TexMom85

Hi LG, and welcome!

To answer your questions, for me personally, my FM symptoms began in my mid-30's (I'm now 50). The worst has been the sleep disturbances, since it has proven quite difficult to find the right combination to curb my chronic insomnia. Over the years, as I tried many medications and other treatments, I gained a good deal of weight and now have sleep apnea. I also have Restless Legs Syndrome, and due to disk problems in my back and neck, I suffer from chronic pain. I am pretty much a walking basket case.

In terms of doctors, I have been lucky to have recently found an internist who can handle all but the sleep apnea. (For that, I see a sleep/pulmonary specialist). My internist is the best at coordinating all of my medications and handling the side effects and interactions. She truly tries to understand what's going on in my entire body, not just a single part, which, IMO, has been helpful. I wonder, over the years, how much my specialists missed because they didn't talk to each other and perhaps caused one ailment to worsen because of the side effects of their treatment plans.

The dizziness, or "Fibro Fog" is not uncommon in us Fibro sufferers. I have it some days, but again, it depends a great deal on the quality of sleep I had the night before. Some medications can contribute to this feeling as well.

What makes me feel better? Sleep is the single-most important thing. Since I have difficulty in this area, it impacts me severely and often. Secondly, diet. I hate to say this, but for me, too much sugar makes me feel much worse. I try to avoid it but sometimes cannot resist. My internist has me trying an elimination diet and we have already discovered I have an intolerance to tomatoes and some other foods, which I never knew. My stomach and lower tract sure let me know if I decide to give in and eat pizza--I'll be miserable for hours.

On a really bad day, I use the heating pad or take a warm bath, try to relax, drink a lot of fluids and just rest--no laptop, no chores, just rest. I take my Vicodin if my pain is really bad, and I try to make sure I sleep as much as I can. I gave up my career about 5 years ago and now am on disability, so I don't have to worry about going to a job, which helps with my stress levels a great deal.

I am sorry you are suffering enough to have been led here, but you will find many voices of compassion, knowledge and empathy. I pray that you find a terrific doctor and have a great support system--these two things will make a huge difference in how you are able to cope with your illness.

Blessings,
TexMom