Fibro

[sandra32]

Hi think I have fibro not diagnosed yet, keep getting g flare up, whole body hurts and flu like symptoms, been told by a friend that has it, that these are symptoms, cant give up work as need to pay Bill's and husband is older and retired, but I am 61 years old and cant see how how to retire early but desperately need to give up but dont think benefits would cover even if I could get pip, my anxiety and stress is through the roof. Any ideas anyone?

[Sleepyhead_]

CAB may be able to help with benefits and how much you may receive if that helps then you can assess everything and make decisions - you can email and phone now.

Easier said than done but try not to feel stressed as it will it is a main trigger of symptoms.

I hope you get to work things out and sooner rather than late 🦋

[Yassytina FMA UK Volunteer]

Hello, if you can keep a list of current symptoms going on daily and how long your doctor should get you to have some blood tests done 1st, and most will refer you too a rheumatologist for an answer, it’s not nice feeling unwell on a daily basis and can totally understand you having stress and anxiety, we are the same age, I would differently push now too go forward and I hope you have an understanding doctor who will push this, also tell them about the current strain your under with finance and anxiety is high, wishing you all the best xx

[Charliebear1234]

Hi sandra32, it's a very very long procedure to go through before you get diagnosed, I had brain scans MRI exrays, all over my body to rule everything out, I had to give up work because I feel like IV been in a really bad car crash every day of my life to cut the story short and I struggle to keep going I'm basically hanging on by a thread , I do hope you get sorted hun 💓

[Dinkie]

Sorry to hear you are struggling. Unfortunately it can take time to receive a diagnosis but in the meantime there are things you can do to help yourself. Keep a diary of your symptoms, this will help with medical appointments and also to notice anything that causes you to feel worse. As fibro is different for all of us, no one size fits all and what works for one person may not work for another. The art of pacing yourself is really important to master. Just because one day you may feel slightly less the worse for wear do not rush around trying to get everything done because this will result in a flare. Do a bit and rest, it's not the end of the world if the hoovering isn't completed. Gentle exercise, even a walk up the garden path can help, tai chi, gentle stretching can all help. Heat pads, weighted blankets, bio freeze gel all help me, together with a processed food free diet.

Not everyone who has been diagnosed with fibro needs to stop working. I have had fibro since 1987 and with reasonable adjustments in place at work, courtesy of an occupational health assessment, I have remained employed. Can't say it is easy some days but for my mental health I need to work as I know without it I would become a recluse and never go out.