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MonieMojo 
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Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
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 Topic: My doctor's Appointment
Posted: Jul/21/2010 at 5:06pm |
So I finally got to see the doctor today. She is pretty sure I have Fibromyaligia. She gave me Cymbalta to start taking tomorrow. I will start at 30mg for 3 weeks, then 60mg for one week and probably 60mg from then on. She also wants me to gradually increase my dose of Lyrica up to 300mg/day.
She also is having me increase my Amitriptyline to 200mg/night to help me sleep better.
The only thing my blood test results showed was a deficiency in Vitamin D. Turns out 2/3 of the people who live in this area are deficient. She is going to have me take Vitamin D for 6 months, then repeat the blood work.
She also gave me a prescription for Nexium for my daily heartburn/acid reflux problems, so thats good.
She also gave me more Vicodin with 3 refills 
Once I get health insurance, she wants me to see a Rhuematologist to figure out if there is anything wrong with my joints since they have been hurting a lot.
Once we get a better control of the pain, she will send me back to physical therapy. But for now we are waiting on that.
I'm going back in a month for a follow-up.
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Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
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Stevie
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Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
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Posted: Jul/21/2010 at 5:21pm |
Hey Monie, Gosh, that is a lot to digest all at once. And a lot of meds to get adjusted to, but hopefully they will help your pain. Please do increase the meds gradually as you may get very sleepy from these---especially the Lyrica and the Amitriptyline. Seems that ALL of us are turning up deficient in VitD these days (and I live in a place where the sun shines 360 days a year). I too am on VitD. Here is the link to an article on that in case you haven't read it yet: http://chronicpainsite.com/Articles/view.asp?ID=12There has been a lot of medical info recently that any of us with chronic pain need more Vit D. Honestly? I have been on it for about a year now, and don't see any difference, but then I also don't see any harm in it. I also agree that you need to have further work-up with the joint pain, but then again, FM causes so many problems that it could be from that and once you get regulated on these new meds, hopefully some of the joint pain will subside. Thanks for posting Monica, and please keep us informed as to how you are doing. Hugs, Stevie PS--sounds like a really good appointment that you waited for---too long, but it sounds like you have a good relationship with her. Way to go.
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Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
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Stacey
Mod
Joined: Feb/15/2010
Location: Central MA
Posts: 700
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Posted: Jul/21/2010 at 6:02pm |
I am so happy you got in to see the doctor and got your meds. It does sound like alot to adjust to, I am hoping it works for you. Especially the sleep part. That is one of the most important things in this battle against pain.
My mom and step father were found to be vit. D deficient too, and they are both healthy. I have a friend who is a horse trainer so she is outside in the sun all of the time, and her level was found to be 14.
Best of luck Monica!
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"Pick battles big enough to matter, small enough to win." - Jonathan Kozol
DDD, 3 bulging discs one cervical, one thoracic, one lumbar. Periphial neuropathy. Undiagnosed pain rt. side of face, ear &jaw. Will update when diagnosis is known.
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
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Posted: Jul/21/2010 at 7:22pm |
Yeah, I usually end up with a lot to digest at my appointments.
As you know I've already been suspicious of the Fibro, so its not much of a shock.
Stevie- I'll definitely go up slowly with the meds. Tonight I am going to take one more 50mg Lyrica at my last dose. Then at bedtime I will take 150mg of Amitriptyline. I'll keep it that way for at least a few days, then go up again to 100 mg of Lyrica in the afternoon and at night, and 200mg of the amitriptyline. Then when I feel ready, I'll increase the morning dose of Lyrica.
I'll read that article later when I can focus more, I don't think I've read it yet. I don't know how much the Vitamin D will help, but if it does, then great. If not I dont see the harm in trying it.
I'm hoping these new meds help and I can adjust to them without too many problems. Even if the joint pain subsides, I'll probably still see the rhuematologist to be sure.
Besides the cancelled appointments, she seems like a great dr and understands my pain and that I need medications to help. Its not easy to find that in doctors!
Thank you both for responding. I'll keep updating as things change.
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Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
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Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
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Posted: Jul/21/2010 at 7:56pm |
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OK Monie,
Just making sure that you will be OK. I have a really hard time with Lyrica. I only take 50mg a day and that is late in the afternoon. I just can't take it at all during the day. I have tried so many times, but I can't function---can't drive, etc.
We are all different and our bodies metabolize differently and I really wish that I could handle more Lyrica as even the small amount I take does help. So, I really hope that you can adjust to this. I know that we have many members on these drugs and they do well.
The Vitamin D thing really has me puzzled. Seems to be a "new thing" that has just come out, and I can understand it in people who live in places where the sun doesn't shine, but now those of us in the sunniest places on earth are being told to take it as a supplement. Weird.
Let us know how you are doing Monica. Hugs, Stevie
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Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
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Rocken Roni
Charter Mod
Joined: Jul/09/2008
Location: Alberta Canada
Posts: 1488
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Posted: Jul/22/2010 at 12:50am |
Hi Monie,
Sorry you have to take so may meds, but we do what we have to
do I guess. I hope you start to sleep better.
Thanks for keeping us up to date.
Take Care
Roni  
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 1st injured Feb, 1997. Was told it was "Soft Tissue" and sent back to work - no X-rays
Late 1997 attended 1st “Rehab Program” to strengthen back. Mid ‘98 PCP took me off work. Tried going back to work over the next couple years, mostly off work due to pain.
