I am so weak and tired all the time?

Question

I have had nothing but trouble with my health for a long time. I am taking antidepressants for what the doctor says is fibromyalgia and blood tests show At some point I have had mono. For a while I took steroids, but quit using it because I didnt feel it was helping me. I am so weak and tired all the time. I have headaches and body aches constantly. Its hard to work 40 hours a week when I could sleep all day. The doctor keeps sending me on my way to deal with my problems. I really need help.

Answer 1

Shop around for a new doctor that is familiar with fibromyalgia and knows how to treat it. Steriods are for inflammation, which is not the cause of fibro pain, so you're probably right in that they weren't helping much.

Usual treatment for fibro includes an antidpressant (which you're already on), and perhaps pain medication as needed. The most effective thing to do is get some exercise daily - even just mild stretching or yoga a few minutes a day can make a world of difference. It's tough at first because of the pain and tiredness, but does help tons in the long run.

When looking for doctors, ask them (or the office) point blank if they treat fibro - some docs continue to think this isn't a "real" illness. If their answer doesn't satisfy you then continue looking. There are treatments and possibly other meds that can help you, but you should see someone who knows how to help you deal with this instead of just doing nothing.

There is no one answer - successfully controlling the symptoms is usually a combination of medication, exercise, and properly pacing yourself so that you don't get too exhausted. Sounds tough at first, and does require lifestyle changes, but it's not impossible.

Physical therapy and massage therapy can also help. You do need to find a more open minded doc.

Good Luck!

Answer 2

I know how you feel - I went from working 45 hours a week to hardly making it 22 hours a week. It's hard on our budget and makes me feel like I'm doing my share to support our family. I've gotten no help from doctors. I've had ten of thousands of tests done only to get those sweet words " you have fobro". The doctor told me if anyone tells you they have a cure- they are lying to you. You just need to live with it. I have started a more natural approach/ I've totally cut out sugar and eat only fresh fruits, vegetables turkey, chicken and fish. I also take a number of supplements. I do still take some pain pills- but not near the amount I used to. I pray every day for the strentgh not to give in to this disease. I've had fibro since Oct of 06 - the diet seems to be working- so I guess I will keep with it. What other choice do I have. Keep your chin up. If the doctors won't help you- help yourself! Your worth it.

Answer 3

Has your doctor done a blood test to check your thyroid? I had the same problem many years ago and it turned out I have hypothyroidism. If this turns out to be the diagnosis, on the plus side, you'll only have to take one pill per day (once your dosage requirement has been determined), and there are virtually no other side effects or reactions. AND (this is the best part) I lost 10 pounds because my metabolism kicked in once my thyroid issue had been addressed. It's just an idea you might want to ask your doctor about. Best of luck to you.

Answer 4

If you really do believe that you have fibromyalgia then the best advice that I can give you is to read the article in the following link:

http://healthlink.mcw.edu/article/977865667.html

Other than that, have you requested a second opinion. Doctors are not infallible. They can and do make mistakes.

Look after yourself and be safe

Sandy
http://www.moms-home-safety.com

Answer 5

I would consider making an appointment with another doctor and get a second opinion. If you want to find out if you may have a different illness, I'd check webmd and do a symptom search.

Answer 6

You stopped the medication? You aren't a doctor---that could have helped you.

If you aren't happy with this doctor, then get another opinion.