will someone please give me some info

[Guest guest]

Rhonda,

I am sorry you are here, but welcome:)

I was diagnosed with FMS, autoimmune thyroid disease and possible

rheumatoid arthritis about 11 months ago. I researched everything I

could on the internet, read a few books, joined every listserve I

could find that addressed FMS or chronic fatigue or autoimmune

diseases. I have an internist, endocrinologist and a rheumatologist.

You may have to doctor shop before finding the right doc or

combination of docs. Even though I am an RN, and have worked in

rehab case management in Nashville, some of the docs I knew

professionally, who I thought were good docs, turned out to be total

duds for me. I am also going to see a holistic practioner soon (he

is a chiropractor, MD and homeopath) to round things out.

As for meds, everyone is different. Antidepressants are usually

prescribed to increase serotonin levels, sleep meds (Ambien, Sonata,

Trazodone or Elavil (2 old antidepressants that help you sleep and

are not habit forming). Everyone is different re: their pain meds. I

try to stay away from narcotics and only occasionally take any.

Normally I take Tylenol, Motrin and Ultram, and a muscle relaxer

when needed. I don't like feeling any more brain fogged than I

already am-LOL. Low-impact, gentle exercise is important, but very

hard to do when you hurt like He** from head to toe.

Reading the archives from the website may also help you with info.

Good Luck,

Kim W.

[Guest guest]

Glucosamine is supposed to repair your tissues which

helps free your body of pain and I THINK that’s the one (or is it MSM???)

that enhances the effects of Ibuprphen.

You should also check into acupuncture, massage,

reiki, hypnosis, water therapy, tai chi, homeopathy, stress management, diet, etc..

[Guest guest]

Hi Rhonda,

I hope this isn't too late. I've not been able to check my mail for 2 days and it's over 700! Anyway, I know how you feel and your a lot like me. I generally keep going no matter what. The difference is I do use pain meds. I finally broke down and decided it was about the quality of my life. Actually it's not just pain meds. There are a lot of antidepressants that work on pain also. Sometimes it can take a while to find the right mix of drugs that help with the fibro. I hope that you have a doctor that is willing to work with you on this. Let me know how things turn out. You can always come to the group to check out the medication you get. Remember that we are all unique and one med might work for one person and be horrible for the next. There is no blanket medication or mix of medications that work for everyone.

Kathleen