June 2000, met with OS for first time. Did MRI , damage was L5-S1 totally blown out. Surgery done Jan, 2001.
Another Rehab program late 2001, attempted to go back to work early 2002. Slipped on water, fell flat on back – screw fusion broke.
Went to 3rd Rehab program summer 2002.
Oct 2003 – 2nd Surgery, due to broken screw, had to operate from the front.
No improvement. Attended 4th Rehab program in 2004, at time it was decided NO work.
March 2006, had 3rd Surgery, this time fusion and instrumentation from Si to L3.
June 2008 Surgeon finally admitted I had Failed Back Surgery.
August 2009 WCB Finally put me on Long Term Disability
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
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Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/22/2010 at 6:24pm |
Thank you all again :)
Well lastnight I forgot to take the extra Lyrica, so I will start that tonight. I did however take the extra 50mg of Amitriptyline, and that helped me sleep.
This morning I took my first 30mg of Cymbalta. I've only had a little bit of stomach upset and a dry throat. My appetite is lower so I'm not overeating. I dont really feel panicky or anything. My over all pain has gone down very slightly. However I'm in a strange mood today. Its sort of a nothing mood- not good, not bad, just nothing. Now it is starting to turn into a bad mood. But for most of the day I didnt care about anything one way or another, I couldnt really focus or think straight, and there was nothing I really wanted to do. I'm hoping I just adjust to it and it wont stay like this, because if so then I wont take it. I dont want to become a zombie with no emotion. Id honestly rather have a little more pain than not feel anything at all!
As the day goes on I'm getting more and more tired. That could be both the Cymbalta and the Amitriptyline. If its just the Amitriptyline, I know I will adjust to it- I've taken 150mg of it before. If its the Cymbalta, well, I dont know.
I filled out the paper work for Astra Zeneca's prescription assistance program for my Nexium, and will mail it out tomorrow or Monday. So hopefully I will get that soon.
Hopefully the Cymbalta will start working correctly. I think I will be ok with the Amitriptyline and Lyrica.
I'll continue to update as things go. Thank you for your support everyone! If anyone reading this has taken Cymbalta, please feel free to tell me what your experience with it was at first. That could help me adjust to it. Thanks
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Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
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Lissa
Mod
Chat Leader
Joined: Mar/29/2010
Posts: 637
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Posted: Jul/23/2010 at 10:53am |
Monie,
Sorry I didn't read this before chat last night...like I said, it was one of those days! But anyway, I hope all the new meds help. I think you're doing the right thing by increasing it slowly, and I think the side effects will get better. I'm on Cymbalta, and I don't have any problems with it. Like I told you last night, I don't really remember the beginning of it that well, but I seem to remember some tiredness that eventually went away. The Nexium is great, but very expensive. I hope you get the help you need from the company.
Good luck, and I'm glad you finally had your appointment. Just take it slow, and remember we love you!
Hugs, Lissa
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Pseudotumor cerebri and chronic daily migraines, causing moderate to severe pain constantly for more than 9 years now. OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and panic attacks which started in adolescence (except the PTSD) and are generally controlled by medication, but when under stress show up and cause more severe pain.
I pray for complete healing for each of you!
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Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
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Posted: Jul/23/2010 at 11:30am |
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Monie,
I was wondering how you're feeling today? The slight nausea and dry mouth are common side effects of Cymbalta, but anytime anyone starts on an antidepressant and has a change in mood, it needs to be taken seriously. So, if you are still feeling emotionally "off", please do call you Dr. about this.
I do hope that you are having a better day today. Hugs, Stevie
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Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
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Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/23/2010 at 10:16pm |
Thanks Lissa and Stevie!
I hope I do get the Nexium. This daily heartburn/acid reflux is bugging me so bad. If I don't get it, I will probably try one of the over the counter medicines for it.
Today has been much better. I haven't been nearly as tired and am actually feeling a little happier than my normal. Nothing extreme, just a bit better than my usual. Also I've been able to think just fine today and I've been doing things like playing a strategic game and talking to friends, etc. Also the pain is much lower today, so yaay! My stomach is fine, and my throat is only a little dry. So I think I will be ok with the Cymbalta. I will definitely continue to keep an eye out for any other changes. Thank you so much for your concern Stevie. If today was like yesterday I would have called my dr. for sure.
I did have an episode a few hours ago where I was suddenly very tired and in a lot of pain. I took a Vicodin and laid down for 2 hours. I took another Vicodin when I got up. Now I'm feeling ok again. That has happened plenty of times, even before I got any meds. So I'm not worried about it, but I will keep an eye on it and record it in my pain journal.
BTW, I didnt need even one Vicodin yesterday! So that was great :)
Sorry I didnt respond until so late. I was actually busy today and havent gotten on the computer till now! And Lissa- don't feel bad about not reading this lastnight, its ok, I understand those days!
Oh yeah, I've decided that I'm going to stay on the 150mg of Amitriptyline for a while. It seems to be doing just fine with helping my sleep. And I'm not gonna increase the Lyrica until at least next week, so I have time to adjust to the Cymbalta and the Amitriptyline increase. The dr did say to increase when I felt comfortable, so Im sure I can wait. I don't need to overwhelm my body and not pay attention to side effects.
