Dear Fibromyalgia

Category: Fibromyalgia Treatments

Explore effective treatments for Fibromyalgia, including medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and holistic approaches to manage symptoms.

  • Fibromyalgia 10 Years Later

    Fibromyalgia 10 Years Later

    It’s been quite some time for me posting something of a personal nature on here. Part of the reason has been that I’ve lost both my Grandmother and Mom within the past 6 months or so. Mom just passed right before the holidays.

    It was not a shock. Your regular blog readers have known that she has been sick with Alzheimer’s for almost 25 years.

    Society has taken a strange turn here in the US. Almost 30% of us are caring for a loved one while having a family of our own AND maintaining a full-time job. The numbers will only get worse as half of us will have to deal with caring for someone with a chronic illness in the next 30 years.

    I found these numbers completely shocking when I was Googling anxiety and fibromyalgia for my own personal needs. You see, out of all the symptoms I have had over the course of the past several years, I’m finding panic attacks to be the worst. And I think it’s because those attacks remind me of what I have lost.

    Both deaths were not shocking, but they still are very hard to deal with. I no longer have an ill person to care for and that’s an empty feeling. I think that is probably the hardest thing for me at this point, aside from not having both of them around to just talk to.

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    When they were both here and in need, I found a sense of purpose in preparing their meals, doing their laundry, and giving them the companionship they craved. I also had two children that needed me for help with homework, meals, and laundry and a husband who needed these things too. Life was beyond hectic and I would often find myself suffering from anxiety the most as my stress levels rose. It had gotten bad enough that I really didn’t want to leave the house in fear that it would surface and I’d be trapped.

    Now that they are gone and there is less of a sense of urgency, I am having difficulty finding a sense of purpose. This usually can be easily remedied with me immersing myself in work, but I honestly have been finding it hard to write. I either lack the energy or nothing seems to sound right. I am even struggling with this blog post. I personally think it’s one of my worst entries, BUT I know there are probably a lot of people out there that may appreciate these raw feelings so I’m going to go with it– for better or worse.

    I’m also finding it difficult to do housework. It seems like I get a panic attack at just the mere thought of doing it. I know some of it has to do with my OCD and the fact that I have a new puppy. She is difficult to potty train and that is REALLY not helping.

    But hey– let’s bask in the cuteness of the puppy– shall we?

    This is Luna. She is a Siberian Husky. We got the puppy for the hubs as a gift. He has always wanted a husky. She is quite a handful. She loves VERY long walks, likes to tug at the leash every chance she gets, is teething, and is BEYOND playful with my Sport. 

    Sport, my Cocker Spaniel is really liking Luna. They get along quite well. 

    The cat Onyx? Well, he’s not all that into Luna and would rather spend most of his time in the basement. But even he is starting to warm up to the sweetness! Okay, here’s some equal time with the cuteness factor. Here’s Sport waiting for Daddy to get home:

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    And here’s Onyx in all of his cuteness and being VERY bad. He’s not supposed to be on Daddy’s desk. LOL!:

    These three, along with my daughters, nieces, and hubs have always been my inspiration to get out of bed in the morning, but after 10 years of dealing with this beast, you’d think I’d have a better handle on my symptoms where I wouldn’t get a panic attack at the drop of a hat. Sure I could say that my illness has just gotten worse, research would back me up. But I’m not so sure. 

    Truth be told, there is a reason why Fibro is called a beast. This thing can be hard to tame– even after having it for 10 years. Sometimes new symptoms creep up. 

    Or in my case– the symptoms are there because my body has not found a way to calm down after being put through a constant fight or flight scenario. 

    Yes, it is true that many Fibro sufferers CAN and DO suffer from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). BUT I do not feel that this is completely true in my case. 

    Alzheimer’s/ dementia care is a unique type of care. You are caring for an adult like you would a child, BUT you have to honor the adult with dignity. Watching someone lose their entire being is probably one of the worst things you can witness. There are others– but this one ranks high up there because you wind up feeling completely torn. 

    This person, when aware, must feel so trapped and you want nothing more than to try and comfort that feeling for them. It’s a battle you tend to face alone because the partner in this might not remember you or their disease 5 minutes from now. This is why stress can be at very high levels with Alzheimer’s. Cancer, heart disease, or any other illness that needs a caregiver is just as hard. I just can’t speak with as much experience, so I won’t try. 

    I believe that sometimes a caregiver continues to go through the fight or flight feelings after your loved one is gone because your body needs time to catch up and process what has happened. I’ve been caring for my Mom and grandparents for over 15 years and I think that does something to your psyche. 

    But even if you have been caring for someone for a lesser amount of time, I think your body has a problem processing that much stress without a release. 

