|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 18, 2015 16:38:18 GMT -5
I am sorry to hear about your pain. I have enjoyed some lucid dreams in the past, not as much anymore too. I remember one particular dream that I was enjoying very well that was lucid but also enjoyable and I tried to drag it out as long as possible....Someone was asking me in the dream(standing shoulder to shoulder) if I remembered and I answered, "Yes, yes, I remember. I remember". (and, it was a GOOD memory!) But, you brought up a good point about the pain could be affecting how deeply you sleep and the REM sleep. It likely does effect my dreaming, because last night I dreamt for the first time in awhile and I took more anti inflammatories that I usually do. I did sleep most of the night without waking up till early morning. So maybe. My dreams were a mish mash of stuff that I couldn't say were even understandable. I was the flight programmer for GW Bush's plane ye gads! lol... I think I'll just go back to not dreaming!!! Also spent a lot of time trying to find my way back to a place I had been but never could find the right road. That's pretty obvious in translation I suppose. Sigh. Thanks for sharing your dreams. I will try my hand at interpreting them: Being the flight programmer for GW Bush's plane may indicate there are things in the government you wish could be different and better, but in a way so much of that is out of the hands of many of us who perhaps do vote, but feel we have little 'say' in how things are done, let alone have little say in changing things for the better. Imagine IF you could 'program' more in how legislation and government is operated...well, maybe you don't really want to go there, because it really is a big gobbled mess, eh? But, you CAN visit it in your dream. Trying to find your way "back" is perhaps about a wish you have to reconnect; either with someone or something...maybe trying to regain that which you feel has passed you by or that you have lost. It could be loss of health or some functioning. Or, maybe just a sense of a loss of that youthful vigor you remember well and enjoyed at one time. Or, it could be desire to reconnect with someone from the past. For myself, I have been yearning for more of the "ENERGY of youth" that I recall well, but just isn't there anymore unless I drink about 5 cups of coffee (joking, sort of). Anyways, I would love to have the vigor again and it's not like I've lost all will to live and enjoy life, it's just a lack of energy that I feel. But, on the other hand, I do enjoy what wisdom I have gained by being 'older'. Can't have it all, I guess. In working with the elderly, I am learning many lessons about trying to make peace with where you have been and where you are right now. Oh what a path it is!
|
|
|
Post by bitterbetty on Feb 18, 2015 17:50:39 GMT -5
Lack of energy seems to be a common problem for people of all ages, really. I remember when I was much younger; still in my 20's, a young mom with two in diapers, one still breast-feeding, and working part time. There were days when my energy was so sapped, I didn't know how I would get through the day! It's all a balancing act all through life. I was glad I didn't have young children at an older age; not sure I could have done that as it was hard enough in my 20's. No naps for me those days. Somehow I just kept going and those sleepless nights dwindled down.
But I understand we can all learn from the elderly. Many elderly are grappling with the idea that they no longer feel they are contributing to society like they once did and wish could still do. Some seem to struggle with this more than others. My mother made a comment last month that got me to thinking. She said, "I don't feel like I'm worth much these days." (she is semi-retired). Now, it disturbed me a little bit to here her say that, but it also didn't surprise me too much either as I think a lot of elderly people feel that way. I really didn't know what to say to her. I'd never heard her talk like that before. But, ever since my dad died I have sensed that she somehow feels less worthwhile. I just try to encourage her as much as I can and remind her that she is still needed, (very much so)! But, wouldn't that feel like an icky feeling? To feel like you are not worth much?