Thanks and hugs to all!  |
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Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
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Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
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Posted: Jul/24/2010 at 5:13pm |
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Good deal, Monie.
I think that you are so right staying at the dose of Amitriptyline as it is working for you. Also, not increasing the Lyrica until you are comfortable with the Cymbalta. It is always wise to only make one change at a time if possible---otherwise there is no way to be sure what is causing what side effects.
I am glad that you had a much better day yesterday, and hope that today has gone well also.
Monie, as far as the heartburn and acid reflux goes? This is not uncommon in FM. We have some articles about it that I am hoping we can get up very soon, with foods that are acidic and alkaline and I hope may help you with this. Hugs, Stevie
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Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/24/2010 at 5:55pm |
Thanks Stevie.
Today hasnt been as good. I have had more pain and a lot of the itchiness. I'm not in as good of a mood and I am more tired.
I think I just still need more time to adjust. Also, I will only be taking the 30mg dose for a total of 3 weeks, then I will go up to 60mg (the recommended dosage for FM). So maybe that will help more.
I am still hoping the Cymbalta will help. I took anti-depressants a long time ago, and the only one I liked took a few weeks to sort of level out everything. I had good days, bad days, etc until finally I felt good. I know Cymbalta can take a while to feel the full effect, so I will continue to take it unless I get bad side effects.
When I was about 14 or 15 I was told I had acid reflux disease. It would just sort of come and go. Then a maybe a few months ago it came back and has been around pretty much everyday, and has been getting worse and worse. I figured it was all the medications and stress, then I read that it is common in Fibro patients. So there really isnt a 100% way to tell why it got worse, could be all of the above. Thank you for the info, and if you could please let me know when those articles get up it would be very much appreciated, I would love to read them 
Thanks again! |
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Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
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Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
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Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/25/2010 at 1:42pm |
Monie-- Here are the links to a couple of new articles that are in the FM Section. The first one talks about maintaining an acid/alkaline balance in the body for pain control: http://chronicpainsite.com/Articles/view.asp?ID=103The next one is about the importance stomach acid : http://chronicpainsite.com/Articles/view.asp?ID=104Hoping they help a bit. Stevie
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Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
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Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/26/2010 at 6:59pm |
Thank you Stevie. Those articles were definitely interesting reads.
As far as the 2 pertaining to stomach acid- once I have health insurance I might try to see a nutritionist. At that point, I will print and bring these articles to that dr and see what he/she thinks about them. For now, I will treat my symptoms with antacids until my Nexium arrives, then I will take that until the nutritionist and my regular dr agree on something else. I would like to see what the acidity is in my stomach, but that test sounds very unpleasant 
I finally read the Vitamin D one, and that was very interesting as well. I have wondered how sunlight causes the body to make Vitamin D, and how Vitamin D deficiency affects pain, but I never looked it up, and now I know!
I think that article also further explained another mystery that I've had for a few months (a little unpleasant and tough to explain, so I won't go into it right now). Once I start taking the Vitamin D, I will be able to find out if I'm right about that one. I had half the explanation figured out through my own research, and this article gave me another clue that I think is the other half. So I will see. If I am right, that would be awesome! 
Well, yesterday and today I have been in more pain than the first couple days on the Cymbalta. I am also having more skin hypersensitivity, more of the pulling feeling, and a whole lot of itchiness! However my mood is still better than it was before the Cymbalta, and I am more able to focus, make decisions, and remember things. Which is great! Even if the Cymbalta doesnt do much for my Fibro symptoms, I think I will stay on it for those other reasons. Also, I get the panic feeling a lot less often and less severe now. So I think the Cymbalta will be a great help after all.
I'm still at the 150mg dose of Amitripyline, and am still sleeping better than before. I havent yet increased my Lyrica. Not 100% sure exactly when I will start to increase that.
Thank you all for you support, and thank you Stevie for giving me that great information
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Lissa
Mod
Chat Leader
Joined: Mar/29/2010
Posts: 637
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/27/2010 at 7:33am |
Monie,
It's great to hear that you are making some progress with your meds. I think you are being very sensible about increasing the dosages, and I'm glad the Cymbalta is helping is some areas, even if it's not helping in others. I'm also glad to hear you are sleeping better...I'm jealous. Maybe I'll eventually get a high enough dose of the amitriptilyne to sleep, too!
Good luck with the meds, and I'll talk to you later!
Hugs, Lissa
|
|
Pseudotumor cerebri and chronic daily migraines, causing moderate to severe pain constantly for more than 9 years now. OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and panic attacks which started in adolescence (except the PTSD) and are generally controlled by medication, but when under stress show up and cause more severe pain.
I pray for complete healing for each of you!
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/27/2010 at 8:16am |
|
Monie,
I am glad that the articles may have helped a little. I always feel that while I may not agree with all that I read, there may be a snippet or two that we can take away and work with.
It is good to hear that the meds are starting to help some, and you are very wise to go slowly on increasing them.
I am not surprised at the increase in pain levels. I think that we all have days where our pain fluctuates despite the medications and that is part and parcel of what we are dealing with. Hopefully today will be a better one for you.
Hugs Monie, Stevie
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/28/2010 at 12:41pm |
Thanks Lissa and Stevie!
I am very tired these past few days. But otherwise things are pretty much the same.
Lissa- I hope you do get a high enough dose of Amitriptyline to help you sleep!
