Early menopause and fibro

[Kezza09]

hi there, was wondering whether anyone starting having fibro symptoms after going into early menopause?. My symptoms began a few months after having a natural early menopause, but the gp kept insisting they were due to hormones and nothing else. Now 7 years later im in extreme pain everyday and my new gp has pointed to fibromyalgia!...so frustrated as I constantly voiced my concerns as maybe being fibro but was always dismissed!.

[Dinkie]

It's good that your have a new GP, has he/she referred you to rheumatologist or are they happy to diagnose themselves. Used to be that only rheumatologists diagnosed but more and more GPs are doing it and not referring for some reason. Presumably as most rheumatologists just diagnose and refer back to the GP, the GPs have decided not to bother with referrals now.

I think there are one hundred and one reasons for fibro. Yes I went through early menopause at 31 but had fibro before that, so can't say that fibro and menopause are related in my case. There will always be the odd case or two if put into a venn diagram will be in the middle i.e. those going through early menopause and having fibro at the same time. Of course our male members will not have the "delights" of the menopause - lucky for them

[Kezza09 in reply to Dinkie]

Thanks for reply. It was probably the shock of menopause that triggered me!...sometimes life can be so unfair, especially when you are keeping fit and healthy!

Its comforting to know that I'm not alone. We will have to share tips for coping with both!

Thanks again xxx

[Dinkie in reply to Kezza09]

I’ve had 30+ years of dealing with it and am still learning. This pacing lark is the hardest for me😂. It’s always boom and bust for me.

[Painny]

I have been told GPs who are from the older generation are not that familiar with Fibromyalgia but younger generations are better equipped to spot the diagnoses.

As it appears scientist gave recognition to this condition not long age although there were different labels for it centuries back.

Hope you continue your search for an answer 🌟🌻

[Kezza09 in reply to Painny]

I totally agree. My new gp is quite young and very understanding!

Being a scientist myself, I'm quite concerned that I suspected fibro years before it was even suggested to me. Instead, I've felt like I've been viewed as a hyperchondriat even though most of the time I've suffered in silence.

Once I get a definite diagnosis, I feel the world needs to be educated about this condition. If it wasn't for me finding this godsend forum, I would've been climbing the walls by now and feeling very alone!

Hugs to everyone, hope today is a good day for you all xxxxx

[Painny in reply to Kezza09]

This has been the case for most of us, we had it for years before finding out about it. Pity there isn’t any specific treatment for fibromyalgia or a blood test to lead to earlier diagnosis.

I am sure you know as a scientist where I come from. I really need an answer to the plight of the sufferers. We need to push for it via this wonderful charity whose campaign has assisted so many of us.

This is a great site; I have learnt so much since I became a member. I was the subject of a PHD student and it was through her that I was advised to join this group. Hopefully the younger generations of the doctors get it right sooner than later. It’s good that your new GP understands your situation. We can’t take this journey alone.

🌻🌟🦋

[Kezza09 in reply to Painny]

Yes, I TOTALLY agree. Even if my diagnosis isn't fibro, it has totally opened my eyes to an illness where so many people are left almost alone, in pain and ignored.

This has to change.

Watch this space!!!

Xxx

[Painny in reply to Kezza09]

💕✌🏻

[phlebo123]

I suspect in my case the two were linked. I went through menopause at 45 and that is when I began to experience bad fibromyalgia symptoms.I had previously been given an IBS diagnosis at age 18.

Like you, I worked in medical science and it was my own research that pointed me towards a fibromyalgia diagnosis. I suggested this to my gp (and printed off some information for her to read) and we basically learnt about it together!

Unfortunately the hardest part (after your diagnosis) is learning how to adapt your lifestyle so that you can manage your symptoms. Take care xx

[Kezza09 in reply to phlebo123]

We sound very alike..ive had severe ibs since my early 20s!

Thanks for reply xxx

[KnackeredKaty]

I had a hysterectomy when I was 38, then had my only ovary left removed when I was 46. I've had joint pains since I was a child, but none of the symptoms of fibro until I started the menopause overnight! You might have a point relating it to the menopause. Fibromyalgia is such a complex condition that many things could be a trigger.

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

Menopause (early or not) can be a trigger for some people. My fibro symptoms started at 24 so not menopause related although childbirth was my trigger. Other triggers can be physical trauma/accidents, mental or emotional trauma/stress etc

However, I did discover when I started going through menopause a few years ago, that there is a huge overlap in symptoms with fibromyalgia.

[Kezza09]

I've had quite a few triggers in life!!!

Stress must play a big part in this condition.

[leeniebeanie726]

Did your GP do blood work to rule out RA , Lupus, Lyme disease, or anything other that can cause your chronic pain ? So you have pain , swelling, and stiffness in all of your joints ? If so I’d be on my GP to test you for anything autoimmune, or other illnesses that’s are giving you chronic pain. Good luck, and feel better soon 🙏🏻💜💙😊🦋

[Julesubu]

I had fibro before for many years but definitely got worse when started perimenopause. Pain was manageable before but now find it hard to cope. Never have what were good days anymore just bad and worse.

I had ulcers so had to stop nsaids which had worked. I cant take HRT as history of breast cancer in family. The last 5 years have been pretty grim as also developed chronic insomnia which has massive effect on fibro, migraines etc.

We are so lucky to be female.

[Kezza09 in reply to Julesubu]

I really feel your pain. Hope the next 5 years are better. Look after yourself, do what makes YOU happy. Sending hugs xxxx

[Julesubu in reply to Kezza09]

Cheers. You will just have to try various things for the Fibro. I did find CBD oil helped as well as conventional meds. What works is v individual and a journey to get it right. The main thing that most agree on is pacing yourself and plenty of naps if needed.

Good luck

[Freddie20]

Its really hard when your gp doesn't listen, they have their opinion with what is wrong, but forget that we know our own bodies and when something is wrong. Hope your new gp is a help to you. X

[Kezza09 in reply to Freddie20]

Thanks xx