Day Nine: I woke up at 2:15 AM to take Tylenol to ease the terrible pain. Five hours later, The relief dissipated and the sharp pain returned. With one hour short of the six hours prescribed on the bottle, I am counting down the minutes while wincing in pain so I can take my next pills. What a way to live. I can see how and why some people are addicted to pain killers.
Day Ten: The sharp pain is unbearable at times. It's hard to describe but it just sucks the life out of you. I have little enjoyment these days and by all accounts, this can continue for another week or two. I take my last anti-viral pills today and can hope I started them early enough to minimize longer term effects. With Tylenol seemingly mildly effective for just several hours, I'll try Motrin instead.
Day Eleven: Motrin seems to have provided better relief and I've started applying Caladryl for the developing itchiness. The good news is the rash looks past its peak based on color and density. Also, the pain which was a "ten" just a day or two ago is now an "eight". Still wince-worthy but better. Could we go on our planned road trip starting in two days?
Day 12: I was determined to join friends for a scheduled Mets game to celebrate my daughter's birthday, so I took two Motrin and hoped for the best. I'm happy to report that this was my best day since the debilitating pain began over a week ago. The episodes of pain were less frequent and milder. Two more Motrin got me through dinner. I think the worst is over. Thankfully.
Day 13: We made the decision last night to give our road trip a try. We can always turn back. I took two Motrin and hit the road with fingers crossed. I made to the Crayola Experience and our hotel in Donegal, PA with improving results. When I felt pain, the level was a "five" or "six". Still uncomfortable when it happens but much more tolerable The Motrin has helped and I am cautiously optimistic that the days of excruciating pain is over.
Day 14: Sitting through the Pittsburgh Pirates game was even more comfortable than the Mets game just a few days earlier. The pain has lessened in severity, frequency and duration. I'm still not 100% physically as I have to move slower (like walking, bending, getting out of bed, standing up from a seated position) as I feel mild pain with such motion. I think I will cut back on the Motrin and see how that goes. Happier days are around the corner!