Stevie- Thats why I try to read as much as I can when I can focus. Even if I dont agree with what is being said, I still might be able to take something from it.
Thanks again!
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/28/2010 at 2:04pm |
Monie, Sent you yet another link to read about insomnia on your FB site, but will post it here for other members who may not yet have read it. Hope it helps a bit: http://chronicpainsite.com/Articles/view.asp?ID=37As you are in the middle of adding/increasing new meds, much of this sleepiness/insomnia may be from that but will level off as your body adjusts. Keep the faith, kiddo. Stevie
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/29/2010 at 2:27am |
Thank you Stevie
As I said on Facebook, I read some of it, and will finish it when I can focus more.
Tomorrow morning starts my second week of the 30mg Cymbalta and the 150mg Amitriptyline. Hope it goes well!
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/31/2010 at 1:55am |
Stevie- I just read the article on insomnia, thank you. I forgot to mention that the doctor wants me to go for a sleep study once I have insurance. So the article did give me the idea of starting a sleep journal in preparation for that appointment. In my pain journal I usually include a couple sentences on how I slept, but maybe now I detail it more each day, and include details of any naps I may take and how my energy changes throughout the day.
Thank you! Everything else is pretty much the same with me :)
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/31/2010 at 10:31am |
|
Monie--
Glad that you read the article and I think it is a great idea to keep a sleep journal. Especially with the new meds. Do they want to do a sleep study to rule out sleep apnea?
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Jul/31/2010 at 7:56pm |
|
Yes Stevie that's exactly why, I forgot to mention that part lol
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/06/2010 at 7:55pm |
Hello everyone!
Well so far I have been on the Cymbalta for a little over 2 weeks. I can tell it has helped with both my Fibro symptoms and my anxiety problems. I am still tired a lot, but I suspect I will be until everything sort of levels out, at least. Its not helping as much as it was at first, but I think once I go up to the 60mg (starting next week) and am taking that for a while it will work better.
Tonight I am going to increase my dose of Lyrica by 1 50mg pill. As some of you know I have been having some nerve pain problems, and I think this may start to help. So I will start with tonight, stay on this dose for a while, then increase my afternoon and morning doses as needed. Hopefully that will help the nerve pain as well as some of my Fibro symptoms.
For now I am still going to leave the Amitriptyline at 150mg a night. I havent been sleeping the greatest, but I think the increase in the Lyrica tonight and the Cymbalta next week will help with that.
Well, thats about it for now. I'll keep you all updated :)
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Lissa
Mod
Chat Leader
Joined: Mar/29/2010
Posts: 637
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/07/2010 at 1:32am |
Monie,
Thanks for the update! You're really doing well with your meds, increasing them slowly and one at a time. I hope the extra Lyrica helps with the nerve pain, Mo. I wish I was up to 150 mg on my amitriptyline! I'm just still not getting enough sleep!
I think the Cymbalta will help once you get used to the increase next week. Remember I care and I'm praying for you!
Hugs, Lissa
|
|
Pseudotumor cerebri and chronic daily migraines, causing moderate to severe pain constantly for more than 9 years now. OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and panic attacks which started in adolescence (except the PTSD) and are generally controlled by medication, but when under stress show up and cause more severe pain.
I pray for complete healing for each of you!
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/07/2010 at 2:35pm |
|
Monie,
Good job on slowly increasing your meds. I am really happy for you that the Cymbalta is working so far, and I do hope that the increase in Lyrica at night will help with your sleep.
Between FM and all of the spinal issues listed on your "signature" you must have a lot of nerve pain. Hopefully these meds which are all helpful with nerve pain will get you some much needed relief and sleep. Hugs, Stevie
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/07/2010 at 8:05pm |
Thank you both very much :)
I slept MUCH better lastnight! It was such a relief. I didn't get out of bed even once after laying down. It took me a lot less time to fall asleep, and I only woke up a couple times for just a minute or less. Today I havent needed a nap, and I was out and about for a few hours too! I'm fatigued, but not nearly as bad as I was before. I hope it stays this way!
Also today the nerve pain was a bit lessened! I'm very happy about that too :) I definitely get a lot of nerve pain in my legs, and sometimes in my back & ribs. My thigh has been the worst with it, but that is starting to get better too
So, I will stay on these dosages for a while. After I adjust to next week's increase in the Cymbalta, I may increase my afternoon dose of Lyrica if needed.
I'll keep you all posted. Thank you for the concern :)
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Spicey
Charter Mod
Joined: Jun/30/2008
Location: NW England, UK
Posts: 3832
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/08/2010 at 11:49am |
Thanks for the updates Monie. Great to hear you got a good night's sleep - doesn't it help you to feel so much better when you've had a decent sleep?! It's also great to hear that your fibro symptoms are improving. Long pay this last  You take care and keep us posted, Spicey
|
|
37 yrs old, chronic pain since 1993
Decompression/stabilisation with Dynesys Apr'04, revision with PLIF Oct'08, several ESI's.
