I finally went to my new Rheum yesterday, and I am very happy. Although the meds are not doing the trick, I have hopes. She has put me on the
25 mcg Fentanyl patches, and 60 mg Cymbalta. It's not enough, but I am sure it would be better to increase slowly...if I can take it until it works. I go back to her on Dec. 5. Meanwhile, I am taking 800 mg OTC Ibuprophen every 5 hours (on my own), and it seems to help a tiny bit. She is a very warm and caring doctor. She has given me about 16 blood tests. She says that I have rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis in addition to my fibro and spinal problems. She has some concern that I may have Addison's Disease...and is checking that too. Won't know much till the tests come back. They will call if it is Addisons, or something to be concerned about. Almost forgot, she also gave me a steroid shot, and some other kind (?).

Question: Do you think I can have a beer or two with those meds at night? I am no big drinker, but I have found that one or two usually makes me hurt less. Just don't know much about those drugs.

The day before yesterday, the LSU Dental Clinic pulled what was left of my upper teeth. My gums were so full of infection that it took numerous injections to numb them. (Hurricane Katrina slowed that process down until recently, remember?) I was such a nervous wreck that I have been suffering a kink in my neck since then. Funny...I don't have any pain in my mouth...but, I'm not complaining!!! I will even put up with the neck. I go on the 16th for the bottom ones, and then oral surgery on the gums and bone on the 27th...preparing me for dentures after Christmas. It will be so good to look like something other than an internet joke picture!!!

Thanks.....sally