Chronic pain conversations.

When you have chronic pain, it feels like you're having chronic conversations about it, too. It's a joy-sucking, time-sucking event that can drain you mentally and physically.

I wasn't inspired to write about it until today when a good friend of mine phoned me and encouraged me to share more.

Disclaimer: I am not a physician and these notes are based on my personal history and experiences. I respect and honor the world of medicine but these times are very uncertain.

•If you've put off making an appointment because symptoms come and go - discontinue this behavior immediately. Don't let fear get a hold of you. If your symptoms get worse, you will be at the back of the line for everything including test results and follow up. This is entirely due to our current endemic.

•Listen to your body. I am acutely aware of "my normal." If your body is telling you something that persists, call your physician. You get one body; one life.

•Don't be afraid to follow up like it's your job. I am not afraid to call and ask for answers.

•I have an ovarian cyst, a kidney stone and IBS-C. Do you know how many women reached out to me via DM and told me to get a pelvic ultrasound because their cyst ruptured and left them with indescribable pain? Or how about the women that DM'd with cyst stories that were actually, indeed, cancer? These two scenarios have continued to hold space in my DMs and I am thankful for this community of advocates.

•One test does not detect all. Get a second opinion. Get vocal and be pushy.

•If you're looking for a sign; take my advice: when pain becomes chronic and starts to interrupt life's normal activities...you need to make a phone call.

•Test results and follow up range from two days to two weeks. Don't wait until you are in acute pain.

•Be prepared to take a lot of tests. Wednesday marks my third. And yes, I know that I am lucky to have insurance.

•You are not alone. Chronic pain is a mental drain. Open up and talk to people. I've learned so much in the last four weeks.

Lastly, give yourself grace. If you need to cancel plans, cancel them. If you need extra rest, rest. No one knows you better than you. xo