One day of Activity Equals 3 days of Pain

RIDGE MEADOWS DISH

February 15, 2012

For most Chronic Illness sufferers the title is a familiar enemy. One single day of activity; be it, shopping, housework etc can leave the body exhausted and in agony for days later. 

Suffering from one Chronic Illness like Fibromyalgia is bad enough but when it is combined with others like Osteoarthritis, IBS, Chronic Pain Syndrome etc, it makes for challenging days at the best of times. 

Recently, I have had the opportunity to get out of the house for a couple of days worth of activities. Most people call them errands, I call them excursions into anguish. The excruciating pain that takes hold after a brief outing can last for a few days at a time. This is above and beyond the pain that is already there on a daily basis. 

As this disgusting disease progresses in my body, I'm recognizing the limitations it is placing on me both physically and mentally. The pain brings forth depression which brings on even more pain. It's a vicious cycle that repeats tirelessly.  

It is becoming more and more painful to sit in the car for extended periods of time. A trip into Vancouver for appointments is a nightmare to say the very least. I dread the bumps on the highways, the continual stop and go driving that jerks the body in a myriad of horrific ways. 

Using pain medication is fine when I'm not required to drive but they impair my judgement so much that I don't often drive anywhere anymore. I rarely have a day that my pain is lower than an eight. I can't recall the last time it was below a five. 

So, here I am post Valentine's Day and I'm barely mobile. There is no respite, no release and no light at the end of the pain tunnel. I am resigned to the designation of Chronic Illness Sufferer.  

The journey continues.....