Newly diagnosed

I have recently been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and although it is a relief to finally have an answer to my symptoms. I am struggling coming to terms with the fact I can't do what I use to. Is there any guide lines anyone has in helping to change my life style. I have always been active and was always helping other people ( telling me it is my turn to get help back will not help).

[Spider395]

When I was diagnosed my Rheumatologist told me to keep on exercising & moving else I would sieze up. Just rest in between. I’ve carried on doing all the things I used to & have found I’ve actually improved in my Yoga practice.I’ve just learnt to put up with the pain when I exercise. I understand that this is not possible for everyone but keep on going as much as you can & don’t give up hope. Once I was diagnosed, got some of the pain under control & my head around the diagnosis things did improve quite a lot.

[Hidden in reply to Spider395]

Thank you, it your reply has helped. I enjoy walking and bring active, but sometimes it is painful, I just needed to hear that someone else pushes through the pain too. It is hard to know what to do best listen to you head or your body, some days it is so hard to be sensible and not feel sorry for yourself.

[johnsmith]

There are no guide lines. You have to investigate yourself. You are going to need to determine which friends you keep and spend your energy on and which friends you drop because you no longer have the resources you once had.

[Hidden in reply to johnsmith]

Thank you , I know what your saying but putting into practice is a hard one to do

[SweepSooty]

Hi Bertram, I think having fibromyalgia is different for us all and each of us find our own way to deal with the struggles it brings. But it doesn't mean you have to stop being active or stop helping others, it just means you find other ways to do that. Personally when I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia I fount a wonderful group of people at a self help group, we exercise in the pool three times a week, go on outings and I have made some of the best friends I have ever had. In turn I have the chance to help them by organising the outings and sharing experiences. When you go through an illness or any turmoil I find that you can use your experience to help others who are going through the same, so maybe now that is your new calling? I wish you well in your new journey.