How do we know if the antidepressants and anticonvulsants are working for chronic pain?

Doctor Furlan answers 9 questions that were sent by a group of patients in Ontario, Canada.

1. ALL of the participants agreed that your introductory video entitled « Chronic Pain » should be required viewing by all medical professionals....who should then in turn recommend it to their clients/patients. How can we make this happen?

2. How can I speak to my friends and family about my pain when they are generally not supportive?

3. How can I maintain intimacy with my partner when my libido is often wiped out by pain?

4. What can I do if my family doctor either doesn’t believe in chronic pain or doesn’t seem interested in learning about it?

5. What can I do to reduce the bias and stigma I encounter regarding my stable and successful opioid treatment for my chronic pain: a) in the emergency department when there for a new acute pain b) when my doctor is on leave or retires ? The opioid crisis has not been helpful to me in these regards.

6. In Ontario, how can I get a new doctor when I am deemed to be a “complex case”? (always rejected after the interview)

7. Topic: active versus passive treatment/ attitude. “I just want to find the right doctor who will know the right medicine to make this pain go away.”

8. What are your top ten best ideas/ suggestions for someone with chronic pain?

9. When using a multifaceted approach to chronic pain, how can I be sure what is working and what is not? Similarly, if I have been on a particular pain reliever or anti-inflammatory for years... is this safe for my kidneys/ liver—- how can I tell what is an acceptable level of risk?

#drAndreaFurlan #DrFurlan #DoctorFurlan

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ALERT: This video is not intended to replace medical
advice. If you think you have a condition that is
causing you pain, please consult with your doctor
to get a diagnosis and a treatment plan for you.
The intent of this video is only for educational
purposes.
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