|
|
|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 18, 2015 18:12:33 GMT -5
Lack of energy seems to be a common problem for people of all ages, really. I remember when I was much younger; still in my 20's, a young mom with two in diapers, one still breast-feeding, and working part time. There were days when my energy was so sapped, I didn't know how I would get through the day! It's all a balancing act all through life. I was glad I didn't have young children at an older age; not sure I could have done that as it was hard enough in my 20's. No naps for me those days. Somehow I just kept going and those sleepless nights dwindled down. But I understand we can all learn from the elderly. Many elderly are grappling with the idea that they no longer feel they are contributing to society like they once did and wish could still do. Some seem to struggle with this more than others. My mother made a comment last month that got me to thinking. She said, "I don't feel like I'm worth much these days." (she is semi-retired). Now, it disturbed me a little bit to here her say that, but it also didn't surprise me too much either as I think a lot of elderly people feel that way. I really didn't know what to say to her. I'd never heard her talk like that before. But, ever since my dad died I have sensed that she somehow feels less worthwhile. I just try to encourage her as much as I can and remind her that she is still needed, (very much so)! But, wouldn't that feel like an icky feeling? To feel like you are not worth much? Yes, that would be an icky feeling...so what's the answer? We can learn from some examples of folks who seem to keep their spirits up and thriving into their elderly years. I think the enemy of the soul would love for us to buy into the concept that we are not worth much. It's defeatist thinking and could make a person wish to give up. It could also harden them in that they begin to feel, "What's the point?", so they become hard and start to go through life like a cold stone instead of a living, breathing, vibrant vessel. Another thought I had was this: Some elderly continue to enjoy life despite being elderly and have seemed to make peace with doing LESS. I know for myself, there are times when I feel life is too busy and too demanding and wish that 'things' could just slow down a little bit so I could breathe a sigh of relief and more quietness. Rest more. I guess one should be careful what they wish for...
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 18, 2015 19:11:11 GMT -5
Maybe I programmed his flight to get him the heck out of here because when I tried to go back to work, I couldn't find the right road. So adios amigo to dear gwb.
I'm sure I'm wishing I could get back to something, probably a pain free body. I pretty much accepted in the dream that I couldn't find the path back so I suppose that's good.
|
|
|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 18, 2015 20:12:54 GMT -5
Maybe I programmed his flight to get him the heck out of here because when I tried to go back to work, I couldn't find the right road. So adios amigo to dear gwb. I'm sure I'm wishing I could get back to something, probably a pain free body. I pretty much accepted in the dream that I couldn't find the path back so I suppose that's good. A pain free body. Don't think that's going to happen (totally) for me either. I usually take Ibuprofen and Tylenol each night, or my back gets to hurting so much in bed it disrupts my sleep. I do alright with the Ibu's and Ty's. My spousal unit thinks I'm addicted to the stuff, but I beg to differ on that. I don't think there is anything wrong with taking that nightly dose and it usually helps me sleep better/sounder. Sleep is a real big deal with me. Perhaps because there have been periods of my life in which I functioned in a sleep-deprived state and it was not fun.
|
|
|
Post by bitterbetty on Feb 18, 2015 20:18:33 GMT -5
Okay, now it's time for me to get on my soapbox; please bear with me. It irks me to no end when people judge other people who live in pain and take something for it. It irks me when family members want to withdraw (sometimes too rapidly) pain from the elderly because they are so god-awful worried that grandma or or grandpa might become 'addicted' (in what little time they have left to live). Please....!! I also irks me when people judge others for not going 'natural' in childbirth. God created us humans with brains to think and do whatever possible to alleviate pain. As a long time nurse it was my job to address pain and if I didn't do that I had no business being a nurse!! It also irks me when doctors and nurses judge people and label people who have pain issues and seek to alleviate their pain. In my book everyone has a right to seek whatever pain relief they need. The pain is what they are experiencing and unless you walk in their shoes you do not know how it feels for them.
There, that's enough of my soapbox today.
Snow, I am sorry for your pain. Actually, I have empathy as well.
|
|
|
Post by dmmichgood on Feb 18, 2015 20:45:53 GMT -5
Okay, now it's time for me to get on my soapbox; please bear with me. It irks me to no end when people judge other people who live in pain and take something for it. It irks me when family members want to withdraw (sometimes too rapidly) pain from the elderly because they are so god-awful worried that grandma or or grandpa might become 'addicted' (in what little time they have left to live).
Please....!! I also irks me when people judge others for not going 'natural' in childbirth.
God created us humans with brains to think and do whatever possible to alleviate pain. As a long time nurse it was my job to address pain and if I didn't do that I had no business being a nurse!! It also irks me when doctors and nurses judge people and label people who have pain issues and seek to alleviate their pain. In my book everyone has a right to seek whatever pain relief they need. The pain is what they are experiencing and unless you walk in their shoes you do not know how it feels for them.
There, that's enough of my soapbox today. Snow, I am sorry for your pain. Actually, I have empathy as well. Hear! Hear!
As a retired nurse I'll take your place on the soapbox!
