Hi everyone!
I'm brand new here and just wanted to talk to some others who understand what it's like to live with fibromyalgia (FMS). I am 51 years old and was diagnosed 2 1/2 years ago. I was put on a medicine regimen of several medications - Tramadol (100mg/ day), Cymbalta (30mg/day) and Seroquel for sleeping (25mg/day). In the past several years all of my medications have been doubled and I was really seeing great results. Of course I would still have flare-ups now and then but I didn't have the horrible, all-day pain and bone-crushing exhaustion. I actually thought I had it beat. HA! I wish. I am in Atlanta, Georgia and the weather changed from record heat to cool fall days the week of Thanksgiving and ever since then, I feel like I did way back when it started. I am in so much pain in my hips when sleeping, it feels like my bones are laying on a metal cot. I work at a computer all day so my hips, below my hips, wrists, elbows fingers, shoulders, neck, upper and lower back hurt all day everyday. This morning I almost feel asleep in my car on the way in. Unfortunately I commute over an hour each day, both ways and being that tired can be dangerous not only for me but other drivers around me.
I went through menopause early so I am always hot. I keep my house at like 63 degrees (not during the summer although I wish) but now that it's cooler it's like heaven. I wanted to know if others are affected by the weather change. I've ready many articles that say it doesn't contribute to flare-ups but the people writing them don't have it. You only know if you have FMS. I also am interested in hearing people's thoughts about alcohol and FMS. I do usually have a drink or 2 in the evening after work and commute. Does anyone think that the intake of alcohol can affect flare-ups? I have not been exercising like I previously did. We just went through a move into a new home that took almost a month to complete and I'm still reeling and living from open boxes. I just don't know if something specific caused a 2 week long flare that I don't believe is going away any time soon. I'm not interested in stronger pain killers than Tramadol because I don't think they will help.
I would love to hear some stories of what happened to you, how you got diagnosed and what has helped you live with it. I really would appreciate your time and knowledge. I know I just have to ride it out but it's just wearing me down physically and emotionally.
Thank you guys!! I look forward to speaking with people who get it!