A simple blood test
Life is precious. One day and one blood test can bring that home. I went to the doctor yesterday because I have been having trouble with swelling in my legs from water retention. It has been a task trying to keep the fluids moving from the body. Now, of course on the day of meeting with a new doctor, my legs aren’t swollen at all. It is like taking the car to a mechanic. It’s knocking so loud you can’t hear the radio, but when the mechanic turns it over, there is nothing, no sound, no knocking…….in fact it is purring like a kitten. So you take it home, a mile out the knocking starts up again- damn!!!
So this is my situation yesterday, except with the swollen legs. Luckily she saw me in the hospital a month ago and knew I wasn’t exaggerating. So she had them draw blood to check things out. Of course, once I left the doc’s office my legs started swelling again.
This morning I get the call. The blood results are in. The results indicate that I am on the verge of kidney failure. I go to see a kidney doctor on Sept. 7. They gave me a list of instructions. I can handle everything they told me except I have to go off all NSAIDS. I live with chronic pain. It is extreme and everywhere in my body. The Relafen I take daily controls that pain and makes it tolerable. Without it I have trouble moving and functioning. Now I am without it. I understand being off of it is necessary, but in that case, I need something to help control the pain. Their answer – Tylenol, which is useless. I will be in living hell within a couple days. They are hoping the kidneys will bounce back and so am I. At least now I have some answers as to why I have had no energy in the past couple months.
I will adapt to the new restrictions, but now with the back and joint pain as well as the nerve pain, life holds no joy. Why is it that Doctor’s do not understand the level of pain with which patients have to live? I have talked to her and the nurse of the kidney doctor. Neither have anything to offer but Tylenol. It does nothing for me. Their suggestion? Talk to the physical therapists. They might have something that can help. I know their suggestions TENS unit,( I use it set at level 40, most people can’t go higher than level 3), lidocaine patches (does nothing), ice and heat.
Oh well, get used to the pain, no one will help.
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Oh! I hope they find something for you.
I have a very small insight to what you are going through. I have to do exercises for my back. Otherwise, I am a moment away from a muscle spasm that absolutely takes my breath away.
Oh, Liz, this is terrible.
I guess you haven't been able to have a proper salt intake either, because of the water retention, and, of course, you can't just freely drink lots of water, if it isn't going anywhere......
I wish I knew something that could help.
I know we all have great trouble even getting all of our bioavailable minerals in this day and age, it's a wonder that some of us are healthy at all.....
But I will remember you daily in my prayers, and hope there will be an answer soon......
May you be blessed and find healing,
Therese
I feel rellally bad for you, I totally understand what it's like to be in chronic pain with back pain and migraines. You might just try going to a pain management Dr. They will actually understand and try to get rid of your pain. I'm not sure what the "Angies' List" is for finding good doctors but you can start in good ol' Google that we know and love so much! I hope you can find someone good in your area. I pray you feel better soon!
Barbara
Hi Liz, So sorry to hear about the pain that you are suffering. I can understand that because about a week ago I had this pain on my left arm that constantly pulling and hurting my heart. I thought it was a sign of a stroke but the doctor said it was just a muscle pull. I was on pain killer for about a week and it didn't work. However, I started stretching exercise almost two to three times daily and it help Eventually the pain faded away. In fact, I am still doing it now and than. I think try to bear the pain and do some physio, I believe it will help to relieve the pain while waiting to see the doctor on Sept 7. Pls do have a good rest and don't over stress yourself unnecessary. Take care. [Kelsey]
Liz, Answers are good but your new restrictions don't help with your pain. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Barbara
OMG! Just horrible, love. Why wouldn't the specialist request something for you? It is sad. I notice recently you have to basically beg for pain meds these days...not cool. I wish I had something to say to solve the problem, or even knew of an option you could try. I just know what constant pain is like....but not all over my body, I can't imagine! All I can say is I've missed you, you've been in my prayers, and I continue to send you love. Sending more prayers. #Muah
I have noticed swelling in my feet also............time to go to the doctor.. Thanks Liz !!!
Oh Liz, I am so with you on this, in fact I wrote a post today - I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired. All the best my friend :)
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A good doctor with understanding can and will work with you to overcome all of your health needs including pain and suffering. Do some research, I'm sure you will find the right Doctor soon. Good luck and God bless.
As physicians, we need to be strong advocates for our patients, and pain relief is no exception. For emergency physicians, this is even more pertinent, as most of our patients come to us in their most desperate hour. When we question whether to give a patient analgesics, it is important to revisit the risks and benefits, keeping in mind that the best predictor of continued patient pain is patients' verbalization that they are having pain.
Patients should be allowed to make autonomous decisions when appropriate, and the principle of justice guides us to evaluate and alleviate pain in a nonprejudicial and nonjudgmental manner. Our ethical duty to relieve suffering is clear. If we don't provide adequate pain relief, we risk losing our patients' trust, and, ultimately, our patients.