Fibromyalgia Case Studies: October 22 - November 1, 2007

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11/1/2007
Name: Paula
City: Sacramento
State: California
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Riverside, CA
Where Do You Live Now? Sacramento, CA
How Long Have You Lived There? 27 Years
Your Age? 33
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 8
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 25
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Administrative Assistant
Medical History: Numerous auto accidents. Onset of allergy to penecillan at age 15. Allergy to artificial color began at age 19.
Does Exercise Help? Stretching helps somewhat.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Aches and pains
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Joint pain. Muscle sensitivity.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Unsure.
Any Military Service? None.
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? No.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Somewhat.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Drinking soda. Staying in one position too long. Poor diet.
What Makes You Feel Better? Stretching and breathing exercises. Avoiding soda and junk food.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I don't think so.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? N/A
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No.
Remedies Tried: Anti-inflamitory medicines (I no longer use these).
Your Theories: I have read that fibromyalgia can be triggered by an occurance like a car accident. Many chiropractors believe they can cure or help fibro with adjustments. I believe that adjustments can take the pressure off of the out of place joints, but the muscle soreness is not relieved.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? No.
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10/31/2007
Name: nursema
City: buffalo
State: new york
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? turkey
Where Do You Live Now? buffalo
How Long Have You Lived There? 20years
Your Age? 45
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 8 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 37
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? not working
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? hurts more ,even just simple vacuuming
What Were Your First Symptoms? foggy head, vision problems, severe muscle pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? same, constipation
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? limited in any work,depression especially in winter
What Makes Symptoms Worse? work,cold, stress
What Makes You Feel Better? sunshine, warm weather
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? sometimes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 8
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, when I tried other drugs but can not remember the names of them
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: many including cymbalta now
Your Theories: no
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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10/30/2007:
Name: Pam
City: Elkin
State: NC
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Winston Salem, NC
Where Do You Live Now? Elkin, NC
How Long Have You Lived There? 10 years
Your Age? 44
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 15
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 29
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? RN- in hospital, background in home health and hospice. Yes, almost unable to make it to work daily. To the point of debilitation
Medical History: Mitral Valve Prolapse
Does Exercise Help? NO!
What Were Your First Symptoms? Neck and Shoulder pain, first dx. was cervical neuritis by Dr. Kelly at WFUBMC
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Continuous debilitating pain to neck, shoulders, low back, hips and legs. Fibro fog, bladder irritability. Headaches, IBS
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Yes, in childhood and throughout my whole life bouts with low immune system, cannot fight off viruses
Any Military Service? NO
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Lots of dental fillings. Have been a RN for 20 years
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Almost dibilitating. But, have to work or starve.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Exercise. But hurt no matter what I do.
What Makes You Feel Better? Nothing! I am in constant turmoil and pain.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES!
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 5 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Had a hysterectomy and overnight dibilitation it seemed after surgery
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? NO
Remedies Tried: Lyrica, Mobic, Celexa, Skelaxin, Zanaflex, DCN100, Inderal-prescription, now am trying natural products: MSM, 5HTP, Multi vitamins, Mangosteen, Grape Seed Extract.
Your Theories: I think I was exposed to something that triggered this dx. from the nursing profession.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Diet questions. Environmental questions.
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10/30/2007
Name: Emma
City: Rome
State: Georgia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Rome Georgia
Where Do You Live Now? Rome, Georgia
How Long Have You Lived There? 59 Years
Your Age? 59
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? About 14 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 45
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Disabled
Medical History: ?
