Bad Flare...

[Oshizemi]

I'm going through a flare that has lasted for about a week so far. I've kept track of how many times I am in the bathroom, and it's at least 40 times a day. The only time it gets better is if I take a hydrocodone prescribed for getting my wisdom teeth cut out this past summer.

I'm absolutely miserable...I don't have enough money even for the $15 copay to see my doctor, and I only have a little bit of pain medication left. I just want to go to sleep, and I can't...I'm not even sure if my doctor would be willing to prescribe more pain medication, and I doubt I could afford it even then.

RE Methylphen is doing NOTHING, and I haven't been on Elmiron long enough for it to take effect.

[TexasHoney]

:grouphug: I hope you start feeling better soon.

Hang In There

[Mothergoose]

Have you checked to see if it is a UTI, often bad flares that don't get better are UTI's not flares, you can get a home test.

Hope you feel better soon. MG

[Oshizemi]

Not yet...My doctors wanted me to come in to get yet another urinalysis, but I only had $1.47 at the time so there was absolutely no way I could afford it. It's already gone to the past medical bills!!!

I'll see if I can get an at home test, but this feels like an IC flare. I've had enough of both to slightly be able to tell the difference, and I don't want to spend money on one thing that could have gone to another...Oh, the usual money predicament :)

In the mean time, I'm too afraid to eat anything! It seems like that's what really sets things off. Who knows?

[123456]

Is there any way your doctor could just send you a bill? My doc doesn't even ask for a payment, I just get a bill in the mail. Maybe they would put you on a payment plan also?

[Oshizemi]

The bill and the copay have always been separate for me, and they demand it every time I'm there without fail. Really frustrating...All I can do is live on my couch island, and sleep only when I take a hydrocodone. I'm miserable ARGGHHH. I thought I had my life back when I got Crohn's under control, and now IC has shown up and is completely out of control :(

[ICNDonna]

If you have a doctor you see regularly, if you tell them you are broke right now, they should be able to help you. If not, I suggest you go to an emergency room.

Donna

[Oshizemi]

The ER has started demanding a $50 "copay" recently as well. I would have been there days ago otherwise...They didn't use to ask for it, but that changed after my insurance was extended through COBRA.

[icnmgrjill]

Bonnie,

Are there any "clinics" in your area run by your county that you could to?? That's definitely worth checking out. Also... try talking with your doctor by phone!! Sending lots of hugs your way.

Jill