    And when this happens, listen to your body. Relax by taking a nap, soak in the tub, meditate, play a mindless video game, read, write– whatever– but do something that YOU enjoy. Your body is longing for that release. Give into it so your body can heal and get one day closer to the normal you remember.

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    Supplements also help. I’m currently taking Ginko Biloba and Sam-e for anxiety, stress, and depression. I also take vitamin D and B to help with fatigue. And I also crave a glass of orange juice every morning. I stay clear of coffee and drink a good cup of tea.

    Hope this helps…

    Stay fabulous!

    Love and friendship,

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
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    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Fibromyalgia Flare-Ups – Four Different Types And How To Get Through Them

    Fibromyalgia Flare-Ups – Four Different Types And How To Get Through Them

    What are fibromyalgia flare-ups?

    Is it non-stop pain that lasts a lifetime?
    Or is it pain that comes and goes?

    Do they include more than one pain/symptom?

    The answer to all of these questions is YES and NO.

    Fibromyalgia flare-ups are difficult to fully define because there are so many varying factors.

    Although I began experiencing fibromyalgia symptoms as early as age 10, they didn’t start interrupting my life until my late 20’s. Because the symptoms were so vague and embarrassing, I didn’t see a doctor for them until my early 30’s. There wasn’t a lot of information available when I was diagnosed with fibro in 2003. Nor were there any approved medications, that would happen a few years later. In my 20 plus years of living with it, I have discovered four different ways fibro flares up in my body and how to deal with them.

    Let’s take a look!

    Scroll to continue reading or listen to post here:

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    4 Types of Fibromyalgia Flares-Ups

    Keep in mind that there are far more than four types of fibromyalgia flares. When you consider how many fibro symptoms there are and all the different combinations that present at the same time, there could be thousands. The four that I have listed below are ones that I experience most often and that also at times, occur on their own.

    • Muscle flares
      This flare is best described as muscle soreness. They feel bruised, but there is no visible bruising. At times the pain is wide-spread and at others, it is isolated to one set or particular muscle. It can also present itself as muscle weakness with or without pain. When weakness is involved, limbs may feel like they weigh a thousand pounds and have the strength of a wet noodle!
    • Inflammation flare-ups
      Flares involving inflammation can occur anywhere throughout the body. Joints, muscles, tendons, organs, etc. Inflammation flare-ups are typically painful. Mobility may be compromised if experienced in the feet, knees, hips, and back. Inflammation in the hands may require the use of accessible tools in the kitchen. Neck and skull inflammation may trigger bouts of fibro fog and migraines.
    • Neuropathic flares
      This type of fibro flare-up creates what I best describe as strange and sometimes horrifying sensations. Examples of these nerve sensations feel like crawling, burning, tingling, and/or numbness in arms and legs. One of the first neuropathic flare-ups I noticed was what felt like burnt patches on my arms, even though there was no visible sight of injury.
    • Fatigue flare-ups
      Fibro fatigue is no joke! Many, like myself, often confuse fatigue for tiredness. But unlike tiredness, fatigue isn’t fixed with a nap or proper amount of sleep. Fatigue overtakes your body and body. There may be pain involved, but it can also be a pain-free experience.

    Fibromyalgia Flares-Up Triggers

    What triggers a fibro flare-up varies as much as the symptoms. However, through journaling, it is possible to find what your most common fibromyalgia triggers are. Some possible fibro flare triggers include

    but are not limited to the following:

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    • Weather
    • Trauma – Physical and/or Emotional
    • Infections or Illness
    • Anxiety
    • Lack of sleep
    • Too much or not enough activity
    • Pain from another condition or injury
    • Scents
    • Sound
    • Light
    • Stress
    • Food

    And this is just the tip of the trigger iceberg!

    Fibromyalgia Flare Symptoms

    The symptoms you experience will not only vary from others who have fibromyalgia, but they will often vary between flares. You may experience overlapping flares as I did for the first ten years after my diagnosis and wonder if it will ever end. Or you may only experience random flares with relief in between like I have for the past seven years.

    The most common symptoms of fibromyalgia flare-ups include but are not limited to the following:

    • Inflammation
    • Widespread Muscle Pain
    • Joint Pain
    • Flu-like symptoms without running a fever or being sick
    • Fibro Fever – Where your skin feels like it is on fire but you do not have a fever
    • Chilled to the Bone – You feel cold for no reason.
    • Nerve pain – Topical and internal
    • Muscle and Joint Stiffness
    • Insomnia
    • Painsomnia
    • Fatigue
    • Cognitive Issues

    How Long Does a Fibro Flare Last?