Does Exercise Help? Only neck & shoulder excercise.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Severe arm and shoulder pain.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Brain fogs, unable to pronounce words, forgetfulness, numbness, muscle pain
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? yes
What Makes Symptoms Worse? just unexpected. no real reason
What Makes You Feel Better? nothing really. It takes 3 to 5 days to recover from a flare up
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? very much so
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? about 6
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes and no specifis drugs
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: elavil, zanaflex, ambien for sleep, ibuprofen, herbs
Your Theories: The older I get the flare ups worse as well as the brain fogs
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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10/30/2007
Name: Catherine
City: Deltona
State: Florida
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Detroit MI
Where Do You Live Now? Florida
How Long Have You Lived There? 3 months
Your Age? 60
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 8
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 52
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Mortgage Loan Originator - between jobs since move to FL - will start to work the end of November
Medical History: Taking meds for high blood pressure no other issues, past or present
Does Exercise Help? Yes - any is good- (CURVES) - currently riding my bike for 45 to 60 min. ost days.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Skin sensitivity
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Skin sensitivity, pain in most joints - sleeplessness - fatigue - depression
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? yes
Any Military Service? n/a
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? It's hard to be in pain all the time and continue with a normal life. I feel lazy and depressed - sometimes embarressed that I can't physically do something. I used to be VERY athletic.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cold weather,stress
What Makes You Feel Better? hot tub - the only place that makes the pain go away
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I think so - recently
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? not sure
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes - at first I thought it might be something related to the athletic I used to do. I took skelactin (?) and amitriptelyne
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: I only have takes 50 mg of amitriptlyene at night until just recently. I was told of a new drug, Lyrica. I was perscibed to take 225 mgs at night and then take it twice a day in a week.Geat drug for those who don't need to function. I cut the doseage in half, and now it doesn't help the pain at all, but I do sleep better.Q-Ray bracelet - special mattress pad.
Your Theories: I quit asking for pain meds as the DR's just thought I was there seeking drugs. One DR explained to his student nurse that I really didn't have any pain, I just thought I did. I understand that over the years, strides have been made to recognize this disease, so I'm now back in the loop of trying to find some way to have this pain go away. It's getting worse all the time.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Maybe what type of DR's have I gone to.
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10/29/2007
Name: Linda
City: coraopolis
State: pa
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? allegheny county
Where Do You Live Now? allegheny county
How Long Have You Lived There? 20+ years
Your Age? 53
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? unsure
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 36
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? odd jobs
Medical History: decent
Does Exercise Help? sometimes. weight machines
What Were Your First Symptoms? joint aches
What Are Your Current Symptoms? joint aches tiredness
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not that I know
Any Military Service? NO
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? can't work regular hours
What Makes Symptoms Worse? weather
What Makes You Feel Better? hot baths
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? sometimes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? not sure
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No drugs. Not severe. Take herbal stuff for my health
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Don't use anything with flouride that I know of
Remedies Tried: Hylaronic acid, B complex, magnesium, potassium,
Your Theories: try to avoid inflamatory foods, chemicals, etc.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? can't think of any
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10/29/2007
Name: Laurie
City: Dacula
State: Georgia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Atlanta
Where Do You Live Now? Atlanta
How Long Have You Lived There? Life
Your Age? 42
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 32
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Computer work, accounting....still working but very hard to stay in chair at computer due to pain.
Medical History: None really.
Does Exercise Help? Haven't tried any exercise.
What Were Your First Symptoms? I was literally in the bed for 3 days with pain and burning of my muscles. That was the first sign.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Daily pain in all areas specified by Fibro. I am now having pain in my hands, forearms and fingers also.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Not that I can remember. But, I am wondering if Tinea Versicolor has anything to do with this?
Any Military Service?
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure?
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Yes. I'm in pain everyday. More than twice per month I am in terrible pain. I have a hard time at work and with my children.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Stress, sleeping in a position for too long.
What Makes You Feel Better? Hot water (hot tub)
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Definately! And it is getting worse this last year. Enough to scare me.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? I've had brain fog for a few years now. This year it has gotten noticably worse.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I was literally put in bed for 3 days with severe muscle pain throughout my entire body. I can't remember any medications, but I could have been on paxil or another anti-depressant or anti-anxiety drug.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I just heard about this, but don't know much about it.
Remedies Tried: Muscle relaxers, pain sensor blockers, icy/hot, goody powders, loritab, darvacet...now I am trying vitamins and arthritic over the counter pills.
Your Theories: I wonder if Tenea Versicolor (I believe this is a fungal infection in the body) or herpes (a viral infection) has anything to do with this?
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I would like to see questions about massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, etc......I've tried Chiro and Massage, both help tremendously.
