Nell

Hi, this is the first post for me. I was diagnosed with FMS 10 years ago by a rheumatologist, was told there was no treatment but I could "try" physio if I wanted to. My GP had never heard of it. Years later I saw the original letter with the diagnosis and was floored when I saw myself described as female (true) 50ish (true) divorced (I left him) and out of work (I had retired on my own volition), the implication being that these were the contributing factors. I have taken many medications (anti-inflammatories/neurontin/flexeril) and none help to any appreciable degree. Over the 10 years my condition has worsened and now include IBS, roseacea and a very painful lumbar stenosis. The IBS is of particular concern because I am high risk for colon cancer. I have had every test known to modern medicine (I exhibit many symptoms associated with MS)and recently my neurologist told me (with respect to the stenosis) 'surgery or live with the pain' whilst my rheumatologist does not recommend surgery because the osteoparosis will cause the stenosis to recur within 5 years. I have now reached the conclusion that I will manage with the limitations imposed by FMS, nothing any medical professional has done has helped. I take acidophilus which appears to ease the IBS, use the topical treatment for the roseacea and once or twice a month when the pain becomes absolutely unbearable I take empracet to get a good night's sleep. Must add that even though I retired 10 years ago, I worked full time at another job until last year when I retired for the second time and now run a consulting service from my home. I also have the pleasure of having the most understanding son in the world.
Helen