Lori,
Thanks for writing this thread.
I've had RSD since '83. Not diagnoses for 7 years.

But,
I've got to say, like the old saying we are what we eat, sometimes, we are the side effects of what we take.

I for one, HATE any pill I must ingest.
I take methadone for pain, the only side effect I notice, is constipation, if I don't get enough exercise.
I take Cymbalta, anti depressant, and some pain relief for nerves. (not much though).

Valium, to reduce the reaction to pain.

Imetrex for migraine.

Zanaflex, if I really hurt myself, and, occasionally to help sleep.

CPap, which is a total PIA!
(With O2)

I do keep Tums around, along with the anti diarrheal. (forget the name).

And, Lidocaine patches, for four herniated discs, two neck, two lowback, and my arms, hands. (TOS)

I've been tossed and crushed in two MVA, one involving a T-Bone by a Semi with trailer, and another where I was front seat passenger, and another driver blew a stop sign.
bam, head injury!

I'm a total mess, and sometimes, don't feel so lucky to be alive. But. of you're one of faith, as I am, ,I feel that I still have work to do here.
And, I'm trying!

It's difficult.

I must say, that I try to take the least amount of meds necessary, and that does not always work to my advantage (depending on what you think an 'advantage' is).

So You see, that you've kind of 'nailed' a universal question.
Is it me? The RSD? (Other injury), And what are the meds Side effects?

WE ALL ask ourselves these questions.

For most, it's much better to take the lowest dose acceptable regularly for our illness and pain, as opposed to prn. (as needed). Because usually prn, is too late.
Then the side effects spike.

I suggest that you work with your doctor, to get on a 'minimum' regular dose.
Then, have an acceptable amount available for 'breakthrough' issues of pain, or otherwise.

I've been doing this for 20 years + now.

I hope you can figure out which meds cause you side effects, that cause you to take another med, that might not be necessary.
This is key, to some sort of sanity with this disease.

I wish you ALL the Best!

Pete
asb

Thank you Pete

this is going to sound crazy but you reminded me of something. i have a herniated L4 disc i forgot to list..but i had 3 car wrecks in 3 years all having to do with back injury. and my first abdominal surgery was for a C- Sec for my twin girls. I immediatly got Fibromyalgia after they were born...that took 3 years to diagnose. After suffering 10 years with it, i had a truly miraculous pray healing and was symptom and pain free for 5 years! Since you said you were a person of faith, i thought i would share. I had one of those instant healings that you just cant believe happen, but it did. Wish it would happen again soon.

You are here to do more good Pete, we all must hold on to that. My girls worry that I am going to die early, Im only 48 and have been ill for 5 years. Even if it is just to be here to comfort them and give them life advise, thats a great reason to be here. I am truly sorry for all you are suffering with and what everyone suffers with here. I hope we find a reason one day for it all.
Lori