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10/29/2007
Name: Jenny
City: Omaha
State: Nebraska
Your Sex: F
Where Were You Born? Omaha
Where Do You Live Now? Omaha
How Long Have You Lived There? most life
Your Age? 40
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 1 1/2
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 38
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? graphic artist/mom
Medical History: depression-put on psych drugs for 16 years -now off all
Does Exercise Help? yes, yoga, walking, dancing
What Were Your First Symptoms? brain fog, disassociation, confusion, exhaustion, joint pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? brain fog, fatigue, exhaustion, pain
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes, amalgams, various?
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Yes, don't want to get to know people, scared of onset of symptoms. Anger. Anxiety, fear. Hard to get through some days, just survival.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? probably caffeine, but haven't been able to quit coffee altogether.
What Makes You Feel Better? coffee relaxing, reading
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes- I can handle the other symptoms, but not this one!
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? I had it for about 3 years while I was withdrawing from klonopin and various a/d's. Since I've been off all drugs I get it on and off throughout the month lasting from 4 hours to over a week.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? After I had my daughter almost 2 years ago - the symptoms got pretty bad. No drugs were taken though docs wanted to put me back on a/d etc.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Yes. Toothpaste
Remedies Tried: I drink Perfect Food everymorning with my daughter, ACV, various vitamins, coconut oil, coq10, too many to name all.
Your Theories: I have colored my hair for years - maybe something there. Since women are the primary sufferers, all the personal care products, I don't know parabins, phthalates, etc.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I don't know yet.
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10/29/2007
Name: Melanie
City: Charleston
State: South Carolina
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Albany, NY
Where Do You Live Now? Charleston, SC
How Long Have You Lived There? 4 years
Your Age? 30
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 9 year
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 22
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? administrative assistant, still working
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? yes, biking and light weight
What Were Your First Symptoms? extreme back pain, fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? fever like muscle aches, back pain
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I cannot spend time with my family.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Doing too much i.e., housework, running errands, going to bed late
What Makes You Feel Better? rest
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 9
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, not taking any drugs at the time
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: everything herbal, prescriptions
Your Theories: I believe fibro is caused by women's lifestyles today. You've heard the term SuperMom? That is because women today provide the majority of the housekeeping/parenting duties and also work a full time secular job, with little or no help from their husbands. As a result, many women's health are suffering. Women are not 'superman', even though we perform supermom duties everyday. Think about it, sure some cases of fibro may be caused by outside sources, but why is it this disease only became noticed within the past 10 years or so, when more and more moms are working outside the home? Why is it your stay at home mom didn't suffer from these complaints? Why is it the majority of fibro suffers are women?
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Do you provide the majority of the housekeeping/parenting duties in the family?
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10/29/2007
Name: Jessica
City: Selma, Alabama
State: Alabama
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Logansport, Indiana
Where Do You Live Now? Montevallo, Alabama
How Long Have You Lived There? 1 Year
Your Age? 27
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 21
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 6
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Currently working as server/bartender and writing center tutor
Medical History: Nerve problems in childhood (hair loss in patches), iron defiency
Does Exercise Help? Low-impact exercise helps (walking, swimming)
What Were Your First Symptoms? Random pains, fatigue, insomnia
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Random pains, fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, sensitivity to high and low pitches of sound, sensitivity to cold
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Not that I remember. My sister was a strep carrier, so we got strep almost every year.
Any Military Service? None.
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? None that I remember.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Fibro makes it hard to wake up, and to move around in general. I feel a lot older than I am.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cold, Loud noises, Heavy physical work, Being poked/hit, Being sick, Menstruation, Sickness, Stress
What Makes You Feel Better? Hot showers, Occasional pain relief medicine (also have a disc problem in hip)
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? I don't remember. I used to be a space case when I was a kid, Heh. Walk into a room and not know why.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Too young to remember.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No.
Remedies Tried: I have tried physical therapy (helpful), light exercise (helpful), and narcotic pain relievers (helpful but addictive and annoying)
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I think there are several things missing: Many fibro patients have had physical/emotional trauma, and most fibro patients have other syndromes and diseases, also, such as TMJ. Fibromyalgia.org has info on some.
