I've got Fibro. And its just easy to have the meds to help with the
chronic pain.

I have some of the trigger points.

I am just glad that it can be treated.

Donna

I also Have Fibro and have for probably 25 years. It took 17 years for a proper Rheumatologist to diagnose it. My case is considered severe and my Rheum. is also a 'specialist' in the field in the DC/Maryland area. He always checks my trigger points and does a physical exam of my joints, etc. as I also have inflammatory arthritis of my joints (Spondylarthropathy) just to see how severe my disease is at the time of my visit. Sometimes he surprises me. Please know that FMS sometimes tags along with other diseases, usually rheumatic or autoimmune diseases.

You need to find a good Rheum. that treats it. I did a lot of research to find my Dr. Also, many drugs are difficult to tolerate if you have FMS. I just got out of a bad reaction to Savella. It takes time and many combinations of different drugs to find the best treatment suited for you. You should look to have a communicative and long relationship with your Rheum. so he or she gets to know you. It is a very important relationship.

I have found the best combination of drugs for my FMS is Mirapex, Vicoden, Welbutrin (I cannot seem to tolerate the FMS drugs), Verapamil and Ambien. I also take 3 mg of Prednisone and Humira for arthritis. Also Vitamin D since I have a deficiency. You may want to get that checked as it can cause muscle pain. Remember, this works for me but may not for another person. It is a very individual thing.

Sorry to ramble... I do know how frustrating things can be with FMS and I probably went through 30 doctors over the years finding a 'correct' diagnosis and finding someone who was actually expert and treated the disease.

Do your research on Doctors, preferably choose a Rheumatologist and be sure he or she treats fibromyalgia. Travel to a nearby city if you have to and if you don't like that Dr. fire him or her and find someone else. You don't have to take any cr.p. Remember you are the boss.

I hope you feel better,

Mere

Thanks Mere,

I had a consultation with another Rhematologist last week who has a special interest in Fibromyalgia. He seemed caring and said my case was very complex but believes that I probably do have FMS.

He increased my dose of Lyrica at night and wants to increase my morning dose in one month when he sees me next. He is also a great believer in the mind/body connection and will probably try to steer me towards doing some meditation.

This guy is some distance away but probably well worth the travelling. I guess I'll know more how I find him after my second visit. Second visits with a new doctor are always the clincher for me for some reason - they either go well or go terribly!!