Living with Chronic Pain

I meet new people with chronic pain all the time. One of the first things they say to me is "Nobody believes me!" In many situations, mine is one of those, there is no hard evidence to show other people your pain. I'm only 26 years old and I told doctors for years that I was having terrible chest pains. Every doctor told me it was anxiety and put me on antidepressiants. None of these treatments helped my chest pains. I'm very lucky and my family and fiance are very supportive. I have met coutless others who are not so lucky. Even after being ... Read Full Story

I tried for a few years to wake up naturally in the morning. Then one day it was chilly outside and my throat was a little soar, so I had a cup of coffee. It really gave me some pep in my step! So now I wake up earlier if I need be somewhere and have a cup of coffee. It's the small things like this that start to add up. I think of my life like a bank account. Before I had a chronic pain disorder I could get away with minimal deposits, and a lot of withdrawals. Now I have to make ... Read Full Story

When I started having pain the doctors and nurses always ask me rate your pain on a scale of one to ten. I think that brain washed me. I rate my pain a lot, usually not aloud, just in my head. I guess maybe now on my blog. I was taught at the Mayo Clinic not to talk about my pain. They call it a pain behavior. I don't completely agree. I think there are healthy and unhealthy ways to talk about your pain. Complaining excessively is unhealthy. Talking about it in a matter of fact for, trying to be positive can be healthy. ... Read Full Story

Wikizines are interactive magazines that anyone can create or edit - and this one is called "Living with Chronic Pain". Here you can find fresh voices and respond in real time. Some members write articles about recent news and trends related to the wikizine's topic, others recount relevant personal stories or share their favorite pictures and video clips. Got an interesting idea or story to share with other members of this wikizine? Well, then put on your journalist's cap and add your own article! Read Full Story