Fibromyalgia

[Guest guest]

Hi all,

I am 61 years old and have had fibromyalgia for over twenty years.

It is a horrible 'syndrome' or disease to have, as when I have

flares, I cannot move and my limbs become cement. I have never

tested positive for the RA titer, CRP, or had a high sedimentation

rate, which goes along with RA. I do not have nodules under the

skin; I do also have degenerative arthritis [osteoarthritis] as

well, so most of the time feel crippled anyway.

I can empathize with everyone posting here; have the depression,

overwhelming fatigue, generalized and trigger point pain [8 out of

10 usually]. I have tried narcotics [oxycontin, Vicodin, Duragesic

Patch, and Demerol], all of which made me so goofy I could not

function. I am a Legal Nurse Consultant and work out of my home, so

couldn't even think straight on the pain meds. I now take Ultram,

aspirin and ibuprofen for the pain, use powdered high potency

vitamin/mineral supplement, try and eat right and ride an exercise

bike every day. Even with that, I suffer with fatigue and have been

on SSI for almost 5 years. My LNC work is VERY SLOW and have to try

and get something outside the home through Voc Rehab now. Just two

days a week, as I don't think I can handle more than that. I am

going to tell my Rehab Counselor that and hope I can get something

[don't really care as long as it allows me to sit at work and not

stand for long periods].

I also own some property which I rent out and that has helped me

financially; however, had tenant problems this past summer that

almost benkrupted me. Anxiety was unbelievable and I went into a

horrible flare that lasted four months.

Anyway, I am happy to have found this group and will try and

contribute with giving support. Thanks so much.

Pat Maloney