Canagirl,

I am not comparing pain here, just explaining.

For Donkey's Years I have suffered chronic Cluster Headaches and Chronic TN - arguably the two most painful conditions known to medicine. For years I thought the two were linked and sought no treatment for the white-hot railroad spike pain driven into my brain, behind my left eye up to 8 times a day, every day.

Then I was diagnosed and - after countless changes and juggling of meds my Headaches (almost impossible to treat) are cut to 3-4 a week and the TN intensity is dulled by Lidocaine and Ketamine - which also treats my body-wide Hypersensitivity. Musculoskeletal and arthritic pain is helped by Tramadol and Arcoxia.

From a general 9 at the end of my Infusion Cycle with meds worn off, I drop to a 4/5 when fully loaded up. I have learned to tolerate and cope with this level even with my Depressive Disorder.

The only time things are uncontrollable mentally now is during a Headache or TN Attack when pain is around a 12-15.

The point is, there is a long road with many treatment options to try. Stress and Depression - while understandable - do increase physical pain by 2 points or more. You have to learn to relax, be patient with the length of time it takes for meds to take effect.

You have already stated you benefit from the Forums and the wonderful Members, but take yourself out of your mind in other ways as well. Do you have light hobbies that can tax your mind? Even engrossing tv shows or films can distract - especially comedies.

Please don't resign yourself to a lifetime of this level of pain. If they can reduce mine with all my issues there is hope for anyone.

Dave.