Still suffering with bilateral nerve pains in legs, plus in neck, arms & hands since Jul'09. SCS installed Apr'10. No significant improvement yet
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Forever is just one long trail of nows. All you can do is try and live one now at a time without getting too worked up about the last now or the next now"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINES:
UK: 08457 909090 or http://www.samaritans.org
US: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or http://www.crisisclinic.org
Canada: http://www.211canada.ca/what.php
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/08/2010 at 3:26pm |
Thank you Spicey! Yeah it definitely helps to get a good night's sleep! And any relief is great, so I am happy
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Spicey
Charter Mod
Joined: Jun/30/2008
Location: NW England, UK
Posts: 3832
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/08/2010 at 5:14pm |
|
|
|
37 yrs old, chronic pain since 1993
Decompression/stabilisation with Dynesys Apr'04, revision with PLIF Oct'08, several ESI's.
Still suffering with bilateral nerve pains in legs, plus in neck, arms & hands since Jul'09. SCS installed Apr'10. No significant improvement yet
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Forever is just one long trail of nows. All you can do is try and live one now at a time without getting too worked up about the last now or the next now"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINES:
UK: 08457 909090 or http://www.samaritans.org
US: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or http://www.crisisclinic.org
Canada: http://www.211canada.ca/what.php
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
|
Rocken Roni
Charter Mod
Joined: Jul/09/2008
Location: Alberta Canada
Posts: 1488
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/12/2010 at 12:53am |
How have things been going Moni? I know it's only been a few
days but any think can happen to us chronic painers in hours. 
Missed you and jumper at last Saturdays chat. I've got to get
up to do the morning chat yet I think i've only done 1 or 2 of them ha.
Hope your feeling ok Monie, talk soon
.
Roni
|
1st injured Feb, 1997. Was told it was "Soft Tissue" and sent back to work - no X-rays
Late 1997 attended 1st “Rehab Program” to strengthen back. Mid ‘98 PCP took me off work. Tried going back to work over the next couple years, mostly off work due to pain.
June 2000, met with OS for first time. Did MRI , damage was L5-S1 totally blown out. Surgery done Jan, 2001.
Another Rehab program late 2001, attempted to go back to work early 2002. Slipped on water, fell flat on back – screw fusion broke.
Went to 3rd Rehab program summer 2002.
Oct 2003 – 2nd Surgery, due to broken screw, had to operate from the front.
No improvement. Attended 4th Rehab program in 2004, at time it was decided NO work.
March 2006, had 3rd Surgery, this time fusion and instrumentation from Si to L3.
June 2008 Surgeon finally admitted I had Failed Back Surgery.
August 2009 WCB Finally put me on Long Term Disability
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Stacey
Mod
Joined: Feb/15/2010
Location: Central MA
Posts: 700
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Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/12/2010 at 12:33pm |
|
Moni, I am happy to hear you are getting some relief and some good sleep.
It was great to read that you got out and didn't feel too bad after.
I pray your pain continues to go down.
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"Pick battles big enough to matter, small enough to win." - Jonathan Kozol
DDD, 3 bulging discs one cervical, one thoracic, one lumbar. Periphial neuropathy. Undiagnosed pain rt. side of face, ear &jaw. Will update when diagnosis is known.
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/12/2010 at 8:45pm |
Hello everyone
These past few days I have been having a lot of the Fibro fog and fatigue. So I really havent been able to think much at all. Sorry for my absence around the site lately. Its just been hard to get on the computer for a while.
My thigh is giving me problems still. I've been icing it, but it just helps for about a half an hour or so. I havent been able to get to the pool either. I've had to change up the way I use my cane sometimes, and that is putting a strain on my body and hurting my left leg. 
My overall pain, especially in my lower back and legs, has increased again. I am thinking that is the Fibro too, it feels like that type of pain.
Tomorrow I go up to 60mg of Cymbalta. I am hoping that helps with the Fibro fog and fatigue, as well as some of the pain that Ive had. I have a little over a month's worth of 60mg capsules, so I hope I get the paperwork needed for prescription assistance soon and that it all goes through ok. It definitely has helped, but now I think I need to be on the 60mg. It is way too expensive to even THINK about paying for myself
I havent increased anything new yet. I am going to see how the 60mg of Cymbalta affects me, then maybe increase my Lyrica again after a week or so.
Well I am finding it harder and harder to focus (forgot what I was doing about 10 times during this post), so I think that is it for now. I will keep you all updated, thank you so much for you care and concern :)
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
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sara1
Member
Joined: May/19/2010
Location: Canada-married
Posts: 437
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/13/2010 at 8:17pm |
|
Monie-I hope the Cymbalta increase will help you more. I found Cymbalta has worked great for me for leg and foot pain better than Lyrica worked for me. Lyrica really blew me away with concentration issues and decided as long as my neck isn't bothering me too much not to take it. I hope you're feeling better soon. My best. Sara
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Mild DDD throughout lumbar spine disabling unable to work. Facet joint arthropy lumbar spine. Cervical C6-7 nerve impinging. Healed L5-S1 herniated disc and tear recently. Off work for 2yrs 6 months since back injury.Treatments - Oxycontin 40-2-3x day,lyrica,cymbalta,voltaran,flexeril.PT,aqua therapy, acupuncture, TENs, infrared platinum heating pad. Last epi,fji's,SI and hip injections next set ESI and fji's and nerve blocks #5 Sept. 2/2010
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Gideon
Member
Joined: Aug/09/2010
Location: Des Moines
Posts: 166
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Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/13/2010 at 8:57pm |
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Cymbalta ?? Is that not a depression drug ? I only ask because my doctor had me try that when my Lexapro did not work for awhile .
