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What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia (or fibromyalgia syndrome) is an arthritis-related condition characterized widespread muscle pain and the presence of tender points, or areas of the body that are particularly sensitive to pressure. Other symptoms may include sleep disturbances, severe fatigue, depression and anxiety, cognitive difficulties, headaches, bladder irritability and spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, jaw problems and painful menstruation.

Fibromyalgia affects 3 percent to 6 percent of Americans, mostly women. Its exact cause is not known.

Who gets fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia affects more than 3.7 million Americans, the majority of whom are women between the ages of 40 and 75, but it also affects men, young women and children as well. People with other rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, are at greater risk for fibromyalgia. For example, about 20 to 30 percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis also develop fibromyalgia, although no one knows why.

Fibromyalgia sometimes occurs in more than one member of the same family, but doctors have not verified a hereditary link or common genetic type. Several studies have, however, found a possible link between genetic markers called human leukocyte antigens, or HLAs, and fibromyalgia. This suggests that a gene that predisposes a person to develop fibromyalgia may exist.

Why don’t some people take fibromyalgia seriously?

Unlike diabetes, which can be diagnosed with a simple blood test, fibromyalgia does not show up on lab tests. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause joints to become swollen and deformed, fibromyalgia’s effects on the body are invisible. Most people with fibromyalgia don’t look sick. In most cases, the only clue there’s a problem is the person’s complaints of hurting all over or constantly feeling tired. Thus, many people –doctors included – have incorrectly assumed the condition is all in one’s head.

Increasingly, however, that attitude is changing. The more researchers learn about this condition, the more doctors are taking it seriously.

Lady in painful silence

07 Feb 2012, 10:47

I have suffered with all the same symptoms expressed regarding fibromyalgia for a very long time. I have never been diagnosed by a medical professional. I know in my heart what is afflicting me. When I read about fibromyalgia I see "I have unexplained pain, I have bladder issues, I have sleep disorder, I have depression and anxiety disorders" (which caused me the loss of my children when they were young). My husband is disabled with diabetes. Every day I listen to him complaining of his pain and diabetes related issues and every night I lose sleep over my painful issues and his inability to sleep longer than 2 hrs without painful cramps. We also have no insurance, so because we can document my husband's condition, we pay out of pocket for all medical. Unfortunately, the expense of diabetes leaves nothing for me. My doctor will not give me meds for pain, and even if they did I could not afford them. I shop the best prices for everything we HAVE to HAVE RX wise...including husband's insulin, needles, testing sticks etc...

My daughter (24 married with Tricare insurance) has serious medical issues and we talk about them all the time. We don't discuss mine. If I do say I am hurting or feeling bad I usually get the "oh yeah, my back is killing me" or "I have a headache" or "I can't afford to go to all these doctors". I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to see a doctor regularly for my issues!

As the Mom and basically the Matriarch Caregiver I really have no escape from this feeling of nowhere to go for support!

I thank you for allowing me to vent. Unless I win the lottery...I'll continue on this path! My prayer everyday is just to get through the day as best I can and do the best I can. I'm sure I'm not alone in this...

Thank you all for being out there!!

Kim

Sheryl

31 Jan 2012, 09:41

I was diagnosed with fibro about 2 months ago. I also have had two kyphoplasties in my bac for disk compressions. Now I go to physical therapy for my neck whick has 4 bad discs. I don't sleep well and can't do alot of things that I enjoy. I am taking Savella, which helps but not enough to where I can function that well. I can't seem to find a doctor that will do pain management. They put me on tylenol 3 which doesn't help at all. I am at my wits end. If yu have any suggestions I would appreciate it.

paula

06 Jan 2012, 23:59

I have fibromyalga. I have also had shingles-and at least the shingles can disappear. This pain never leaves. Even my own family doesn't believe me. I have woke up in the night, in pain, crying and my spouce just complains of me waking him up. So I go upstairs to suffer. I found that no Dr. wants to jepordize his WORD to say exactly what it is. FIBROMYALGA. I have no health insurance-just like the millions of others-and the FREE CLINIC won't give any pain meds. And since it's only open one day a week-I have gone every week for the last 5 months. Now the Drs. Physician assistant- she has refused to see me. You see, I look fine. Just like everyone has said on this web site. I don't want this on anyone. But the Drs-their phy. assistants-nurses---should have something MAJOR happen to them. Let them be humbled...

Betty

06 Jan 2012, 22:03

For the last 10 years I have had fibromyalgia and degenerative disc disease, plus a few other goodies to help out. From infant to 18, terrible throat and ear infections.
Fourth grade on - migrains - anyone who has ever had one would never wish it on another. Then allergies and shots for 15 years. Too many surgeries to list here, and there will be more to come. Also - to doctors - just because you have a lot of surgeries doesn't make that one any easier. To be able to wake up in the morning, not from pain, but to be able to just yawn and stretch! Yes, just dreaming for a minute. I have tried many things through the years. Heat always seems to help. Therapy in a heated pool, doing exercises really helped. If I could afford one of those expensive massage chairs I would have it!
I have always tried to ignore the pain, TV, talking, working, something to keep the brain occupied, and keep those muscles from tensing up. I have to make an effort every now and then to relax them. At my worst when I want to be alone to hide the tears I go into my bedroom, turn out the light and listen to my sweetest music with headphones on which blocks out the rest of the world. I am so very tired to taking so many pills. Oh, for the days of popping a Tylenol and being fixed. Also, when I am really feeling sorry for myself I find out there is always someone else worse off than little ole me.
I have read through each one's comment and relate with you. Each one of you will have your own way to work with the pain, these are mine. It ain't goin away - I consider it the enemy and always look for ways to battle it. I sincerely wish the best for everyone in your fight against pain, I hope you woop it!

Andrea

13 Dec 2011, 04:01

I am so greatful that I came upon this website. I felt so alone. For over 2 years now I have been suffering with what I think is Fibromyalgia. I have only been seeing my doctor for the past year and he is not yet willing to diagnose me (he says it is a "fall-back diagnoses"). I have done everything he has asked for...Physical Therapy, x-rays, MRIs, countless blood tests. I have even been exercising and lost some weight because he thought that was my problem. Luckily, he is a very compassionate physician, even though I don't think he believes in this condition, and he seems to be willing to stick it out with me even though he has seen no proof of an ailment at all. I am terrified that I am going to go in for an appointment and he is going to give up on me because he thinks I am lying. My insurance and the pharmacy both treat me like I am a junky just looking to get high. But the truth is that I wasn't able to get out of bed to get my kids on the school bus every morning until my doctor started giving me something for my pain. If I could eat 40 bananas (for example) a day instead of medications, and be able to function normally then I would, I am not doing this for the drugs! I am only 30 years old and I am terrified. For awhile there I thought my life was already over. I can not beleive how hard it is to get this diagnosed. I absolutely, without a doubt know that I have Fibromyalgia. I just have to get others to believe me.

Mar

12 Dec 2011, 08:34

Probably I am new in this field considering that my pain started "just" year ago with increasing pattern. Probably on part is "fom the head", but partly it is kind of inflamation. Avoiding drugs which are on the end not always effective, I "discovered" tha good effect is provided by Green and even better by White tea. I am not talking about huge amount, but just 3-5 cups per day. It doesn't work always, but in most cases significantly reduce the pain and burning senzations on may palm and feet.

janice

06 Dec 2011, 18:14

I also have Fibromyalgia. Have had it for about ten years. I somehow seem to manage with tramdol once sometimes twice a day. I also take celebrex same amount.You might say my pain isn't that bad cause I try not to think or dwell on it. I just know if they took these two drugs off the market I would just curl up and cry.I know this for a fact cause I have tried to go without. Somedays I think it's not working. I could go on and on but like all of you pray someone will figure why or how we got this way. I am 54 yrs. old. Can't even think what I will feel like in 5 to 10 yrs. We need a CURE!!!!

Lorrie

28 Oct 2011, 16:26

I have fibro also. Was told by my primary doctor that I do not have RA and was told by his physcian that I do have it and my RA doctor said that I have Polyarthritis which is why I lost my SSDI case. Now I am in pain everyday,lost my apartment,can't work and have no medical insurance at the moment. I also have high blood pressure etc. I was on Celebrex and it worked wonders. But I have been getting worse all the time so I understand what people mean when they explain how hard it is to do everyday things like housework and other tasks,everything is a struggle. It's a shame that people mistake fibro for laziness because I have dealt with that crap for years!! So I wish anyone who has had to deal with these issues the best in the future!

christina

25 Oct 2011, 00:59

hi, Like all of you i have been diagnosed with FMS also about 5 yrs now. It started when I saw my gp for a throat infection that just would not go away. after several antibiotics, i had had enough. i couldn't even pick up a coffee cup. i thought i gut run over by a truck. he sent me to a reumatologist that diagnosed me right away. she said that it can be triggered by a serious illness or stress factors. anyway, i have been through the mill with meds and tests. i was tested for ms since i did have bouts of falling and shifting to the left side. they said they did not find anything. still i feel quite clumsy at times, aching is horrible, migrains,pain is excrutiating at times, and have noticed proplems with my vsion lately. i have serious brain fog to the point that i forget what i just said or where i'm going. this is the most frustrating,and embarrassing thing because normal people think you're stupid.

i have always been an independant person and now have to rely on family to do normal household tasks. i try to exersize but then i just want to throw myself in bed i'm so tired. even washing my hair is a chore since raising my arms take such any effort. i have been on cybalta..lyrica made my legs swell..,also 3mg lunesta to help me sleep..and as well if i go to bed to early at night, i am up at 3am. if i do too much 1 day i'm in bed for 3. pain meds (vicoden is starting not to help) and i don't even take it that much.afraid of addiction. i have anxiety(valium for that) seems to help i also have hb pressure.i have 6 buldging and hurniated discs throuout my spine. scoliosis and osteoarthritis in neck and lower back. i hate complaing to other people because all they say is walk and exercise, but they don't know what it feels like afterwards. these are not made up sypmtoms.some people are worse off, which is horrible. 1 am 50yrs old, on a good day i feel so good i tend to go overboard with housework but pay for it the day after. oh man!! anyway my hands ar getting tired. i wish all of you the best and hopefully soon. they will find something that really helps the symptoms.

