I've been absent from work for about 4 1/2 months, due to a constant pain in my lower left abdomen. I had an mri and colonoscapy. The colonoscapy was clear, but the mri showed multiple Cysts on my ovaries. I'm now waiting for a referral to gynaecology. So far works been really good but now they want to get occupational health involved. I'm not sure what this means for me, I fully intend to return to work when I'm able to do my job without major problems. The work in a supermarket and my job involves alot of heavy lifting,bending and hours on my feet at the moment I can't even hoover a room. I'm having others symptoms including hot sweats,fatigue, difficulty eating and I've had pretty bad Diarrhoea for months. The doctors don't seem to be in a hurry to get me sorted out. What can I do to help myself?
Chronic pain and work : I've been... - Pelvic Pain Suppo...
Chronic pain and work
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Have you been tested for endometriosis? I find a high dose of anti inflammatory helps and pain killers. They don't like prescribing dicolfenic but if you can get it, it helps with the pain. I have menefienic acid 1 week a month usually during menstration and that is really helpful. But you can only take it for 5 days at a time. Tramodal and oxycontin have been helpful with the pain
Occupational Health are on your side. They want to see how you are and support you in your return to work. It's a good idea to talk to them because they can communicate with your work on your behalf. They may even suggest doctors for you to see. They were excellent when I was off last year for a total of 17 weeks. And when I returned to work they put in a phased return with my manager to ensure I didn't hurt myself. Good luck.
Speak up for yourself. Bring a friend with you the next time you see the doctor, so it's harder for them to ignore your problems. Make a written list of things you want addressed. It's easy to forget things when it's finally your time with the doctor. If he doesn't have any answers, insist on a referral to a specialist or another type of doctor who might be able to help. Ask for a copy of your medical records, so you can get a consultation. Ask for a referral to another doctor if you're not getting straight forward answers.