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2 Corinthians 12:9 - And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
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Lissa
Mod
Chat Leader
Joined: Mar/29/2010
Posts: 637
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/14/2010 at 6:36am |
Monie,
I hope the increase in the Cymbalta will help you. Sorry I had to miss chat Thursday night. What an awful week I've had!
Hugs, Lissa
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Pseudotumor cerebri and chronic daily migraines, causing moderate to severe pain constantly for more than 9 years now. OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and panic attacks which started in adolescence (except the PTSD) and are generally controlled by medication, but when under stress show up and cause more severe pain.
I pray for complete healing for each of you!
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sara1
Member
Joined: May/19/2010
Location: Canada-married
Posts: 437
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/14/2010 at 9:51am |
|
Gideon-Yes it's a depression drug but it's also used for sciatica. It's helped me better than Lyrica. Sara
|
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Mild DDD throughout lumbar spine disabling unable to work. Facet joint arthropy lumbar spine. Cervical C6-7 nerve impinging. Healed L5-S1 herniated disc and tear recently. Off work for 2yrs 6 months since back injury.Treatments - Oxycontin 40-2-3x day,lyrica,cymbalta,voltaran,flexeril.PT,aqua therapy, acupuncture, TENs, infrared platinum heating pad. Last epi,fji's,SI and hip injections next set ESI and fji's and nerve blocks #5 Sept. 2/2010
|
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Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
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Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/14/2010 at 10:06am |
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Monie,
I really hope that the increase in Cymbalta will help you, both with the fatigue and the pain.
Just a note here----I am also on a small amount of Lyrica for nerve pain related to my cervical and thoracic issues, and we have a lot of members who take it and do well. But we also have seen instances where people have had problems with memory and concentration (and it could well be due to either the dosage or the fact that they are taking it with other medications). Anyhow, I know that there are many variables at play here----the fibro fog along with the meds. So keep doing what you have been, and very slowly increase medications----hopefully any side effects will diminish.
I also hope that you can get the prescription assistance---I know how expensive Lyrica is, so I can't imagine adding the cost of Cymbalta into the mix.
Feel better and know that you are really missed when you aren't here. Hugs, Stevie
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
Gideon
Member
Joined: Aug/09/2010
Location: Des Moines
Posts: 166
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/14/2010 at 10:29am |
Me too Monie! I hope it helps you . I am praying for you daily.
Sara thank you . I never knew that . Very interesting. You see I am learning alot in these forums
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2 Corinthians 12:9 - And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
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MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/14/2010 at 7:57pm |
Thank you all so much I am sorry that I haven't been on as much. I have missed you all as well!
Donnie- Cymbalta is indeed an antidepressant as Sara said. However it is often used to treat Fibromyalgia, and that is what I am taking it for. Also I have some problems with anxiety, so the doctor felt it could help me with that as well, and it definitely is.
Well shortly after I took it yesterday I felt a decrease in my overall body pain. I was so relieved! However I was still very tired and took a nap in the late afternoon. I am tired today as well, but not as much. My overall pain is still lower than it was before the increase, and I am very very happy for that
The Cymbalta is causing my stomach to be a little unsettled, but that also happened during my first few days taking the 30mg. Today it is less bothersome than yesterday, and I am pretty sure it will go away within a few more days.
The Fibro Fog has definitely cleared up a bit. I still can't focus that great, but I have been having trouble with that for years. I had attributed my problems with concentration to my ADD, but now I am thinking it may have been the first symptoms of Fibro. There really is no way to tell. Stevie- I am sure that these problems were not a side effect from the Lyrica, since I have had them for a long time now. Thank you for pointing out that possibility though
Lissa- dont worry about having missed chat Thursday night, I understand. I hope things are going better for you.
Well I will definitely be happy when I can start waking up a little earlier and not feel like I have to take a nap everyday! My sleep is still better than before I increased the Amitriptyline, but still not great. However I will give it at least a few more weeks before I increase it again, if I do. Maybe the other meds will start to help regulate my sleep more.
Again thank you all for your concern and advice |
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Rocken Roni
Charter Mod
Joined: Jul/09/2008
Location: Alberta Canada
Posts: 1488
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/18/2010 at 8:56am |
Monie, How is your sleep coming along? Are you noticing a difference yet?
It might take some time yet but, I hope you start sleeping better soon.
.
.
Roni
|
1st injured Feb, 1997. Was told it was "Soft Tissue" and sent back to work - no X-rays
Late 1997 attended 1st “Rehab Program” to strengthen back. Mid ‘98 PCP took me off work. Tried going back to work over the next couple years, mostly off work due to pain.
June 2000, met with OS for first time. Did MRI , damage was L5-S1 totally blown out. Surgery done Jan, 2001.
Another Rehab program late 2001, attempted to go back to work early 2002. Slipped on water, fell flat on back – screw fusion broke.
Went to 3rd Rehab program summer 2002.
Oct 2003 – 2nd Surgery, due to broken screw, had to operate from the front.
No improvement. Attended 4th Rehab program in 2004, at time it was decided NO work.
March 2006, had 3rd Surgery, this time fusion and instrumentation from Si to L3.
June 2008 Surgeon finally admitted I had Failed Back Surgery.