Patience

03 Oct 2011, 22:05

Fibro is the most recent addition to a long list of auto-immune diseases that I am learning to control & live with. So far Fibro and it's close friend RA are the most difficult to manage. What has helped me the most is to give my doctors deadlines for helping me to manage the most difficult problems. Pain is a consistent issue. Like may busy patients, I dislike the side effects of most pain medications. It took a few tries, but we finally found what works for me. To get to this point took several visits to the doctor, good journaling of moods, activities, messages, diet and at home treatments such hot showers, extra blankets and wearing earplugs & an eye mask while sleeping. Some worked better than others for me. I have friends who find that avoiding certain foods help them, even though most doctors will say that diet doesn't effect Fibro or RA. The same can be said for message therapy. Hiring an exercise trainer who specialises in "special population needs" was an excellent investment for me.

My life has greatly changed since I was diagnosed 10 years ago. In 2001 I was enjoying being in 1/2 Triatholons, now I seldom walk around the block. Swimming laps is a fond dream do to shoulder issues. My bike is being used by the grandchildren. Still, I enjoy my neighbors who I use to walk with as they pass my house. Instead of swimming laps, I enjoy water aerobics. I don't let the fact that I've gained nearly 60 pounds keep me from wearing a swimsuit either!!! I can barely hold even the youngest grandchild for long which is enough to make me cry as I share this disappointment. Still, I can manage to get down on the floor to play with them, or sit in a chair on the deck as we try to figure out where the bird is that is singing it's song. BTW, gravity helps me get down to play on the floor and sure makes for an intersting sight when I try to get back up. Let me say, it's not a pretty picture and would surely make it to facebook or America's Funniest Home Videos. Still, enjoying every second (on good days) that I can, is something that I try hard to do.

My advice to anyone fighting cronic pain is to not settle for less than total relief. If nothing else, it will give you a goal to reach for. Think of it this way, you may never reach the moon, but if nobody every tried, it would still only be a dream for mankind. Besides, it can be pretty enjoyable laying on your back on a Summer night imagining how you could do it. It is possible to make the most of your good days. Try not to live daily in fear and with worry. Neither will improve your life or change a thing. There may be days when you will only have good moments Then again, you are more likely to more good days than bad if you keep a positive attitude and focus on what you can do. There was a day recently when my "can do" was getting myself off the toilet. It wasn't one of my beter days.

Sandra

21 Sep 2011, 09:40

I just read all the testimonies about Fibromyalgia. My story is the same, had fibro for many years, many years before being diagnosed. My RA doctor does not take fibro seriously. I have since developed about 5 more autoimmune diseases since this time. Same symptoms - fatigue, brain fog, muscle pain, etc., etc. I am on 17 medications, all extremely toxic. But 2 weeks ago, I started LDN treatment. For me, this has been a God send. Sometimes, it takes a few months to work, but for me it took only about a week. Amazing! My energy is coming back, but still have to pace myself. I am hoping that I can soon start deleting some of the other meds I am taking. Give it a try. lowdosenaltrexone.org

Cindy McCormick

20 Sep 2011, 14:16

I have had fibromyalgia since 1999 I am a licensed nurse at first it was a lot of aching it felt like the day after a car crash or having the flu At first they only put me on a few meds however as my symptoms increased so did my meds it became difficult to work or function. At one point I was on 100 mg of oxycodone every day and even that wasn't controlling the pain, muscle relaxers,meds for nausea constipation, stomach problems,sleep& Antidepressants for depression to me it seemed like I had to take a pill to combat a side effect from another pill I also was having injections in by back called epidurals & to me this sounded crazy so I decided to take things back in my control I changed Drs. got off the pain killers the dr told me narcotic pain pills actually increased pain by increasing nerve impulses at first I was resistant but little by little the pain did get better now the pain is in my control and not out of control most of the meds were elimanated now I take a muscle relaxer,cymbalta just the lowest dose they have, nuerontin and trazadone for me less is better. I began waking just a little at first I increased walking slowly now I go on 2 walks a day and will walk more if my legs are hurting. I began eating more protein and less carbs. Today I still have problems with depression however I no longer feel like killing myself I also have fatigue I also quit my job which helped alot. Now I do thing that I enjoy and that I can tolerate.

Nikki T

11 Sep 2011, 21:46

Fibromyalgia- is a never ending pains, fatigue, spasms, knots, swelling, weight gain, no sleep and it do not end. I had severe pain for many years, but thought it was just arthritis or a simple pain. In 2005, it hit so bad in my hands and arms that going to work was a problems or doing anythings else. Before I knew it the pains where never ending over 90 percent of my body. You can have spasms in muscle in your body. I had spasms in my temples with very bad headaches. I also had spasms in my stomach muscles, which makes your tomach go in knots like your having contractions and the worst heartburn you can ever have. Can you imagine not sleeping for 5 days straight, that is how bad pain can get from fibromyalgia. Being depressed never bothered me until my doctor put me on different meds. I did not stay on them and put up with pain until cannot bare it on my own. Behind fibromyalgia, I have high blood pressure, my thyroid level is off, no vitamin d in my body, with no proper sleep I gained 80 pounds. I can write book on fibromyalgia, it would definitely take a tole on your mind, body, and soul.

08 Sep 2011, 14:11

All these people with fibro and not one mention of low dose naltrexone. It's the only thing that has saved my life so far. This treatment is as real as the condition itself. Google it now, get a prescription soon.

03 Sep 2011, 01:10

I am 26 years old and Today I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I have been in pain as long as I can remember. When i was 9 the doctor told my mom I needed to see a psychiatrist. That this was all in my head. i always wondered why i looked perfect but felt so odd. At 16 i was 115 lbs great shape but couldnt run more than 20feet with out hurting so bad i had to sit and rest. I ad 2 terribly difficult pregnancies in which i barley survived. a hystorectomy at 21 ovaries removed at 23 gallbladder at 25not mention the 4 surgeries in jr high and almost one exploratory every year since. and most ended with the same results everything looks great. When I have to give a medical update the nursea always say the same thing your too young. Well if i'm too young at 26 then why at 5years old was i in so much pain that i could tear the heads off stuffed animals with one pull and tears in my eyes. it has been a long road and lots of new disorders and syndromes added to my medical files. outside i look 19 inside i feel 90. I just wanna cry somedays im so depressed i cant stand to look at my kids because they want mommy to run and play with them outside. and i cant even crawl to the bathroom without help. I cant keep a job because of how easy i get sick and how bad i hurt. so i decide to go back to college and get my degree for some sort of self motivation. and im terrified of another bad episode. they come and go. i have more bad days than good. i thought having an awnser to my issues would help but when myy rheumatologist said there isnt a cure i would just have to learn how to manage it and cope my heart sank. i have been so upset today trying to realize i just have keep doing what i have been pushing thru the pain to have a some what normal life. but i just want to be a active mom and be able to enjoy my boys' childhood. after reading some of these testimonies ive realized im not alone and there isnt much hope for the norm. I am glad that the doctors are finally realizing it isnt in my head and im not crazy though. that has been the worst feeling. it felt like my own family felt that way even though i know they got my back 100% and they have been through a lot. and I love them so much for all they have done without them i would be so screwed. If anyone has any tips on coping or pain managment i would love to hear them. i am ready to try just about anything to overcome this.

Joanne

25 Aug 2011, 19:35

I thought I had it rough till I read all the comments above.
I really don't want to boast, but I've been in remission for 2 1/2 years now. The only times I have fs symptoms is when there is a climate change.(now).
I am starting to have the symptoms since the fall is right around the corner and Today is very cool for August 25th.
My hands hurt so bad typing this, but I just want people out there to know that you have hope. It could happen to you too.
One morning I noticed that I got out of bed sort of easily. Plus, that morning when my feet hit the floor I didn't have that severe pain in my feet. I had a pretty good nights sleep too. Since that morning I have only gotten better. Sure, there have been days that I think its coming back, then my symptoms subside again. I just thank GOD everyday for this.

Kathleen Welter

19 Aug 2011, 13:57

Like a lot of your readers,I too have many other health problem in addition to severe arthritis. I also have fibro myalgia, diabitis, and heart disease.Had a coronary by-pass in 1998 have gerd,and severe apnea. I sleep with Oxgygen and a Bi-Pap machine.I get so tired of people thinking that people with this many problems must be a hypochondriac. I have worked as a R.N.all my life and continue working as a humanitarian sevices specialist even now that I had to retire from nursing after 47 years. Please give some hope to those like me!

Tammy F.