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10/29/2007
Name: Anna
City: Helotes
State: Texas
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? San Antonio Texas
Where Do You Live Now? Heotes Texas
How Long Have You Lived There? 31 yrs
Your Age? 48
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 20
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 25
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Cash Control. No.
Medical History: Overall very good general health, no problems,very physically active.
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? exhausted even with 8-10 hours of sleep, weight gain, stiffness.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Chronic fatigue,get stiff if stay in a position too long, sparadic swollen ankles for no reason, restless legs, and recently headaches which I never had experienced in my life before this year.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? depression from not being able to do what I need to, feeling of failure,unable to finish projects, cant enjoy life when everything hurts or maybe have plans and that will be the day you can't get up.You can't explain it to loved ones or friends so no support on bad days.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Overdoing it on good days, have to rest for three after just one good day.
What Makes You Feel Better? fruits and veggies, comfortable shoes
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Once in the past but not recently. I was driving and all of a sudden did not know where I was for about 5-6 minutes.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Just 2
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I was very healthy and active and athletic. I was given meds for depression and anxiety which within 2wks. I quit taking did not like how they made me feel not too long after symptoms were more frequent and stronger.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Was not aware of the problems associated until today thanks to ya'll.
Remedies Tried: ACV helps alot. Eating clean. Avoiding stress. I have not tried any practical medical solutions I quit prescription drugs years ago I only use natural- alternative now.
Your Theories: Why if flouride is so bad is it still pushed by the government to be put in our drinking water? Shouldn't they get on the ball and start helping, at least acknowledge there is a problem and try to fix it?
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I grew up on well water, never even had a cold to speak of then it became mandatory to get city water and things changed.
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10/29/2007
Name: allison
City: jacksonville
State: Florida
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Akron, Ohio
Where Do You Live Now? Florida
How Long Have You Lived There? 5 months
Your Age? 31
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 18
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Mother
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? yoga
What Were Your First Symptoms? lower back pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? severe pain in all trigger points weight gain large clumps attached to joint- "fibro clumps" dizziness brain fog back and kneck problems
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? mono
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? artist
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? crippling
What Makes Symptoms Worse? activity- to much walking
What Makes You Feel Better? nothing
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 8 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? yes
Remedies Tried: you name it - I have tried it
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Have you found a cure?
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10/29/2007
Name: Christine
City: rochester
State: NY
Your Sex: F
Where Were You Born? Rochester, NY
Where Do You Live Now? Rochester, NY
How Long Have You Lived There? 32 years
Your Age? 36
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 12
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 24
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? QA Testing- Currently working from home
Medical History: Healthy
Does Exercise Help? Leslie Sansone's "Walk away the Pounds Express" tapes really help 2-4x a week
What Were Your First Symptoms? Severe Flu-like symptoms leading to not being able to move.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Severe Neck and back pain, IBS, TMJ, headaches, exhaustion.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No
Any Military Service? No
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? No
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Unable to perform normal daily functions. Have to take naps throughout day. Very crabby from constant pain.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cold, stress, getting sick, over-exertion, not moving enough...
What Makes You Feel Better? Sometimes sleeping, sometimes exercizing, sometimes a glass of wine...
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 10
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? There was some anti-depressantsd and anti-inflammatories, but it was so long ago- I can't remember the names (Brain Fog!)
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No
Remedies Tried: Homeopathic treatments, Muscle relaxers. I take 100mg of Trazodone every night so I can sleep. Without it I cannot sleep.
Your Theories: I have no clue. It is very frustrating when Doctors cannot help. I have also tried Reflexology and meditation to try and "tell" my body to heal itself with only minor response. I am praying that someone figures this whole thing out before I waste the rest of my life not being able to really live and enjoy it!
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? - Did you have insomnia previous to the onset of the Fibromyalgia symptoms?
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10/27/2007
Name: alyne
City: garden grove
State: calif. USA
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? new york city
Where Do You Live Now? california
How Long Have You Lived There? 30yrs
Your Age? 63
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? diagnosed at 37yrs old
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? very early twenties
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? educator-no, not working
Medical History: always very healthy. east to west had a definate effecton my symptoms
Does Exercise Help? sometimes, swimming is good
What Were Your First Symptoms? after a knee surgery couldn't get out of bed because I had no energy & hurt all over
What Are Your Current Symptoms? muscle pain, swelling, Lethargy, inability to stand or walk for long periods same with sitting. Laying down and sleep are the best for me
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? don't think so
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? i am unable to work. also have degenartive disk desease. on SSDI
What Makes Symptoms Worse? humidity,constant flutuation in daily temp.
