Samantha,
I am deeply sorry to hear of your recurrance and pain management issues. My suggestion would be to immediately discuss these issues with your MO (they seem to be the best at pain management) or, if your hospital has a pain management specialist, make an appointment with them.

Most pain meds, except Fentanyl, are also available in liquid form.

Most pain meds require an adjustment period while your brain chemistry adjusts. It sounds like you should have some in-home assistance during this period.

I was on Fentanyl, 72 hr., time release patches. They typically start at 25 mcg and slowly advance them to as high as 500 mcg. It's your best shot (it is the strongest pain med available). You may be able to also get an antinausea med to help with that issue, Ativan, Compazine, Zofran, etc.

It is also VITAL to stay well hydrated and watch for constipation issues (which all narcotics, synthetic or otherwise will cause). Constipation can cause nausea as well when homeostatis stops. This can occur rather quickly after pain management is initiated, sometimes within days.

I would also recommend getting your blood pressure checked to insure that your respiratory system is not overly depressed.

You may also wish to consider a portable commode by your bed (and waterless hand cleaner). They also make chairs for the shower so you can sit.

You were lucky this time.

Pain management is a basic patient right - demand it.

Last edited by Gary; 03-20-2011 10:57 PM. Reason: typos

Gary Allsebrook
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Dx 11/22/02, SCC, 6 x 3 cm Polypoid tumor, rt tonsil, Stage III/IVA, T3N0M0 G1/2
Tx 1/28/03 - 3/19/03, Cisplatin ct x2, IMRT, bilateral, with boost, x35(69.96Gy)
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"You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14 NIV)