Ever gone to the ER for chronic pain?!
Question: I think I'm going to have to end up going to the ER tonight for chronic pain due to a herniated disc in my thoracic spine. My PM doctor is out and can't get me in to see him until Wednesday. I saw my PCP about it last week and they are also closed today for Good Friday. I'm still at a level 8.5 for pain on the 1-10 scale after having taken my pain medicine today.
What can I expect - I've never gone to the ER for anything and I'm sort of intimidated, but really feel like I need to do this.
Answers: I think I'm going to have to end up going to the ER tonight for chronic pain due to a herniated disc in my thoracic spine. My PM doctor is out and can't get me in to see him until Wednesday. I saw my PCP about it last week and they are also closed today for Good Friday. I'm still at a level 8.5 for pain on the 1-10 scale after having taken my pain medicine today.
What can I expect - I've never gone to the ER for anything and I'm sort of intimidated, but really feel like I need to do this.
I went to the ER for extreme back pain several years ago. They examined me and then gave me heavy-duty medication. It is really not very different from going to the regular doctor's office. The wait is the worst part if they are busy and you are in extreme pain, since they take the patients first who are in the worst condition (ie, life-threatening injuries,etc). I hope you feel better soon.
see ER they keep you waiting for hours its terrible
With going to the ER to could been seen as drug seeking. I know exactly what you are saying!!!! I can barely walk today due to back pain, and in the ER all they will be able to do is maybe give you a one time dose of something, or maybe nothing at all. They will have to do diagnostic testing to make sure what your problem is (even though you know what's wrong), because they can't just treat you without seeing for themselves. I am in so much pain today that I can barely walk, so I know how you feel, I have taken twice my dose of medicine, and I now I have a heating pad on at work. The ER will end up being a huge cost, but if you have exaused all other sources ie......clinic, nurse of your DR, or even heating pad, then I would go to the ER. I hope it works out for you, and let me know what you do, and what other method of relief you find!!! I need help too!
i waited 9 hours when I had chronic pain! they give priority to accidents/blood/bruising and chronic pain is usually the last :(
In the end they didnt help me, I was given a painkiller :(
Bad idea, they are going to think that you are shopping for pain meds. They might give you some Vicodin(less than 5 likely)to try to hold you over, but more than likely it will be an expensive visit and you will be told to see your PCP.