What Makes You Feel Better? pain meds and anxiety meds I try not to take the pain pills
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes, I have had the fear I was in early stages of Dementure(Alzheimers). Sometimes my brain just won't work and I am bright. It frustrates me cause I can't think of simple things, then some days I am totally on top of everything
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 5 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? sometimes I only take the saame meds my Dr. prescribed
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? never new the connection and the only fluoride I knew of was the water and toothpaste
Remedies Tried: before my diagnoses Iwould self-medicate, then my Dr. put me ond cymbalta celexa and pain meds . Ionly take pain meds closer to the end of the day...I am zapped if I was out or did any kind of work around the house,also, if I have to stand in line at the market or sit in the car to long the pain lasts for a few days
Your Theories: If we who have it can pace our selvves in the good times we can stay pretty mobile. When the flair-ups start, we just have be accepting of what is going on and try to stay calm and rest. That is what I do.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? At this time I really don't know. I do know that it is the most dibilatating thing I have ever experienced
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10/27/2007
Name: Mark
City: Indianapolis
State: IN
Your Sex: M
Where Were You Born? MI
Where Do You Live Now? IN
How Long Have You Lived There? 44
Your Age? 50
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 6 MONTHS
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 49
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? CONSULTING
Medical History: PERFECT HEALTH
Does Exercise Help? I RIDE BIKE SEVERAL DAYS A WEEK. NOT SURE IF IT HELPS OR HURTS. I HAVE CONTINUED TO DO THIS EVEN WITH PAIN RIDING AS MUCH AS 100 MILES. THIS PAST WINTER I WAS SKIING BLACK DIAMONDS IN COLORADO.
What Were Your First Symptoms? PAINS IN MY UPPER PECTORIAL MUSCLES --- SORE THROAT
What Are Your Current Symptoms? SEVERE NECK, LOW BACK AND BUTTOCKS PAIN. DIFFICULT TO BEND OVER, SIT-SOWN AND STAND UP. I FEEL LIKE I AM 80+ YEARS OLD
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? NO
Any Military Service? NONE
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? OCCASIONALLY PUT FERTILIZER ON MY LAWN
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? DO VERY LITTLE WORK AROUND THE HOUSE --- DIFFICULT TO BEND OVER OR TURN MY NECK
What Makes Symptoms Worse? MOVEMENT --- RAINY COOL WEATHER.
What Makes You Feel Better? NOTHING I'VE TRIED. ALL NATURAL THERAPIES
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? SOME DAYS IT IS DIFFICULT TO CONCENTRATE.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? ---
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? WITHIN 30 DAYS. I DON'T TAKE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AND WE HAVE HAD AN R/O SYSTEM IN OUR HOUSE FOR 15 PLUS YEARS. I GET VERY LITTLE FLORIDE.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? AGAIN, I SELDOM GET FLORIDE. OCCASIONALLY WHEN EATING OUT DINKING THEIR WATER AND OCCASIONALLY HAVE GREEN TEA (MAYBE ONCE A MONTH)
Remedies Tried: NATURAL FORMULATIONS LIKE MAG. W/MALIC ACID, CALCIUM, GRAPE SEED EXTRACT, LETHICEN -- LIVER SUPPORT. I HAVE TAKEN ALEVE PROBABLY 10 WHEN THE PAIN HAS GOTTEN REALLY BAD.
Your Theories: I AM AT A LOSS. I HAVE 16 OF 18 POINTS OF PAIN FOR FMS. THOUGHT MAYBE I HAD SOME SYSTEMIC ISSUE --- ALL BLOOD TESTS ARE WITHIN NORMAL LIMITS.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I JUST WANT TO FIX IT AND MOVE ON. CURRENTLY I AM DOING A DETOX AND STRICT DIET.
