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Let's Welcome Girly Gulf War Veteran

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Fibromyalgia
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Posted 6/26/2013 4:18 PM (GMT 0)
I discovered Girly Gulf War Veteran on a different thread and almost missed her.  So I started this new thread for her introduction.

 

Sherrine

I am new to this forum. I haven't quite completed all the testing with my physician; therefore a definitive diagnosis hasn't been given. I have been experiencing some of my symptoms for years without explanation; sporadic muscle and joint pain, unrefreshing sleep, severe muscle discomfort with minimal exertion, painful periods and migraines. I'ge completed all the blood test...all normal except vitamin D deficient. I did a home sleep study. They are asking me to trial the CPAP for a week. My pain and fatigue have been so severe. I basically forced my physician to begin treating me while we wait for a more conclusive decision. She's written an RX for nortriptyline. Picking it up tomorrow. Thank you all for being a resource as I begin this journey.

GGWVET

Posted 6/26/2013 4:30 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, Girly Gulf War Veteran, and welcome!  Before I start, I want to thank you for your service to this country.  You are very special.

 

Now, about fibro.  It sure sounds like you have fibro to me, but I'm not a doctor.  We have these symptoms and yet our blood work comes back normal.  Many people, even healthy people, have a vitamin D deficiency.  I do and I take 5,500 IU a day for it.  I hope your doctor has you taking vitamin D3 supplements to bring that up because a deficiency in this vitamin can cause pain and fatigue.

 

I use ibuprofen with food, Tylenol, malic acid/magnesium supplements, vitamin D3 supplements, and a prescription muscle relaxer that has made a significant difference for me.  I also do gentle stretching exercises, a daily gentle exercise (I walk or swim), and I pace myself when doing things.  All of this helps me be in control of my pain. 

 

I also keep a positive attitude.  This has helped me about as much as medication.  I look at what I can do and not what I can't do.  I take one day at a time and expect it to be a good one.  But, if it isn't, I certainly can handle one day and I look forward to the next day with anticipation.  This does help. 

 

You will find that what works for one doesn't necessarily work for another with fibro.  It's a trial and error type thing but you will get a lot of suggestions on this forum.  I see you are starting Nortriptyline and quite a few on this forum use this medication and it helps them.

 

Be sure to read Fibro 101...the first thread on the forum.  There are links to good info and you will learn a lot there.  Good starting links would be the ones called Symptoms, What Else Could It Be, and A Thorough Explanation of Fibromyalgia.  You just might see yourself there.  Also, there are links to the supplements I mentioned and how they work in  your body.  Another good link is about maintaining a positive attitude when you have chronic pain.  I've read this many times.  All of Fibro 101 is very informative so do read it.  We have to be our own advocates with this illness.

 

I'm looking forward to getting to know you better.  Don't hesitate to ask questions because we are here to help you.  Hope to hear more from you soon.

 

Sherrine

 

 

Posted 6/26/2013 5:02 PM (GMT 0)
Welcome, Girly Gulf War Veteran (also, thank you for serving!).

I hope the nortriptyline is helpful for your pain. This is an awesome forum, so if you have questions, etc., ask away! :)
Posted 6/26/2013 5:06 PM (GMT 0)
Welcome to our little group, and hope we can help you out! The beginning is always the hardest.
Posted 6/26/2013 5:30 PM (GMT 0)

Thank you everyone for welcoming me to the group. I forgot to mention that I am taking the Vitamin D 50,000 mg once a week for 12 weeks.( on the 6th week) My physician said that after this course, I will be taking vitamin D at a different strength indefinitely. Thank you all for your kind and supportive words. It makes me feel good to know that I'm not alone. As you all know, it is difficult to express to others how you're feeling and this forum will allow me the opportunity to help others, vent when needed and gain valuable knowledge that may make a positive impact on my quality of life. I have already started reading the Fibro 101 and am like a little sponge right now... soaking up all the great information!

Girly

Posted 6/27/2013 2:40 AM (GMT 0)
Welcome
And thank you for your service !!
Posted 6/27/2013 5:52 AM (GMT 0)
Hello,

Thank you for serving. It is interesting to note that people who have been in the Gulf War are more prone to developing fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. There is even something called "Gulf War Syndrome".

Jasmine
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