VETERAN CULTURE | CHRONIC PAIN, AN INVISIBLE ILLNESS WITH SIDE EFFECTS

It's common to talk about the side effects that everyone can see, but what about the side effects that aren't visible? The ones no one dares to ask about because they fear the answer (and later wish they hadn't asked). Chronic pain is an invisible illness, and this means hidden side effects.

First and foremost, and sometimes obviously, there's weight gain and loss. I haven't met or spoken to a single person with a chronic illness who's happy with their weight. Let's face it, few people are truly happy with their weight, but taking all these medications just to survive the day takes a toll on your weight. Whether it's steroids, nerve pain medication, or even opioids, prolonged use can have a significant impact.

But because of our illness, exercise is practically impossible, because let's face it, if you can get out of bed one morning, you've basically climbed Mount Everest. Enough talk, it's a constant battle with medication and exercise, and it's certainly not a battle any of us are choosing to fight.

Mood swings. Mood swings are a fact of life for any human being; it's what we do as human beings. But add pain and severe, debilitating medications, and it's like a ticking time bomb. Everyone has days off, but when you're in so much pain, the slightest thing can set you off, for no apparent reason. Certain medications I've taken in the past have made me angry at times, and not having control over your mood is frightening. You can almost see it happening: this switch inside you clicks and flips—watch out! But in the next breath, you can be so blissfully happy, almost delirious, that you forget about the bad moods, until that switch is triggered.

Patience. Given that most of your time is spent with doctors, surgeons, and everyone else, you'd think patience would be a given. Nope, I have less patience now than ever before, but not in everything I do. I have less patience for walking around, being downright rude, general BS, and stress. Since stress is the primary source of pain in my body, I try to avoid it at all costs, which in itself can be stressful! Imagine that!

Of course, it doesn't always work, and I'll get to work, which in turn causes a massive shock, but I'm learning to cope much better. But if we all have a little more patience with someone we know who has an illness, the benefit to that person is better than any gift. You are not alone, reach out for help, we are here for you!

Veterans, it's your right and your health; there is another healthy, effective, and natural option besides "pills."

Ask us!

VETERAN JUAN ALICEA

@aliceajuanarmando