back pain

[Ellipops]

Hi. Over the last few weeks I have developed a very uncomfortable lower backache. I had to increase my Hydroxycarbomide slightly in June from 11 to 12 tablets per week (PV diagnosed 2020) and have become aware that backache is a common side effect. Has anyone else suffered this problem? If so do you have any advice on how to achieve some relief? Many thanks. Lyndon

[hunter5582]

I did not have issues with back pain due to HU when I was on it. I always have issues with back pain due. Ther issue for me is spinal deterioration and overly tense hip flexors. I see a skilled massage therapist on a regular basis. It makes a huge difference in my pain level.

Back pain can occur for a number of reasons including a direct adverse effect from a medication, issues with kidneys, issues with the back, and issues with the hips-knees-legs. It will be important to figure out what exactly is causing the pain. While it is plausible that the rise in HU from 11 to 12 is responsible, suggest not assuming that is what it is. Pain is a warning that something is wrong. Accurately assessing the problem will be key to resolving the problem.

Wishing you success moving forward.

[Ellipops in reply to hunter5582]

thank you Hunter

[saltmarsh]

Totally agree with Hunter. Bloodwork could rule out some things eg kidney issues. I've been on HU (10 pills /week) for over 3 years and no issues currently. I'm 10 years older than you and have occasionally been stupid about lifting things that are too heavy resulting in back pain. However, for several reasons I avoid nsaids and have instead relied on a daily regimen of stretches which, for me, have kept my back happy. I'm pretty active with bike riding, kayaking and, most importantly for backs - walking. Hopefully you can figure this out soon. Good luck

[Ellipops in reply to saltmarsh]

Thank you

[GPKM]

Hello, I have been diagnosed with PV in 2022 and I am on Aspirin and phlebotomy since then. I have been facing severe back pain from 2023 to till date. I had done Lumbar Spine MRI and found that my L5-S1 disc is bulged and making it to compress the nerves. I have done physiotherapy sessions and yoga. Nothing seems to be working well for me. I believe that there is a muscle loss or weakness due to PV and this is causing disc to bulge. There may be many other reasons for the nack pain as well. I would suggest you to not to bend forward and also not to lift anything heavy. It is better for you to meet Orthopedist or a spine doctor as early as possible. To rule out any serious issues, MRI would be best option. Take care and stay blessed.

[Cja1956 in reply to GPKM]

I had an inverted bulging disc about 3 years ago. The pain was unbearable. After 9 days of rest, the pain started to subside. But one thing I learned was to stay hydrated. Water lubricates our entire body and that includes our bones. I also did physical therapy back then and now, every time I feel a similar pain coming on, I do my back exercises at home. I haven’t had an incident since.

I hope you find some relief.

[GPKM in reply to Cja1956]

Thanks for the reply. Happy to know that your back pain is under control with exercises. I am also exercising to strengthen the core muscles. Take care.

[jointpain]

Has your blood pressure increased significantly during this time? My wife's back pain while in hospital was due to a portal vein thrombosis, yet the nurse and doctors discharged her, telling her it was the hospital bed. She was back in hospital within a week after I got the GP out to see her, that was over six years ago and she still suffers from the poor care she had when first admitted for her MF

[Cja1956]

I have had mild back pain for months which seems to be getting worse. I had a ct scan in March of my abdomen/ pelvis for a totally different reason. I noticed it mentioned a hemangioma (a benign cyst) on my spine. It didn’t seem serious so I didn’t do a follow up. Last week I brought the disk to a spine specialist and he said I may have something called a lytic cyst and he’s sending me for an MRI. I have osteosclerosis due to MF and he thinks that’s causing it.