Before GBS I thought I knew what pain was but this has opened up new worlds. After 9 months I still have nerve damage in my left leg and foot. I’ve had stabbing pains, throbbing pains, shooting pains, burning pains, etc. At one point it felt like someone was driving a nail into my heel with a hammer. This last week a new one presented itself. It feels like someone has connected electrodes to me heel and toes and is running jolts of electricity through my foot. I hate taking pills but it’s gotten to the point where I’m thinking of upping my Gabapentin dosage. Did everyone have this variety of pain?
Sadly, yes to all.
When I was originally diagnosed in 1982 no pain management meds were available. It took some time, but my pain slowly subsided and I learned to deal with it better, so eventually it was no longer debilitating. It was definitely an exercise in willpower, mind over matter. With no other choice, I became determined to overcome the pain. It was a full out war of the will. Looking back now, I think I have blocked some of it out, so it must have been harder than I remember.
All these years later and some pain remains, including random running jolts periodically in different parts of my body. I describe them as a shooting pain that ends in a burst similar to when you get a zap from static electricity.
I cannot offer any advice on the meds, but I do know that pain inhibits recovery. It raises your blood pressure, affects your immune system and keeps you from physical rehabilitation. A reasonable pain management therapy while under doctors care sounds like something I would have taken advantage of because I wouldn't wish my experience without it on anyone.
YES! Sucks! Take your Gabapentin...it is not habit forming and will help you! Also recommend getting custom foot orthotics. Pain is unpredictable. Also look to an ant inflammatory diet.
how is your Fatigue and Exhaustion/Stamina? I am 3.5 years in and I am fighting this daily!
Charlotte said:
Sadly, yes to all.
When I was originally diagnosed in 1982 no pain management meds were available. It took some time, but my pain slowly subsided and I learned to deal with it better, so eventually it was no longer debilitating. It was definitely an exercise in willpower, mind over matter. With no other choice, I became determined to overcome the pain. It was a full out war of the will. Looking back now, I think I have blocked some of it out, so it must have been harder than I remember.
All these years later and some pain remains, including random running jolts periodically in different parts of my body. I describe them as a shooting pain that ends in a burst similar to when you get a zap from static electricity.
I cannot offer any advice on the meds, but I do know that pain inhibits recovery. It raises your blood pressure, affects your immune system and keeps you from physical rehabilitation. A reasonable pain management therapy while under doctors care sounds like something I would have taken advantage of because I wouldn't wish my experience without it on anyone.