I am not familiar with how the system works for you so I don't know what your options are for seeing a different dr...clearly things cannot continue as they are. You need to be seeing a specialist...either pain management or neurologist...but someone who has the ability and knowledge to treat you.

As for the ER...I have gone a couple times when the pain was severe. They have always been nice to me and helped me...but I know others have had bad experiences. Bottom line is you need treatment and if the pain is severe enough that you want to go to the ER then go. Don't worry about what they think and let them tell you what they can do for you...don't just go in demanding pills or anything like that (don't think you would...but when we're in pain sometimes we're not thinking clearly).

Long term and big picture though you need to get regular, competent care. You need to figure out who can help you find that solution as I am not familiar with the VA system and what that entails in terms of seeing a specialist. First step is to find someone who can help you navigate that system so you can get the care you need. Then do what needs to be done. One step at a time.

I know this sounds impossible...but try to not stress about the stuff out of your control. Break things down into one step at a time to get the end result you need. Stress makes the CRPS pain worse...if you can calm down and think clearly...then make a plan. First...get some relief now (at ER or urgent care if you have to). Then figure out what you need to do to get to a specialist...and then go from there. It probably won't be a quick process but you'll need to be calm and patient as you go through it so the pain doesn't get out of control.

If you need ideas for what everyone does at home to help with the pain...let us know. I have learned a lot of tricks and tips here that help me manage my CRPS without meds for several years. It's not easy...but it is possible...and maybe even a few ideas will help you get through this time as you work to get to a specialist who knows what they are doing and how to treat this condition (and can prescribe the proper meds).

Take care and keep us posted on how you are doing.