Fibromyalgia Support Group

You're not alone in your pain. Fibromyalgia is a condition that can be difficult to diagnose and manage. If you're trying to cope with pain throughout your body, sleep problems, general fatigue, or other common fibromyalgia symptoms, you're in the right place. The community is here for you to talk about therapies and share your challenges.

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Awful flare or something else? Support appreciated

casey1231
casey1231

Hi all,


I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia over 20 years ago.  I have ebbed and flowed with how I have felt, and have managed it pretty well over the years with a low-dose SSRI, ibuprofen when needed, quit smoking and drinking, yoga, meditation, etc.  I am now 50 and the last year have been undergoing some perimenopausal changes.  The last 1-2 months I am experiencing the worst pain ever.  Advil barely touches it.  It literallly feels like burning nerve pain.  I went to the doctor and got a bunch of bloodwork done, all was normal except very elevated ANA.  I immediately start fearing lupus (I'm a nurse) but don't have a rash and other inflammatory bloodwork is negative.  Going to see a neurologist on Thursday because this pain is unbearable.  Also lots of tinnitus, joint aches, headaches, etc.  Was tested for Lyme which is also negative.  Is it possible that the hormonal fluctuations of perimenopause have thrown me into a terrible flare?  I never had nerve pain with fibro before.  Does anyone else have this?  I know this is a rambling post but I'm sick and exhausted and looking for any support I can get.  Thanks in advance. 

Fantod
Fantod
I'm kind of confused by your post. Fibromyalgia is neuromuscular - it causes nerve pain which can feel like burning. Gabapentin is usually prescribed for this issue. I take Gabapentin every day in addition to other medication. Many people on this board have neuropathy.

The fact that you have an elevated ANA leads me to think that you have more than just Fibromyalgia going on. Joint pain is not part of Fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia does not cause inflammation. Many people with Fibromyalgia have one or more underlying health issues. And, Lupus can be nefarious and take years to diagnose.

I hope that the Neuro can help you. Good luck and take care.
Shakota6
Shakota6
You can have a high ANA and not have lupus. The test is kind of non-specific. Anything that is new can throw a wrench into your fibromyalgia.
Try to talk yourself into a calmer state and see what the neurologist says. Write down all your symptoms ahead of the appointment. Hope you start to feel better.
Perimenopause is a pretty weird time.
twinmomab
twinmomab
I have neuropathy and severe nerve pain in my feet/legs, and hands/arms, but my ANA is negative. It's possible something else is going on, but I was thinking more RA than Lupus. You might mention it to your doc and see what they think. RA is very similar to Fibro but you will have a lot of joint pain and swelling, of course there are other autoimmune disorders that are similar. I hope you have luck at the doctor and they can help you.
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