Question
This is a question I am embarrased to ask but am having serious problems. I have a confirmed diagnosis of EDS Vascular from UVA having sent dna bloodwork to Seatle. Within 6 years I have had a ruptured placenta, 2 ruptured colons, 2 colostomys, sepsis twice, numerous blood transfusions, numerous joint dislocations, 18 months before holes closed from having to b left open to due sepsis,ecoli, mercer, 2 d + c's due to eds complications, twisted spine,severe pain in knees and back in particular and have been on numerous pain medications. For the past 4 years I've been on methadone which has so far been the most helpful.The past 15months my dosage has been 80mg daily which now I have built a tolerance to and suffer from severe pain that is sometimes unbearable especially during cold months. My question is, would it be okay and would I be justified in asking my Dr to increase my dosage. I am only 34 with 2 children and want to be able to spend time with them without being in excrutiating pain. I am not a drug seeker this is the only thing that has helped but lately isn't helping like in the past. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Pain management and EDS is one of the toughest challenges.  Finding the balance between pain meds that work without causing serious side effects is difficult.  My best recommendation is to find a pain management specialist in your area - one that is familiar with chronic conditions.  

Look into the American Pain Foundation.  They have a referral list to help you find a specialist.

http://www.painfoundation.org/

Good luck.