05 Aug 2011, 02:20

I am no stranger to pain and I used to have a very "high tolerance" for pain. I've had lots of surgeries. At 14 I had a very serious case of Shingles. At 17 I fell off a cliff and dislocated my left hip. At 19 I was hit by a drunk driver which re-dislocated that same hip as well as causing lots of other serious injuries--particularly spinal. I was put in traction for two weeks and was in physical therapy for 2-1/2 YEARS! But I recovered fully and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. My husband had quadruple heart bypass when our son was only 15 months old, developed RA, diabetes, CHF, and COPD. He has been on disability for a long time. But I loved my job/carear and we were doing WELL and I was so content & very happy. However, I became ill Jan 2009 with a stomach virus/flu. Soon I was having excruciating pain everywhere. The fatigue was unbelievable! I'd never experienced anything like it. I was always so energetic but the CFS really knocked me down into the dirt! I was hospitalized a few times and had just about every test possible done. Lots of things were found but nothing to explain the unrelenting and excruciating pain. There were only two more things they wanted/needed--a sleep study & for me to see Urologist. But since I'd lost my job I had only the COBRA --and lost the ability to continue the payments-- thus no more insurance and we couldn't even afford gas for the car to make the commute. Besides, the commute only made the pain worse & it would take a week or two just to semi-recover. I'd also developed bladder issues -- so we found a clinic locally which provided services on a sliding scale. There I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Although even as a nurse I'd never heard of it before but have since educated myself. In addition to the entire body pain I am either having to self cath for urinary retention, having urinary incontinence, urgency, frequency, or all of the above. I also get bad headaches 2 or 3 times a day. I have migraines 3 to 5 times a week. I use a walker to avoid falls. The pain is always present so it is just a matter of where does it hurt the worst from one moment to the next. And those increases in pain tend to strike suddenly and often in my legs causing me to have falls. I cannot stand or walk very long or far. I have great difficulty with sleep as the pain prevents me from getting to sleep as well as waking me frequently when I do manage to get to sleep. "Fibro Fog" comes and goes quickly and often. I have often been thought to be over medicated due to the fog...even when I had not taken any pain medications. Recent research by John Hopkins has shown that FM sufferers lose grey brain matter at a 3% faster rate than normal. Thus it is important to "exercise" the brain daily to decrease that loss and it can actually help increase the number of neurons. So I purchased a subscription to Lumosity.com and use the Brain Age II every day without fail as well as working Sudoku puzzles, and pc Bejewled, Othello/Reversi, and Backgammon. I do very poorly when the "fibro-fog" is upon me but I don't let it stop me--and just do the best I can. I also struggle with IBS, GERD, Barrett's esophagus, spastic esophagus, diverticulosis, muscle cramps, osteoarthritis, diabetes II, decubitus ulcers, heat & yeast skin rashes--to just name a few. Lyrica not only disagreed with me but also did not work. I was switched to Cymbalta...which helps a little. However,
eventually the unrelenting pain finally took its toll on me and I began struggling with anxiety, depression, and having suicidal ideations. So I had to have couseling. I am also now taking over 20 other medications: Neurontin, Paxil, Ambien, Amitriptyline, Clonazepam, Lisinopril, Pravastatin, Glucophage, Oxybutynin, Protonix, Endocet 10/325, and the list goes on & on. Sometimes I am jealous because some FM suffers have remissions. Since Jan 2009 I had one single day where from head to toe my body felt like your foot when it falls asleep and then begins having pins & needle sensations as it just begins to start waking up. That is the closest I've gotten and it was just the one day. To make matters worse I have non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver/fatty liver so it has to be monitored very very closely since it could easily be over-taxed by medications that are metabolized by the liver. Any signs at all and they will have to stop my meds. By the way, anyone taking Percocet should ask to be switched to the Endocet 10/325 becaused it the same thing only it contains half the amount of Tylenol (acetaminophen) and therefore lessens the risk for kidney damage. And make sure you aren't taking Tylenol over the counter if any of your prescription meds contain acetaminophen. Anything over 4000mg per day of Tylenol (acetaminophen) can do a lot of permanent damage to your kidneys! Anyway, poor weather conditions and any activity make the pain worse--so I can predict the weather better than the meteorologists. My applications for disability were all denied so we hired a disability lawyer and finally got a court date TWO YEARS later. The judge ruled in my favor thank the Lord! And I am still amazed we didn't lose our house but obviously the good Lord was watching over us for which we are eternally grateful. It is wonderful to see other FM suffers (not that I'd wish FM on anyone) and know that I'm not alone. Except for doctor visits and the one day in court I have not left my house since Jan. 2009 due to diaper leaks and the need to carry extra clothes and diapers as well as catheters (& public bathrooms aren't the greatest environment for maintaining sterile procedure when cathing).

bjr

03 Apr 2011, 17:54

I give all the praise to God, for you people, i sat and read most of the testimonies of your pain, both emotional and physical, and guess what it really increase my effort to advocate for myself. I am being treated for RA, but my primary symptoms are fibromalygia, since i been diagnosed with both but my RA doctor, failed and treat me for only the RA, which has not made any advancement in the three years since the dg. Now since reading your symptoms, i realized all the symptoms active, to include i never knew why at 3am like a alarm clock for about 10 wake up and problem going back to sleep. My children have made it a joke, that 3am is when the devel demons are awake and other jokingling thins in this area. Not being serious because they know of my christian walk with Jesus. However, my next plan is to discussed with the RA doctor, i rather be treated for the Fibro, THIS would help alleveiate the fatigue, leg feel tired, can't comb my hair, get tired, wide spread pain, in lower body, shoulders, hands, bottom of my feets, etc. You know when i made an effort to discussed these symptoms with my RA doctor she would smirkly say," thats not a symptoms of RA" now i will tell her since these are not symptoms then if i need to see just a orthro, or general med doctor, this can be arrange. Thanks again, see God do work in mysterious ways. God blessed.

Jan Hitt

10 Mar 2011, 12:05

After 30 years of working in my Licensed Home Day Care, and missing very few days, I began to not trust my legs to hold me up, or my hands to hold a pan. I couldn't work with children like this. I might drop one of the babies, or drop something on one of them. I had to give up my life of caring for children. (It started out to raise my own children, I eventually had 3). I was 22 years old. I began to see my pcd and told him it felt like my legs were bending backwards. He said it was because they were. The muscles in my legs were weakening. I had a Knee Replacement, and was overdosed with morphine. I began to have haulicinations. I got better, but still had a hard time with my legs. I later had the other knee replaced. The doctor had quit using morphine. I was no longer able to care for children, so was evicted from my house, into a motel room. I had a cat, and they let me keep her there. We stayed 2 weeks with borrowed money. I had never downsized my belongings, because I had always lived in a house big enough for the Day Care. We moved into a two bedroom house, and I had so much fibro fog I was not aware of what was happening. The doctors still had not diagnosed me with Fibro. They thought it was all in my head. By this time I had had it for more than 10 years. I had pain all over my body, and had been taking Klonopin, and an Anti-depressant. These were for Childhood Molestation creating Post-Traumatic Stess Disorder, Severe. I finally changed doctors, and he gave me Effexor because it would help with the pain. He referred me to a pain management program with a Pain management doc in charge. They told us it would be a full time job, and it was. We saw many doctors. My Bio-Feedback doc had Fibromyalgia to, so she could understand what I was dealing with. I also have Diabetes II, High Blood Pressure, High Chloresterol, Low Thyroid, Chronic Bladder Infection, Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. I began to tell people it was easier to tell them what I didn't have. Fortunately my husband was very understanding. I had ringing in my ears, and problems with balance. I fell many times. I spent a lot of time in Physical Therapy, but it only helped some problems. I also had CFS and was always tired, and required a nap each day. My husband retired so he could help me. He was 66. I am now 65, and we have been dealing with all these problems as well as financial problems for a long time. I can only stand for from 5-7 min. I use a walker in the house, but if we go to doctors or other places that I would have to walk more than 5 min, I have to use a wheelchair. I had always been very active in church activities, and had raised my 3 children. I still am not able to do much of anything, and it does tend to make me feel worthless, but because of my faith in Christ, I know that he knows why I am here, and will see me through. Thank you for letting me tell you my story of Fibromyalgia. God Bless all of you, and trust in God to see you through.

Lue Ward

01 Mar 2011, 10:00

If you are taking Lyrica, please be careful. I took it for several months and the depression was very bad almost to the point of suicide. Fortunately, the severe depression went away within weeks of going off the Lyrica.

Kathy

24 Feb 2011, 11:41

I was diagnosed with fibro a few weeks ago.I have been dealing with this unimaginable pain following 2 back to back vehicular accidents. I have herniated discs in my neck,torn discs in my mid-back area and lumbar herniations as well. I've seen the best neuro surgeons in the state, had every test,exray mri to be done. I've tried every narcotic out there but oxy and I refuse to become addicted to that. I just started taking Savella. Been on it about 3 weeks now.
helping some but it's not the miracle drug I was hoping for.I'm so exausted allthe time. I am 43 and I feel like i'm 90.The pain is bad some times that I don't want to live and until I was diagnosed with this disease, all of the docs treated me like a hypocondriac. It took me having a heartattack and almost a complete nervous breakdown to be taken seriously.I feel for those that suffer from this.I to have what i call mental hic-ups,i forget where I am going, what i was talking about,even the most basic of chores is becoming more difficult.God bless you all.

Dee

08 Feb 2011, 11:41

I am 42 years old, and was dx with fibro last year. I got many of the same comments about FM: its not a real condition, its in your head, etc. But unless you have it, you have no clue about what it does. My good days are a welcome and so appreciated; my not so good days, I try to do all I can to get through. I am very fortunate to work from home and to go to school online. This helps a lot. My pain is in my joints and muscles: hands, wrists, shoulders, legs, hips. There are days I am so tired until I don't want to do anything but sleep. The pain can be so bad until I am in tears. And, like many, I wake up about 2 or 3 am every day. But, I try many different things to help manage, and so far, I am doing well in controlling the symptoms.

I take Tramadol - nervous about the addiction to it, but it helps with the chronic pain. OTCs that are good are Tylenol for Arthritis or Ibuprofen extra strength. Natural remedies that are great or at least worked for me, include: vitamin D3, calcium, zinc supplements, and fish oil. I also get regular massages. I drink Valerian tea as well. Melatonin and 5HTP is also very good for sleep. Light work out and sex are good for stiff joints and depression. I take naps when I can to help with the fatigue. I also mediate and chant to help mentally manage the condition.

So, the condition can be managed when we find the right combination of solutions. But, I just wish people--including doctors, took it more seriously so that a firm cure can be found.

My prayers to everyone!

carol mohammed

02 Feb 2011, 01:34

Hello, I am 57 yrs old and was diagnosed with "fibrositis" around 1977. The pain has gotten so bad and my health has deteriorated to where I now have pernicious anemia, type2 diabetes, hbp,depression, high cholesterol,gerd, unable to sleep at night, chronic bronchitis, ibs, and the list goes on. I missed a year of school when I was 7-my body ached so bad-and without any tests was diagnosed with rheumatic fever. I now think it was fibro. Cleveland Clinic verified the fibro diagnosis in 1999. My doctor passed away and I started with a new PC/Board Certified Internal Med Doctor who told me there is no such illness as fibro-its all in your head and the diagnosis is used when a doctor doesnt know what is wrong with you!!!!! and this was 2005!!! I havent worked since 1999. Now my osteoarthritis is so bad in my knees I can barely walk. I do have a handicapped placard and get many snide remarks b/c I dont "look" handicapped-I was confronted in Walmart by a shopper and her husband who told me the scooters provided were for handicapped ppl and I wasnt handicapped! I am up nearly every night unable to sleep-ambien doesnt help. the only med my doc will give me is vicodn and it no longer works either. I am considering PRP therapy and Prolo Therapy at this time.