    Fibromyalgia flare-ups have no specific timetable. They could pass within a few hours or last for days, weeks, months, and even years. However, with extensive journaling and tracking, it is possible to figure out what your most frequent triggers are. This knowledge can help you address the fibro pressure point that is typically set off before the trigger occurs.

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    For example, I know that any increase of 10-20 degrees within a day or two will trigger inflammation around my spine and neck. Knowing this, I run extra PEMF treatments to those areas to reduce the effect the trigger has on my pressure points. This decreases the amount of pain and symptoms that I would have experienced without treating prior and lessens the duration of the flare as well.

    Having an effective fibromyalgia pain management plan is imperative! I cannot express this enough. If you are unable to relieve pain or experience restorative sleep most nights, the odds of shortening the length of a flare are very slim. This is exactly why I was in a continual state of flare for 13 years!

    Tips for Surviving a Fibromyalgia Flare-Up

    You might think that having a good pain reliever is all you need to survive a flare. While comforting, it is not enough. I had excellent prescription pain–relievers during my first 13 years. They would block pain receptors and my pain level was lowered. The problem was that they didn’t address what was causing the pain. Another issue I had was while enjoying that relief, I turned into a manic Super Woman hell-bent to catch up on everything I couldn’t do because of pain. The result was an even higher pain level than what I had before treating my pain.

    In addition to relieving pain, flare survival typically requires a combination of the following:

    Nobody can predict how often a fibromyalgia flare-up will occur. My best advice is to get to know your body, track symptoms, flares, and what does and doesn’t help. This will at the very least decrease how often certain flares are triggered and shorten their duration. The most important thing you can do is to be patient with your body. It needs time to recover and stressing over the flare will only increase your recovery time. Fibromyalgia flare-ups have a mind and agenda of their own, fighting it only makes it worse. It’s better to adopt a comfort and care mindset.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Fibromyalgia Fatigue Versus Pain. Which Is Worse And Tips For Coping With Each

    Fibromyalgia Fatigue Versus Pain. Which Is Worse And Tips For Coping With Each

    Fibromyalgia fatigue versus pain…….

    If I had been asked which I thought was worse before being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I would have responded with pain.

    Is fibromyalgia pain really worse?

    Can fibro fatigue really be as debilitating as chronic pain?

    Let’s take a look!

    I was no stranger to pain prior to my fibromyalgia diagnosis. TMJ surgery, a c-section recovery that included an infected incision due to the wrong sutures being used, heavy and painful periods with occasional bursting ovarian cysts, a knee joint that had bone fragments stuck into it are a few examples. While each one was frustrating and painful, each pain had a cause and solution. Yet I clearly remember feeling like each situation would never end. If I had only known then, that someday I would be struck with pain that would never end……..

    The difference between the pain I experienced before my fibro diagnosis and after is that they were single pains. My jaw, abdomen, and knee. With fibromyalgia, the pain may be constant, but it isn’t always in the same area or at the same intensity.

    Fibromyalgia pain differs yearly, monthly, weekly, daily, and even hourly. There is absolutely no way anyone could ever understand unless they have fibro or a similar chronic illness.

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    Types of Pain

    Fibromyalgia produces many types of physical pain.
    Some are examples are:

    • Muscular
    • Joint
    • Nerve

    Fibromyalgia can make your skin feel like it is raw or on fire. Muscles may feel like they have been beaten or are bruised. Joints ache. Each of these pains may affect one or two specific areas or your entire body.

    Although levels may change, there is always some level of pain. Fibro pain becomes a way of life. Over time we forget what it was like to live without pain. It just becomes a way of life.

    Effect on Life

    The effects of chronic physical pain from fibromyalgia are often debilitating.
    Areas of our lives that fibro pain wrecks include but are not limited to:

    Fibro pain triggers depression and anxiety. It makes us angry and short-tempered. Disbelieving family, friends, and physicians create distrust in those we used to trust without question.

    “Before fibromyalgia, physical pain was something that indicated a problem and there was always an end to it. With fibro, physical pain never ends, it’s just life….”

    ~Cynthia Covert – The Disabled Diva

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    Fibromyalgia Pain Coping Tips

    While it is true that I always experience some type of muscle, nerve, and joint pain on a daily basis, I have been successfully lowered the levels since my diagnosis 18 years ago. The key to living with fibromyalgia is to find an effective pain relief plan.

    Keep in mind what works for one fibro patient may not help another! Some people do well following a pharmaceutical protocol. Others, like myself, feel better using a combination of natural and alternative pain relief approaches. And then there are those who have found comfort in a pain management plan that utilizes pharmaceutical, natural, and alternative treatments. No matter which route you choose, understand that there is NO one-size-fits-all pain management plan.

