What to take for pain? I am on 60mg codeine and 2x500mg paracetamol 4 times a day. Struggling to get to grips with the level of pain.

[superannie]

I find it really hard to make beds, vacuum, any kind of housework. Just had the first cataract removed and was so shocked to see the state of my home! Just starting to get it under control. I know I will suffer more while getting it done but needs must. It is just that every time I come on this site, it seems that everyone else is taking a lot more drugs and higher doses and still not getting pain relief. I really can't see the point of going down that road?

I cancelled my appointment at the pain clinic for a few reasons. First the bus journey is a 90min trip each way. Not pleasant on the back. After doing some research into what they offer, I just feel that I am not going to benefit from going. Hope I haven't made a big mistake? We shall see. Any suggestions on the meds will be welcome. Have a good evening. Ann

[teadrinker]

Ann, is there any chance you can get your pain clinic appointment back? I know a 90 minute trip is a big deal, but don't write them off. I go to the pain clinic regularly and don't actually take medication for pain (other than the odd codeine or ibuprofen during a flare up). They have, over several years tried many other things, including a detailed assessment of what the problem was (admittedly it took a long time for them to work it out, but we got there eventually), and they also tried me with acupuncture, a TENS machine and nerve blocks, and massage. They are currently giving me botox injections which are very helpful.

As the consultant said to me at my last visit, medication doesn't work for everyone - it doesn't do much for me.

I also think there's more to pain management than medication. A little bit of exercise - which includes housework (!) will help keep you moving. Pain clinics can also advise on this sort of thing. I've got to admit that when I first got referred I wasn't that keen as I thought all they'd do was prescribe pills.

At the moment, my house is also a tip and I don't have the excuse of a cataract!

[nedd]

Agree with teadrinker. get it back even if you have to beg. See if you can get someone to take you or could you get one of those nice volunteers from the gp surgery to take you. I agree journey is daunting and You may find the whole thing a waste of valuable energy but you may not. The best thing they did for me was refer me to pain management course.

Oh gawd as I was typing this I just spotted a flea on my hand. Have now drowned the bugger. That will be Whippet then.

[superannie]

Thanks for your advise. I will definitely reconsider. I am able to rebook. Also my brother phoned tonight and is offering to come and give the place a lick of paint! We only have a very small bungalow. I find smaller places harder to keep clean. I had a big house in South Africa and it was much easier. Mind you I was super fit then. So things are looking up. I would like to go down the no medication path if I can. Ann

[earthwitch]

My pain clinic appointments are an hour and a half travel each way, and a whole day away from home, but they are well worth it. I'd encourage you to make another appointment and try to keep it.

[Bananas5]

I am probably the Pain clinic's number one fanand can never speak highly enough of the work they do.

A visit to them is not just about taking meds. Ot is about Pain Management. One thing they always talk about is 'pacing' yourself. As a CP sufferer you will no longer be abe to do the things in the same way as before. Housework being one for the ladies. Advice - do one room if you can manages it and another the next day. if you don't feel able then don't. Never push yourself and to stop before pain gets too bad. Far easier to treat mild to moderate pain than more serious pain.

Good lick and go alonng with an open mide.

Pat x

[welshnut]

Please try and get your pain clinic appointment back they can be a life saver.

As for the state of the house, I used to get really depressed seeing the mess and not being physically able to cope with cleaning. I readjusted my budget and now pay a cleaner 20 pounds a week to come and clean for two hours a week. She washes floors and hoovers, changes my bed and dusts the shelves and decobwebs. It means I have to cut back on treats but I would not swap her for anything in the world she has transformed my well being and self worth. When she leaves there is a colgate ring of confidence about the place and it feels sooooooo good.

nutty

[Calceolaria]

Annie, the Pain Management Programme I attended in Salford was over an hours drive. For that reason, I was accommodated at a Premier Inn along with three others, all of whom lived at a distance. The course leaders recognised that such daily journeys are counterproductive to the intensity of the programme. Pain Clinics are not the same. I also take paracetamol only or chewable Disprin Direct as my body will not tolerate any of the other horrible stuff. I am in pain most of the time. I was horrified by what others on the programme were taking and still not achieving more that @ 30% pain relief. The Pain Management Consultant/Anaesthetist confirmed that this was the usual finding and helped participants to readjust their intake. If the expert medics say the drugs don't work....! Since the programme, I am fitter, stronger, with more vitality and a better understanding of pain management.

[superannie]

Thanks everyone for all the comments. Giving me loads of food for thought! Appreciated. Ann

[louiseamos]

Hi superannie...sounds like me..I've been told by spine..and doctor.and physio..not to do to much..house work..but when got a family easy said then done..I hurt my back at work nearly 8 year ago..started on codeniene..file stuff got Sharpe belly pains and didn't help with my back pain..thing is too it depends what pain you have..they have had me on all sorts..patches ...liquid.. now on morpine from my last operation that made me worse..was due to go for a re do of my discs Monday..but I've but on hold...good doctor who understands is best bet..I've had doctors who don't like giving you anything and say things like just go back to work will take mind off it..look were I've ended up now..I now worry going to end up with tummy props..with all meds..I've been told need meds for nerve..and bones..not morpine??wish was a magic pill xlou

[superannie in reply to louiseamos]

Hi, yes a magic pill would be perfect!

[Hidden]

Try the pharmacist, they might be able to rejig your meds into a better combination without increasing them.

I made a sign for my kitchen because my house is rarely showroom standard.

"if you think the house needs a tidy up, dust, hoover or floors mopped, everythings in the cupboard. Any help much appreciated."

Had loads of takers.

[Jessen]

I would guess that you are taking either Zappain or Tylex. The problem with phosphate of codeine is quite good for a few weeks then your body starts metabolise it very quickly. The problem for your doctor is that this medication is very addictive and will be reluctant to stop it. However, if your pain is not properly controlled you may need something added to your pain management.