Newly Diagnosed with Fibro, Struggling to Cope

I used to take Gabapentin (anti-seizure) because it helped for many years with the nerve pain, but I had a job where I was in my feet on cement which made my pain so much worse. Then I was switched to Lyrica which has made a huge difference for me. I take it twice a day but I also had to change jobs and take a huge paycut. But my body is so much happier.

I understand how you feel I was just recently diagnosed with fibromyalgia and they prescribed me neproxen and a muscle relaxer also physical therapy but so far none that helps and I'm also diagnosed with PTSD, major depression and anxiety and every day is a struggle for me but I try and focus on the positive but if you need to talk I'm here.

Don’t beat yourself up if you feel bad about feeling bad. That’s the best advice I can give you. Some days will feel great and others will be very hard. Do what you can when you can. Enlist help to get stuff done when you’re having a bad day. Not everyone will “get it”. Find friends that do and appreciate them!!

I did some work with the local hospital years ago, and one of the comments that really stuck with me was how patients "started to show disabled behaviours after their diagnosis". The physio I was talking with said she saw people change and almost start to give up just because they'd been given the label. Focus on the positives where you can. Give yourself time to rest, but celebrate the small achievements. Even if that means getting excited for putting your socks on. Sleep is critical. Your body needs that to reset overnight, and without it everything else will be heightened.

I was prescribed nortriptyline for stomach issues, but found that it really helped my fibro. It's technically an antidepressant,, but is also used for nerve pain. I haven't heard anything about it being used regularly for fibro, but it was a night and day difference for me. I would say there's no pain at all, but there is way way less pain

Be kind to yourself the spoons theory is very accurate start out slow and don't push too much it just triggers a flare

I definitely understand not feeling motivated to productively help myself. I actually sabotage myself sometimes. I have had fibromyalgia symptoms most of my life, but especially since my first pregnancy. Vitamins D3 and B6&12 (daily) helps. Also, Folic, if you notice a lot of hair/nail breakage. Other things that help are hot baths with Epsom Salt, heating pads, massage (if tolerated), muscle rubs (like bio freeze), tens unit on tight/spasming muscles, stretching and light yoga/tai chi. I found a muscle rub that really helps me when my muscles seize up on me. It's called Lasting Touch: Deep Tissue Therapy Massage Lotion. It has Amica, glucosamine and, I think, sunflower extract in it. If you aren't opposed to medications, there are a variety of useful ones. For muscle relaxants, I have tried: Tramadol, Tizanadine, Soma (can only be used short term), cyclobenzaprine (sp?) and Baclofen, amoung others. Baclofen is what I currently take and has been the only one that really allows my muscles to relax. Soma was next best, but can't be used long-term. All the others did not do anything for me or I had bad side effects. Lyrica (an anti-depressant) also helps with the muscle/nerve pain. Then there is Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen and Naproxen, if they work for you. I hope you find what works for you. I know it can be very frustrating and overwhelming.

- Also make sure to drink plenty of water and start with some low-impact walking or light exercise. Do yoga/stretches. Meditation helps. Try hot baths 🛀. I really enjoy getting a massage. I’m not a medical professional but just sharing what might help. ❤️‍🩹

I wish I had some magic words or advice to give you. The truth to the matter is that with fibromyalgia, you’ll have your good and bad days. It affects your daily routines as well as your feeling of well-being. Sleep, digestion, mood, energy level, just to name a few. If you have any other illnesses, it definitely takes a toll on a person. I’ve been coping with fibromyalgia, diabetes, arthritis, and anemia for 25 years. The best thing I can advise is to try to get yourself into a routine and eat healthy and consistently. I’m not one to encourage meds unless it’s absolutely necessary because a lot of meds make matters worse with immediate and long term effects. God bless you. I hope you’re able feel better . ❤️‍🩹