Hi everyone, Im starting a journey to manage my symptoms, I started getting pains in May 2020 and initially thought it was COVID stress as I had been shielding since March , anyway after various X-rays and blood tests my gp has said he will refer me to a rheumatologist to check out fibromyalgia, I had no idea about this condition, so I’m now trying to help myself, and would be grateful for any tips.
Thanks in advance
Hi Jlzbz fibro can effect us in so many different ways, but in my experience I find that a long soak in a warm epsom salts bath helps immensely with the pain. Also I have a weighted blanket on my bed, which helps me get a better night's sleep, also a lavender pillow spray helps with sleeping too.
When I was first diagnosed I was prescribed among other meds, Co-codomol, and within a few months I was taking the maximum dose every day, and as time went on I was not getting much relief from the pain. So I weaned myself off them and now only use them when my pain is unbearable, and they now work well in easing the pain. I was also prescribed Amytriptyline, which I still take, 50mg at night, and Gapapentin, but I was experiencing side effects so with my GP's help I weaned myself off those too.
Also I have learned to pace myself and try not to do too much when I have a 'good' day, I have found that doing too much one day will give me 'hell' for several days after.
It's really a case of trial and error to find out what helps you as an individual, because something that will help me with the pain might have no effect on you. So good luck in working out what's good for you, take care and stay safe. x
Thank you , I think it’s going to be a lot of trial and error !! You stay safe too
Hi and a warm welcome to our community. Here you will find information support friendship and laughter too. You can find general information on fibromyalgia at our main website fmauk.org
Thanks Hazel
Welxome to the site. Glad you have a referral so you can be properly diagnosed. I was diagnosed by my GP but it was also confirmed by several other medical professionals. As there is no blood test at the moment that can confirm it they tend to do it by a process of elimination eg taking blood tests to rule out other illnesses that can have similar symptoms.
We are very individual in what symptoms cause us the most problems so firstly it is best to decide which one is causing you most trouble and try to deal with the main one first, Fibromyalgia Action Uk's website has an excellent information booklet which can be accessed online which h might help you.x
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