questions for dr's unsure where to post

[armywife]

Hi,
I didn't know where to post this so I am sorry if it is in the wrong area. I go back to my Dr. on Monday and I have questions about wanting to take pain medicine but I am afraid that they will think I may not need it when I really do. Do I insist? What about bringing up disability issues? How do you ask them that? I don't want to be seen as a lazy person but I work in a school and it is becoming very difficult. I had 2 other jobs prior and because of pain and fatigue those didn't work out. What about medications for fatigue? My one doctor told me that once my lab work rules out anything else he will treat me for CFS and would put me on stimulants. I don't drive anymore because I fall asleep and I have a hard time retaining information. As I read this I sound like such a complainer and I don't want my doctor to think the same. If anyone can help I would really appreciate it.
Thanks

[Berkshire Road]

You are not a complainer! You have a real problem -- pain -- and it needs to be addressed. I do know that it can be a hard question to ask. Some doctors are very sympathetic and others, well -- not so much. Just do your best to explain the situation, and ask. If the uro or whoever, won't give you pain meds, ask to be referred to a pain management clinic. There you're dealing with experts who understand the nature of pain and how it affects every aspect of life.

It's very hard, I know, I've been there too. Trying to live with IC pain untreated, is harder.

Good luck. Keep us posted about what happens, so if it doesn't go your way we can keep brainstorming, and if it does we can cheer!

[alycat]

You're not a complainer! Pain is a real problem, just like any other. There are a few pain relievers that are specific for IC, (like amytriptelene (sp?)) so try some of those. Just beware of things like Ibuprofen. I've found that Ibuprofen makes me mega flare within hours, though try testing pain relievers out when you have a day off, just in case you react.

[Claredale]

I have taken several of the pain meds and found that Lortab works the best for me. I am not loopy, it doesn't make me tired. I feel completely normal and can function well at my job on it.

When I first discussed my pain issues with my doctor, it helped that I was in a flare. My husband was also with me which was a huge support because he was able to verbalize how miserable I was since I was just a blubbering mess at the time. I had been keeping a pain journal for several weeks which I showed him. He was a uro and knew a little about about IC, but definitely saw the need to treat my pain while we were trying to get my other symptoms under control as well.

I wish you courage to talk frankly with your doctor and that he understands!

Hugs,
Tracey

[armywife]

Thanks for the good advice. Since I have been popping Motrin 800mg 3x a day that may be the problem. I never even thought of that. I will keep you posted hopefully with some good news.