Guest guest Posted May 14, 2002 Report Share Posted May 14, 2002 Hi. I'm Cathy and I was diagnosed fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue in 1997, went on disability in 1999. I have not found any type of treatment that helps because I'm either allergic to meds or have bad side effects from them. I look forward to sharing and learning from others in the group. Age range: 48 Male/female: Female What are the symptoms? Continuous pain in joints and muscles, chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating Has you illness been diagnosed? Yes, in 1997 How long did you suffer before you got help? Had surgeries in 1992, 1993, 1995, two in 1996. In 1997, I was so worn out and fatigued and in pain, despite walking every day 30-45 minutes for months and months. Diagnosed in May 1997, went to three more doctors because I didn't believe diagnosis. Is there a time that you can remember when it started? Early 1997, but bouts of fatigue as long as I can remember. Some of us have found lack of exercise we are overweight. Have you found this to be a problem also? I've always been overweight since teen years, but have put on 60+ pounds since being diagnosed Are you on disability? Yes If you are any pointers for others trying to get on disability? PERSISTENCE!!! Don't let SS tell you you don't qualify and then give up What have you found that helps ease the pain, warm baths, medications etc.? Hot showers, but only temporarily Do you have sleep problems? How do you deal with it? I sleep ALOT - but at times restless. Do you have family that understands your illness? My son and daughter are grown and moved out, I live alone. My family accepts the fact I'm on disability, but not really sure they understand completely. Some have found certain foods causes problems with CFS or Fibro, have you? I'm not sure about that. I know there are many types of foods I was able to eat and never bothered me, but I don't even enjoy them any more (chocolate for one) I also have problems with heart burn, so I've changed my eating habits greatly. What type of Doctor have you found that has helped you the most? I see a very good rheumatologist, but he is baffled as to how to treat me since all the medications I've tried have given me intolerable side effects. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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