Do You Suffer With Chronic Pain? Insights to Help you Work With Doctors
0
If you suffer with chronic pain, you are not alone. More than 30 of the population lives with some degree of chronic pain. I have lived with chronic pain for over thirty years. Pain is the number one reason people seek medical help. Sadly, many segments, including rural areas of the population are at greater risk of having their pain under treated. However, there is hope. In recognition of National Pain Awareness Month, I'd like to share some lessons I've learned that have helped. <br>It is your right as a patient to have your pain taken seriously, so be as organized and specific as possible when communicating with your doctor. Write out your concerns ahead of time. Keep a file of all your medical information. It's often hard to concentrate when you are in pain, so bring a trusted friend along to help take notes and ask questions.<br>Give medications or treatments time to work, but if you are not satisfied, tell your doctor and have your treatment adjusted. Expect clear answers to your questions, take time to make decisions, and refuse a treatment if you choose.<br>There are many alternative treatments available as well. Research your options, talk with others with a similar diagnosis, and talk to your doctor. Different people find different treatments helpful. Try what you believe is best for you, whether it's herbs, chiropractic, or traditional medicine; it's a very personal process.<br>The following tips are from Beyond Chronic Pain, (available at BeyondChronicPain.com). Learning how to validate yourself when you have pain can be healing. Tell yourself, you are doing a good job, whether you are washing dishes or just making it through the day. Pace yourself, take breaks and rest, even if it's a good day. Many people overdo on a good day and then feel worse the next few days. Do something nice for yourself every day. It can be sitting outside, looking through a magazine or talking on the phone. Take time to do something that is uplifting every day.<br>Do you feel down, lethargic or sad? Then being treating for physical pain alone is not enough. Do not assume you feel this way because of your situation. Depression is treatable. Let your doctor know and get appropriate referrals as needed. A life with chronic pain can be enjoyed ? I love my life and you can, too. Make feeling as good as you can your top priority.
About the Author
Rebecca Rengo shows you how to improve your health
Tell others about
this page:
Comments? Questions? Email Here