Valerie Ridnouer

01 Feb 2011, 09:42

I am 52 years old. I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia back in 1992. After losing my father in an accident (traumatic event), that's when it all started. I suddenly hurt all over and thought I was having a heart attack. I called my doctor and he saw me the next morning. He diagnosed me. There is not one place that does not hurt on my body. It is so painful even getting up in the morning or even turning over in bed at night. I tried Lyrica, but started having visual problems which did not go away after stopping the medication unfortunately. I take pristique and Abilify for depression which helps the depression, but not the Fibro. I have had it for so long I've just learned to live with it. Now it is beginning to really show up in my joints and I have arthritis really bad. I don't enjoy life much anymore because of the limitations it places on me.I can barely pick up my grandchildren. I have trouble sleeping as well. I don't tell people I have it because of the stigmatism that it has. I had a bad experience once when I was working. I am a nurse. I had a patient come in. She had Fibro. and my supervisor came down to the ER to see what we were up to and she saw the diagnosis on this gals H&P and said, "See, she's a nutcase. Anybody with that diagnosis is" That did it for me. I didn't tell a sole a about my condition except for a few close friends. I am struggling at this time and don't know what else to do other than live with it. It's hard for people to understand unless they have it, and I wouldn't wish it on anybody!

Cindy Hamilton

18 Jan 2011, 14:00

Hi, I am 52 y/o, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia 7 months ago, eventhough I think I had it before. My doctor immediately figured it out, he applied pressure in different areas and OMGosh, the pain was unbearable! He is general medicine doctor and I am totally sold on him, He is good! He first put me on cymbalta, and advised to start doing water aerobics, being that I am (was) afraid of water, it took me a couple of months before I signed up at a local town club and started doing water aerobics. All this took place with my daughter's help, she encouraged me daily about going, finally she met me there and coached me like a child, that was what I needed, She went with me a couple of times and then my hubby went once. Now I have made friends that I enjoy, it is called Senior/Arthritis class, have met one other lady that has fibromyalgia. Back to my meds, Cymbalta didn't work for me, I felt loopy and couldn't function, same for Lexipro and Pristique, nausea, loopy, sleepy and pain wasn't relieved at all. I stayed off anything for a while, now I am on Neurontin, which at least helps me sleep me through half the night, but I still do wake up at 3 a.m., and sometimes can't go back to sleep. I have learned to take a couple of rests during the day, and that helps with chronic fatigue. My hands, wrists, shoulders hurt most of the time, plus other parts, never know what is going to hurt, until it attacks. I wake up with pain on the bottom of my feet most mornings. I pray that I will be healed of this pain for when my children have babies, I will be able to enjoy them!!! Prayers and Love to all!!

Gloria

04 Jan 2011, 19:21

I have fibro and take Lyrica which is a miracle drug. I tried hydrocodone for the pain one time and it didn't even touch it. When I'm out of my meds, I roll into a ball and am worthless. I work every day, and come home just really wiped out. My job is so stressful, that is my main problem. I'll live with it since I've seen some of the horry stories above. I feel for anyone else who has this problem.

Deborah

16 Dec 2010, 08:01

It's 6:45 a.m. and I have been up since 3, I wake up everymorning at 3. Thats because the pain in my wrists won't let me sleep any longer. Back in July of 09 I was told that I have lots of arthritis in my spine, and that are bone spurs there. I didn't know what it was, all I knew was that I had pain. It was so bad that I had cramps going down my legs as I tried to drive.
My orthopedic dr. who had set my broken ankle from a slip and fall February 9,2009 found the arthritis in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th vertabrea.They gave me vicadin, but It makes me sleep all the time. Back in June of 09,the trouble with my wrists started. First it was the left wrist, and while it was bad, I could handle the problem because I am right handed. I went to the emergency room, because I hurt, and I didn;t know why, I had not fell or layed on it.The put a brace on my wrist, which kept it from moving, and that helped. But now it's affected my right wrist too. Do you know how embarrasing it is to have to ask someone to help you wipe yourself in the bathroom, I do. When I bathe, I have to ask my husband to help me wash my personal areas because it hurts to move my hands. Things I was able to do 5 years ago, aren't possible now. This is the first holiday season that I have had to ask for help because I can't do it anymore.I have high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoarthitis in my spine, rhuemetoid arthritis in my hands. I'm just having the time of my life. I am not working, my job layed us off on January 4th 2010. They tried to deny my unemployment, because I had health concerns,(diabetes, that made me feel bad)but they knew I had diabetes when I started, so they were not able to stop it.Every morning it is the same thing no matter what time I lay down, I get relief for a little while, but after a few hours, the pain is back, unless I take vicaden. Then I sleep all day. with my medication now, I don;t need anything else to make me sleep. My blood pressure medicine does that by itself, and I take 4 of them to control it.Clonidine, hydralazine, lisinopril, and amlodipine, so believe me, I don't need anything else to make me sleepy, the clonidine does that all by itself.I know I'm complaining, and I don't mean to because I don't have it as bad as some people, but hurting is no joke.and not being able to scratch your own head is not either,bumping my wrist on any part of my bodycauses pain, just to the touch, flexing my fingers causes pain, it's just too much.But I'm going to add some levity before I end my complaing, try having an itch on your left side, but can't scratch with your right hand.Thank you all for listening goodnight.

Breuna

15 Dec 2010, 10:29

I have Fibromyalgia i have cronic pain and have found that since i got off the high blood pressure meds i feel much better im on vicadin and mathadon i take vicadine 3 times aday i used to take 750mg 8 to 10 times day as i was in so much pain but now im down to 3 maybe 4 times day i also found not taking my BP and cholestral meds i feel so much better less pain in my back and arms just remember what we eat will hurt us in some way so remember make sure its all natrual and no hormoens ect. special diets help also im cronic DVT-diabetic type2-ruptured L3-L4-L5 im over weight too i smoke i did quit for 10 yrs but started smoking after the cronic pain started 4yrs ago so remember pray to the lord and stay on a safe diet of clean food thanks all and god bless you

Carolyn M. Thomas

09 Dec 2010, 18:01

I have suffered a lot this year. Finally a diagnosis. Interstitial Cystitis, Fibromyalgia, and Vulvudynia. My pain was off the charts. I was wearing a TENS Unit 24 hours a day. On numerous medicines, and still in tremendous pain! Traditional medicine was not helping me. I turned to holistic medicine, Eastern helaings, reflexology, acupressure, gentle yoga and P/T. I now have been pain free for 3 weeks. I am seeing a Physical therapist who is licenced in working with chronic pelvic pain. I am on a very strict anti-inflammatory diet/lifestyle. My body was so toxic, my immune system was shot. I had Candida in my gut--stage 4, fungus under my arm pits. Headaches daily, severe pelvic pain, body pain. I did a lot of research online and now I follow Dr. Weil's food pyramid, exercise gentle but regularly, and I eat only organic, non-GMO/GME foods. No fast food, processed foods, no antibiotic or hormone beef, dairy, chicken at all. Everything that enters my mouth is clean and chemical free. I am in the process of cleaning out household products, skin and beauty products all that are chemical laden. I am living a natural cleaner life and it is slowly healing my body. I am down to only 2 meds now. And I am weaning myself of one of them. I no longer have to wear my TENS UNIT! I believe we are sick because of our toxic food supply and labratory laden products! Our body need special clean healthy foods. We need to have self-control and take back our bodies, our eating, our exercising, and stop going with the3 cultures toxic ways!

Tammy

07 Dec 2010, 10:48

Hi I have had Fibromyalgia for years now and the pain is horrific. I also have a pinched nerve in my neck along with bulging disc that press on my spine . I have low back pain also . I am on several medications for these problems and nothing seems to help! My pain has gotten worse and more intense . The attacks last up to 2 weeks at a time and come around often . My hands swell and hurt and my feet swell and I cannot walk on them , it is so painful! I have headaches , every musle hurts in my body and hurts to barely touch my body anywhere! My knees and elbows hurt along with my arms and legs . My arms feel like they have tons of weight hanging on them, and they tingle and go numb! My nerves are constantly on edge from dealing with the pain . People that do not have this pain , does not have a clue how it is or what we go through constantly! You look ok on the outside , but the pain is on the inside ! I also have a sister that has this disease and she is in constant pain also . I am currently out of work due to the pain from this disease and the condition of my neck. I could not continue to work , because the pain was overwhelming ! I pray for all of you and your conditions , young and old! May we all find peace and comfort with this disease.

Karen

16 Nov 2010, 21:15

Hi my name is Karen I also have Lupus and Fibro and I was diagnosed with Lupus five years ago and diagnosed with fibro just september of this year I have trigger points otherwise known as tender points all up and down the back of my neck and my back and today I had to lay on a hard table for a medical test for two hours and now I hurt more than ever I heard of Lupus fog never heard of fibro fog

tonda

11 Nov 2010, 18:16

someone talk to me 'i was told yesterday i have fibro'but i think its fibro'and something else i swell realy bad in my hands and feet.does fibro cause this? i hurt all over.and knee gives me a fit and back i have realy red cheeks.please talk to me.thank you johnandtonda1@yahoo.com

michelle mareska

26 Oct 2010, 21:48

Hi my name is Michelle and I have lupus and fibro... the pain is awful, very wide spread. I am on several medications, plaquenel, elavil, and many more. Right now my problem is the ringing in the ears and as some of you call it fibro fog. I have never heard of fibro fog before, I know what I want to say but I will say something crazy that has nothing to do with the conversation. I am very forgetful, I hate it I am a college graduate and can not help what comes out of my mouth. I have been really depressed lately and it sometimes is very hard to function, when I look good on the outside but inside is a diffrent story. I just want it all to stop and I want things to be like they use to be!

heather

31 Aug 2010, 23:00

i too have fibro, i am in so much pain especially at night, it's midnight now, and can't sleep again, no meds are helping I'm on elavil, prednisone, celexa, and blood pressure meds. i also have GERD. my hands, toes, feet, knees, jaw, elbows, and back hurt, the IBS is in high gear right now, and the fatigue OMG. the flares are coming closer, and closer together.
i just don't know what to do, i work full time, and have a family to take care of, it is getting so hard to maintain.

