Welcome to Fibromyalgia land where pain, tingling and feeling bugs on you are now your new norm.
If you haven’t guessed by my opening sentence, I am in a flare. The Fibromyalgia flare. For the first time in over a year, I had to go home early a week ago because I just couldn’t handle being in pain and dealing with the with the imaginary millions of ants crawling up and down my body. Regular pain killers did not help, heating pads did help, but not enough. I ended up at home in bed on a heating pad, extra strength Tylenol and watched movies behind closed eyelids (I was awake, I just couldn’t keep my eyelids open).
I have never been laid out from symptoms like this before. It scared me to where my rheumatologist and I had a serious conversation. This is not the first time I have complained about it. Did you know that there is a treatment that can help? I didn’t.
Here is the basics of it for me….. Cymbalta- lowest dose. Wait- isn’t that an anti-anxiety pill? Yup. But, it is been shown to decrease the pain and neuropathy associated with Fibromyalgia.
I hemmed and hawed some. Dr. suggested that I fill it, have it available. Only I can decide when it becomes too much. It does have some side affects. Good news is that is has no contraindications with my other medications. Down side is that it takes 2 – 4 weeks to be fully effective.
Additionally, it has been decided to finish the process of getting off steroids. Taking it even slower than this spring. I will be dropping down to 0 mg. Cool, huh!
If I add the new medication, I won’t be able to tell what is from the Cymbalta and what is withdrawals. After mulling it over for a while, I am going to work at getting off the other medication before starting the new one, if I can wait that long.
There is never nothing going on. (Peaceful Warrior-movie)
The doctor was pleased with my weight loss and stated that I looked good. Joints felt great and it seems that Mr. Arthritis is letting me rest for a while.
I know that somehow God will help me to decide if and when I need to take the additional medicine. I am hoping never.
Please understand that I am not a medical professional. I am sharing my experiences, treatments and opinions with you to help you on your own journey through this adventure of dealing with auto immune disorders.
Remember your vitamins, complimentary therapies, massages and self-care. Most of all, stay hydrated.
May God continue to hold your hand and body, just as He holds me.