Newly Diagnosed Fibro sufferer - would like suggestions

[Geminiqueen]

I am about 8 months newly diagnosed and am still trying to find what really works for me. Currently my Dr has prescribed Neurontin for me and not lyrica due to I am trying to lose weight and she says that weight gain is one of Lyricas side effects. I take 200mg a day. I also am on Zoloft becasue cymbalta REALLY screwed with my head. The neurontin has really help with the pain and mine is mostly hips and down the outside of my thighs. I was also prescribed flexiril (which is great) but with those 3 medications I CANNOT function the next day. I only take the flexiril when I need to. I have a low tolerance for medication as a half a dose of benedryl knocks me out for 8 hours. So I have spent alot of my time sleeping, I get home from work and it takes all I have to make dinner for the husband and two kids and once that's done it's night night time. I can sleep from 6pm-6am and still not be refreshed. I have started within the last two months attempting to go to the gym three days a week and still no energy. I fight with myself on mon - wed-fri just to make myself go! Is this the meds or the fibro? I'm betting the meds...So, anyone had any success with herbal remedies? Vitamins? Need more energy and I have told dr's this but they have no clue. I have been tested for thyroid function, hormone levels and everything of course comes back NORMAL. Just interested to see what has worked for others. Thanks!!!

[Kat Erine]

Hi Geminiqueen,
Welcome to the wonderful world of Fibromyalgia.
When I got diagnosed with Fibro 11 years ago, there was no internet and not too many support groups out there.
I got a book from the library, took it home and read it cover to cover. I was in deep denial, that wasn't me and I wasn't going to end up loosing all the things I loved to do. Well, I was good for a few years, pushing and pushing, ignoring what my body was telling me.
Now its 11 years later and I have a new Dr. who has now diagnosed me with Arthritis, CFS/ME as well as Fibro. CFS makes Fibro SOooooo much worse. The two have them have me now off work and just trying to get by day by day.
You will find that it is very difficult living with an "invisible illness" and you will have periods where you feel really good and those days you just think "why me?" My advise to you is think ahead. I didn't do that. I wish I had of thought about the possibility that I would not be able to work anymore and prepared myself. I give myself credit for lasting as long as I have at full time work.
As far as meds the Flexeril is wonderful for me, I take a half of a 10mg tab about an hour before bed. Stops the leg pain (feels like a toothache to me in my legs and hips) I tried all the antidepressants out there but the one that works for me is Wellbutrin 300XL. Least side effects and didn't leave me dead from the waist down as the others really mess up your sex life. I wasn't about to give up the one thing that actually makes me feel human and does temporarily take away my pain. You get creative with the positions etc. so that you can still enjoy the companionship without feeling the pain. My hips and thighs are the worst too, especially in the morning and if I am sitting in one position too long, its like I can't move its unbearable. I also take Ibuprofen (as needed) sometimes if I have done too much during the day, I need them along with the flexeril to sleep.
Try to get yourself a good Dr. (mine happens to have Fibro and Arthritis herself) It took me 11 years to find her, but well worth the wait.
I have a theory, go where you are taken. I have met so many wonderful people in passing who have led me in paths that have really proved to be helpful. Ask and you will receive. One seminar at a local Naturopathic office led me to my Dr. Another girl at my gym led me to the massage college where I get a wonderful massage at half the price! I am now going to my local Naturopathic college - again students but they are good and eager to help you, very enthusiastic. Explore all options, this disease is every changing that I can say from experience is one thing I am sure of.
Best of luck to you, it isn't easy but take one day at a time, try to find something beautiful each day, even if its a smile or a hug from your kids! Makes it bearable. God Bless.