Good Morning.  Another night of pain and sleeplessness.  I feel as if I am in a "Catch 22" situation.  Because the pain I have been experiencing this weekend can or cannot be attributed to my pain medication.  I know that sounds strange but it's true.  I had to resort to my "Big Gun" meds this weekend.  The pain in my back was becoming too intense for regular NAISD's.  But, I was unsure if the pain I have been experiencing was my back, kidneys or diverticulitis.  You see, it started to radiate to my groin on the left side.  So it's hard to distinguish what pain is from what.

I take the pain meds with codene and it causes me to become constipated.  Therefore, the pain I am experiencing can be from all three ailments.  How wonderful is that?  This is the way I live.  The med I take for pain causes a problem.  The side effects of my meds cause other health issues.  Again, how wonderful is that?  Nope, it's quite horrible.

I feel as if my insides are ripping out.  The pain is now concentrated in my left lower abdominal/groin area. I believe I passed a few kidney stones this weekend, as well.  Believe me I know what that feels like.

It seems to be a common problem for Lupies.  The kidney stone thing.  As many of those I have spoken too experience the same symptoms.

So what do I do?  Someone please let me know.  I am asking for suggestions from you guys as to how you manage pain.  I have been putting off seeing a pain management specialist for a few reasons.  The main one being my finances.  I just cannot afford the copays for the visits and the medications.  But, I guess I need to make an appointment soon.