Hi Hopeful

I experience that same million bees sensation you describe, constantly. For the most part it's extremely unpleasant but just bareable. Sometimes however, it's as though the bees unrelenting stings just push me over the edge, driving me crazy. During those times the pain seems to rise. Whether or not there is actually more pain, or whether it just feels that way due to my being 'over it' is hard to tell. I just know that I get angry at the medical world for not having found better pain relief.

In this day and age surely nobody with access to medical care should be expected to live in constant pain. And that is precisely what it is, and its unacceptable! If I'm not angry I'm feeling all sorry for myself.

During these times I often reach for an extra Tramadol twice daily for a few days to re-boost my pain relief, then taper down to normal. I also stay away from those little extra triggers that I can usually get away with, but that just might be making matters worse while I'm in such a vulnerable state. Example sugar, stressful people, work if necessary, nightshade vegies, spicy foods, etc. I give my body the best fighting chance. Often that works, sometimes not, but I always try.

I also find this tends to happen when my hormones are out of whack.

Perhaps just knowing the ER has access to the super pain relievers. Knowing people are there trying to help, listening to your plight, monitoring you, etc. would give a level of relief. I know it would for me. I'd feel somewhat safer. So, please do seek help there if you need.

And for the record, my opinion is that tolerating an 8 - 9 level of pain on regular basis is much braver, stronger, than I could imagine for myself. I cry when it gets close to those higher numbers.

So my rookie advice is to be super diligent with diet and rest, no stresses. Try focussing on something else. I sometimes find myself forgetting the pain momentarily during a good TV show, only to remember when the commercials come on. So find something interesting to focus on if you can.

Hoping your frustrating pain settles soon. It's enough to drive you nuts, I know!

Warm hugs,
Debbie.