Hello All. Mine is a long story traversing 66 years however I'll attempt to abbreviate without loss of experience. Sepsis 65 years ago, many operations abdo & right knee, possible genetic tendency toward low moods, fibromyalgia and arthritis throughout. Over time this led to long-term antidepressants 20+ yrs, pregabalin, anti-inflamm meds, BP meds and statin use. Then told I had Chronic Kidney Disease!I'm not sure why but from some place of natural intelligence, I felt this demand to withdraw from many medications. I organised a ten min conversation with my fairly new GP to explain my decision. She brooked no argument but advised blood tests for my kidneys. Firstly I tackled the anti-depressants withdrawal over a period of 6 weeks. Then anti-inflammatory drugs over a 3 week period. An immediate improvement in my kidney readings! But God! Have I battled some horrible side effects from withdrawal! And I'd love to find a support group, any ideas?
This isn't a course for everyone so please get support from a health provider you trust and a support group. I'm now planning to get some external support to help me with the panic and pain. Until I can eventually figure out the safest route for pain and mental help. As now I've taken on the fight to come off pregabalin (Lyrica).
I have times of extreme sorrow. Pain that is chronic and harsh. And I've cried more in the past month than I have in the previous 20 years. With mental flights that are seducing me into believing this is all too much to bear.
Do I have a question ❓ Too many! I think my main reason for writing this is to warn people to keep their medications to the minimum. And don't allow overworked health practitioners to make decisions about what meds they think will help you, within a ten minute appointment. The majority of GPs really care, but some have compassion fatigue. Fortunately my new GP works WITH me.
I know I'm not alone in my fight with mental and physical health. My thoughts are with those of you all, but especially those of you who are fearful in amongst what currently feels very unfair.