Pain

  • 1 reply
  • 37 subscribers
  • 148 views

Growing increasingly desperate.  Have been suffering from excruciating lower back pain almost every night.  So much so unable to sleep.  Not yet received a diagnosis but seeing consultant for the first time tomorrow having had x-ray, CT, PET and lung function test.  Not expecting good news.  The issue is the diagnosis/tests are being overshadowed by the extreme pain.  Currently GP has prescribed tramadol and a strongish NSAID but the issue is I feel absolutely fine during the day until the early hours when the pain becomes unbearable, despite the painkillers.  Growing a little desperate as never experienced pain like it.  What should I do?  Thank you.

  • Hi ChrisYorks,

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community. My name is Fiona and I’m one of the Macmillan cancer information nurses.

    I’m sorry to read that you are having issues with back pain and that the painkillers you have been prescribed are not helping. You should continue to talk to your GP about this.

    We always recommend that if you have any new, increasing, or worsening symptoms it is always important to report these to your GP or consultant. This allows them to make a full assessment and decide if you require a change in medication or further investigations to manage these symptoms. They would want to hear from you and know that you are struggling 

    It’s good to read that you are seeing a consultant soon. It’s important to tell them about the symptoms you are having. This will help them in deciding what happens next.

    I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

    Best wishes,

    Fiona P,

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

    Ref: FP/LJ