No going back

Hi Beth,

I know how that goes. I tried going back on Enbrel but I had a bad allergic reaction and it gave me no relief. :( Xeljanz was looking promising the first few days I was on it and then it too took a serious turn for me and I had to stop it. I had hives and also severe abdominal pain while on it.

Glad to hear that Enbrel is still helping you. I am no longer on a biologic and my test results are all high again and I am dealing with the crippling fatigue and pain. I am taking MTX and Prednizone but it isnt keeping things under control. Even with vicodin I am struggling because it is not enough. My pain levels used to be a 4-5 and would go to a 2-3 and was manageable enough to go to work and be productive. Now I am at 7-8 and down to 5-6 at best but the fatigue is totally crippling. I can't work and I think I am going to start the disability process.

I asked my Rheumy last time for something more and she wouldn't do it :( I asked her to refer me to a pain clinic and I am waiting on that now. I don't understand this because I have been on higher levels of pain meds and I suggested we cut them back when I started feeling better. I take them exactly as prescribed.

Unfortunately, we who have chronic pain are going to be the ones who suffer as a result of the politics and public opinion revolving around these things. Also, illegal drug overdoses are increasing and I think will continue to until this policy is rejected or reigned in. A lot of people decry the high amounts of pain meds prescribed in the US and I understand that but it makes sense to me that we should try to ease the suffering of those in pain.

I hope you have a great day today. I am laid up in my chair for the most part but I am grateful that I have a loving and supportive family and friends here as well. -Don