u/nikils

So, I have had horrific allergies for years now. I went to the doctor for shots for a while, which helped a bit. Took zyrtec twice a day, a children's dose of benedryl at night (it knocks me right out) a steriod nasal spray daily, and I was *still* miserable.

As this allergy season has been the worst I can remember, When I had to visit the dr with what turned out to be a nasty sinus infection, I described my utter misery to her, and told her my regimen. She asked if I had ever tried Singulair instead. (Different, more serious prescription medicine that works differently)

Guys. Not only can I breathe shockingly better, but my sleep is *amazing* now. I fell asleep at my parents house over the weekend, and my mom remarked on it the next morning. She actually checked on me during the night because she couldn't hear me snoring.

I am not recommending that drug, especially due to some horrible side effects. but if you do have allergies, please get them treated! It obviously makes sense, that less crap in your nose and throat would contribute to better sleep.

It's a little thing but I hope it helps someone.

Skipping the long backstory, I have chronic neck pain and spasms from a couple of car wrecks. I was a miserable person for about 5 years after they happened, but then I magically stumbled into the right physical therapist. Severe muscle spasms from scar tissue, not really any big surprise to me, as I had told *11* different doctors that muscle relaxers seemed to help, while pain meds did not. Yes. doctors do not recognize muscle spasms. I'm not sure any of them even touched my neck. Any mention of car wrecks and neck injuries and doctors want no part of that....no thank you.

Well, for almost 12 years now, I have managed decently. I have a regimen that worked. Lots of heating pads, topical creams, pretty regular theraputic massage, and occasionally some muscle relaxers. Methocarbamol. By "some", I mean I may have averaged a rx of 60 tablets *yearly*. I may not need them for weeks on end, then have to use them for a few days during an episode.

Then I ran out a few weeks ago. I went to the same doctor I've seen for several years, and asked for a refill. I have seen several different doctors at that clinic. I have literally been seen there for almost 20 years.

She acted like I had asked for opiates. Told me those were for "sort term use only" and she would generously write me a week's worth, then referred me to a pain management doctor. For a MUSCLE RELAXER that is non-narcotic. I am still pissed.

I guess I'm going, but has it really come to this? Doctors don't want to write for *anything* approaching pain relief? This feels like I'm starting all over again, with doctors that just assume I'm looking for pain meds.