BRENDA HOSLEY

18 Aug 2010, 08:49

I HAVE HAD FIBRO FOR 25 YEARS BEEN TO THE PAIN CLINIC EVEN THE CLEVELAND CLINIC MY PCP TOLD ME I HAD IT IN 1993 BUT KNOW ONE WOULD LISTEN TO ME I HAD 2 KNEE REPLACEMENTS I GOT OSTEROPOIS CELIACS DISEASE CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS IN MY BACK ON 5/325 PEROCET AND ELAVIL 100 MG ALSO AMBIEM 10MG AT BED I FILE FOR SSI BUT GOT TURN DOWN 3 TIMES I,AM AT THE END OF MY ROPE MOST DOCTORS THINK I,AM DRUG SEEKING BUT I,AM TRIER OF BEING IN PAIN

Ina Sheets

27 Jul 2010, 14:43

This is Ina Sheets again. My email address is seaspagal@socal.rr.com
Please contact me for information that could help you with fibromyalgia & pain in your body.
The patches really do work!

Ina Sheets

27 Jul 2010, 14:40

I have found an amazing treatment for fibromyalgia for my sister Karen who has suffered with this ailment for several years. I was introduced to some amazing non transdermal (non-medicated) patches that have helped her so much with pain & discomfort. These patches are based on acupuncture points & no needles! I would love to share this information with anyone suffering with fibromyalgia.

Email me and I will explain how the patches can help you!

shirley

14 Jul 2010, 16:05

TO DONNA (FEB/12/2010] CALL WYATT AUSTIN ATTORNEY AT LAW FOR ADVICE ON SSI ASK FOR KELLY OR SARA GOOD LUCK

Allison

01 Jul 2010, 12:53

I'm 25 years old and within the last 6-8 months I've been diagnosed with Lupus, RA and Fibromyalgia. I am currently taking Plaquenil and Savella (along with 10 other medications for high BP, fluid, muscle cramps, etc.). I was wondering if anyone could possibly give me any information on what's to come with these medications. I just started on them, so I'm pretty clueless. Also, I know my RA factor is extremely high, but I'm curious to find out how it compares to others with a similar diagnosis. My last test was about 4-5 months ago and my RA factor was 1,615. Thanks, ahead of time, for any information any of you can give. :)

Charlene

13 May 2010, 12:27

Over twenty years ago, I began feeling tired, feverish and achey all over, as if I had the flu. A doctor diagnosed me with lupus. Later, with fibromyalgia. After a lot of tests over the years, they have pinned it down to Sjogren's Syndrom, along with hypothriodism, fibromyalgia, restless legs,GERD,MVP and OA. I still am not sure of what I have, only that the pain is horrific, and the fatigue is debilitating. Something is affecting my nervous system. I feel as if I have a motor inside me that can't be turned off, especially at night. I also have a ringing in my ears that is driving me crazy. Just wondering if there is anyone out there who has these related diseases, and who have the nervousness that I feel. I have taken every pill in the book, but nothing helps. Celebrex does for awhile, but soon stops relieving me. Am going to have a knee replacement soon, if I can get up the nerve to be put to sleep. My husband was put to sleep for surgery, and didn't wake up. Prayers for my fellow sufferers.

Diana

08 May 2010, 21:01

Hey to all ,

I have had fibromyalgia and ra for two years almost .I have debilitating headaches that just ocme on with no warning .They (the doctors ) have trying to find a preventive to either stop them or lessen them .I also have sleep apnea with hyeprsomnia and high blood pressure .
They found my ra when they did some kind of blood test that showed my ra factor was very high .I was surprised to find out that i had fibromyalgia as well .I know what you mean about the pain and being sore is .
Somebody blogged earlier and asked if you can have muscle spams oh yes !!!
I take Lyrica and Cymbalta for my fibro .I also take Plaquenil for my ra .My rheumatoligist just told me the other day that my ra was in control but tht my fibro wasnt .He said that until I go in my laST Ralm of sleep every night that it wouldnt get any better .I didnt know if any of yall knew that litte tidbit .

I sure wouldnt have .Does cold bother yall too ? If I get cold my fibro will hurt .

Kate

07 May 2010, 22:12

I am so glad to find you here!! I have just been diagnosed with fibromyalgia - again. The first time was about 17 - 20 years ago (can't remember exactly probably because of the fibro fog), the pain was so bad all I could do was lie in bed and cry. My Dr figured it out fairly quickly, put me on Flexeril and Amitrypteline (sp??). But they didn't work. I figured out for myself about the sleep connection and took a look at the word "amitryptiline" - it suggested "amino acid" and "tryptophane" so I started taking L-tryptophane (this is not a recommendation by the way). This was before the internet so I was on my own pretty much. Anyway it worked for me then for the pain. I was pain free ever since - up til January this year when the pain came flooding back.

Finally it dawned on me that I needed to get a doctor's opinion - I was also worried that it might be polymyalgia rheumatica which would have required treatment with prednisone, a very scary thought. My present doctor ordered a sed rate blood lab test and was able to rule that out. She said that fibromyalgia stays with a person even when the symptoms disappear, and it seems some pretty heavy stress in my life last year brought it back.

I have only just now learned about "fibro fog" which has been bugging me ever since the first diagnosis. Even though the pain subsided the brain fog didn't. I thought I was losing my mind and was possibly developing some form of dementia. I blamed it on my possibly having some type of dyslexia that made me say the wrong words or forget things. But finding out about what it really is gave me some hope! I'm 73 now so dementia was of course my first thought! I'm finding ways to counter the fog - here on this site, thankfully! Write things down, take notes, repeat things, meditate, relax, do yoga - I am trying them all. Most of all I need the support of folks like you.

Deborah Hankinson

04 May 2010, 17:29

I am a 52 year old and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia about a year and a half ago after a severe fall that injured my back. I had test after test until a pain specialist finally suggested that she thought I had fibromyaglia. I was in disbelief and was initially upset with her over the diagnosis. I honestly thought I had rheumatoid arthritis; my pain was so bad and I remember thinking how could my doctor think of something like that? Didn't she understand the level of pain I had? I didn't take fibromyalgia seriously and it soon made a believer out of me. By the time I finally got my symptoms under control with 600mg of Lyrica and Savella, along with muscle relaxers, anti inflammatories and pain medications, the fibromyalgia had swept over my entire body. I remember lst Thanksgiving wearing three pairs of socks because my feet hurt so badly when I tried to walk. I have jaw pain, muscle aches, migraines, you name it. But I can now say, I am much better, although I am afraid to try and get off the medications for fear of this insidious plague coming back to try and rob me of my existence again. Fibromyalgia is no joke and those who do not take it seriously have obviously ever had it...

Amber

12 Apr 2010, 03:20

Hi everyone. I am so happy to found this site. I'm Amber and I'm 35 years old. I was diagnosed with fibro only 6 months ago, but I've been suffering from it for a very long time. When I finally started seeing a doctor it took over a year for someone to take me seriously. Well, that's unfair because some of the doctors were nice but admitted that they just didn't know. Most of the docs that did have a thought, thought that I had MS. I went to a neuro and he diagnosed me. I was put on Savella and nothing else. Nothing for depression or the immediate and terrible pain. I was told that I also have some sort of neuropathy. Which I understand is very common for fibro sufferers. The Savella made me so sick. I then went to another doctor closer to home and found out he was very experienced with fibromyalgia. The rest of the story is very long and no doubt simliar to all of yours. I'm now taking Lyrica, and a handful of other meds. I'm definitely disabled. This disease is terrible! My heart goes out to every single one of you. Truly! As I read your comments I just want to cry. We need to get the word out...Fibromyalgia needs to be taken more seriously and pursued vigorously!

JAN GARRETT

06 Apr 2010, 10:37

I know what all of you are going thru, I'm in the same boat as ya'll. I have had pain for years but just like ya'll I was told it was from drinking, drugs, lazy, and just wanting attention. I may have a beer once in a while with my husband, don't do drugs, I've worked since I was 15 yrs. old. The same as most of ya'll was not diagnosed until 1999 and that was because I had a bad fall at work, the company was trying to prove it was arthritis in my back ,hips ,everywhere. PAIN, PAIN, AND MORE PAIN always as long as I remember. The RA dr. said "fibromyalgia" terrible sounding but no one knew how to treat it or anything about it. I've been seeing a specialist for my depression ,he believes in "fibro" and knows it's a disease that's painful and debilitating. But i haven't found a dr. to treat this except for him. He the one that has me on loritab,soma,ambien, zoloft and provigil. We tried cymbalta but I had to stop zoloft and that was the worst month of my life. I didn't think I would live thru it. I'm thinking of trying lyrica. Has anyone tried it with any success? I also have copd, gerd. ibs, post traumatic stress, degenerative disease in my back and hips , almost forgot borderline bipolar. But I'm alive, right now I'm having a bad flare up which has lasted 2 weeks so far. ya'll are right we need to get the message out there " FIBROMYALGIA IS A HORRIBLE DISEASE AND WE NEED RECONIGNATION AND HELP"

Zahra (Sara)

26 Feb 2010, 22:17

Thanks Olivia! I can never find anyone that was as young as me that went through all the pain too and I'm happy that at least I know you got it in eighth grade so that helps a lot. I mean I'm not happy that you're sick, I'm just happy I know that there's someone else. It's always people who are at least forty and older. Yeah my name is pronounced Sara but my mom spelled it that way b/c she thought it was pretty:) I know exactly what you mean, almost every second I hear a teen complain oh i hurt my foot in gym, it's so bad it hurts blah blah blah! I feel like saying at least you can do gym I haven't been able to do gym in over a year! Yeah i have spinal arthritis too but no one notices it b/c i have my back always covered b/c i dont want anyone to see it and i just went to the doctor last week and he told me I have another health problem and it's going to take a while to figure out. Some days I want to die b/c everyone is always saying you teenagers are at the prime of your health and I always feel like saying I'm not I was healthy til I was 10 and after that I got FMS, arthritis, knees curved, scoliosis, etc etc. Ugh it's really frustrating, but between all the physical therapy, doctors, etc etc I wonder, I wouldn't be me if I didn't have all this and I wouldn't be this strong and humble. I am proud of myself for making it this far and I do community service and I never complain, I only complain to my twin sister who is perfectly healthy and my dad. My twin is always doing these sports and tells me to do them and it's really frustrating b/c when I do do some like I was on my school's track team I was dying, it was SO SO SO much pain and my sister doesn't understand that, I look fine but I'm breaking inside and I never tell anyone at school my problems only my gym teacher knows about it bc she saw the doctors but I feel like I have to compete with my twin bc she says im just lazy etc and I try to prove her wrong even though I end up getting worse. I WILL be strong though and hopefully one day my word will get out, thank you Olivia for your comment, it really helps to know(:

