I was confirmed as having fibromyalgia last night. I have had pain for years, my GP said its no wonder that Physio hasn't helped at all.

[Brenda22]

The pain is getting worse. I regularly take co-codamol and nortriptyline. I used to take TRAMADOL but have been told by the neurologist to stop taking these. Has anybody got any useful tips for a newbie to this condition.

[Ginsing]

Hi Brenda sorry you have been diagnosed but sometimes just having a label actually helps. You will find some excelent info a Fibroaction.org tend to pop in and out of the main site for info. Remember every body is in the same situation as you and there is a wealth of knowledge here just waiting to be tapped into. Hope to see you posting soon take care xgins

[Brenda22 in reply to Ginsing]

Thank you Gins xx

[phlebo123]

Hi Brenda and welcome! I was diagnosed 8 years ago and the most important ideas for me are "acceptance" ( accepting I can't always do the things I used to do) and "pacing" and learning to say "NO" when family and friends expect too much of me. I would recommend that you and your family/friends read the Spoon Theory ( butyoudontlooksick.com ) and also the leaflet "the pain toolkit" which you can download from paintoolkit.org which helps with pacing yourself. I find that avoiding stressful situations and being very well organised helps me to cope. I can manage short walks with the dog and relaxing hobbies such as yoga, jigsaw, baking.... I believe the main way to cope is to find a "happy balance" in your life and don't let others push you into doing things you can't manage... one of the hardest feelings I had was "guilt" ..... I hate saying "no" when someone asks me to do something... but always put yourself "first" and don't forget that your health is the most important thing!!!! ( This felt selfish at first... but remember you need to look after yourself) Another difficulty you may experience is "the invisible illness" problem... people have difficulty understanding how you feel when you look well on the outside.... Don't feel you are suffering alone because so many of us here can understand and sympathise with you.... ask any questions and there is usually someone who has an answer . Take care xxx

[Brenda22 in reply to phlebo123]

Thank you Phlebo xx