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 18, 2015 20:54:54 GMT -5
Maybe I programmed his flight to get him the heck out of here because when I tried to go back to work, I couldn't find the right road. So adios amigo to dear gwb. I'm sure I'm wishing I could get back to something, probably a pain free body. I pretty much accepted in the dream that I couldn't find the path back so I suppose that's good. A pain free body. Don't think that's going to happen (totally) for me either. I usually take Ibuprofen and Tylenol each night, or my back gets to hurting so much in bed it disrupts my sleep. I do alright with the Ibu's and Ty's. My spousal unit thinks I'm addicted to the stuff, but I beg to differ on that. I don't think there is anything wrong with taking that nightly dose and it usually helps me sleep better/sounder. Sleep is a real big deal with me. Perhaps because there have been periods of my life in which I functioned in a sleep-deprived state and it was not fun. I think any rational person would do what needed to be done to achieve enough pain control to have some quality of life. I have had to alter my discomfort at taking full time meds to achieve this. Fought it for a long time and all the time my quality of life just got worse and worse. I still fight it and have placed boundaries on how much I will take but I have a feeling that is about to change once again. For me it is important to be able to live life enough to enjoy it. Since I have 24/7 pain I have no choice. My last MRI has confirmed that I now have a total of 8 herniated discs and all of them are pressing on nerves. 4 in the lumbar and 4 in the neck. So I do understand what you mean about needing to take something to have a good sleep. I have been told that I am on meds for life so I don't worry like I used to about being addicted. I am addicted physiologically, and there is no escape from that. It's not something I can argue with anymore. So if you need something to alleviate the pain in order to sleep, I wouldn't be afraid to do that, but you might want to make sure that what you are taking isn't an issue for further health issues. I was taken off Ibuprofen because the amount I needed to take the edge off the pain was too much and they were afraid of stomach hemorrhage. Also, long term Tylenol was an issue for my liver. Since the injury happened at 43 years of age, there was a lot to think about in that regard because of the amount of years I had left to live, presumably. So do what you need to do, just make sure it's won't make it worse, or at least try to control that as much as you can.
|
|
|
Post by dmmichgood on Feb 18, 2015 21:07:20 GMT -5
A pain free body. Don't think that's going to happen (totally) for me either. I usually take Ibuprofen and Tylenol each night, or my back gets to hurting so much in bed it disrupts my sleep. I do alright with the Ibu's and Ty's. My spousal unit thinks I'm addicted to the stuff, but I beg to differ on that. I don't think there is anything wrong with taking that nightly dose and it usually helps me sleep better/sounder. Sleep is a real big deal with me. Perhaps because there have been periods of my life in which I functioned in a sleep-deprived state and it was not fun. I also take some Ibuprofen, Tylenol or Aspirin at night as well as a "pain patch" (lidocaine,) on my back that my doctor orders + a heating pad.
I can do without any of them, therefore I'm NOT "addicted," however, I sleep a lot better with them.
Any one with chronic pain might want to ask their doctor about such patches, ( Lidocaine 5% about 4" x 6") They fit nicely on the pain areas on the back, knee etc.
|
|
|
Post by dmmichgood on Feb 18, 2015 21:18:23 GMT -5
A pain free body. Don't think that's going to happen (totally) for me either. I usually take Ibuprofen and Tylenol each night, or my back gets to hurting so much in bed it disrupts my sleep. I do alright with the Ibu's and Ty's. My spousal unit thinks I'm addicted to the stuff, but I beg to differ on that. I don't think there is anything wrong with taking that nightly dose and it usually helps me sleep better/sounder. Sleep is a real big deal with me. Perhaps because there have been periods of my life in which I functioned in a sleep-deprived state and it was not fun. I think any rational person would do what needed to be done to achieve enough pain control to have some quality of life. I have had to alter my discomfort at taking full time meds to achieve this. Fought it for a long time and all the time my quality of life just got worse and worse. I still fight it and have placed boundaries on how much I will take but I have a feeling that is about to change once again. For me it is important to be able to live life enough to enjoy it. Since I have 24/7 pain I have no choice. My last MRI has confirmed that I now have a total of 8 herniated discs and all of them are pressing on nerves. 4 in the lumbar and 4 in the neck. So I do understand what you mean about needing to take something to have a good sleep. I have been told that I am on meds for life so I don't worry like I used to about being addicted. I am addicted physiologically, and there is no escape from that. It's not something I can argue with anymore. So if you need something to alleviate the pain in order to sleep, I wouldn't be afraid to do that, but you might want to make sure that what you are taking isn't an issue for further health issues. I was taken off Ibuprofen because the amount I needed to take the edge off the pain was too much and they were afraid of stomach hemorrhage. Also, long term Tylenol was an issue for my liver. Since the injury happened at 43 years of age, there was a lot to think about in that regard because of the amount of years I had left to live, presumably. So do what you need to do, just make sure it's won't make it worse, or at least try to control that as much as you can. Thanks for those warnings, Snow.