Olivia

23 Feb 2010, 23:37

sorry i spelled you're name wrong Zahra!lol

Olivia

23 Feb 2010, 23:35

hi sara, i went through exactly what you're going through now. I was in 8th grade when it all started and now im a freshman in college. Anyways I was really annoyed too by the way all the kids at school made such a huge deal over the dumbest things i uesed to ba really outgoing and conceited but when i got sick i basically stopped talking to anyone who is conceited and worried about things like brand name jeans,as you may know there arent very many people like that.luckily i had a friend who understood and helped me a lot she sometimes got annoyed when i didn't feel like hanging out which was hardly ever i slept through most of highschool and missed a lot school i mean at least two or three days a week,my knee was so swollen it looked like there was a sofball sticking out of it no matter how many times they drained it i didnt want a wheel chair either so i used crutches for awhile but eventually i guess form the repeated strain in my wrists i fractured my wrist and didnt even know it. i thought it was just the arthritis but well whatever anyways i just wanted to say that you can't give up and let this beat you try not to dwell on the fact that you're sick because the more you do the worse the pain is try and focus on something else,try painting,singing anything to lift your moods kay.
Goodluck i wish you the best

Zahra (Sara)

18 Feb 2010, 15:55

I meant I went to doctors for 4 years because I'm in ninth grade now, and the symptoms started in the beginning of sixth grade and I will be fifteen in a month. I really thought i was going crazy! And you guys already know that there's a lot more to FMS than just pain (hair loss, short term memory loss, weight gain, etc etc). School is really really hard! And all the kids at school complain every second for a very little thing and it bugs me SO much since they don't know real fatigue and pain! Thanks for these comments, I know someone understands!

Zahra (Sara)

18 Feb 2010, 15:49

I'm am 14 years old and I am diagnosed with FMS, Scoliosis, and numerous other problems like my knees curve inward so im incapable to run, it's very very painful and walking is very painful too but I don't want a wheelchair because everyone will stare at me at school. My symptoms for FMS started when i was 11 years old. Yes I was 11 years old. No one believed me for 3 years. Three years! I thought i was going crazy because everyone said I was exaggerating and that it was all in my head even my mom and siblings! They sent me to a physiologist except i never told them about my pain b/c i was afraid of them thinking i was insane too. I have severe pain in all my joints and muscles. My whole body hurts including my butt! My nose and cheeks! Also i have the oh so fun extra symptoms that come with FMS. I know you guys understand I went to doctors for 3 years and no one believed me. Finally I went to a rheumotolgist and he diagnosed me 2 months ago. I'm too young for any medication so he just gave me a sleeping pill to take at night and my parents don't have money to take me for xrays for my scoliosis(it's been over a year since my last back xray) or take me to other doctors to help me cope with FMS. And no one understands, they say i look so normal it probably is all in my head:'( I have a lot of family problems too, etc. I just want it to go away and understanding. Thanks guys for writing comments, at least i can see this and not feel so alone.

Albirta Poole

16 Feb 2010, 17:21

I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia when I told the doctor my arthritis was so bad I could no longer function. I thought everybody in there 40s and 50s hurt like me. NOPE. Some arthritis but my dotor said fibro. I was lucky, this was when they did not know what it was, and many doctors put it down to "it's all in your head". He gave me different things, but nothing really helped and my migraines got so bad I was having 3,4, and5 day headaches continually. I finally applied for disability--was turned down--had a hearing scheduled--and to make a long story short my doctor sent me to a psychologist for depression and suicidal problems. She put me on cymbalta. I soon started sleeping better and then the migraines started lessening and the other pains started going away. I got my life back. I cancelled my disability hearing. I am not pain free and I still ahve headaches, but I can manage them! With Cymbalta there can be side effects, some dangerous. I hope I never develope them! Just thinking about becoming like I was scares me! I hope you all find the right solutions for your pain. It took me years and a doctor that listens is the most important thing. Something I found out was and still is THERE ARE THINGS WE KNOW WILL CAUSE US PROBLEMS. DO NOT BE AFRAID TO LET OTHER PEOPLE HELP YOU. IT IS SO HARD TO ADMIT YOU CAN NOT TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF,BUT THERE ARE TIMES IT IS TRUE. I hope you all have people in your lives who listen and underwstand.

linz

14 Feb 2010, 00:25

Donna, both Fibromyalgia Network and Fibromyalgia Alert or good for assistance on making application for disability.
If you are in the Charleston Area go to the Dream Center which is a volunteer run clinic of local docs and nurses from SeaCoast Church. They can help folks get in to see specialist. Most Fibro patients do have back problems, however, your situation may be quite exceptional. Try different combinations of drugs, meds for neuropathic pain may help more for the arms, hands and feet. The approach to muscle spasms must be to prevent. I was having up to 20/day. I now take Muscle relaxers at bedtime and have reduced spasms to 1 or 2 a week. When I begin the fasciculations in muscle groups I take two pills, take hot tub bathes, once or twice a day with mild stretching of those muscles and use heat pads as needed. Even if you do have insurance the self care measures are many time the most helpful. I do take over 50 pills a day but none are narcotic, Poor sleep and stress contribute greatly to CFIDS so both area's must be corrected if you expect to improve. I have greatly improved because of good MD care and my constant research concerning both Fibro and CFS, which are essentially the same, few differences but not much. CFIDS is the catch all term for both, Chronic Fatigue and Immunodeficiency syndromes. This is a Central Nervous system and immunodeficiency problem. Just taking pain pills will not correct the problem.
A newsletter that keeps me up to date is: About.com then Fibromyalgia
"Adrienne Dellwo - About.com Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Guide" <chronicfatigue.guide@about.com>

Donna

12 Feb 2010, 15:54

In 2005, 3 months before my wedding, I began having severe ain in my neck, back of arms. I ended up in the ER and the dr said he feels I have Fibromyalgia and need an mri for slipped disks. I have since had mri's and tests and have 5 disks in my neck that are herniated/bulged/slipped with a 25% flattening of my spinal cord & numerous pinched nerves, migraines which are physically debilitating, left shoulder has a cyst in the joint, right shoulder has a torn tendon, bone spurs from shoulder to shoulder & up/down my c-spine, my arms hurt so bad, the muscle spasms are so bad that if I'm lying on the left side they throw me onto my back! I have problems with my middle back & an area that is completely numb/dead, lower spine/back pain, hips burn & ache horribly, and I had 5 operations on my left knee and recently found out that I have a vertical tear in my acl in the left knee with a planters cyst behind the knee that is 7cm by 3.1 cm big! I have NO health insurance & am lucky that my pain management dr only charges me $50 to see them every 3 months and in between I go pick up my pain medication prescriptions. I am on morphine ER 30mg 2x daily, morphineIR 15mg every 6 hours, flexeril 3x's day, Lyrica 2xs day, bp meds too. I have high bp, asthma/beginning stages of COPD & chronic bronchitis. I am also tired constantly. People look at me & think that I look fine but I hurt so bad! I barely sleep at night because of the pain. I've applied for Social Security but have been denied!!! I am now getting an attorney to help me fight for my SS. I should be considered disabled! I can't do the things I usually do. I owned a cleaning service & had to give it up, hell...even my own house isn't as clean as it used to be! I can't walk, I do work from home part time but need to use a laptop because sitting at a desk is impossible. I have also heard that I may have yet another condition on top of everything else. What really stinks about my situation, is that my mother was adopted & even though she found her biological mother, she refuses to give my mom any information. My mom had a sister that was in a wheelchair in her early 40's & died at the age of 50. My own mom has had 9 heart attacks and my biological father died years ago. Is have OA & RA too. I have days where I can't do anything but get out of bed to go potty. I lay in bed & cry. My husband understands because he has disks in his lower back that are bulged/slipped. He's on MorphineER 30's 3x day and perk 10s 3 tims a day. He just started the Morphine & finally understands that it doesn't take the pain away but takes the edge off the pain so it's a little more manageable. Any information on how to feel better is appreciated & this site has given me much to try. Best Wishes of Good Health to everyone.

Linz

11 Feb 2010, 16:29

Wow! I have been looking for Fibromyalgia bloggers in the Charleston area and this is the most I have found. You know we all need to meet. So many hopeful things are happening in the field and really, ignorance in the healthcare community is quite profound. I am an RN who has had FMS for 20 years. I had been in and out of remission with frequent flare-ups and rare relapses that I have self managed over the years. 5 months ago I went into a relapse that I had been unable to reverse. I went back to my original MD who showed me the same video tape he showed me 20 years ago when it was called Myositis. I am a pretty good researcher and had done my homework. I saw three doctors here in town and had to argue with them to get my needs met and finally gave up. I went to the Hunter Hopkins Clinic in Charlotte and am finally on the right track and feel so much better. If you want to set a meeting time for some evening or Saturday in the next two weeks, write back and I will set it up. I am on medical leave right now but hope to return to work soon. Truthfully there is so much new information out there and we need to get on the bandwagon and help each other out. Let me know.

