Hi ~ Has your doc put you on anything like Neurontin (Gabapentin) or Topamax or the like? These are to ease the burning of the nerves, and stop the tingling & "zapping" of the nerves too. If he hasn't put you on one of these meds, ask him about it. I would ask about Topamax instead of Gabapentin, as the Topamax won't make you retain water like the other does. It doesn't make you have "brain fog" either like the other. The other makes you really "loopy." So ask to try Topamax --- it works 10 times better for me, and at a much LOWER dose too!

Your recovery WILL be a long one, so don't expect to heal in 6 months or maybe not even 12 because having a 7 level fusion is much more traumatic to the body than, say a 2 level. A whole lot more tissue damage has been done, and there a whole lot of inflammation in there plus nerve inflammation too, so you've got a lot of healing to do. Nerves heal at the rate of one inch per month, average.

Tell your doctor (your GP) about your severe anxiety attacks, and he can give you something, perhaps temporarily, to help you deal with them. Also, therapy is recommended for these too, as you can overcome these with short-term therapy. So talk to your doc and get a referral to a good therapist.

I wish you the very best! I know you're very uncomfortable -- I hope this gets taken care of SOON. God bless and please take care. Hugs, Lee

Topamax, A.K.A. 'Dopamax' and 'Stupamax' (try googling those terms), unfortunately has exactly that effect on many, many people.

It may take trying all 3 (or even others) for an individual to find what will work best for them.

I think what's important is talking to one's doctors about pain and how it affects our lives, and not giving up if the first few tries don't work.

Doc

Thank you for your insight. Regarding Topmax, I am already taking it for migraines. But I am taking everything one day at a time. It is just sooooo frustrating feeling the way I do and certain people can't seem to understand it.
I just broke off my engagement for that reason.

My heart breaks for you!!! I am so sorry you are having such a hard time. Its so hard when people dont understand our pain. Because they cant really see it on outside I think. Hang in there I am new here myself.