August 2009 WCB Finally put me on Long Term Disability
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/18/2010 at 4:31pm |
Hey Roni
Most nights I am sleeping better than before. However its still not as good as I would like it to be. So next week when I have my next appointment with the doctor, I am going to ask if she would write a new script for the Amitriptyline and cancel the old one. If I go up to 200mg now, the pharmacy will not refill my current script in time and I will run out. So if she writes me a new script for 2 100mg tablets nightly, I won't have that problem
I havent taken my afternoon nap in a while, but I am still tired. So I am hoping that once I do increase the Amitriptyline again, I'll get better sleep and not feel the need for a nap anymore.
I am almost done with my first week on the 60mg of the Cymbalta. So far I am tolerating it just fine, and it is definitely helping with my pain, mood, memory, concentration, and some of my other Fibro symptoms. I am so glad Hopefully I will get the prescription assistance for it.
So probably on Friday I am going to increase my afternoon dose of Lyrica. I need more help with this nerve pain, so I am probably going to end up taking 300mg daily. We will see how that goes.
I received my Nexium today! I took it this morning and so far no heartburn. I have 3 month's worth with 3 refills, so thats a year's worth! And I can refill online, so its nice and simple. They also gave me a form for when I run out completely, I'll just need to mail that and a new script from my doctor. Hooray!
Well, thats pretty much it for now. Thanks for checking in Roni |
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/18/2010 at 8:03pm |
|
Hey Monie,
I really hope that you can get to a place where you start sleeping. I see you on FB when I wake up and you are still trying to go to sleep. NO NO NO honey. You need sleep and you need to get it when you can. If an increase in the Amitrip helps then that is a good thing.
Monie, I am being a Mom here. NOT a health care professional. But I want you to ask your Dr and and your Pharmacist about taking high levels of the Amitrip and the Cymbalta and the Lyrica together.
Whatever we need to take, and is safe, we need to do. I am just concerned about the amount of the meds and how you are going to be. I love you a bunch. Me.
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/19/2010 at 4:19am |
Thank you Stevie I will talk to my doctor about that at my appointment next week. Tomorrow (well today really) I will call the pharmacist and talk to them. Your concern means so much to me
I tried to go to sleep earlier tonight- at about 11pm. Well it is now 2:15am and I am still awake. I really hate insomnia. I'm barely even tired anymore, and I took my meds over 3 hours ago! So I don't know what to do |
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/19/2010 at 8:17am |
|
Monie,
Are you able to sleep during the day? I know that we are always told NOT to nap so that we will be tired and sleep at night, but when you get to a point where you are up all night, you have to find a time to sleep.
Lyrica and Amitriptyline are sedating and I am amazed that you are still awake in the middle of the night. Up to 16% of people on Cymbalta will have insomnia according to one source I found. Are you taking the Cymbalta early in the day? Possibly taking it only in the morning will help with the insomnia at night?
Anyhow, maybe ask your Dr and Pharmacist about that. I surely hope that you can get some resolution. Hugs, Stevie
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
Lissa
Mod
Chat Leader
Joined: Mar/29/2010
Posts: 637
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/19/2010 at 9:10am |
Monie,
You really do need to check the drug interactions. My doctor told me that the amitriptyline not only causes you to gain weight, but taken with the Cymbalata it can cause heart problems. I hope you get your sleep straightened out soon!
Hugs Lissa
|
|
Pseudotumor cerebri and chronic daily migraines, causing moderate to severe pain constantly for more than 9 years now. OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and panic attacks which started in adolescence (except the PTSD) and are generally controlled by medication, but when under stress show up and cause more severe pain.
I pray for complete healing for each of you!
|
|
Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/19/2010 at 9:34am |
Originally posted by Lissa
Monie,
You really do need to check the drug interactions. My doctor told me that the amitriptyline not only causes you to gain weight, but taken with the Cymbalata it can cause heart problems. I hope you get your sleep straightened out soon!
Hugs Lissa |
Monie---
There is something called "Serotonin Syndrome" that may occur when drugs such as Cymbalta and Amitriptyline are taken together. Please ask about that also. Thanks. Stevie
|
Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
|
|
MonieMojo
Member
Joined: Apr/13/2010
Posts: 507
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/20/2010 at 4:40pm |
Thank you both, I have looked into most of those possible interactions and also Serotonin Syndrome, and I am pretty sure I'm fine with that. On Wednesday I will bring up the Amitriptyline and Cymbalta possibly causing heart problems, I didn't know about that one. Thanks!
Stevie- I take Cymbalta only in the morning. I don't know if that is what has been causing it or not. Lastnight I slept perfectly well, so I don't really know what's going on. It could just be the way I am. I'm not sure. I guess I will have to see as time goes and keep an eye on it. I would hate to have to get rid of the Cymbalta though, it has helped me so much!
Thank you both for your concern and advice :) I will definitely talk to my doctor about these things. I'm pretty sure another med adjustment will be made at my appointment.
Oh yeah, I am almost out of the Tramadol, I have one month's worth of the Methocarbamol, and 1 almost full bottle with 1 remaining refill of Vicodin. So I don't know what she is going to do about that. We'll see!
Hugs to all!
|
|
Thoracic spine:
1.)Dextroconvex curvature of thoracic spine (Scoliosis), Degree unknown
2.) 4 Schmorl’s nodes:
-T9-T10
-T10-T11
-T11-T12
-T12-L1
3.) 2 possible interosseous hemangiomas:
T7 vertebral body and T2 vertebral body
4.) Aberrant right subclavian artery
Cause unknown, possibly from birth
...
