The monster I dubbed "pain" was finally named today. To refresh your memory, the family blog talked about it here, here, here, and this blog mentioned it here.
Basically: my joints hurt. My hands hurt. My feet hurt. Some days are worse than others. Some days I can't move, others I can. Last fall it was theorized that I was experiencing lasting effects from a virus I had when I was in high school. Sorta makes sense -- except for the fact that some of my symptoms started before I had the virus. New doctor I saw last month sent me to a rheumatologist. I saw him today and he was able to put a name to this beast.
And the name of the monster?
Fibromyalgia
From the National Fibromyalgia Association's website:
Fibromyalgia (pronounced fy-bro-my-AL-ja) is a complex chronic pain disorder that affects an estimated 10 million Americans. While it occurs most often in women, it strikes men and children, and all ethnic backgrounds. For those with severe symptoms, fibromyalgia (FM) can be extremely debilitating and interfere with basic daily activities.
I start taking Lyrica tonight and doing yoga every day starting tomorrow. I see the dr again in a month. So between now and then, let's hope that I start seeing some relief. And as I learn more about it, I'll continue to update.
Oh, btw, the blood test on that last link came back clear. I have the mutations that could lead to hemochromotosis, but I do not currently have it. That's good news. :)
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isn't it nice to at least have some sort of diagnosis? I am glad that hopefully you will be feeling better soon.
ReplyDeleteGlad you finally know what it is! I know that helps a bunch... I keep meaning to do yoga more often and have been failing at it lol.
ReplyDeleteIt is definitely nice to have a diagnosis. Not thrilled with the diagnosis, but at least I have one. :) And I started the meds last night. Oh my goodness, I slept HARD. And woke up more rested today that I have been in a long time.
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