Judie Wolfe

25 Jan 2010, 09:15

Oh, you poor dears! My sis-in-love just sent me this encouraging website, and, after reading of the horrendous agony some of you are experiencing, I feel I'm blessed to be only suffering with some of the pain you are having, but I also have OA, IBS and GERD. I'm 70 yrs old and had a caring osteopath give me the diagnosis of fibromyalgia 30 yr ago. He trigger shot a couple spots on my back with air or water saying that just interrupting the pain cycle and knot would help. He also prescribed an Elavil generic (Amitriptyline) that I've taken at various strengths since then. Unfortunately, he retired and I've been on the hunt for another like him since. My husband snored loudly and had sleep apnea at the time, so I began wearing wax-based earplugs to block the noise at night. This way I got a few hours of good sleep, but some nights I still had to get up a couple times just to move around. I've carried on like this for years. A change in my husband's drinking habits totally removed the snoring! Sometimes he sleeps so soundly now, I have to touch him to see if he's still alive! Now, he wears earplugs for MY snoring. I still wear them, too, against other sounds. As I'm aging, I find the fibro is having more affect on me. Lack of energy to clean, to think, to do creative writing and email. And the stiffness is so bothersome.but I've found that stretching is essential. There is a video (maybe a DVD now?) showing specific stretching exercises for Fibro. It's produced by the Oregon Fibromyalgia Foundation. I can't remember what I paid for it, but not that much. Google it for more info. There is more info on this video,too, explaining that there is a time factor in breaking the cycle of pain -- you hold the stretch for so many seconds, etc. Something else is so helpful for me is my Christian faith. For encouragement, I can only tell you that the assurance/promise/guarantee I have from the Lord Jesus of eternal life -- without pain is so comforting. Meanwhile, pressing into His comfort and mercy, and helping others when I'm able keeps my mind off my discomfort and pain. Sometimes I think, the more I do, the better I feel, and the better I rest. But, I understand that getting started can be incredibly difficult. Breaking the pain cycle is a big factor in this syndrome. Anxiety over the dread of pain only causes the muscles to tense up and knot tighter. Stretch and breathe -- Jesus said, this world is not all there is. With sympathy,empathy, compassion and love to you all.

Janet Clayton

19 Jan 2010, 16:55

I have sleep apnea, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure. I hurt,I try not to let this issue win. My house used to be spotless, now I can't say that anymore. I do walk the dogs. I am so stiff, I can't stand myself. I wish I could find a doctor who would give me something for pain, other than neuroutin. Please text me back a doctor in Columbia, S.C. or Charleston, S.C. who would prescribe me something other than Darvon, and Flexerill. I could do so much more if I didn't hurt all the time. Please help me.

Susan

15 Jan 2010, 19:16

I've had Fibro for about 21 years. Some doctors don't believe in it so you have to find one that does. I recently moved to N.C. and have found that the doctors think you are going to sell the Vicodin instead of taking it. I would never sell any as I NEED it myself. lol Idiots. I also have Ortho Arthritis and the two are so restricting. I keep up at least walking although my knees need to be replaced. I recently stopped my 2 sleep medications and have since lost over 30 lbs. I stay up for 2-3 days and then sleep. Since I don't work anymore I figure it won't hurt to have this schedule. The hardest thing to do is to be gentle with myself. Forgive myself for not doing house work and other such things.

Bonita

13 Jan 2010, 02:01

I was diagnosed in 1996 with fibromyalgia, but I think it was many years before. Since my diagnosis, I have trouble with my esophagus and acid reflux. I have IBS, and had my gallbladder taken out, by the luck of a day, it had already turned into gangrene when it was taken out. I have a pain on my right side ever since I had the gallbladder taken out, that’s how they found my cancer. In 2006 I was diagnosis with kidney cancer. I had my right kidney taken out; I now live with only one kidney and pray I don't get it in the other one. So now I can't take ibuprofen or Motrin because it filters through the kidney. I had a hysterectomy around the time of my diagnosed I need to be on estrogen but the doctor says it causes breast cancer, wow so now I’m heat surge LOL. I go to pain management and get pressure point injections when I can, and take vicodine for the pain as needed, I have been on ambein for almost 6 years, and the doctor is complaining I'm addicted. Well if I don't have the sleeping pill I don’t sleep. If I do sleep it's very light and I wake up to everything. I’m also the mother of a child with cerebral palsy who is also in college, and is going to be 21 on the 16th I can’t believe my baby is going to be 21 .This has been the longest struggle that I have ever done trying to get people to understand because I look so healthy, that I have a problem. I went back to college 2 years ago and am working on sociology degree, but I feel when I graduate who is going to hire me? The first time, I call in sick, and can't get out of bed, I will be gone. I wish they would find out what causes this and call it a disease. God Bless you all who suffer, keep your chin up and never give up. I don’t want people to feel sorry for me; I just want understanding, like most people who have this disorder.

renee

11 Jan 2010, 00:39

in '87 i was in an auto accident which left me with chronic pain. the only relief found was aggressive physical therapy. painful at times but some relief after. the duration varied from treatment to treatment, very frustrating. during this time i was being sent to many md's. i was to see one neurologist,but i saw another in the group. it turned out to be the right one for me. "thank God". he read my records, asked questions, felt my back . shoulders, arms, and legs. looks at me and said those magical words "i believe you have fibromyalgia" i felt as if a weight had been lifted. no longer could people and dr's. say it was all in my head.

over the past 23 yrs i've been told i was getting addicted to the drugs that helped with the pain and then proceded to ween me off and started otc meds that did not help. being a good patient and the things in my life i was able to move away. again i say " thank God" i found another dr. who had other ideas on how to treat fibro.some help. again i moved met a pain specialist "THANK GOD" he helped me adjust my pain meds as did my orthopedic dr.pain md left and his replacement is wonderful. i will list my meds but know this, what works for 1 does'nt work for all. my current cocktail is --morphine long acting 2 x d, neurotin 3 x d, baclophen 3 x d, norco 2 x d, cymbalta 2 x d and i still live in pain but you see as long as i can function and have a semi life i can handle it. most people can not handle it my way but this is my life,

Sonia R

03 Jan 2010, 02:13

hi,
my problems were same,n my doc always smile at me that if i'm joking when i say i'm in pain.n i was really in pain n was suffering from cluster headaches too,first they were like migraine n then i read symptoms on internet,then i self diagnosed that i'm suffering from fibro n cluster headaches.
Don't know what to do here coz this is really sad when doc dont understand n fail in diagnosis.Anyway,i belong from Pakistan n here unfortunately nobody knows abt Fibromyalgia.sometimes i think maybe i'm wrong,i started to workout n tried to control my weight n concentrate on my food intake. I feel like i'm doing good n feeling better,but these headaches still hurt me, killing me n make me tired.......

Donna

19 Nov 2009, 12:57

I have been diagnosed for two years now, but I am certain that I have had Fibromyalgia since childhood. At the age of two I started ballet training. I continued until the age of 22. When I was a pre-teen I started having the worst pain in my legs. My doctor told me that it was "growing pains". The pain was absolutely unbearable. Two years ago I was told that I had to have back surgery. The neurosurgeon stated that I might have something more. Indeed, I had Fibromyalgia.
I had been having "mystery pain". I missed a lot of work. My bosses always thought that I was just being lazy. We really need to raise awareness that this is a real illness.

Diane H.

12 Nov 2009, 17:40

I have had pain as far back as 25 years ago. Mostly headaches and jaw pain back then. I went to doctors who would tell me "reduce my stress," being a young mother of 3 small children back then it was of course impossible. I have had doctors ignore my pain and not listen to my pain,tests on my thyroid and blood were numerous it's been very frustrating. Thankfully last year the Good Lord (and my husband),sent me to a doctor who actually believed I had pain!I had been reading about fibromyalgia and the doctor agreed that's what I have, it's been frustrating because she has been trying different meds on me and I am very sensitive to the meds. I have been blessed to have a patient and loving husband, I'm scared because recently the fibromyalgia has hit my hands, arms, and chest. I also have frequent peeing miles! I'm trying not to be fearful of the future and continue to do as much as I can. To all of you stay strong and try not to lose hope. Rely on your love ones and those who help you and receive it. Make the most of good days and may the bad days be few. God Bless....

Katarina

04 Nov 2009, 18:43

After being ignored for years about my complaints of extreme body pain and debilitating fatigue by my PCP,I was finally listened to by a doctor at a walk in clinic. He ordered labs that showed an elevated ANA, SED rate and many others that were abnormal, which indicates an autoimmune disease. The labs were sent to my new PCP who referred me to a small town rheumatologist who diagnosed Lupus and put me on Prednisone and Plaquinil and kept telling me to wait and see how it goes. Frustrated with being ignored again,I made an appointment with a rheumatologist at a city teaching hospital who diagnosed fibromyalgia and immediately took me off the Plaquinil and weaned me off the Prednisone and told me he only treats Lupus, referring me back to my PCP who doesn't want to treat the fibromyalgia. I then went to a big city specialist who told me "FIBROMYALGIA IS NOT A DISABILITY"!!!! How can this woman treat people in crisis with no empathy or understanding of the disease! I wonder when was the last time she had debilitating fatigue and couldn't get out of bed!
I am now at risk of losing my job as a nurse because I cannot keep up the physical pace of my job.
Why doesn't the medical world think fibromyalgia is debilitating, devastating, life changing, heart breaking,unbearable, incapacitating and overwhelming,
causing anxiety, depression, chest pain, brain fog, blurred vision........excessive medical bills.....who is going to listen???

Tina P.

03 Nov 2009, 11:35

I was in a car wreck in June 06 on my way to my Office Manager position at a realty co. which I loved...when out of no where comes this older lady crashing into the side of my car. From that moment on...my life changed forever!! Long story made short..it took me about 8 mths and 5 different drs to finally find out I had this terrible, horrific, debilitating chronic pain disease called: FIBROMYALGIA! Oh and CFS too and chronic myofascial pain on the right side which the wreck affected the rt side the worse. I hurt so badly 24/7 from head to toe! I wish the pain was all I had to deal with. I take very strong pain meds just to get out of my bed to make it to the restroom in the morning. I am sooo stiff and achy from sleeping or attempting to sleep..I get chronic migraines, my skin hurts and burns at times, I have IBS, IC (constant bladder pressure) I had that before, worse now. My esophagus has decided in the last 2 years that it would not push the food, pills, drinks, into my stomach anymore because the fibro affects all my muscles and bones! About to have surgery again probably on my esophagus. They think the fibro caused Achalasia of my esophagus. It is scary. Can't even eat right anymore. This disease has stolen my very life from me. My job, my family as i knew it, my sanity, cause I have severe fibro fog! I can't remember anything. I leave my keys in bathrooms of restaurants (stupid!)had already lost my extra key the week before...my life consists of Dr appts, drug stores, arguing with my ins.,begging for my disability over 2 1/2 years since I had to resign from my job I loved. And for those who don't believe???? I pray YOU NEVER GET this DISEASE: FIBRO. God Bless All of you who deal w/this daily. Lean on HIM! I would have checked out of this world, this pain a long time ago without the Lord! Keep fighting that depression! I do daily. We can't give in to this fibro or the idiots who don't understand because they haven't had the privilege of getting it or experiencing the excruciating PAIN. God Bless!