As a nurse I should have stated those.
I don't worry a lot about side effects at my age but when you are younger you should take them into consideration.
My doctor takes labs tests often to make sure kidney, liver etc. are all right.
Another advantage of Lidocaine patches is because they help limit the number of pain meds. you have to take.
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 18, 2015 21:27:33 GMT -5
Okay, now it's time for me to get on my soapbox; please bear with me. It irks me to no end when people judge other people who live in pain and take something for it. It irks me when family members want to withdraw (sometimes too rapidly) pain from the elderly because they are so god-awful worried that grandma or or grandpa might become 'addicted' (in what little time they have left to live). Please....!! I also irks me when people judge others for not going 'natural' in childbirth. God created us humans with brains to think and do whatever possible to alleviate pain. As a long time nurse it was my job to address pain and if I didn't do that I had no business being a nurse!! It also irks me when doctors and nurses judge people and label people who have pain issues and seek to alleviate their pain. In my book everyone has a right to seek whatever pain relief they need. The pain is what they are experiencing and unless you walk in their shoes you do not know how it feels for them. There, that's enough of my soapbox today. Snow, I am sorry for your pain. Actually, I have empathy as well. Thanks bitterbetty. I have the same soapbox as you. I just don't understand the belief it's good to suffer in silence and that it somehow makes you a better person than someone who takes something to make their lives more comfortable.
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 18, 2015 22:33:08 GMT -5
I think any rational person would do what needed to be done to achieve enough pain control to have some quality of life. I have had to alter my discomfort at taking full time meds to achieve this. Fought it for a long time and all the time my quality of life just got worse and worse. I still fight it and have placed boundaries on how much I will take but I have a feeling that is about to change once again. For me it is important to be able to live life enough to enjoy it. Since I have 24/7 pain I have no choice. My last MRI has confirmed that I now have a total of 8 herniated discs and all of them are pressing on nerves. 4 in the lumbar and 4 in the neck. So I do understand what you mean about needing to take something to have a good sleep. I have been told that I am on meds for life so I don't worry like I used to about being addicted. I am addicted physiologically, and there is no escape from that. It's not something I can argue with anymore. So if you need something to alleviate the pain in order to sleep, I wouldn't be afraid to do that, but you might want to make sure that what you are taking isn't an issue for further health issues. I was taken off Ibuprofen because the amount I needed to take the edge off the pain was too much and they were afraid of stomach hemorrhage. Also, long term Tylenol was an issue for my liver. Since the injury happened at 43 years of age, there was a lot to think about in that regard because of the amount of years I had left to live, presumably. So do what you need to do, just make sure it's won't make it worse, or at least try to control that as much as you can. Thanks for those warnings, Snow.
As a nurse I should have stated those.
I don't worry a lot about side effects at my age but when you are younger you should take them into consideration.
My doctor takes labs tests often to make sure kidney, liver etc. are all right.
Another advantage of Lidocaine patches is because they help limit the number of pain meds. you have to take.
Yes, if the doctor is up on things they will do periodic tests to make sure your liver or kidneys are not being damaged. I had a bleeding ulcer when I was 13 so they are pretty careful about what they let me take. Still the meds that I am on can do kidney damage so that needs to be checked from time to time. There is nothing that seems to be totally risk free, just decreasing the risk if you can. I was tried on so many different pain patches and nerve pain drugs, but the patches made me nauseated all the time, even on the lowest levels. I wish I could have used them though because the constant medication release better managed my pain. No fun being sick all the time though. I was also put on Cimbalta used for nerve pain in diabetics, worked for awhile, but then nothing much. That was hell coming off of. I don't do well on meds so it's a challenge.
|
|
|
Post by dmmichgood on Feb 19, 2015 1:33:16 GMT -5
Thanks for those warnings, Snow.
As a nurse I should have stated those.
I don't worry a lot about side effects at my age but when you are younger you should take them into consideration.
My doctor takes labs tests often to make sure kidney, liver etc. are all right.
Another advantage of Lidocaine patches is because they help limit the number of pain meds. you have to take.