    Fibro Fatigue

    Not to be confused with tiredness, fibromyalgia fatigue is just as, if not more debilitating than pain. Not understanding the difference between being tired or fatigued is one reason I would have chosen pain as the worst. However, now after living with fibro for so long, I am leaning more towards fatigue being worse than the pain. This is not to diminish or make light of the pain that accompanies this wretched condition but to emphasize how horrific fatigue is. Tiredness can be fixed with a nap or good night’s sleep, fatigue cannot!

    “Fatigue makes fools of us all. It robs us of our skills, our judgment, and blinds us to creative solutions.”

    ~ Harvey Mackay

    Effect of Fatigue

    One reason I consider fatigue to be worse than the pain is that depending on the pain there is often something I can do to lower the level or at least find some sort of comfort. But when overcome with fatigue, there is nothing, I repeat nothing that I can do except ride it out. I cannot snap out of it. There is NO pushing through.

    The effect fatigue has on our lives is devastating. It affects our cognitive abilities making it difficult and sometimes impossible to make decisions, focus, or communicate. It truly makes fools of us!

    Pain doesn’t always affect my brain, but fatigue does! Pain doesn’t stop me from writing and blogging. Fatigue has no mercy! There is no writing, no socializing in real life or online, no decision-making, just nothing.

    Fatigue Fighting Tips

    It is easy to fall into the fatigue trap of feeling like the flare will never end. After having so many good spells over the past few years, the flares that returned last year caused me to panic. It takes a lot of deep breathing, meditation, prayer to remain calm. CBD calms anxiety and reduces how much my fatigue feeds on it.

    Preparing for flare days will make getting through fatigue flares less stressful. I use Amazon’s Subscribe and Save to avoid forgetting items my family needs on a regular basis and Walmart Plus for grocery delivery.

    But it was accepting the flare at the moment and catering to my body’s needs that made them easier to deal with. Relaxing and allowing my body’s strength to return as it is ready is what shortens the duration. Doing too much too soon increases time down. There is no way to completely avoid fatigue flares. There is only making the best of it or dying trying to fight.

    My Fibromyalgia Fatigue Versus Pain Answer

    At this point in my fibro life, my answer is that fatigue is worse than the pain it creates. Mind you, it took a decade to change my mind. When my pain was widespread and uncontrolled, it consumed my body and mind. It was only after finding pain relief tools and products that significantly reduced my pains that I was able to recognize the severity and effects of fatigue.

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    Your answer may differ. In fact, mine could change again in a year or two. That’s the most frustrating part of living with fibromyalgia, no two days are alike. There is no getting used to the pain or learning how to work around one or two limitations. It is a never-ending battle of figuring out what areas are in need of help, searching for relief, and constantly addressing them.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • How to Prevent Fibromyalgia Flare Stank

    How to Prevent Fibromyalgia Flare Stank

    Anyone who has suffered from an extended flare or has been hit with back to back flares knows how bad fibromyalgia flare stank can be!

    Hygiene is rarely discussed in the fibromyalgia community. It’s personal and embarrassing. I mean seriously, how many people, besides myself, wake up and think that today is a good day to announce my stench on social media?

    Personal hygiene is a major issue for the chronically ill and is something that needs to be discussed without shame or humiliation.

    Fatigue and pain are the cause of fibromyalgia flare stank. It is not that we are lazy, but that we have little to no physical strength. Pain makes what movements we can make even harder. The result is going much longer than we should between showers/baths.

    I was recently hit with an unexpected back-to-back fibromyalgia weather flare. The first flare was expected. I began feeling the effects of the incoming extreme heatwave days before it hit. As usual, I began feeling better after it reached its peak. But then something unexpected occurred. A daytime high reduction of 35 degrees (115 on Sunday to 81 on Tuesday) in 48 hours was more than my body could tolerate.

    When I awoke Wednesday morning, my flare had subsided, but my stank was in overdrive! Because of the first flare, I had already pushed the boundaries of my shower schedule. And thanks to the second flare, my stench was so bad that I considered having my husband douse me in liquid soap and spraying me down with a garden hose!

    Although it has been quite some time since I have experienced a fibro flare of this magnitude, I set out to prepare for the next. Whether you experience severe and debilitating flares periodically or on a regular basis, my fibro hygiene shopping list will be of use.

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    Let’s see what I filled my cart up with!

    Fibromyalgia Flare Stank Fighting Products

    Until you have the strength or assistance necessary to take a bath/shower, these products in addition to your preferred deodorant will help.

    • No-Rinse Body Wash and Shampoo
    • Body Wipes
    • Personal Hygiene Wipes

    Keep your pillow, phone, eyeglasses, bed, and other items near you clean with a UV sanitizer wand. Lightweight and easy to use.

