Like so many of you, my painful conditions are not visible to most. I have a long scar but it isn't something most would see unless I pointed it out. But my pain is as real as if I were covered in swollen bruises and gruesome cuts. I go on, every day, smiling, laughing, talking, working, being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, business woman....with pain as my constant companion. My pain management medications make that possible. Without them, the pain would be too much to bear. Maybe then, with tear stained cheeks, bloodshot sleepless eyes, and a pained expression, I would "look sick" enough for those who doubt or simply don't understand. I refuse to give into those small minded people who have so little compassion.
If you encounter this hurtful reaction in your journey, I suggest you show them this. "The Spoon Theory" by Christine Miserandino . She has Lupus but it is the same for all of us who have had to learn to live with chronic pain as our constant companion.
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/#sthash.S9Oblo0v