polar 2, depression, and generalized anxiety.
The diagnosis that makes all the above almost meaningless is, Mild Cognitive Impairment with traits of dementia.
How do I handle all of this? I’m not sure. I do not take any pain relievers except an occasional Tylenol. Every minute of everyday, I’m in pain somewhere.
I live alone even though my brain is failing. I also have a therapist. She hasn’t done much for me with one exception,
She told me about “green noise” for deeper sleeping. It’s relaxing. I found it on YouTube, and I list to it while I sleep.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you one very important fact. Jesus Christ walks with me through all my storms. He eases my pain, makes the path straight,
I hope you find what you’re for here.
Blessing
yes!!! God walks with me as well- could NOT do it without Him! had lupus flare that caused my knee and surrounding area to swell baseball size. hurt terribly all the time, and more when I had to walk. couldn't hardly get off commode. (having grab bar installed.) God healed me of it-leg and knee much, much better! on a daily basis, I try my very best to switch my focus to something else. like working on something I enjoy and CAN do. I'm starting to bird watch and learn bird songs. bought bird watching book and binoculars. have recordings o bird songs and chirping. I can no longer jog, but this new hobby I CAN do. I seek out anything that will make me laugh. crazy cat videos on pineterest, and my friend with ra and the best attitude and sense of humor, EVER! never thought I'd text, but figured out how to get set up on pH, with voice to text typing. (have ra and lupus so typing an issue.) I enjoy texting friends and family. sent my niece a "fart emoji", wishing her a "fart-tastic" day. made us both laugh. medicinal...I also make lists of positive and good things in my life to shift my focus, even if only temporarily. and I cont to praise God thru it all.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you one very important fact. Jesus Christ walks with me through all my storms. He eases my pain, makes the path straight,
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