People like me

By susanleszczak

1 min read

Consistent RA obstacles

I live in New Jersey and I have had RA for almost 40 years.

When I think it can’t get any worse it does. I have been on pain medicine. They found a dosage that doesn’t take away all the pain, but I can function.

I was told by my doctor last month he has to drop the dosage by 5mg & I know I can’t function on that dosage.

Longing for more

I take the meds as prescribed. There is so much more I want to do with my life now.

I have added anxiety, depression and my blood pressure is going up. Does anyone else feel this way?

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Richard Faust Community Admin
Hi <inline-mention username="susanleszczak" user-id="3242327"/>. So sorry you are struggling. Did your doctor explain why your pain medication had to be cut? We know pain management is such a tricky subject now and so many people don't understand the nature of chronic pain. I want to share with you this article from our contributor Angela on pain management and the difficulties: <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/pain-management' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/pain-management</a>. You are not alone. Also, was there any discussion of doing more or something different to try to better control your RA? I know it doesn't solve the issue, but please know that people here understand and this community is here for you. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
Daniel Malito Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="susanleszczak" user-id="3242327"/> Unfortunately there is currently a war going on against pain patients in this country due to the opioid crisis. Whatever side you fall on, it is making the doctors wary of prescribing and the patients are suffering the consequences. I'm sorry to hear that you are being "force tapered," as it's called, and I hate to say it but it's a story I've heard before. The best thing you can do is explain to your doctor that you need that level of pain med and your quality of life was where it needed to be. If they still insist, you may want to try finding a new doc in Manhattan, that's where I found mine and they are holding out against the mob, at least currently. As you can see I do feel strongly about this as it's awful to put people in pain for reason that are hard to grasp, at best. Please let us know how it goes. Keep on keepin' on, DPM
Randi Likely Moderator
Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing with us! I can definitely say that I relate to you and I have felt exactly how you described in your post. Definitely sending you some virtual hugs and wishing for nothing but the best!