pain
"I have Meniere's Disease and have had 3 surgeries for it (shunt, VNS (vestibular nerve section), inner ear removal).  I have piercing, stabbing pain sporadically throughout the day and constant pain (4-5) most days.  It's the cranial nerve X--the vargus nerve that's flaring up or damaged.  I've used Demerol (hydrochloride HCL) to control the pain.  I asked the pharmacist if there was any way to reach that nerve.  He said ask your Dr. about Gabapentin.  My Dr. immediately knew what it was and thought we should try it.  I've been on it for 3 days and haven't had any stabbing yet.  It makes me slightly dizzy/headachy.   Hence, I don't like taking it unless my ear is over a 5 in pain.  I haven't taken Demerol in the past 3 days."