Posted by Jim Crandall (204.95.48.203) on August 02, 1999 at 13:14:56:
In Reply to: Even 1's Are Killing Me posted by Amanda Best on August 02, 1999 at 07:57:56:
I can definitely relate. I went chronic four years ago and live with a constant baseline of 1 or 2 and often spend several days in 6 or 7. Mine almost doesn't seem like cluster anymore except that it's the exact same pain as when I have my "regular" clusters. I still see my neuro monthly and maybe something will work soon. I have just started seeing a shrink with a specialty in pain management and I am very optimistic about this relationship.
There are things to do that make living with pain a little easier. A trip to the country sounds great. Reminding myself to make time for the things I love to do helps me.
There is a saying in pain management circles that some people like and others really hate: "Pain is inevitable, suffering is not" I happen to find strength in this saying because while I apparently can't make the pain go away I can work really hard to appreciate and enjoy the nonpainful parts of life.
I hope this seemingly pointless ramble helps some.
God's peace,
Jim