Worse by the day

[Annab124]

Can I live a normal life with fibromyalgia or will t just get worse and worse ? I feel like I’m getting worse by

The day

[M0AL61 Moderator Volunteer]

Unfortunately there is no way of knowing. Every fibro sufferer is different.

I can only relate my own experience - for a very long number of years my pain didn't get a lot worse unless I was in a flare, and usually the flares didn't last too long.

Then after a good number of years I started to decline quite a bit over a few years, and have gradually got worse since then. But, I must emphasise, this is only my story, and everyone is different. xx

[Spider395]

Hi

As the previous person says, everyone is different. I was diagnosed after a major flare up last year caused by a virus. I think I’ve probably had it for about 20+ years before though. Whilst my flare up was really bad, normally I’m fine. Yes I do get pain, mainly in my shoulders & neck but I go to the gym & keep walking as much as possible. I don’t feel like things have got any worse over the years in fact now that I’m on medication I feel much better. I try to keep positive as this helps me.

[Annab124 in reply to Spider395]

Thanks so much ! What meds are you on ? My gp recommended anti depressants for the pain but I’m scared x

[Spider395 in reply to Annab124]

I’m on 50mg Pregabalin twice a day & Co-Dydramol as and when for the pain. My Rheumatologist told me the best thing to do was to keep moving, he said people with Fibromyalgia sieze up quicker than the average person, so this is what I do. I don’t know if others would agree. Also be aware that a lot of Fibromyalgia sufferers have multiple other conditions as well which come with their own issues. I’ve only got Fibro & asthma & both tend to be well controlled with just the occasional flare. Remember it’s not necessarily all bad.

[Annab124 in reply to Spider395]

Thanks so much for answering . I’ve asked to be referred to a rheumatologist but the gp said she doesn’t think it’s necessary. However I’ve got a chest X-ray booked an getting. More bloods done

[Spider395 in reply to Annab124]

I hope it all goes well for you. Just try and take time out for yourself when you need it, I found listening to meditation & mindfulness online helped, but I’m sure you will find what suits you.

[Paddy60]

I was diagnosed by a rheumatologist in 2003. although I may well have had it since 1975 when I caught a debilitating virus which knocked me out flat. For 6*months.I then partially recovered and like you loved with flare ups.My fibre is now unrelenting and I take pretension as well as tramadol and pain patches.For me having the diagnosis was a relief and I had loads of tests all coming back normal.Good Luck and push for the rheumatologist.Paddy60