    Other products you may want to have on hand to help you get through your flare without totally ignoring your hygiene needs.

    • Body Mist
    • Disposable Mini Toothbrushes
    • Waterless Shampoo and Conditioning Shower Cap
    • Breath Gel

    Stank Fighting Bedside Setup

    Don’t get caught off guard! Have your products on hand and stored bedside or accessed easily. A tiered vanity for your nightstand would be ideal if you suffer from frequent flares. A travel toiletry bag filled with your fibromyalgia flare stank fighting products kept in an easy-to-reach storage cabinet can be used if your flares occur less often. You might even want to consider a hanging travel case to hang from your headboard or wall to make reaching the items easier.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Love, Men, and Fibromyalgia

    Love, Men, and Fibromyalgia

    Love, Men, and Fibro

    ***WARNING*** This installment is for readers 18 and over because it contains adult topics. Thank you for your understanding.

    Though this article does not touch on fibromyalgia and love directly I think it is still a very important article to read because it discusses why we women sometimes are not open with our men when it comes to love .

    Something I cannot stress enough, and I’ve stressed it in my books and articles on this subject religiously, is that you have to have open communication with your partner. Likes and dislikes can change over the years– or in a fibromite’s case– it can happen daily so never be afraid to speak up.

    This OBGYN is spot on and she completely coincides with my views about men in relationships. Your man should be asking early and often in your Love relationship what you like. And yes, it’s even better if he asks you to show him. Men sometimes need– pardon the pun– hands-on experience to learn for next time.

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    Hey everyone!  This is not going to be a normal post because I wanted to drop in and post an apology to Y’all! Last week I was involved with a Giving Thanks Romance promotion and some authors were really nice to let you all know about it via social media outlets. MANY of you have been following me on those sites for about a decade (Well… it’s going to be near two in a bit– but who’s counting 😉 LOL!) so I really want to make sure you see this apology. To make a long story short– I was GROSSLY misinformed by the coordinator how many books were involved and once I found out just how misleading the promotion had become, I pulled out my book. I am very sorry that I did that but I live by integrity as you die-hard fans of my writing know and I’d never, EVER want to mislead any reader. I am very grateful for all of the support, emails, PMs, likes, and shares by all of you! Having said that,

    FF: Hi Ali! First off, welcome to Fibro and Fabulous! Please let the readers know a little bit about yourself and your company Norwex. AB: Hi everyone! My name is Alison Buonome but you can call me Ali. I live in Vernon, CT and I am a busy mom to 5-year-old twin boys. I have lots of messes to clean and love my Norwex products. I used to despise cleaning but Norwex makes it so easy and I don’t have to worry about my family being exposed to chemicals! Norwex’s mission statement is “Safe, Effective, Sustainable”. Yep, that’s it. Our commitment to a brighter future starts with our product mission. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice effectiveness or sustainability when you choose a safer product. So we won’t put the Norwex label on it unless it meets all three criteria. FF: What made you decide to get into the Norwex business? AB: As I said above, I am a mom to 5-year-old twins boys. My boys were born prematurely at 33 weeks. I would put my kids to bed, go straight to the bed.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • What is the percentage of people who recover from Fibromyalgia?

    What is the percentage of people who recover from Fibromyalgia?

    I’ve had FMS symptoms for almost 43 years.

    No one recovers from FMS. There is no cure. If someone tells you that they “used to have” FMS, they are mistaken. Their diagnosis was wrong.

    You learn to cope with FMS. You learn what your limits are and how to protect your energy. You may have many comorbid conditions such as clinical depression, chronic headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, sleep disturbance, chronic fatigue syndrome, etc. You learn how to deal with each of these conditions. You learn what modalities help you feel better. You learn what drugs help you.

    You exercise to the best of your ability without exhausting yourself or your energy. Walking and water exercises are the gentlest. You have a sleep study to determine if you have apnea or if you need sleep aids. You may need narcolepsy drugs to keep you alert at work.

    You continue working if at all possible. Studies have been done that show that those who continue working do the best in the long run. Effort on through and keep being active.

    FMS does go into remission from time to time. Enjoy it while it lasts. Stress or injury can trigger flares. Retirement helped me a lot! Less stress and time to rest led to a reduction in pain and fatigue. I’m no longer plagued by chronic fatigue.

    Constantly read about FMS and about strides being made in diagnosis and treatment. Stay up to date on the current FMS news. Also, read Lyme Disease materials. The symptoms are very similar.

    Persevere! For another perspective on what we face, read about the “spoon theory”. The author of this piece has MS, not FMS, but her coping method works for us also.

    Above is one theory for which people said fibromyalgia in not recoverable, Read the 2nd theory below for more information.