Lumbar Spine:
1.) Left paracentral disc extrusion. T11-T12. Indents left ventral aspect of the thecal sac
2.) Multilevel disc bulges:
L3-L4, indents thecal sac
L4-L5, indents thecal sac
L5-S1, touching L5 nerve root causing bilateral sciatica
3.) Disc dessication at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1.
4) Arthiritis of the facet joints of the lumbar spine
...
Other Musculoskeletal Conditions:
1.) General Hypermobility Syndrome
2.) Left shoulder instability with possible bursitis
3.) Slight nerve damage in left elbow
4.) Distorted ribcage
5.) Carpal Tunnel syndrome and tendonitis in right wrist
...
Other:
Fibromyalgia
Treatments (non-medicinal):
Pool therapy as often as possible
Medications:
Amitriptyline- 150mg/night
Ibuprofen- 2400-3200mg/day
Methocarbamol- 1500mg 3x/day
Tramadol- 100mg 3x/day
Vicodin- 7.5mg/750mg 1 or 2 pills 3x/day if needed
Lyrica- 50mg 3x/day
Cymbalta- 30mg 1x/day
Vitamin D- 50MIU 2x/week
|
|
Rocken Roni
Charter Mod
Joined: Jul/09/2008
Location: Alberta Canada
Posts: 1488
|
Post Options
Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/20/2010 at 5:18pm |
Hi Monie,
It's great that you had a good night sleep last night. Lets hope that it
continues. I'm always thinking of you. I hope this appointment on
Wednesday goes good for you and you get the answers you need answered.
.
Roni
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1st injured Feb, 1997. Was told it was "Soft Tissue" and sent back to work - no X-rays
Late 1997 attended 1st “Rehab Program” to strengthen back. Mid ‘98 PCP took me off work. Tried going back to work over the next couple years, mostly off work due to pain.
June 2000, met with OS for first time. Did MRI , damage was L5-S1 totally blown out. Surgery done Jan, 2001.
Another Rehab program late 2001, attempted to go back to work early 2002. Slipped on water, fell flat on back – screw fusion broke.
Went to 3rd Rehab program summer 2002.
Oct 2003 – 2nd Surgery, due to broken screw, had to operate from the front.
No improvement. Attended 4th Rehab program in 2004, at time it was decided NO work.
March 2006, had 3rd Surgery, this time fusion and instrumentation from Si to L3.
June 2008 Surgeon finally admitted I had Failed Back Surgery.
August 2009 WCB Finally put me on Long Term Disability
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Stevie
Admins
Joined: Jun/20/2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 7749
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Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/20/2010 at 5:18pm |
Good Going, Monie, I am glad that you are going to discuss these medication concerns with your Dr. and I am REALLY glad that you got a good night's sleep.   I too hope that you can stay on the Cymbalta. I would think that by taking it in the morning that it may NOT be the culprit with insomnia. I know that there are some classes of antidepressants that really need to be taken in the morning as they do cause sleeplessness. Does the tramadol help your pain? I used it with great success for about two years, but when I had to increase it several times a day it caused my Bp to drop significantly. Oh, now to add one other med interaction into the mix---do ask about taking Cymbalta with tramadol. We have had members have bad reactions to the two taken together. (Sorry, hon---another one, but better safe than sorry.) Looking forward to how your appointment goes on Wednesday. Hugs, Stevie
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Spinal Fusions L5-S1 and L4-L5. Cervical DDD, stenosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis and facet arthropathy throughout cervical spine from C3-C7. Tiny cervical syrinx. Thoracic Spine: dextroconvex curvature of the thoracic spine, centered at approximately T8.(Scoliosis with 20 degree curve). At T7-8, a disc bulge. Hemangiomatas from T7-T10. Degenerative disc disease T7-T9. Disc dessication from T3-T11.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.crisisclinic.org/
IN THE UK 0845790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org/
For help for many things...
Canada: http://www.211Canada.ca/
U.S.: http://www.211.org/
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Spicey
Charter Mod
Joined: Jun/30/2008
Location: NW England, UK
Posts: 3832
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Quote Reply
Posted: Aug/20/2010 at 8:40pm |
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Monie, it's so hard to know exactly what is causing sleep disturbances when there are so many possible factors. I know that without my small dose of Amitriptyline (only 10mg) at night, I literally get no sleep at all. However, I do still feel very foggy in the mornings. I find that I need to take it really early in the evening to prevent this - one of my physios suggested that I can even take it with my dinner, as early as 6 or 7pm to try and stop the horrible morning fog. Perhaps that's something you can look in to once you get things sorted out with your meds.
I hope things continue to improve for you. You'll get there! Hugs,
Spicey
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37 yrs old, chronic pain since 1993
Decompression/stabilisation with Dynesys Apr'04, revision with PLIF Oct'08, several ESI's.
Still suffering with bilateral nerve pains in legs, plus in neck, arms & hands since Jul'09. SCS installed Apr'10. No significant improvement yet
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"Forever is just one long trail of nows. All you can do is try and live one now at a time without getting too worked up about the last now or the next now"
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NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINES:
UK: 08457 909090 or http://www.samaritans.org
US: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or http://www.crisisclinic.org
Canada: http://www.211canada.ca/what.php
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