Doc says FMS. What do you think? - Fibromyalgia Message Board

tagger · 06-11-2003, 11:25 AM

I'm trying this forum because I can't believe I could have yet another "phantom" illness. I am 47 yrs old. Have been on and off anti depressants for yrs. Right now have found the right "cocktail" 20mgs celexa am (for anxiety) 40mgs remeron pm (for depression). I'm also menopausal and here's where the FMS comes in.

I tried HRT for about 3 months. During that time I developed debilitating pain in my thighs (back and front, mostly back) This moves up into my buttocks, like large knots of muscle pain. Sometimes my hips or lower back. Have been seeing a chiro for years for chronic shoulder and neck pain. (from old injuries)

I went off the HRT when the gyno explained leg pain is one of the side affects and just assumed the leg pain would go away as the hot flashes returned. No such luck. My legs and buttocks are getting worse and worse! I have to wear tensor sleeves on my thighs if I plan to do any standing or walking. They have to be pulled right up under my buttocks to sort of support them. Now even that is not helping.

The only pain reliever I have found that takes the "edge" off is codeine.

My GP has suggested FMS might be the problem. He explained that it may be treatable with tryciclate (sp?) meds. Because I'm already on anti depressants though he has to check with my specialist. I figure my body is now probably immune to any more anti depressants as far as using them for pain relief.

I have looked at the FMS sites and don't seem to have all of the "points" of pain. Oh, one more thing, my hands become numb when I'm lying down, with them up resting on my chest for example.

I'm becoming desperate. The leg pain is so bad today I have called in sick to work. My job involves lots of walking and standing and I just couldn't bear the thought of it today as I'm already in so much pain.

I feel guilty as the dog hasn't had a walk in days. I have trouble keeping up with my very active kids. I wake up in pain and go to bed in pain.

Does anyone have any answers for me? As far as I can tell there is no clinical test for this disease so my disability insurance is sure to hassle me over this if it is indeed FMS. I'm sitting here typing with a heating pad taking turns under and over my thighs. Osteo runs in the family. I am so confused!

Any help or opinions would be appreciated....Tagger

[This message has been edited by tagger (edited 06-11-2003).]

corin · 06-11-2003, 05:30 PM

just a suggestion for you to research, or mention to your Dr, you must meet 11 of the 18 trigger points for FM to be dx. However, from what you are describing, you may wish to look into Polymyalgia Rhuematica, which affects the hips.thighs, and shoulders neck almost exclusively. Just a thought. ( I am not an expert with it, perhaps someone more knowledgable will offer further info.)

girlygirly · 06-12-2003, 07:33 AM

It might not be a bad idea to look up Dr. Lowe on the net. Just do a google search and you will find him. He has alot of info on fibromyalgia and how it is related to hypothyroidism. This would be an excellent place for you to start.