    Defining Recovery in Fibromyalgia

    Before addressing statistics, it is essential to define what recovery means in this context. Unlike acute illnesses that can completely resolve, fibromyalgia often follows a long-term course. For some, recovery may mean complete remission of symptoms. For others, it may refer to significant symptom reduction to the point where daily life is no longer disrupted.

    Recovery can be classified into several categories: complete recovery, partial remission, and functional improvement. Complete recovery implies a return to pre-symptom health with no ongoing medication or therapies. Partial remission involves reduced symptom severity and improved quality of life, though some level of discomfort may remain. Functional improvement means individuals are able to resume work, maintain relationships, and engage in daily activities, even if some symptoms persist.

    What the Statistics Show

    Research suggests that complete recovery from fibromyalgia is relatively uncommon. Most studies estimate that between 5 to 10 percent of individuals may experience complete remission over time. This number varies based on the population studied, the definition of recovery used, and the type of treatment applied.

    A larger portion of individuals—approximately 30 to 50 percent—experience substantial improvement in symptoms with consistent treatment and lifestyle adjustments. These individuals may not be fully cured but reach a point where fibromyalgia no longer dominates their lives.

    Children and adolescents diagnosed with fibromyalgia tend to have higher recovery rates compared to adults. In some pediatric cases, up to 40 to 60 percent of individuals may experience complete or near-complete recovery. The reasons are believed to involve differences in neuroplasticity, stress resilience, and early intervention.

    Factors That Influence Recovery Outcomes

    Several variables affect the likelihood of recovery from fibromyalgia. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention play a significant role. Patients who receive a diagnosis early in their symptom progression and begin treatment quickly tend to have better long-term outcomes.

    Psychological resilience and mental health also heavily influence recovery. Those who address co-existing issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma through therapy often report more improvement in physical symptoms. Mental and emotional wellness creates a foundation for sustainable progress.

    A multidisciplinary treatment approach, combining medication, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes, has been found to increase the chances of functional improvement. Physical activity, particularly low-impact aerobic exercise and stretching routines, has shown consistent benefits in symptom management.

    Another critical factor is patient engagement. Individuals who actively participate in their treatment plan, maintain consistency, and make informed lifestyle changes are more likely to report improved health and reduced reliance on medication.

    Socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and support systems also influence recovery. Those with consistent access to medical care, strong family or community support, and stable life conditions often have better outcomes.

    Why Complete Recovery Remains Rare

    Fibromyalgia is still not fully understood. The condition involves central nervous system sensitization, abnormal pain processing, and sometimes co-existing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune disorders. These interconnected issues make it difficult to achieve total resolution of symptoms.

    Furthermore, because fibromyalgia does not present with visible physical changes or markers in diagnostic tests, it can be misunderstood or dismissed, leading to delayed treatment. This delay significantly reduces the chance of full recovery.

    Another reason recovery percentages remain low is due to the chronic nature of pain processing disorders. Even when external stressors are removed and symptoms improve, the nervous system may retain a memory of pain that continues to produce discomfort without a physical cause.

    Living Well Without Full Recovery

    While the percentage of people who recover completely from fibromyalgia is limited, many individuals can live fulfilling lives through effective management. Acceptance of the condition, realistic expectations, and long-term coping strategies can empower individuals to reclaim control and improve their quality of life.

    Modern treatment focuses less on a cure and more on self-efficacy, lifestyle modifications, and symptom management. Programs that teach pacing, stress reduction, nutrition, sleep hygiene, and physical activity have transformed how fibromyalgia is treated.

    Many patients report that while their symptoms remain, they become manageable. They learn to identify triggers, adapt their routines, and develop a sense of agency over their health. This transformation is not measured solely by medical standards but by the ability to live a purposeful, joyful life despite the condition.

    Conclusion

    The percentage of people who recover from fibromyalgia completely remains low, with estimates ranging from 5 to 10 percent. However, a much larger group achieves significant improvement and functional wellness through dedicated treatment and lifestyle changes. Fibromyalgia may not always be curable, but it is often livable.

    Understanding recovery in fibromyalgia requires a shift in perspective—from expecting a complete resolution to aiming for meaningful progress. With the right tools, mindset, and support, many people do more than just cope; they thrive.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • What happens if Fibromyalgia is left Untreated?

    What happens if Fibromyalgia is left Untreated?

    Although fibromyalgia symptoms are often written off as being sleepy, it’s really a much more serious disorder than it seems. With over 5 million Americans over the age of 18 diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, fibromyalgia requires more treatment than just taking a nap. Finding the right treatment depends on the individual, but the risks of not treating Fibromyalgia at all can be devastating and more dangerous.

