h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I am presently being given pain killers along with antidepressants for bone deteration in my spine. The doctors have told me that the antidepressants are not for the obvious choice (God knows bit I still get depressed) but they also relax the muscles which in turn is supposed to aid sleep. This they do very well, all be it a side effect of this is to feel really drowsy and light headed. The alternative of this being no sleep at all, which can cause even more stress. Too much has been missed in the past like SAD and what they called Yuppie Flu, it is a shame that the treatment and understanding you receive depends totally on the GP you attend, and your location in the country.

I agree. It all seems a bit pot luck, doesn't it? I think GPs are really over-worked and possibly don't have the time (or the patience?) to consider other medical options/theories that might be thought of as not quite conventional. I'm very sorry to hear about your spine condition. Are there any natural/alternative remedies out there that might help with the relaxation of your muscles? Although I suppose you have to be careful what you take - even with natural remedies - when you are on other medications. Accupuncture is often thought highly of as an 'alternative' treatment. If you've got a minute, have a look at BBC 360 Holistic Health - it's a very friendly Community and you never know what you might find there!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/360/health

Anyway, I wish you all the best - and a good night's sleep!

Sam.

Hi Sam, Smudger here, had a look at that site you put me on to, I will go back and really go through it properly. My bones got knocked together during a fall while working, and then started to crumble. Still I have the odd good day, and thats what counts. Always find someone worse off if you look around. We are lucky as when we moved down here we signed up with a real caring Doctors Practise, who seem to take more care. Been to physio and so on, but when it starts to grind I had to stop. Im looking forward to reading more response on this page. Catch you later, and thanks again. Smudger.