Desperate for Guidance Amidst Unbearable Pain
I'm a 26-year-old woman reaching out in desperation for assistance as I feel completely neglected by my primary care physician. I'm at a loss about my next steps. Earlier this year, I experienced sudden and severe back pain coupled with saddle paresthesia. Unable to secure an appointment with my general practitioner, I found myself at urgent care due to the intensity of my suffering. After undergoing an MRI, the results indicated I have a thoracic syrinx at T13 without any tethering, along with three bulging discs that are not compressing anything. I was prescribed oromorph for pain relief and told that I would be referred to neurosurgery, with the expectation of receiving a follow-up letter. Unfortunately, a contrast MRI, which is crucial for ruling out a tumor, has yet to be performed. I have been assured that I do not have Chiari malformation. Now, nearly six months have passed since I first sought help. I tried Lyrica, but the side effects were unbearable, leaving me with nothing but sporadic doses of morphine every few weeks when my pain reaches an unbearable level of 10 out of 10. I am holding onto my last dose for emergencies as none of the available over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen provide any relief. Pain has become a daily companion in my life. As a veterinarian, my physical well-being is essential for my career, yet I find it increasingly difficult to cope. Today, at work, I'm grappling with an 8 out of 10 pain level. A sharp, stabbing sensation shot through my back while I was attending to a patient, causing me to break into a sweat and feel dizzy. The only positions that offer me any semblance of comfort are standing perfectly straight or lying completely flat, but the pain lingers, radiating down my leg and into my thigh. I am uncertain about whom to approach for further help or even what specific treatments to pursue. I lack clarity regarding the reasons behind this excruciating pain and the steps needed to address it. Should I request another appointment with a GP, likely enduring a substantial wait? Or would it be more prudent to return to urgent care? A profound sense of fear and confusion envelops me as I worry that if this situation doesn’t improve, I may lose my job. Being the sole charge at work, I’m not only facing declining health but also watching my hobbies slip away, all while remaining in the dark about the underlying issue. I’m trapped in a cycle of uncertainty. What if it’s a tumor? Would it have been identifiable without contrast imaging? Is there a possibility that it could be cancer? Is there a future where I can experience life without pain and perform my beloved job normally? Please, I need guidance. I don't know what direction to take next.
Answers (1)
8/26/2025, 1:21:56 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the intense pain and the feelings of uncertainty you're experiencing. Your discomfort, both physically and emotionally, is completely understandable, especially given your demanding career. It sounds like you have been navigating a very challenging situation, and it's admirable that you're seeking guidance.
Key Points:
- Severity of Symptoms: Your current level of pain and associated symptoms (saddle paresthesia, radiating pain) warrants urgent attention.
- Next Steps in Care: Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, ideally through an emergency department or directly consulting a specialist.
- Managing Pain in the Interim: While you seek further care, there are strategies you can use to manage your pain more effectively.
Explanation:
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Understanding Your Condition:
- A thoracic syrinx and bulging discs can indeed be contributors to your pain. The combination of both can lead to nerve compression, causing symptoms like soreness, shooting pains, and numbness.
- The absence of a Chiari malformation is reassuring, but your concern about other conditions like tumors is valid. Contrast imaging (a follow-up MRI) is necessary to rule out any serious issues.
-
Importance of Prompt Action:
- Given that you are experiencing severe pain and associated dizziness, it’s important to seek help promptly. Don’t hesitate to go back to urgent care or the emergency room, especially if you're enduring a pain level of 10/10. They can reassess your condition and may expedite imaging or provide more immediate pain relief and treatment options.
Next Steps:
-
Visit Urgent Care or ER:
- Go to the urgent care or emergency department based on the severity of your pain. Explain your symptoms clearly, emphasizing the level of pain and your history, including the MRI findings and your concerns about a potential tumor.
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Seek a Referral for Neurosurgery:
- If you can, request to follow up directly with the neurosurgery department. They can put together a comprehensive treatment plan based on your MRI results and current condition.
-
Pain Management Strategies:
- While waiting for further medical interventions, maintain your last morphine dose for when pain is unbearable.
- Consider exploring non-drug options such as gentle stretching, heat therapy (using a heating pad), or physical therapy once you receive medical advice.
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Communicate Your Needs:
- When you speak to any healthcare provider, be clear about the impact of your pain on your daily life and your work as a veterinarian. Emphasizing this can help them prioritize your care more effectively.
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Consider a Pain Management Specialist:
- If ongoing pain becomes a persistent issue, it may be beneficial to seek a referral to a pain management specialist. They can help develop a tailored plan that may include various treatments and therapies.
Final Thoughts:
It is important to remind yourself that you deserve to find relief and clarity in your situation. Navigating healthcare can be frustrating, but prioritizing your well-being is essential. You are not alone in this process, and professional help can lead to a better understanding of your condition and the start of your recovery journey. Take care, and please keep me updated on how things progress.
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