Hi everyone just joined this group after been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I am in constant pain and feeling very low.

[Stormno1]

Any advice how to cope with the pain? I keep trying different painkillers but no use.Which is the best painkiller for it?

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

Firstly it's important to remember that medications do not work for everyone, and even when they do - they do not take the pain away, but might only take the edge off it

Medications that are generally used for fibromyalgia include anti depressants such as amitriptiline or duloxetine, anti convulsants (gabapentin or Pregabalin - but recent nice guidelines didn't recommend so doctors less likely to prescribe), tramadol and paracetamol

There are many non medication ways that people can manage their pain - pacing, activity /exercise, complementary therapies, mindfulness, meditation, heat/cold, distraction and more

[Stormno1 in reply to Hazel_Angelstar]

Thanks Hazel . I am going to India soon and hoping that the warm weather will help .

[Yassytina FMA UK Volunteer]

Hello and welcome, yes very hard the days our pain is persistent and understandable how it can make us feel low. I went on duloxtene over 4 years ago actually for anxiety but also used for fibro patients and never looked back since. I find a good soak every day differently helps and try some Epsom salts in the water . Pace yourself as much as you possible can in between your day, I look forward to resting at nigh after my bath and sometimes use couple hot water bottles and a wheat bag is good around my neck I find. During the day I use a rub in gel with ibuprofen in , mine is usually right down my shoulder blades , neck, lower back, calf muscles,(always check with pharmacist when using anything if on any meds at all. Good if we can find ways to switch off with what I call me time , I do find my fibro seems better in warmer months which I look forward too but some people say theirs can be worse, it’s good to have a chat here and I hope you find the forum helpful xx

[Stormno1 in reply to Yassytina]

Thanks for replying.I will try duloxtene and see if that helps. I do use hot compresses when the pain is worse. This forum has so much information and I am so glad I joined it.

[Midori]

Hi there, Welcome to the community, we are a friendly bunch.

Firstly, I notice you have left your post unlocked. For your security, it is better if you lock it, then it can only be read by members of the community, and you will almost certainly get more replies. One of the Moderators can help you with this, because I'm a total Klutz with technology!

Fibro is a beast; I've had it for I can't remember how long, and gradually. I find things settle a little, once your body stops screaming 'Pain!' all over the place, and your brain gets to be able to sort out which pains are the most significant ones.

I used to be on a whole cocktail of drugs, but now I find I can make do with Ibuprofen in most cases, with just a few CoDydramol for emergencies.

It is important to get your bloods checked every so often, vitaminD deficiency can make pain worse, also there are other conditions which often crop up alongside Fibro, such as IBS and sometimes things such as thyroid imbalances. So I take vitamins as directed also.

Also there is an age component to take into account, especially post menopausal.

It is Important not to lay in bed feeling sorry for ourselves, as this can lead to not only muscle wastage, but also contribute to Osteoporosis. Sunlight on your skin can help with Vitamin D Levels, and it is important to keep some level of exercise going, even if it is only a daily walk around the block! If you need sticks or a rollator, please set pride aside and use them, best not to risk a fall in the street, pavements are harder than carpets! If your doctor hasn't referred you contact the Occupational Health people at your local Social Services: they have access to Medical loan equipment which can help with everyday needs, such as kettle tippers, shower stools, bath boards, Perching stools, and, if you have problems getting to the bathroom at night, commodes.

Lastly, Google for The Spoon Theory, it will help you to understand how your energy depletes over the day, and why it is important to learn to pace yourself.

Hope this wall of words is of some help!

cheers, Midori

[Stormno1 in reply to Midori]

Hi thanks for your reply. How do you lock the post?

[Midori in reply to Stormno1]

I'm sorry, all I know is that it's an option when you make a post, Best to ask a Moderator.

[AC2022]

Recently diagnosed too Also have back problems. Through trial and error before I'd discovered Nsaids like Ibruprofen help. They have their drawbacks like all meds, so now I only use them on days I have to make an appointment. I have an Amyltriptaline prescription. Pace yourself with a diary/calendar, try to avoid or do things that make it worse or better (ie if you dread something or end up smiling for once). Remember it's the fibro not you. Fresh air and sunlight help, when/if you can.

I avoid wheat, pay when I don't. Ginger and pineapple helps me as does sorting out the brain-gut axis with probiotics like live yoghurt, yakult on other days.

Vs Arthritis and Fibromyalgia UK are good sites to check out. Here's where you'll get the nitty gritty 😊 support and real life advice.

Good luck and enjoy your sunshine holiday - it'll make the world of difference 😊