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10/27/2007
Name: Crislee
City: Ogden
State: Utah
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Texas
Where Do You Live Now? Utah
How Long Have You Lived There? 5 years
Your Age? 38
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 7-8 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 30
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Not working
Medical History: Before this I was very healthy and active
Does Exercise Help? not that I can tell so far.
What Were Your First Symptoms? pain in my right hand
What Are Your Current Symptoms? all-over body pain, weakness, stiff and swollen joins, extreme fatigue, bacterial infections, losing hair, lack of concentration or decent memory, very sleep most of the time.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Epstein Barr (mono at 14) still test as active for EB
Any Military Service?
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Don't believe so
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? yes
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cold, caffeine, extreme heat, stress (heavy mental stress or any physical stress)
What Makes You Feel Better? staying warm, nothing really helps.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? not sure, but very noticeable in the last 5
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? My hand started hurting very fast, then progressively over 8 years spread...no I don't think any specific drugs had anything to do with the onset. I wasn't taking anything when the pain began. they put me on things that didn't help though.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: exercise, but not much, heat, darvocet, melatonin for sleep, flexiril, ultram, anti-depressants, change the way I eat. Anti-inflammatory medications.
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
------------------------------

10/26/2007
Name: Kathy
City: Fort Payne
State: AL
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Montgomery, AL
Where Do You Live Now? Fort Payne, AL
How Long Have You Lived There? 22 years
Your Age? 50
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 19
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 31
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Administrative Assistant
Medical History: Asthma started as a teen. Had shingles at 17. Back problems and staff infection after birth of last child at 31, then in less than a year, fibro kicked in and stayed.
Does Exercise Help? Walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? NO ENERGY and weight gain.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? No energy, cannot loose more than 10 pounds no matter how hard I try. Immune system is the pits, I seem to catch everything going around. Staff infection (which I received at birth of last child in hospital). This rears it's ugly head in the form of boils (sometimes 3 or more at a time) when I am at my weakest or stressed. Headaches. Trouble sleeping--wake up feeling worse than when I went to bed. Muscles ache and have developed some arthritis in my hands.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Pneumonia, which took around 3 months to recover from.
Any Military Service? NA
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? I used to clean religiously every week around the house with a variety of cleaners, mostly bleach. Now I cannot get it on my hands or breathe it or I'm zapped for days and get an immediate headache.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I push myself to be there for my family but would just love to love life again and not be tired. Would love to be a morning person as I LOVE mornings. If I sit down to rest after work, I'm practically done in for the day. It seems as if I push myself day after day, my immune system gets taxed and I land in bed.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cleaning house and no exercise and vitamins/minerals. If I catch a bug, I'm down for awhile.
What Makes You Feel Better? Walking helps. I try to stay on a sleeping schedule. I take vitamins/minerals daily and can tell a difference if I miss even one day.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES. I thought I might be getting alzhiemers early.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Around age 42.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Onlyl after giving birth and having a tubal. They had a hard time waking me from the anestesia, said they were getting worried, and it seems I've been in slow mode ever since.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Yes, drink bottled water mostly and have tried non-floride toothpaste. Does not seem to make a difference.
Remedies Tried: Vitamins and minerals have helped the most. I've practacally lived on ibuprophen for 19 years for the pain around muscles. Try to stay away from perfumes and household cleaners.
Your Theories: I truly belive that the staff infection I received in the hospital 19 years ago has played a BIG part in my health. Also chemicals set me off.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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10/25/2007
Name: Amber
City: Orange
State: California
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Phoenix
Where Do You Live Now? Orange
How Long Have You Lived There? 15 years
Your Age? 35
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 25
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Medical Healthcare yes
Medical History: Asthma, depression, Arthritic symptome
Does Exercise Help? no,
What Were Your First Symptoms? muscle stiffness and pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? depression, fogginess, muscle ache and pain, ibs, headaches,fatigue, numbness in limbs
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life?
What Makes Symptoms Worse?
What Makes You Feel Better?
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 5
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: none
Your Theories: no
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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10/25/2007
Name: Clarissa
City: Montgomery
State: Al
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Montgomery
Where Do You Live Now? Montgomery
How Long Have You Lived There? 26 years
Your Age? 26
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 15
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Admin Asst,still working
Medical History: strep.
