On Saturday a rash appeared on my rib cage where intense pain has been taking place. It took my primary 30 seconds to diagnose shingles and off I went with a pair of scripts.

I am confused as to how this patch freed up the prescription pad. Two visits ago we had it out over further testing and/or better(stronger) meds. I get the reservations on prescribing opiates, but I didn't even broach the subject and it was being written.

I must say- very helpful. Not an absolute solution, but it makes everything a bit more bearable.

I am hoping that the week without treatment doesn't lend itself to permanent damage. I have enough neuropathy already, seriously.

I can't determine whether it is worse than my diabetic pn, though being a new spot changes the field, so to speak. I do feel that if they remake Return of the Jedi I could pull off Luke writhing under the assault of force lightning from the Emporer.

I hope it doesn't get too much worse, though I am bracing for it.

Any suggestions welcome.

Jon