Has anyone ever been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and if so?

what helps you feel better.

I was diagnosed this year, although I've had symptoms since I was 11. I'm 18 now.

There is no cure and no medicine that works for everyone. Your doctor might put you on Lyrica or Amitriptyline. These drugs are meant to just take the edge of the symptoms and help you to get a better night sleep.

The biggest help for me is warmth. If it's cold or raining then my pain is off the radar. It helps to keep warm, use wheat bags (the type you warm up in the microwave) or take a hot bath or shower. Some people find the opposite and that heat makes them worse.

Another thing that's important is to stay as active as possible. I know it's the last thing you feel like doing, but in the long term it will help. Take it easy and start slow. Walking is great, start with 5 or 10 minutes and then build up. Don't go all out and do a lot because you will pay for it the next week.

Sleep is also important. Try and stick to a regular routine. Go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time. Use your bed for sleeping and for sex only!

Don't drink alcohol (if you do, drink wine and limit to a glass) don't smoke and limit caffeine and sugars. My doctor has told me to not eat gluten as well. Keep away from saturated fats as well and eat lots of fruit and veges and drink heaps of water.

Know when to stop as well. If you're feeling tired and sore, listen to your body. It can take some time to work out how much your body can handle.

If you're feeling a little low, have 2 squares of chocolate.

My rheumatolgist recommended that I saw a counselor because it's not easy to have a long term chronic illnesses. There is no cure, although some people go into remission. You just have to be prepared that this is highly likely going to be a part of your life until you die.

There are some really great support groups online.
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/
dailystrength.org

Those are my favourite.

Also, go to the library and get some books out. Don't fall for advertising on some websites that say 'I cured my Fibromyalgia in 10 days and you can too!'. They're gimmicks.

Good luck. Email me if you want to talk! =]

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There is this book called Feelings Buried Alive Never Die by Karol K. Truman. It's a book about self healing and I have found it to be extraordinarily helpful. I recommend you try to get a copy.

My mom has. And i have symptoms. What makes me feel better is if no one touches me..and if im in a warm area. ..Dunno if that helps??