Does Exercise Help? Yes. Mild stretching. Used to play tennis but vigorous excercise is painful. Walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? swelling and pain in fingers and hands. Fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Raynauds, tendonitis, bursitis, fatigue, migraines, sinus infections, swelling of hands and fingers, irritability, pain in stomach, TMD, easily bruised.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? I get strep annually
Any Military Service? None
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Not that I know of
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I'm moody at times because of the pain. I can't focus sometimes because of the pain.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cold, rain, stress, lack of sleep, menstrual cycle
What Makes You Feel Better? Warmth, hot tub, extended periods of rest. Laughter helps me not focus on myself and my pain.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes, though I didn't realize it until reading up on it recently.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Uncertain
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Not that I recall.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Haven't tried it, yet.
Remedies Tried: What haven't I tried? I've taken Flexaril, Celebrex, Vioxx, Ultracet, Motrin, Tylenol 3 w/codine, Mobic, Bextra, Naproxen, Lidocaine patches, heat patches, Loritab, Imitrex, Topamax, Maxalt, Zomig, chiropractor, massages. Besides various antibiotics I THINK that may be all.
Your Theories: My migraines just started in Feb 07. No warning at all. I tried everything. 100mg of Topamax nightly helped along with Maxalt if I get a migraine. I had few fibro flare ups while I was on Topamax but got migraines when I would normally flare up. I took mself off the Topamax and while I haven't had many migraines, I have many flare ups. Though not a natural remedy, I think the Topamax helped out in more than one way. I think FMS is hereditary.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Does anyone in my family has FMS? My mother was diagnosed with it about 2 years ago. She also has lupus. Is there a connection?
-------------------------------------

10/23/2007
Name: Gem
City: Duncan
State: Canada
Your Sex: f
Where Were You Born? Victoria BC Canada
Where Do You Live Now? as above
How Long Have You Lived There? entire life
Your Age? 41
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 2
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 39
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Starbucks Mgr
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help?
What Were Your First Symptoms? aching fingers
What Are Your Current Symptoms? rechronic pain in fingers wrists shoulders neck jaas knees ankles toes. frequent sentitized skin, Headaches, fatigue, brain fog, extreme fatigue , depression, hyper pain response etc etc
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus?
Any Military Service?
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure?
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I basically work and lay on couch for remainder of time. I have given up hobbies due to pain, lost touch with friends because I can't keep up and feel like aburden. I have trouble keeping up with the house
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress , lack of sleep, menstral cycle
What Makes You Feel Better? massage,heating pad, hot baths, pain meds and anti inflam meds take edge off
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 2
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? gradual
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: advil naproxen codeine tylenol topical "heat" rubs
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? reoccurent infections...yearly bouts of bronchitus tonsilitus etc. early aches and extreme "growing" pains
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10/23/2007
Name: Paula
City: Culpeper
State: Virginia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? West Virginia
Where Do You Live Now? Virginia
How Long Have You Lived There? 38 years
Your Age? 43
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 30 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 13
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Wastewater plant operator. Still working.
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? stretching, walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? pains in my shins, numbness in fingers and toes, slow recovery after muscle strain, weak ankles, fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? fatigue, difficulty concentrating, sleep disorder, Reynaud's, muscle and joint pain, slow recovery after muscle strain, acid reflux, brain fog
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? not that I know of
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? definitely for the worse
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress, lack of rest, cold weather, rainy weather, strenuous use of muscles
What Makes You Feel Better? nothing
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 10 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no, symptoms have gradually gotten worse over time
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I have no fluoride exposure that I know of. I have never consumed drinking water treated with fluoride (well water only).
