OK, first of all, Google never got a medical degree, and symptoms of fibro overlap about 100-200 other things at last count. (I have it, I know, believe me.) There are many reasons for pain, malaise, etc., and there's no self-diagnosing that works. You know something's wrong? Then tell the docs.... Tell any doc. Keep a couple weeks' journal of what, where, how pain is/occurs. Check it against medication side effects and ask docs about that too. Three days on Cymbalta and I was in Woo-Hoo-Lala-Ville, but I'm fine on Prozac, so.... it may be a tweak on meds is all you need, as I did. *whew*

And if you have an existing diagnosis, as some do (lupus, MS ,etc.) the pains that stem from that mimic fibro, so this may just be a case of symptom shift, not a new problem.


Pepole will say this i sincreasing your obsession. No. We're *directing* it toward finding actual answers. Hate docs? Me too. Terrified of most of them. But if the body is haywire, hey, I'm not going to figure it out. Docs aren't even meant ot treat themselves, for a reason. So list all the symptoms you feel are new, worsening, and how, when, where, effects on sleep, how's your nutrition, how's your hormones (as a woman, I'm tormented by mine far more than should be legal), etc.

I am being very lecture-y, but this is what I do on Fibro board. It helps. It gives structure. It provides ocncrete lists to hand doctors when our fears overwhelm our ability to communicate. And, also, if you end up tested to rule out everything else? You get peace of mind. You get potential solutions.

Luck an dblessing!

Time for a serious sit down with your Dr. to re-evaluate. He/she should be able to alleviate fears/concerns and/or change medications. Psych meds should be be started and stopped slowly unless done under close supervision in the hospital. If you Dr. doesn't take you seriously then keep trying new ones till you find one that does

I agree 100% with leo...self-dx is not a good idea. Keeping notes on how you are feeling mentally 1-10, physically 1-10 and where your physical pain is will help you. You will also be proactive with your medical care, no doubt your doctors, psydr, meddr, will also appreciate your input. If you are just out of hospital, no doubt that you will need time to recover from the admission, again, mentally and physically. Sadness, fear, anger, and possible shame that the depression got you, all those emotions are in your body. I'm a huge fan of utube meditations, type in what you want and wonderful help arrives with the touch of the button. Also, it will be hard, its really hard for me right now, try to get outside and put your face in the sun..,maybe walk for just 10 minutes outside. Best of luck to you...we are here for you and have had similar journeys of uncertainty. Keep contact :-) ML

Clueless whether it is the same deal, or not, but I have used pursuit of other dxes as a way of denying the dxes I have already been given. "I'm not bipolar. I don't have PTSD. Its gotta be this, that or the next thing. C'mon now, give me a dx that sounds good on a resume, or at least hope of a cure."

But that is me. . . Continued support while you figure out what it is for you, Angela. Good to see you back.

So sorry you've been through such a struggle, FindingKat. Hope the meds help with the depression. As for fibro symptoms, I know others here have experience with fibro.

But even better, it sees that your doc where you are would be the one to help you first hand the most, right? Pass along to him or her a query about it for your peace of mind.

Meanwhile, much support to you and please know that it's good to have you back.

To all who have written, I appreciate the responses. They are insightful.

Mujica and arfie, it's nice to see your responses. I love that.

Miro853, thanks for the tips. And for the advice.