When should I go to the ER?

[Dougus]

I have an L5 herniation left and central prostitution.  I have shooting pain from my left bottocks to the bottom of my foot several times a minute and pain in my lower back.  I'm on a transdermal patch but the pain is not controlled.  When should I go to the ER?  

[ALbertPA]

Can't tell you when you should go,  but danger signs include: saddle distribution of the pain,
Weakness of leg or legs, inability to hold bowels or urine, loss of extremity muscle control. What brand of transdermal patch?

[Tuckamore]

Just checking in to see how you are doing.

Concerned,
~Tuck

[Tuckamore]

Hello Dougus,

Welcome! I'm delighted that you've joined us. Please excuse my tardy response. I want to thank you for supporting our Emmee. I saw your kind response to her.

I hope you have gone to ER. Increased weakness and worsen SX should always be evaluated.

I can't say which way they will go to manage your pain. If they do an emergency MRI and find your condition has indeed worsened I would think they would treat your pain - as it may be an emergency situation.  If there are no changes and you're experiencing a Pain Flare - sadly they may just ignore your increased SX.

It seems that acute or intractable pain is only an emergency to we who suffer it.  Our pets get better treatment. Let's think positive and hope that the ED recognizes the fact that you are in extreme pain - and treats you.

Please let us know how you are doing. Again I'm sorry I'm tardy in my response. I've had another tough pain day. I'll look forward to hearing more from you.

Warm Regards,
~Tuck

[Dougus]

Symptom update.  My left leg is now weakened and heavy.  With the seemingly nearly intractable pain and declining symptoms, I am thinking the ER might be the way to go. But when I tell them I'm already on pain meds, They have implied that I am drug seeking, which technically I am cuz I want to be out of pain...  My fear is  even with the MRI proof they will give me benadryl and prothiazine to not "violate my pain contract" which is BS if I'm having an actual emergency.  I just dont to waste the money time an dignity if these symptoms are truly not an emergency....  Anyone have an opinion?