Yes, if the doctor is up on things they will do periodic tests to make sure your liver or kidneys are not being damaged. I had a bleeding ulcer when I was 13 so they are pretty careful about what they let me take. Still the meds that I am on can do kidney damage so that needs to be checked from time to time. There is nothing that seems to be totally risk free, just decreasing the risk if you can. I was tried on so many different pain patches and nerve pain drugs, but the patches made me nauseated all the time, even on the lowest levels. I wish I could have used them though because the constant medication release better managed my pain. No fun being sick all the time though. I was also put on Cimbalta used for nerve pain in diabetics, worked for awhile, but then nothing much. That was hell coming off of. I don't do well on meds so it's a challenge. Thanks for those warnings, Snow.
As a nurse I should have stated those.
I don't worry a lot about side effects at my age but when you are younger you should take them into consideration.
My doctor takes labs tests often to make sure kidney, liver etc. are all right.
Another advantage of Lidocaine patches is because they help limit the number of pain meds. you have to take.
Yes, if the doctor is up on things they will do periodic tests to make sure your liver or kidneys are not being damaged. I had a bleeding ulcer when I was 13 so they are pretty careful about what they let me take. Still the meds that I am on can do kidney damage so that needs to be checked from time to time. There is nothing that seems to be totally risk free, just decreasing the risk if you can. I was tried on so many different pain patches and nerve pain drugs, but the patches made me nauseated all the time, even on the lowest levels. I wish I could have used them though because the constant medication release better managed my pain. No fun being sick all the time though. I was also put on Cimbalta used for nerve pain in diabetics, worked for awhile, but then nothing much. That was hell coming off of. I don't do well on meds so it's a challenge. I think I know the kind of pain patch you mean. The pain patch I have, Lidocaine, is for pain only in the area to which it is applied.
In fact since it is only a topical analgesic, one might think that it wouldn't help deeper pain, but it does seem to.
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 19, 2015 12:23:48 GMT -5
I have nerve pain in several areas due to the herniation and a lot of muscle pain due to inflammation, so mine is pretty widespread. I would be one big patchwork of patches to try and address localized pain. I need to get in again soon to see about a new development within the last week. Don't know if there is anything more they can do but things have escalated. I am now very dizzy when I go to lay down and when I bend over and I just assume it's the neck because I can't lie down anymore without fighting to find a position that doesn't make my right arm and hand lose feeling and be painful (which seems like a contradiction). So I know something new is happening and it's a bit scary at the moment. I am losing so much ability to feel, grasp etc with my right hand every day. I really don't want to have surgery on my neck but I may have no choice.
|
|
|
Post by rational on Feb 19, 2015 14:57:32 GMT -5
I can do without any of them, therefore I'm NOT "addicted," however, I sleep a lot better with them. Not a great measure of addiction. It is often said "I can quit anytime I want to." [/b][/font][/quote]What sort of pain is being managed? I don't see how it could help with something like sciatica.
|
|
|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 19, 2015 18:26:31 GMT -5
Okay, now it's time for me to get on my soapbox; please bear with me. It irks me to no end when people judge other people who live in pain and take something for it. It irks me when family members want to withdraw (sometimes too rapidly) pain from the elderly because they are so god-awful worried that grandma or or grandpa might become 'addicted' (in what little time they have left to live). Please....!! I also irks me when people judge others for not going 'natural' in childbirth. God created us humans with brains to think and do whatever possible to alleviate pain. As a long time nurse it was my job to address pain and if I didn't do that I had no business being a nurse!! It also irks me when doctors and nurses judge people and label people who have pain issues and seek to alleviate their pain. In my book everyone has a right to seek whatever pain relief they need. The pain is what they are experiencing and unless you walk in their shoes you do not know how it feels for them. There, that's enough of my soapbox today. Snow, I am sorry for your pain. Actually, I have empathy as well. Thanks bitterbetty. I have the same soapbox as you. I just don't understand the belief it's good to suffer in silence and that it somehow makes you a better person than someone who takes something to make their lives more comfortable. I find doctors and nurses who are non-judgmental to be a breath of fresh air.
|
|
|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 19, 2015 18:56:12 GMT -5
Have you ever become 'hardened'? (within your heart)? I have. What's making me write about this today is a rather graphic and disturbing dream I had last night about someone I have cared for for a number of years. I have always thought very highly of this person; maybe too highly... In my dream it was like a 'truth' was being revealed about him that inside he was made of concrete. Just this hard concrete. It was wierd. Why would I dream this and what is it a reflection of? His exterior appeared normal. But when I found out the truth of being made of concrete on the inside I was very disappointed. Alas, it was just a dream, or was it? I don't know. Is this person really hardened like that of being made of concrete in the innermost part? I don't know. We've been out of contact. Maybe it's a different hardness, maybe he's going through a hard time and might need your help? The only way to find out is to talk to him. You know, the more I think about this the more I think you are hitting close to the truth! In my dream, this man didn't seem very happy and not content with the state of his 'concrete' middle self. I don't know if that makes a lick of sense or not, but anyhow, I think maybe there is grief going on in his life; more right now than usual. Perhaps he needs some warmth, comfort and a little cheer in his life right now. I still care for him; never stopped, but like I say, we have been out of contact and I have no idea how to contact him.
|
|
|
Post by bitterbetty on Feb 19, 2015 19:10:19 GMT -5
Thanks bitterbetty. I have the same soapbox as you. I just don't understand the belief it's good to suffer in silence and that it somehow makes you a better person than someone who takes something to make their lives more comfortable. I find doctors and nurses who are non-judgmental to be a breath of fresh air. I find that to be refreshing too. I don't judge people even if they are addicted. In my mind, addiction can happen, sure. But I don't think anyone sets out to be an 'addict'. Are there people out there that are 'drug seekers'? Sure. But doctors and nurses still need to refrain from judging and condemning and just try to be a help. I know there are a lot of providers who to not wish to feed someone's addiction and enable a bad habit. But, still, even if they truly ARE a drug addict, the underlying sentiment should one of trying to help the person the best way possible. I could go on and on and on about this issue. As a long time nurse I've given LOTS and LOTS of drugs over the years. I just try to put myself in the other person's place and not judge them. They have a right to seek pain relief. They have a right to receive whatever pain relief they possibly can. If that means narcs to relieve the pain, then at times that is the ONLY thing that seems to help them. Many of them are not trying to get high off the drug, but just trying to feel better and go about their lives more comfortably. Some of the younger nurses seem to be more judgmental and almost paranoid in just freely medicating people as needed/as ordered. I have always tended to be liberal in giving pain meds. That's just me.... Another 'beef' I have about the pain med thing is when providers (sometimes with nurse's input) take the frail elderly off of pain meds without them being on board with it and sometimes they do it WAY too fast and put this little frail person in acute withdrawl. GRRRRRRRR. That just makes me want to clench my teeth and I usually go into some sort of exclamation. When I used to work in the NICU, weaning babies off of narcs was a long, slow, CAUTIOUS process. Why? Because no one and I mean NO ONE wanted to put any baby into acute (opiate) withdrawl. That's bad news and bad care. Great care was taken to wean these babies so that they did not suffer in the process. Is a 90 year old grandma not also worthy of such great care and caution? ! ? !
|
|
|
Post by maryhig on Feb 19, 2015 19:18:53 GMT -5
Maybe it's a different hardness, maybe he's going through a hard time and might need your help? The only way to find out is to talk to him. You know, the more I think about this the more I think you are hitting close to the truth! In my dream, this man didn't seem very happy and not content with the state of his 'concrete' middle self. I don't know if that makes a lick of sense or not, but anyhow, I think maybe there is grief going on in his life; more right now than usual. Perhaps he needs some warmth, comfort and a little cheer in his life right now. I still care for him; never stopped, but like I say, we have been out of contact and I have no idea how to contact him. Ah! Its such a shame you have no contact with him. If you believe in God maybe you can pray to him and ask him if your friend needs help then can he show you a way to contact him. It seems to be on your mind a lot, I really hope you find a way to contact him and that he is alright. Maybe it will lift his spririts if he hears from you. First step maybe could be to do a quick search on Google. It is amazing what you can find on there isn't it :-). Good luck!
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 19, 2015 19:35:23 GMT -5
Rational, I haven't found anything that really touches nerve pain.
