Posted by
Julie on October 29, 2000 at 10:18:25:
I am a 40 year old Registered Nurse. I have been suffering with FM symptoms for probably 10 years; more severe in the last 3-4 years. I have had a Orthopedist, Pulmonolagist (sleep study), and a Gastroenterologist say the word "Fibromyalgia." Each time I blew them off as I thought this was a "throw away" diagnosis and I did not wish to have this diagnosis. Last February my pain was very severe (c-spine, thoracic bilateral). After more x-rays, lab tests (Lupus, Rheumatoid Factor, and ANA a-bodies...all negative) I began to consider the consequences of NOT being diagnosed. I am now in the process of working with a responsive female Family Practitioner who wants me to be diagnosed by a Rheumatologist; my appointment is at Northwestern in Chicago on December 14th. I AM OVERWHELMED. I see there are other nurses writing at this site and I, too, am tearing my hair out for a physiologic explanation. I know I need to consider the yeast-wheat thing. It's so daunting. I have been in practice for 15 years and can not grasp the scope of what it will take to manage this illness. Any help/support/kind words will help. I am finally sleeping (by taking drugs)and feeling a little better. My first appointment with physical therapy is this week. Thank you in advance for the tips.
