Mental health, struggling with pain

[JuBar19]

I was diagnosed with endometriosis a year ago after having an ultrasound scan. The gynaecologist basically told me there was nothing they could do to help and I should just take painkillers when I need them. For the last few months I have been in constant pain so I have taken ibuprofen and paracetamol regularly, but they don't seem to help and I'm sure it's not healthy to take them all the time. I'm currently trying to finish my PhD but I feel really tired all the time, I have constant rib pains and severe back and hip pains and I feel like my head is in a cloud. I'm really struggling and I'm starting to feel very down. I feel like no one really understands me and when I say I can't do my PhD, people seem to think I'm making up excuses and just need to try harder because I'm being lazy. I can't get an appointment to see the gynaecologist at the moment because of the covid situation. Has anyone been through a similar experience or is in a similar situation? I'm struggling to know what to do.

[Moon_maiden]

Hi

Sorry your going through so much with study as well.

Gynaecologists are doing consultations, even if it’s initially over the phone. I’d talk to GP about a referral to an endo specialist. Have a look who runs your local BSGE centre and ask for a referral to them.

Your GP can help with other painkillers. It’s not ideal and I’m looking at the shorter term and getting rid of meds after surgery and recovery.

You aren’t being lazy, it can be debilitating. It just is hard for others to understand.

Hope you can get something sorted soon 🙂

[angiecxx]

You need to speak to your specialist asap. Tell them that you are in severe pain and what you are taking isn't helping. There are other treatments they can give you to help ease the pain and tiredness etc. Don't be fobbed off my lovely. You need to mention how you are feeling mentally and physically. Take care 💛💛

[Consumer_researcher]

So sorry to hear that you’re struggling 😢 But do persist with the GP and push for laparoscopy if they think you have it. I had my surgery (diagnostic lap) in August and they found endo and successfully removed it. I’d struggled with what I thought was endo for about 4/5 years and doctors tried to put me on the pill and implant - both of which left me with really bad mental health side effects. I got to some really bad points with continuous pain four weeks a month, cramps, fatigue from pain, the lot - but don’t give up and do push for surgery if that’s what you want. I’m now just over two mo this post op and my last period was amazing! No pain other than the days I was bleeding. Much love ❤️