I'm scared!!

[curlygirl]

hi there. i have been using vicodin to control my pain. i really don't take it that much- usually about 1 tab everyday for 3-4 days when i start to have flares and then i find that i don't need it again for awhile. when i told my md this, he got really concerned- about me accomidating to it and also 'rebound pain.' he gave me an rx for elavil, that i hope will help. i will start that today. however, my md said that he would prefer that i don't use vicodin in the interim and that i use ibuprofen instead. but i don't find that that works for me.
what the heck am i supposed to do if i can't control the pain?

[SharonA]

First of all...relax. I'm sure you know that the resulting stress from the feeling of fear and panic can be a trigger. Take a deep breath...Go ahead, I'm waiting... Exhale...Do it again.:D Okay...now relax. That's better. :)

I noticed relief from my debilitating pain upon my very first dose of Elavil.

While you wait to see if Elavil works for you...don't forget to watch what you eat and drink. Drink plenty of water to keep your urine diluted. Use a heating pad if you need warmth. :kiss:

[curlygirl]

thanks sharon. i totally tend to panic and expect the worst. i picked upi my rx for elvil and will take it tonight. my md is really really nice- he gave me his direct number- so i don't have to go through the phone tree etc- ihave an hmo.
he called me back right away and during our apt he went through the entire rationale and history of ic and other bladder problems. he also gave me a referal to the chronic pain clinic and will call them in a couple of days to follow up.
thanks again.:kiss:

[Dixiefireball]

she is right relax give it a chances before freaking out and causeing yourself to go into a flare. which i know is easyly done.
I have heard ibuprofen can cause flares so please beware of this but not everyone is the same. I can take medicine like adleve with no problems but others can't take it.
if this happens takes some prelief or a tums even baking soda with water can also settle down a flare.
please let us know how you are.
sending you hugs and prayers
Rhonda

[ICNDonna]

I'm one of those strange people who react negatively to many medications and I couldn't take elavil --- my husband takes a 10 mg daily dose for arthritis pain and it really helps him.

Don't give up and don't panic until you give it a try --- and if it doesn't work out for you call your doctor and be very descriptive about exactly how it effected you.

It sounds very much like your doctor is trying to help --- and a referral to a pain specialist confirms this.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[Katrina]

(((((hugs))))) ibiprofen is acidic...be careful. You are strong and it sounds to me like you are doing well....don't worry.

:kiss: