Hi Zoe,

Yes, it is a shock to find the meds we thought ineffective were actually working. Any change in long-term pain control really throws a spotlight on the problem. Every year I take a break from my pain meds (not my Infusion) for as long as I can to guage the level of deterioration and to check for new, masked pains. This year I lasted less than 60 hours, I normally try for a week of agony.

You know by now that all new meds take a while to ramp up, although I have no experience of patches - I prefer to be in control of my dosing. Hang in there and retain the option to return to your Dr to change meds.

Now, as for your family. I think everyone here with pain problems has had family/relationship/friends issues - severe ones at that. Normies just cannot understand how we suffer. My Ex has been moaning for weeks after falling and bruising her knee, yet she has no sympathy regarding my disabilities or especially my Cluster Headaches which make me want to rip my brain out and smash it against the wall. She cannot see my pain is off the charts so she doesn't seem to care.

So what you do now, instead of taking issue with your family members, is come here and vent - pour out all your frustrations (without swearing!) to us and live peacefully and harmoniously at home. Talking of peace and harmony, have you ever tried Meditation techniques to calm and strengthen your mind? Many here, myself included, could not cope without daily Meditations.

You will find that by having an outlet your stress levels will reduce and the overlying problems will ease. I'm just sorry we cannot fix your major issues as well

Dave.