I have had a horrible week. In all started with a horrible cough and later getting diagnosed with Bronchitis. I'm sure you are all aware that when you are sick it makes the Fibro pain so much worse. THEN I get a call from my doctor saying that if PT doesn't work for my fibro pain I will "just have to ignore it" and "learn to live with it". She also informed me i couldn't have anymore children do to issues with my uterus. It's about that time of the month and i'm in horrible pain and this fibro diet is making me feel like i'm starving. I feel so depressed because i'm always in pain and it seems like i'm always sick (IGA deficiency) which is causing horrible relationship issues with my fiance and my 7 year old daughter. I know there are many of you who have had a worse week then me but i'm in horrible pain and i can't stop crying.
I am so so sorry, Kalsy B.
In my opinion it sounds like its time to hunt for a new doctor. My rheumatologist said almost the exact same thing to me before, I don't think he realized how devastating a poor choice of words can be to people who suffer chronic pain and fatigue. I know you are going through a really rough time, but try to focus now more than ever on what brings you joy and the people that bring you joy even if there is a bit of a rocky road at the moment. Loved ones and friends don't always understand what we are feeling, but honestly there is no way for them to. They can sympathize but cannot empathize with what we walk through on a daily basis. As for managing pain during that time of the month, I highly recommend a heating pad on a very hot setting to rest on your lower abdomen (if that does not harm you) and some anti inflammatory meds if you are okay to take those. Above all, love yourself and don't condemn yourself. You didn't ask for any of this, you are just managing the best you know how and that's sometimes the best our bodies can do. Hang in there!
Blessings and prayers
Hi Kalsy,
I'm sorry you are going through so much pain and stress. I agree with Ahava, that it is so difficult to deal with this diagnosis on top of having to cope with the relationship issues this causes. Feeling sick, being in chronic pain and having to deal with all the other issues can take a toll on us greatly. Have you considered seeing a counselor? I only recommend that because I see a counselor and it has made a world of difference for me. It helps to talk to someone who is on the outside of the picture, but at the same time can still offer the empathy and support that is needed to help you get through this. I view my counselor as a tool in my toolbox that I have to support me if I need it. Over the years I have had this, I have fine-tuned remedies and supports that help me get through this because it is a daily struggle. I have a team of a rheumatologist, primary care doctor, counselor, chiropractor, massage therapist and many natural as well as medications to help me get through each day. Everyone is different and what works for you might be different : ) It might be time to look for a different doctor. I have been through many doctors before I found the one that helped me, treated me like an individual and offered me a treatment plan that didn't make me feel like a number.
I hope you feel better soon.
Many hugs,
Sara
Thanks, and yes Sara I have considered a counselor or therapist. My issue is they would want to see me multiple times a week and I can't drive so I have to find a place close enough to work or call a cab which I can't really afford. I just want to find ONE doctor that will listen to me and at least sympathize with what i'm going through not just say "oh well if this doesn't work you will have to live with the pain". I don't want to have to live with the pain, there should be SOMETHING. Just because some stupid doctor thinks pain medicine doesn't help people with fibro. It does, at least to where my pain level isn't at a 10. I understand people have abused pills but people abuse all sorts of drugs, anxiety medications, anti depressants, alcohol. but yet I don't see doctors going against those medicines. Most doctors I know very readily hand out anti depressants.
Kalsey,
I would say a new doctor is in order. I'm unable to take a lot of medications. My doctor has helped me research some natural remedies that have worked for me. If you can find a doctor that is willing to monitor you while you try some let me know and I'll give you some we tried. Some work great some did nothing for me but helped another girl with fibro. You would still need a doctor to monitor you though. There is a lot of research going on in parts of Europe for more natural treatments of chronic problems. My doctor daughter is over in France right now studying it after she finished her residency for her M.D.
I'm sure that my doctor would be willing to talk to yours if you can find one that is willing to work with you.