    Worsening Symptoms

    A major risk of leaving fibromyalgia untreated is that symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, headaches, and depression can worsen over time. Anxiety and mood disorders can also worsen if you don’t treat fibromyalgia. The chances of all or any of these symptoms disappearing or improving on their own, with no treatment or medication, are very slim. In fact, these symptoms can also lead to permanent changes in your body.

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    Disruption of Pain Signaling

    It isn’t just the symptoms themselves that can worsen. If left untreated, the chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia can lead to permanent changes in the way your body perceives pain resulting in increased sensitivity to stimuli and abnormal pain sensitivity. To prevent further disruptions in the way your body’s pain-signaling system works, it’s crucial that you seek treatment for fibromyalgia immediately.

    Difficulty getting relief

    The longer you wait to treat your fibromyalgia, the harder it will be to get relief from the symptoms. Research has shown that those who treat pain associated with fibromyalgia earlier react the best to certain drugs and treatments. In fact, waiting too long to treat fibromyalgia can make it more difficult to heal or experience any relief from the pain, no matter which treatments or medications you try. Alone, it’s best to develop a plan for treating and managing the symptoms you are experiencing as soon as possible.

    Permanent Lifestyle Changes

    Because the symptoms of fibromyalgia can become debilitating and worsen over time, especially if left untreated, you risk permanent lifestyle changes. The pain, headaches, and depression likely won’t allow you to stay used or take part in day-to-day activities. These types of changes also affect your family members and relationships. When dealing with fibromyalgia, the worst thing you can do is ignore it and hope it goes away.

    Fibromyalgia is a difficult and complicated disorder to live with and is even harder to explain to friends and family, or those without fibromyalgia. It’s important that you remember you aren’t alone and are diligent in taking every step possible to treat the symptoms the best way you can. Waiting and leaving it untreated can only lead to negative results.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • How come the Doctors say that patients who claimed to have fibromyalgia were just unhappy in their lives?

    How come the Doctors say that patients who claimed to have fibromyalgia were just unhappy in their lives?

    Maybe the doctor you followed some patients with the presumptive diagnosis of fibromyalgia. And maybe after years of following them, and checking for objective signs of disease- lab abnormalities, physical changes, etc. your doctor never found anything to document a medical illness.

    But the patients always had the same complaints, always complained of fatigue, not sleeping, muscle aches and not being able to work (I am not saying that this is a description of many patients with fibromyalgia).

    So your physician decided that there was nothing to this diagnosis because he/she could find none of the traditional signs of a disease, it responded to no treatments, and there was no progression to a measurable pathological state.

    Now there are diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia. The latest I can find is from the American College of Rheumatology 2010.

    Click here to Get this or Visit Fibromyalgia Store

    1. Widespread pain index score of 7 or more, and a symptom severity score of 5 or more. Or a different mix with lower WPI and higher SS score. So it’s kind of vague.
    2. Similar symptoms for at least 3 months.
    3. Other medical conditions that could cause your symptoms have been ruled out.

    Previously a “tender point” system was used, but it didn’t work well and the new system was instituted.

    Symptoms include, but are not limited to:

    So let’s see if we can use these criteria to diagnose people with fibromyalgia.

    So do you know of some people who complain about some of these things? I know… let’s see, pretty much everyone I know over the age of 40 has some of these complaints, and more of them the older they are. So these complaints are very common.

    Are these complaints associated with other conditions? Poor circulation, obesity, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, Lyme disease, AIDS, hypothyroidism, collagen vascular diseases, poor nutrition, sleep apnea syndrome, depression, cancer…etc. etc. So yes, these symptoms are very common in other diseases.

    Are these symptoms subjective? Let’s say I have a viral illness and I’m out of work for a week, because I am too fatigued and “achy” to work. You have the same virus, but don’t miss a day. We both fall off our bikes. Our injuries look exactly the same.

    You get up, go home, and put ice on it. I wait on the ground for an ambulance to take me to the ER. I miss working the next day. You show up. Did I “hurt” more than you did? So yes, all of these criteria are “subjective”. If you do the point tenderness test on me and every place you touch I say that pain is a “9”, is that real? How can you tell?

    There is a blood test being evaluated for Fibromyalgia, the FM/a test. This tests for elevated cytokine levels in your blood. However, elevated cytokine levels can be found in everything from Autism to Zoster. They can be found in high levels in depressed and suicidal patients.

    Any inflammatory disorder that activates the immune system will increase cytokine levels. If all other pathological conditions have been ruled out (could take years and 10s of thousands of dollars worth of tests) and this test shows that your cytokine levels are elevated, then your doctor can say you have an occult inflammatory condition in your body, Maybe it’s fibromyalgia. Maybe it’s a disease that will show up later.

