Bride’s Guide: Managing Chronic Pain on Your Wedding Day

You don’t want head or body aches to interfere with your big day, but chronic pain rarely cooperates with your plans. How can you enjoy the festivities if all the excitement triggers a flare?

Fortunately, you’re a warrior who knows how to accommodate your physical needs. Here’s a quick guide to managing chronic pain on your wedding day.

1. Make Reasonable Accommodations

Managing chronic pain on your wedding day begins with preparation. Consider your needs and your guests’ conditions. For example, people with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome might struggle to stand through a lengthy ceremony. Can you keep it short and sweet or provide adequate seating?

Also, did you know 80% of adults experience back pain at some point? Try not to select any old chairs. Look for those with adequate lumbar support that allow your guests to rest their feet firmly on the floor. Cushioning also helps with comfort.

2. Talk to Your Doctor

People with chronic illnesses often spend considerable time at the doctor’s office. If the thought of one more visit makes you groan, why not coordinate it with another evaluation or procedure you need? Write your wedding questions on your list to ask your physician.

Why? Although many doctors avoid prescribing certain medications for long-term use because of the risk of abuse, they may provide a short-term quantity to enhance your peace of mind. For example, it’s not uncommon for physicians to write a prescription for a short-term dose of benzodiazepines to help with a fear of flying or if your wedding worries start a flare-up.

3. Carry an Emergency Kit

Your number one tip for managing chronic pain on your wedding day is to create an emergency kit and carry it with you. What should it contain? The contents vary depending on your needs and condition but consider the following:

• Abortive medications:Some medicines — like many migraine remedies — only work if you take them at the first sign of trouble.
• OTC preparations:It’s always wise to carry a first aid kit — your guests will thank you if one of their toddlers in tow skins a knee. Include any over-the-counter preparations that help you manage your condition.
• Sanitary supplies: If your chronic pain causes occasional nausea or diarrhea, some wet wipes and a tooth-cleaning kit can enhance your comfort.
• Comfort needs:Many brides carry extra shoes so they can change out of heels as soon as picture-taking completes. Do what you need for your convenience — maybe taking big, fluffy Sherpa socks if you have circulation issues that leave your feet freezing, extra pillows and mobility devices.

Conquer Chronic Pain on Your Big Day

Chronic pain doesn’t take a vacation on your wedding day. What can you do to manage symptoms if they strike?

Follow the above tips for managing chronic pain on your wedding day. With a bit of planning and accommodation, you can enjoy your celebration worry-free.