Honesty With Pain

I'm the type of person who would rather act like everything is fine than burden others. I do this in my relationships as well, specifically if I'm feeling any pain. Not emotionally, but small physical ones. 

For instance, last week, my lower left abdomen was hurting. I had major surgery early this year, so any issues inside my body make those close to me get extra worried and think a doctor visit is necessary. If it were the other way around, I would act the same way, so I get it. In fact, I did do this to my partner when their foot was hurting and we went to see a doctor. With my pain, I brought it up to my partner, and we concluded that it was probably gas. Which I believe it was, because after a few days of burping and farting, it went away. The pain would also get smaller and move a bit lower over time, so I wasn't worried it was a hernia, which was a big scare after my surgery.

The main point now is, the pain has come back again, but this time on my lower right side. When I woke up and felt it, I didn't want to tell my partner. I wasn't sure if it was something serious, and we just went through me feeling pain not too long ago. This time, I tried to toughen it out. The pain slowly got stronger throughout the day, to the point where I just felt irritated. And it was obvious to my partner, and I could tell that I was being extra grumpy with them when I shouldn't be. I caved and told them the truth, and we believe it's gas again. After a good couple of burps and farts, the pain subsides for a bit. I've been eating more apples to boost my fiber intake, and it has been helping. 

Honestly, being honest with my partner about my pain lifted some weight off my shoulders. I got less grumpy and was smiling and making jokes again. Also took some pain medicine, but telling my partner the truth about how I was feeling felt good. I didn't feel like a burden, and my partner could fully understand why I was acting the way I was. I'm trying to become a better me, and I think I'm getting there.