Remedies Tried: Rescue Remedy, arnica montana, Elavil, over the counter pain relief, vitamin supplements
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
------------------------------------------------

10/23/2007
Name: Helen
City: Cornelius
State: NC
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? southern Indiana
Where Do You Live Now? North Carolina
How Long Have You Lived There? 26 years
Your Age? 66
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 56
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Medical Technology Retired
Medical History: Episodes of vertigo Migraines
Does Exercise Help? Yes Challenging total body balance ball free weights Badminton
What Were Your First Symptoms? The migraines? Fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Mild rotating list of 30 or more symptoms. Chemical sensitivity Allergies
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Probably
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes Lab
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Less travel Careful about diet
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Overdoing
What Makes You Feel Better? Eating right Exercise daily Keeping up with orderly surroundings
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Tes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 7
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: can't remember no meds now
Your Theories: environmental pollution
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Emotions
-------------------------------------

10/22/2007
Name: Terry
City: Canyon Lake
State: California
Your Sex: male
Where Were You Born? Lakewood Ca.
Where Do You Live Now? Canyon Lake
How Long Have You Lived There? 10 years
Your Age? 40
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 3 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 37
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? sales
Medical History: none
Does Exercise Help? i hurt so bad i can't exercise
What Were Your First Symptoms? Pain in upper back, headaches and pain in the bottom of my left foot
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Burning all over my body. Spinal pain that is in lower back that is beyond tollerable. IBS and ulcerative proctitis.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Not that I can remember.
Any Military Service?
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? My life has almost stopped for not only me but my family also.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Exercise and activity and sitting upright for a long time.
What Makes You Feel Better? ativan
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? very much so
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 1
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? vicodin,ambien,restoril,ibuprofin
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? toothpaste
Remedies Tried: so many i can't list
Your Theories: The doctors made me worse.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
-----------------------

10/22/2007
Name: Janet
City: Jacksonville
State: fl
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Spokane WA
Where Do You Live Now? FL
How Long Have You Lived There? 2 years
Your Age? 70
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 25
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 45
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? nanny part time
Medical History: low thyroid, headaches, low back pain
Does Exercise Help? ligeht exercize helps - rebounder
What Were Your First Symptoms? back pain, brain fog, depression, insomnia
What Are Your Current Symptoms? muscle pain, poor sleep, fatigue
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? yes, 3 months following trip to Morocco
Any Military Service? na
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? pesticides, herbacides, deisel,
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? unable to work for 15 years. Sleepless nights make for unpleasant days!
What Makes Symptoms Worse? lack of sleep, air conditioning blowing on back and neck
What Makes You Feel Better? moist heat pack, jacuzzi
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? did for a few years, much better now
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 25
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? good except for low back problems Lots of aspirin, no prescription drugs
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? yes, toothpaste and water
Remedies Tried: too numerous to enumerate, mostly alternative, no prescription drugs
Your Theories: 2-3 years before I had several surgeries. Also severe illness after trip to Spain and Morocco, lasting for months. When the fibromyalgia started I had sudden onset of swollen joints, weakness, and symptoms doctor said were consistent with a diagnosis of lupus. I also had myalgia pains, hallucinations, agorophobia, chemical sensitivity, noise sensitivity. I got so sick I went to bed and ate nothing but an occasional glass of orange juice for about a week. All symptoms worsened until I started doing enemas twice a day for a week, then started feeling a little better. The joint pain and swelling were gone but it took more than a year for me to lose the rest of it. It's been a long climb with $$$$ spent trying everything I heard or read about for years, hours of research ( gotta love the internet). Much better now but still have muscle pain and unrestorative sleep, too many insomnia nights. Thanks for all your hard work. I'm trying everything I read about on EArthclinic. I'm 70 years young, still loving life and still working when I want to.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Are you ready to quit relying on M.D.s and take responswibility for your own health? All you'll ever get from big pharma is an early death.
---------------------------------------

10/22/2007
Name: michelle
City: miami
State: florida
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? TN
Where Do You Live Now? FL
How Long Have You Lived There? 10 years
Your Age? 40
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 2 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 38
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? retail yes
Medical History: nons
Does Exercise Help? yoga
What Were Your First Symptoms? chest pains
What Are Your Current Symptoms? leg cramps chrst pains tmj headaches problems sleeping muscle aches all over
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? lack of energy have a hard time finding energy to do all that needs to be done
What Makes Symptoms Worse? certain foods stress
What Makes You Feel Better? lots of sleep
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? recently 6 months
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: muscle relaxers
Your Theories: organic foods natural body care products seem to help It seems the less chemicals the better i do
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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