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 19, 2015 19:42:25 GMT -5
I find doctors and nurses who are non-judgmental to be a breath of fresh air. I find that to be refreshing too. I don't judge people even if they are addicted. In my mind, addiction can happen, sure. But I don't think anyone sets out to be an 'addict'. Are there people out there that are 'drug seekers'? Sure. But doctors and nurses still need to refrain from judging and condemning and just try to be a help. I know there are a lot of providers who to not wish to feed someone's addiction and enable a bad habit. But, still, even if they truly ARE a drug addict, the underlying sentiment should one of trying to help the person the best way possible. I could go on and on and on about this issue. As a long time nurse I've given LOTS and LOTS of drugs over the years. I just try to put myself in the other person's place and not judge them. They have a right to seek pain relief. They have a right to receive whatever pain relief they possibly can. If that means narcs to relieve the pain, then at times that is the ONLY thing that seems to help them. Many of them are not trying to get high off the drug, but just trying to feel better and go about their lives more comfortably. Some of the younger nurses seem to be more judgmental and almost paranoid in just freely medicating people as needed/as ordered. I have always tended to be liberal in giving pain meds. That's just me.... Another 'beef' I have about the pain med thing is when providers (sometimes with nurse's input) take the frail elderly off of pain meds without them being on board with it and sometimes they do it WAY too fast and put this little frail person in acute withdrawl. GRRRRRRRR. That just makes me want to clench my teeth and I usually go into some sort of exclamation. When I used to work in the NICU, weaning babies off of narcs was a long, slow, CAUTIOUS process. Why? Because no one and I mean NO ONE wanted to put any baby into acute (opiate) withdrawl. That's bad news and bad care. Great care was taken to wean these babies so that they did not suffer in the process. Is a 90 year old grandma not also worthy of such great care and caution? ! ? ! They tried to do this with an aunt of mine that is in her late 80's. She had been on a drug for years to help her sleep and anxiety and then a younger doctor took over her care in a nursing home and took her off them because they didn't want her to be dependent on them. She was already dependent on them, had been for years and in her late 80's just leave her be. They were working, not really doing her any harm. Her children thankfully stepped in and told the doctor to leave her on them.
|
|
|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 19, 2015 21:22:48 GMT -5
You know, the more I think about this the more I think you are hitting close to the truth! In my dream, this man didn't seem very happy and not content with the state of his 'concrete' middle self. I don't know if that makes a lick of sense or not, but anyhow, I think maybe there is grief going on in his life; more right now than usual. Perhaps he needs some warmth, comfort and a little cheer in his life right now. I still care for him; never stopped, but like I say, we have been out of contact and I have no idea how to contact him. Ah! Its such a shame you have no contact with him. If you believe in God maybe you can pray to him and ask him if your friend needs help then can he show you a way to contact him. It seems to be on your mind a lot, I really hope you find a way to contact him and that he is alright. Maybe it will lift his spririts if he hears from you. First step maybe could be to do a quick search on Google. It is amazing what you can find on there isn't it :-). Good luck! Hmmm. Would you recommend that I 'pray' about this first?
|
|
|
Post by kurtzphil69 on Feb 19, 2015 21:24:24 GMT -5
I find that to be refreshing too. I don't judge people even if they are addicted. In my mind, addiction can happen, sure. But I don't think anyone sets out to be an 'addict'. Are there people out there that are 'drug seekers'? Sure. But doctors and nurses still need to refrain from judging and condemning and just try to be a help. I know there are a lot of providers who to not wish to feed someone's addiction and enable a bad habit. But, still, even if they truly ARE a drug addict, the underlying sentiment should one of trying to help the person the best way possible. I could go on and on and on about this issue. As a long time nurse I've given LOTS and LOTS of drugs over the years. I just try to put myself in the other person's place and not judge them. They have a right to seek pain relief. They have a right to receive whatever pain relief they possibly can. If that means narcs to relieve the pain, then at times that is the ONLY thing that seems to help them. Many of them are not trying to get high off the drug, but just trying to feel better and go about their lives more comfortably. Some of the younger nurses seem to be more judgmental and almost paranoid in just freely medicating people as needed/as ordered. I have always tended to be liberal in giving pain meds. That's just me.... Another 'beef' I have about the pain med thing is when providers (sometimes with nurse's input) take the frail elderly off of pain meds without them being on board with it and sometimes they do it WAY too fast and put this little frail person in acute withdrawl. GRRRRRRRR. That just makes me want to clench my teeth and I usually go into some sort of exclamation. When I used to work in the NICU, weaning babies off of narcs was a long, slow, CAUTIOUS process. Why? Because no one and I mean NO ONE wanted to put any baby into acute (opiate) withdrawl. That's bad news and bad care. Great care was taken to wean these babies so that they did not suffer in the process. Is a 90 year old grandma not also worthy of such great care and caution? ! ? ! They tried to do this with an aunt of mine that is in her late 80's. She had been on a drug for years to help her sleep and anxiety and then a younger doctor took over her care in a nursing home and took her off them because they didn't want her to be dependent on them. She was already dependent on them, had been for years and in her late 80's just leave her be. They were working, not really doing her any harm. Her children thankfully stepped in and told the doctor to leave her on them. Good for the children to step up and speak up for their mother. The elderly can so vulnerable and people can easily take advantage of them!