    I hope you can see why some doctors are skeptical of the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Because the doctor can’t diagnose it. Only the patient can. And that can sometimes be misleading.

    Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. This is a personal opinion based on the situation of a close one.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • I’m 22 and considering getting a cane for days when my Fibromyalgia Flares up

    I’m 22 and considering getting a cane for days when my Fibromyalgia Flares up

    How do I be confident using the cane in public when I look like an otherwise healthy, able-bodied person?

    I can’t give you a direct definite answer to your question. But I will share a couple of things with you. When my oldest daughter was 13 she had surgery for scoliosis. She walked back to the surgery suite turning back, smiling and waving.

    Totally secure in what she was doing. 13 1/2 hours later they came out and told me that she was paralyzed and would never walk again. Fortunately, God’s bigger than that. Three months later she was wheeled to the hospital doors and with the aid of some braces, she walked out to the car.

    It took about two years of PT but she got to the point that she was able to put the wheelchair away and use two canes. Then later she went to one cane. She’s had 2 more major surgeries to stabilize her back and she now walks with a walker to help take some of the pressure torque off her spine. So never give up! Keep fighting!

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    The second thing that I want to share with you is my disability. I have a lung disease that requires me to be on high flow oxygen. For several years after being put on oxygen random strangers would walk up to me in Walmart and ask me why was I on oxygen?

    I didn’t look sick! I spent a lot of time trying to explain things to people but it was really almost offensive. I don’t offend easily. But it bothered me enough that I got to the point where I started looking at people and asking Really!?! And what exactly does sick look like! There are many times that I’ve caught myself watching someone park in a handicapped space and get out of the car looking perfectly able.

    I often wondered why they seemed to need a handicap spot. At some point, I made the connection and reminded myself that I had NO IDEA what their health issues were, and frankly, it was none of my business and not mine to judge. I take care of my own issues and usually find that I’m left with little time to squander on placing judgment on other people. It’s not my place to judge.

    So my point is this. Do what you need to do to take the best care of yourself that you can. Don’t even worry about what other people are going to think! You won’t be able to do anything to change it anyway. People that are that worried about your health, they’re going to find something to be critical of no matter what you do.

    Don’t waste your energy on them. You do the best that you can do to take as good of care of yourself as you can. It will help you in the long run and will remove some of your burden in the short run. Take care!

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Fibromyalgia pain is getting worse why can’t I get pain meds when I go to the ER?

    Fibromyalgia pain is getting worse why can’t I get pain meds when I go to the ER?

    As a Nurse Practitioner, patients presenting with chronic pain problems to the ER are problematic. During this so-called opioid epidemic, guidelines were put in place for patients seeking narcotics. Also urgent care facilities. It is a problem, and I’m not implying patients are not in pain, or simply drug seekers.

    We do use Toradol. Unfortunately, patients with chronic pain problems should be receiving care from their primary care physician or pain clinic. I can’t provide a percentage, but we were inundated! I’m a chronic pain patient myself, and the ER’s were being utilized when patients ran out of opiate meds, the physicians working in them were concerned about their license and DEA #’s being sanctioned.

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    Some states have placed a limit on the number of days supply that can be provided. Hopefully, the new guidelines will be clarified that was written in June 2021, on how much should be dispensed. Usually, a 2–3 day supply was provided til patients could see their primary or pain, clinic doctor.

    Even with the prescription drug monitoring system in place, doctors were concerned about “Big Brother” looking over their shoulder as they wrote a prescription. This period of time has been hell for chronic pain patients, and I can vouch for it. It’s out of control at this time. My supervising physician has to follow the hospital guidelines.

    TRUST ME I have no problem giving a 3 day supply, back in 2016. I understand your and other patients‘ pain problems, but the ER is for emergencies, life or limb at risk, and CHRONIC problems need to be managed in other ways. I don’t want to be perceived as an uncaring, jerk, or 4 letter word, but our hands are tied. I could keep writing, but it’s a problem that hopefully will be resolved soon.

    If you visit chronicillness.co, Pain, you will read the same information as I’ve written. Yes, patients are committing many unwanted things, buying meds off the internet chancing your life they may contain a fatal dose of Fentanyl. The guidelines should be published soon, to ease restrictions.

    I CAN’T WAIT, as my Morphine was cut from 150mg. to 90 mg. and just because I’m in the medical field, do not receive additional amounts. My life has declined and hard to function. Was working 50 hours a week, but for almost 2 years, zero hours. Take MS Contin 30mg 1 hour before getting out of bed! I’m not alone.

    May God give you strength, as he has to me, making me take my Glock out of my mouth. No joke.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store