Lesia
01-28-2004, 01:28 PM
Hello to all--1998 was the first time FM was mentioned to me. Since that time I have been through a million different pains and sicknesses. Over the years it has been difficult because the doctors I would go to really didn't believe in Fibro. Thank God that now there are some doctors that seem to understand. Just recently I was referred to a Rheumy, of which I will never go back to, for tests. I had had a positive ANA w/ a 1:80 titer--the Rheumy ran a million blood tests only to say everything looks normal; although there are some noted Lows and Highs on the report. Can they tell from blood tests if you have FM, now; or do they rule out everything else. If anyone knows about blood test I will be glad to share what was high and low. I am about to call for an appointment with a Internal doctor. Is that where you recommend I go? PLEASE HELP ME---I am sick of the run around. Oh! Is anyone taking Neurotin?
painsucks
01-29-2004, 01:27 PM
Hi Newey and Welcome!
Blood tests will not determine whether or not you have Fibro, those tests were probably just to eliminate other possibilities. Fibro is diagnosed by symptoms and most specifically by tender points or "trigger" points. I have been taking Neurontin for about six months, it is a big help! I take a lot of other medication too, along with the Neurontin, I take Ultram, both of them every six hours, they seem to be my saving grace right now. I'm also taking Celebrex, once a day, Celexa (anti-depressant) once a day and Flexeril (muscle relaxant, also I believe it is used as an anti-depressant) at bedtime. Most Fibro suffers have to experiment to get just the right mix of medication that works best for them. So if your doctor prescribes something, and you don't notice a difference after a week or so, I'd suggest that you ask him to change you to something else. Also, try and to some form of gentle exercise such as Yoga or Pilates as often as possible. It is important to keep your muscles and joints moving, even when it is painful. I wish you luck as you start down this road. Keep in touch, we're here for you! :)