|
|
|
Post by dmmichgood on Feb 20, 2015 2:56:45 GMT -5
I can do without any of them, therefore I'm NOT "addicted," however, I sleep a lot better with them. Not a great measure of addiction. It is often said "I can quit anytime I want to." What sort of pain is being managed? I don't see how it could help with something like sciatica. [/quote] Well, last night I slept very well with only the pain patch, -no other pain meds.
I am going to go cold turkey & take nothing tonight, -I'll let you know tomorrow how I do.
I'm not sure if it would help for severe sciatica pain, however, I had hip pain where I couldn't get to sleep.
After many doctors & tests I went to a older neurologist who traced it using a machine (EMG) I'd seen used when I was a young nurse.
My first thought was, "Ha, he's not going to find the cause! " After all I had had all the newer tests that couldn't fine the cause.
So, guess what? He did find the source and it wasn't not all in my hip, but from my spine. He had traced about midway up my leg, which didn't hurt in that spot at all, nor in my back.
Now, I'm almost sure that those patches would not be a lot of help for severe pain, but they are another source that can reduce the amount of pain medication.
|
|
|
Post by rational on Feb 20, 2015 7:32:14 GMT -5
So, guess what? He did find the source and it wasn't not all in my hip, but from my spine. He had traced about midway up my leg, which didn't hurt in that spot at all, nor in my back. This was my point. Damage to the spine can cause pain that is perceived as being, for example, in the hip. Applying a local treatment to the hip would not be of much use since the cause is in the spinal column.
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 20, 2015 12:09:06 GMT -5
It might help Rational, even though the pain is caused by the back. If the nerve is causing spasms or inflammation in the hip, which it certainly can, it makes sense an anti inflammatory over the area of pain would help ease it some. Of course your not addressing the source, but you might be able to lessen the effects some.
|
|
|
Post by rational on Feb 20, 2015 12:21:23 GMT -5
It might help Rational, even though the pain is caused by the back. If the nerve is causing spasms or inflammation in the hip, which it certainly can, it makes sense an anti inflammatory over the area of pain would help ease it some. Of course your not addressing the source, but you might be able to lessen the effects some. In many cases the nerve is not causing the muscle to do anything. For example, amputees often experience phantom pain - perhaps what feels like a knife cutting into their foot. There is actually nothing causing the pain except that the nerve continues to stimulate the brain. In the case of pain caused by problems in the spinal column the pain is only due to the fact that the nerve is stimulating the brain and the brain believes that there is injury/pain in some part of the body. In the case of phantom pain it doesn't even matter is that body part is missing.
|
|
|
Post by snow on Feb 20, 2015 12:36:49 GMT -5
It might help Rational, even though the pain is caused by the back. If the nerve is causing spasms or inflammation in the hip, which it certainly can, it makes sense an anti inflammatory over the area of pain would help ease it some. Of course your not addressing the source, but you might be able to lessen the effects some. In many cases the nerve is not causing the muscle to do anything. For example, amputees often experience phantom pain - perhaps what feels like a knife cutting into their foot. There is actually nothing causing the pain except that the nerve continues to stimulate the brain. In the case of pain caused by problems in the spinal column the pain is only due to the fact that the nerve is stimulating the brain and the brain believes that there is injury/pain in some part of the body. In the case of phantom pain it doesn't even matter is that body part is missing. That's true some of the time. In my case the constant 'knife' pain when the nerve jolts the muscle, initially weakens the muscle but also puts it into spasm. If the nerve has been firing often throughout the day, I can get an area, sometimes the size of a fist, that is as hard as a rock. If I use a muscle relaxer along with an anti inflammatory I can sometimes get it under control. I first have to get the nerve to settle down some how, but the other does help a little. Mostly I find nothing works well. Stretches help some too. You tend to use everything you can to get it under some semblance of control. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I'm finding the later is my reality lately.
|
|