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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
Hello,

I'm new to the forum, but, I'm not new to diabetes. I've been a diabetic for more than 15 years now, and the truth is, it's been longer, but my doctor couldn't nail it down with ungoing tests for diabetes that began in 1992.

I hope to be someone who will listen [by reading other's posts] as well as someone who will actively share my feedback and input with other posters, as well as be a contributer who presents timely posts that help members to know that they are not alone in this battle to remain on planet earth as long as possible.

I have neuropathy, and acute renal failure, that has went into a form of remission. I only wish I could say that was true for the neuropathy. The pain in both feet and ankles, along with nearly 100% numbness, is at times beyond words. The only meds that seem to help to keep the lower extremity pain tolerable is Morphine sulphate. I've tried everything else [Cymbalta, Gabapentin, etc.], and my body doesn't respond to their offer to help.

Looking forward to establishing a friendship with a great many of you, and if my experiences, or, yours can be used to help each other, than Praise God.

Be sure to check out my first post, "A Stupid, Deadly Mistake" on the Diabetes Complications Forum. It was my first life threatening mistake with Novolog, and I've learned a valuable life long lesson.

Shalom,

Pastor Paul:bathbaby:
 

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Discussion Starter · #9 ·
Thanks....

Paul: I visited my podiatrist today for a re-check to evaluate how the Gabapentin is working for me. BTW he increased my dose again. Anyway, he told me that there is surgery for neuropathy, it is called triple nerve release. Please visit Dellon.com Pain Relief for Neuropathy Pain, Groin & joint Pain, foot drop - HOME to find out more.
My Pod has told me about this very same surgery, but, he feels that due to "phantom pain" it would more than likely cause me more problems than it is worth. I got the same answer from my Neurologist. In fact, she is totally opposed to this procedure.

Than there is my Pain Management Group. There have been two others, over the 10 years I've been attending, and both of them had the phantom pain, too!.

So, thanks for the info, but, until I hear from some folks that have had different responses to the surgery, I'll have to let it ride.

Your concern is very much appreciated, and the time you took to look this up, is also appreciated.

I should mention, that the Gabapentin does not do a great job in containing my pain. The morphine does work well for me, and that is something to consider. It has it's ups and downs, but, overall, I'm satisfied with my current treatment. I've also tried, Cymbalta, and Lyrica. They did not help as much as the morphine, and my Neurologist assures me the amount and the type of morphine [sulfate] she has me on is not addictive, nor, is it bad for my kidneys or liver. The only problem is constipation, and that can be overcome with a heavy fiber diet.

Pastor Paul:)
 

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Discussion Starter · #11 ·
You've Been Through Your Trials Too!

Paul: I thought the info might help you. Looks like you have been through it all with the neuropathy. Gabapentin is the first drug that I have tried for the pain. I feel somewhat nauseated when my dose is increased. I already take Zofran for the nausea from gastroparesis, but I still get break through nausea. I may need to switch to Lyrica. I will not take Cymbalta, 70% of the people who take it ditch it due to severe nausea. If I can not get relief from medication, I will try the triple nerve release surgery. There are a handful of surgeons in Columbus, Ohio who do the surgery. I am not afraid of surgery as long as I have been well informed of any complications. I suffered months with gallbladder sludge build up last year and until July 2009, I had no health insurance. Once I got my health insurance, I went straight to surgery and had my gallbladder removed. I felt so much better with that nasty problem gone. I have had carpal tunnel release done in both hands and had 100% relief in my right hand and 85% improvement in my left hand, I am glad I went through the surgery. I am glad that you have found something to relieve the pain. Take care.
It breaks my heart to read about your ungoing problems, not only with the complications from diabetes, but, with the absence of health insurance when you have such a great need like gallbladder sludge. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers (if that's okay with you), as you battle soem very serious diabetic complications.

As for the nausea with Gabapentin, I have not noticed that, but, it is one of the possible side effects. If you get the nerve release surgery keep me posted, as I'd love to know how you handle it, and if you get the relief you hoped for.

Thanks for your notes, I do appreciate your taking the time to provide me with personal experiences and good suggestions.

Pastor Paul
 
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