Tonia

01 Nov 2009, 11:24

To eve,
Please be tested for MS. I have Fibro, but also had sever pain in legs and hips. Doctors did lots of tests as I was applying for disability. They determined my left leg was shorter, which hadnt been in the past as I see Chiro. I was diagonsed with MS. Lots of times drs diagnose fibro, but there is still underlying medical conditions people have that is just overshadowed by the firbo.

glenda

25 Oct 2009, 19:36

I have had fibromyalgia for 20 years. It has been a long journy, but I am here. I have been blessed because I have not been bed ridden with this at all, Altho I feel like going to bed at times because my legs hurt and are week. I have alot of pain all over my body. My doctor does reconize Fibromyalgia and has given me meds for it. I know there will be side effects taking the meds so I suffer with pain as much as possible. I take ibropropen 2 to 4 a day, which helps some. I have been in almost constant pain with my lower back for months and months. Happy I found this web page.

Gloria

26 Sep 2009, 16:36

After reading the many inputs..i dont feel so alone..with all the symthoms mention i beleive has covered mine..I was diag 4 yrs back and having a hard time adjusting..the main thing is others understanding becuase of nothing to see with the eye..i was used to an active life which came to a halt..and yes..a little puppy helped!...your whole lifestyle changes..when the worst of days are there i stay away from others...i try to work in the yard as much as possibe to work against the pain help keep my mind off of it..like others may pain meds..swich from time to time..have found that ice packs helps for me...my sleep habits are ..well....not much....i go to my sons pool which has so much relief from the burning and the weightless exercise!..i have found a tropical gel(persription)thas has really helped with those target spots..headaches are still a pill...i also have degenertive scolilsis and oseo..i jus pray that soon a cure for this pain that no one sees...Bless all of you..it helps to vent

Patricia Schoenrock

03 Sep 2009, 19:31

This section was very helpful. At this time, my neurologist is trying to determine if I have OA,fibromylagia, or CFS.Reading these stories @ fibro patients gives me a lot to think about. Thanks for the input.

Renee

19 Aug 2009, 22:43

I am a fibro patient now for 12 years. I was not able to continue teaching, which was a part of who I am, and so am officially declared "disabled" as of this November/09. The fibro fog, along with constant pain and fatigue kept me from giving the children everything I had...........it really makes me sad. I am on several meds, along with Vitamins B-12, C, D, E, magnesium, calcium, folic acid, fish oil, cyclobenzaprine, clonazapam, Lunesta for sleeping, and Nexium for GERD.........yep, a LOT of stuff, but with trigger point injections every 2-3 months, along with an entire body pain injection, I manage to keep going with good results. My most difficult thing is exercise. HOWEVER...the physical therapists I go to 3 times a week DO exercise me, as well as work my muscles through massage, and a trip to the aqua bed. AHHHHH! I have decided that I have Fibromyalgia, BUT IT DOESN'T HAVE ME!!!!!! I just keep on , keeping on!

red

11 Aug 2009, 05:37

i was told i have fibromyalgia this year and i was told i have RA aswell.. i have suffered with pain stiffness etc for about ten years.. i have not been able to work for over a year now i was a carer.. the pain is bad and some days i cannot do anything my friends and famiy find it hard to understand the pain as the only thing they see is the swelling i try not to show how much pain i in but it dont always work this illness has changed my life even thro i tried not to let it i take strong painkillers every day and meds for RA and to help me sleep.maybe one day people who dont have this illness will have more of an understanding of how it affects people who do and the pain we have 24 hours a day and the problems we have doing normal things in every day life

Joyce Readus

22 Jul 2009, 17:52

I been sufering from fibro since sept of 2008 and the hospitals didnt exactly know what was going on so i went to this one clinic and he told me what it was and i was so relieved to finaaly put a name on what i was suffering from but now it seems like i have not found the right medications for flare ups someone please let me know?

Susiie

16 Jun 2009, 14:03

I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia about 20 yrs. ago. At that time I thought that my doctor had made up with word because she was tired listening complaining about so much pain in my hole body. When I first started having this pain it wasn't easy to explain exactly how was it.
Nevertheless, over the years looking into it with open mind and learning along with this great Arthritis web page and getting books at the public library, I became familiar with the name in the first place, and then with my symptoms and finally do some of the recommendations for this illness.
I do not take medication everyday, only when is needed, I walk with propper shoes, I go to the gym and I feel renewed when I go in the swiming pool and exercise in the water. I wish I would swim well but that is OK just been in the water moving my legs and arms is great.
I just want to share my experience. Yes. I have days with depression, my hole body akes that I do not want to move. I push myself, getting my support spiritualyl
Good luck.

Terri

16 Jun 2009, 12:14

I have been treated for the past 5 years by a very wonderful caring team about 2 hours away from my home.I was so thankful when they finally put a name to it.For people who think this is all in one's head,GOD help you I hope you never find out what it actually is like!I WOULDN'T WISH THIS ON MY WORSE ENEMY! We are always adapting and learning how to live with this terrible disease. i will say it is very difficult to get your diagnosis.I have a very caring family,otherwise i don't know what i would do.I guess I would say if doubters would just pretend it was their wife or mother it would be easier to see the possibilities. Love and prayers.

eve

05 Jun 2009, 06:27

10 years ago the specialist told me i have Fibromyalgia but he also told me that i do not have arthritis meaning that fibromyalgia is not arthristis now i am not here to get anyone confuse but that is what the doctor told me. now as far as my condition i have so much pain that it leaves me bed ridden for days or weeks cannot walk much cannot clean for the pain will flare up i get shooting pains in my eyes which the doctor said that has nothing to do with fibro, so i do get confuse about this fibro, the pain at times is so unreal so terrible that i be in bed just crying so the doc said that i have other problems which i don't even know about i need to go for other opionin and also my right leg is shinking it is smaller then the other leg this is not fibro, need help can anyone give me an opinion. eve

Ruben

03 Jun 2009, 13:00

My story goes that I have been seeing a doctor for five to six years. I have been on many meds that I don't not want to write done. I was dignosed with RA from my other doctor but she wasn't to sure because it was not showing up in my blood. However she was didn't stop giving me meds. I got scared because all the meds. After finally listing to my family and co workers I discided to see another doctor. I have been with this new doctor for two months and I think it is to early to say anything. He has been taking me off the meds and putting me on new ones. I have already started and stop some drugs. Yesterday I was given a new drug called savella. I have will be starting the new drug today because I wanted to look up the side effects. It was hard talking to my doctor yesterday because there was so many things going on. I also received two injections on my back. My new treatment is to treat fibromyalgia.

paula

17 May 2009, 08:23

I was diagnosed FM 9 years ago having suffered it for about 15 years. I've spent most of my adult life trying to understand the origin of my inexplicable health problems. A number of events that now look more like synchronicities were slowly pushing me out of the main stream explanations -or I should say non-explanations since Western medicine can't explain what FM and many other "new" health issues are. Five years studying Anthropology at the University of Buenos Aires opened a big door to different cultures, different perceptions of our everyday reality. I feel it's time to share this information.

It would take quite a few pages to explain the following in detail, to the purpose of this message I'll be brief: the western approach to understand fibromyalgia is completely wrong, FM is a process that your body is going through, this process is happening at an atomic level, it's a shift in the energy field that can be measured (in case you feel the need of scientific proof), the electrons that orbit around the atomic nucleus are trying to vibrate at a higher rate, that is, they are trying to increase the speed, this has obvious consequences at every level of your existence. To your body this feels like being on the fast lane of a high way on a bike, that is: you'll never make it. Because we don't understand what's happening to us, most of the things we do to get better are actually only slowing down the process. All you need to know is on the Internet, look for it.

Dee Harper

21 Apr 2009, 18:06

Is muscle weakness/spasms a symptom of Fibromyalgia also? I have inflammation, at times, in the area of my collar bone and wonder why. I take Pamelor and Skelaxin every day. thanks

violet

12 Apr 2009, 02:26

my 19 year-old son was seen by the head of the rheumatology department at a teaching hospital for muscle and joint pain, flu-like symptoms, that had lasted longer than 6 months... first the doctor asked my son if he drank or used drugs (he doesn't)... then when we asked if he might have fibromyalgia, the doctor said fibromyalgia was a myth & didn't exist.. and then asked my son again... "when was your last beer?".... my son was later diagnosed with eosinophilic gastritis following a upper & lower GI with biopsy... he is also still suffering from symptoms of fibromyalgia, but has yet to be treated for it.

PAT

30 Mar 2009, 16:59

continued.

At that time I suggested to him that he get my long standing records copied and give to me. I was stunned and disappointed that he did not take my symptons seriouly, but alluding that I had some mental disfunction. I went through every test, i.e. Spinal tap heavy metal test, brain scan, etc. and nothing showed. So I guess he figured that I was a complaining hyocondriac. I eventually found an internist who listened to me and asked me questions and gave me a diaganosis on the spot of fibro. I was so relieved that at last someone took me seriously. His advice to me was better sleep habits (he put me on sleeping pills for one month) to break the cycle of pain versus sleep. Also, two hot baths a day and to inform my family and co workers that they could not any longer expect me to more than my share. I am an A personality and had always tried to be perfect in every way. I found that by following these measures were working to help me control the fibro. I compared it to a full bloomed flower and when I became stressed I would feel the wilting of Fibro begin. I learned to control its invasion. There has been times when trauma has interfered and the Fibro took control but when the trauma was over or contained and accepted I got back on the track. I hope that who reads this can take something from it. Oh, yes, a new puppy works VERY WELL!

Be well.

Pat

30 Mar 2009, 16:43

Re" Fibromyalgia. Over 20 years ago I was experiencing all over joint pain, burning as though hot oil was running through my veins. I went from doctor to doctor, including neurologists. I had been with a primary doctor for years and years and when I explained to him my symptoms, he suggested, after knowing me to be a very happy, healthy woman for many, many years to go to a University's mental health clinic. A

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