Guest guest Posted April 20, 2008 Report Share Posted April 20, 2008 I have been reading your messages (lurking) for awhile, but by the time I'm finished, I'm in too much pain to reply. So, unfortunately, I have to delete a lot. I was diagnosed with fibro in 1993, but had first symptoms in 1987. I was on active duty Navy at the time, and retired with 20 years in 1991. I am so grateful that my medical care costs me less than $20 per month, and I found great drs. at the Pain Clinic at Walter in D.C. This disease, disorder, syndrome, or whatever, is progressive and I am living proof. I spent 75% of my time in bed, until I lost 145 lbs. I got out of bed because I was dying emotionally and spiritually, and I wanted to die. I prayed for help and got it. I am a recovering alcoholic with over 29 yrs. sober, and used the 12 steps to lose the weight. What baffled the doctors, and me, was that I was in more pain after I lost the weight. I told them it was because I lost the cushion of fat that protected my muscles and bones. Seriously. I've been on various meds, some narcotics, but I have a high tolerance and they quit working in a couple of months, so they switch to something else. I am now taking 45 mg. morphine, 300 mg. Lyrica, and 200-300 mg. Tramadol. The Lyrica was just increased from 150, which worked great for about 2 months. I want to get off the morphine, but if I need it to function, I'll take it. No one has mentioned using a TENS unit, maybe because they're so expensive (another reason I'm glad my medical care is basically free). The unit really helps me on certain areas, especially my neck and shoulders, sometimes my lower back and butt. My gluteus muscles are always swollen, inflamed and painful, I have to sit on an ice pack all the time. My feet get very hot and burning if the temp is above 60. Anyone else have this problem? Also, I can't bend my knees without a lot of pain, so I have to prop my legs up. Anyway, poor me will stop whining now and remember to be grateful that this is not terminal, though there are days I think I wish it was. I identify with the guilt, frustration, anger, etc. I try to be gentle, kind, understanding, and loving to myself, even if no one else is. Take care of yourselves, everyone. Chris Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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