We have what is considered a invisible disease. It is the most difficult thing for others to understand.

That was the Dr's fee for the Botox injections out of pocket. Have no insurance.

I don't have a lot of choice on being pushed physically and yeah the distraction and breathing techniques keep me from just ending it all a LOT

@A MyChronicPainTeam Member

Stress is sometimes a huge contributor to headaches. It can be a vicious circle. Chronic pain causes stress and that in turn causes headaches.

Try mindfullness. First let your mind wander wherever it wants to go. After a few minutes, start concentrating on breathing in and out. When your mind wanders, pull it back and concentrate on breathing again. Do this for about 10 minutes. It gets easier to do with time. Sometimes I get an aromatherapy candle and just watch the flame. Some mornings I watch the birds at the feeder. It's whatever works for you and helps you to relax.

People who are not living with chronic pain don't understand how hard it is to sometimes even get through the day. My advice to you is to be firm with them and don't let yourself be pushed into doing anything that will make your pain worse. Your priority has to be managing your pain. Be kind to yourself. They don't understand your suffering. Try to explain to them what you're going through and once you've done that, if they still push you, then push back. Don't get forced into doing something that will make you suffer more than you already are.

Hugs!

Mentioned Users

A MyChron...

I have severe spondylitis and spondylosis...also severe nueropathy is both legs and feet as well as my neck ...shoulders and hands. ( horse accident 2006 ) My elderly aunt always yelled at me when she came over saying I was bringing the pain on myself...( because most days walking even a little brings on severe pain that most pain meds wont touch. ) Her famous saying was ...Get Up And Walk It Off !!!....Normally I would never she started wish my pain on anyone EVER!!! But last year she was in a car accident that ended in her having rods inserted in her spine....she now suffers from alot of the same pain I suffer from....A week ago yesterday....she was complaining about how bad she hurt...And I couldnt help myself...It just came busting out of my mouth...You just need to...Get Up And Walk It Off...she started crying...and I thought it was bc I hurt her feelings...she looked at me and said ...I am so sorry...I never knew how bad u hurt...and was jealous of your youth and though u were wasting it complaining about a little pain...Maybe if you write down a pain journal for a week and then make copies...and hand it out to the ones who dont understand your pain...maybe it would help them understand....I know my aunt has had a 160 change in attitude...she even bought me a rolling Walker so when the spasms get really bad...I have a place to sit down...Hope u find answers...Hugs & Prayers...Claire