Fibromyalgia Case Studies: August 26, 2007 - September 9, 2007

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9/9/2007
Name: Lois
City: WASHINGTON, DC
State: DC
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Baltimore, Maryland USA
Where Do You Live Now? Washington, DC
How Long Have You Lived There? 38 years
Your Age? 60
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 50
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Retired school teacher.
Medical History: Fibromyalgia. High blood pressure. Arthritis left knee, lowere back.Obese
Does Exercise Help? Yes. Water aroebics
What Were Your First Symptoms? Tenderness when touching the legs during a routine medical exam
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Racked with pain all over the body, but mostly in the hips down. More pain to the touch.
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? My God. My activities are so limited. Walk with a cane and use a motorized chair where available.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Walking. Trying to do much in the course of a day. Not enough sleep.
What Makes You Feel Better? Rest.Water aroebics (sp) Hot tub. Massages. Some medication
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? NO
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? NA
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? NO- Gradual.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No. What's that?
Remedies Tried: Now taking Votaren twice a day, but it does not take all the pian away. I can not take drugs with codiene- allergic - so it seems I'm limited. Doctor tried me on Utram last week. Made me violently ill. Back to Voltaren until something else can be figured out. Help!
Your Theories: Truly, I think I've been misdiagnosed. That's just my gut feeling. When I read about fibromyalgia, I don't have most of how it's identified. I didn't realized the extreme extent of my pain until the day I stopped a new medication, Utram, because it made me violently ill and had no medication for a day. I had pain everwhere. including my eyeballs. I was most emotional and could not walk without my cane and holding on to the wall. My body was racked with pain. Even with medication, Voltaren, I have pain when people touch me and the medication does not take all the pain away. Please help me. Please. I'm so desparate.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I was asked this question by a fibryomyalgia specialist in Washington DC. He said that the majority of women who have this condition answered, yes. The question was - "Was I molested as a child?" The doctor said that the pain is the manifestation of how this truama was processed by the brain.
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9/9/2007
Name: margie
City: arbovale
State: wv
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? marlinton, WV
Where Do You Live Now? arbovale, WV
How Long Have You Lived There? 55 yrs
Your Age? 57
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 17 yrs
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 41
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? worked as dental assistant for 33 yrs. now work as companion with local neighbor
Medical History: prior to fibro started high blood pressure have HBP, headaches, over all aches
Does Exercise Help? sometimes i think it does sometimes not sure. try to walk but legs bother me
What Were Your First Symptoms? stomach problems, sinus, muscle, head aches,
What Are Your Current Symptoms? about the same as above, more muscle and head aches, fall a lot get off balance easy, big time tired
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no longer than normal
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? nno
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? yes
What Makes Symptoms Worse? I think weather, not real sure
What Makes You Feel Better? B12 shots seem to help most but would like to know good natural help
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes, seems more now than earlier
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? had some degree from beginning
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I can go from good to bad from morning to evening no on the drugs
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no, but we have well water with only a trace if fluoride..
Remedies Tried: several different antidepressants, the best one so far Effexor
Your Theories: not at this time
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? can't think at this time
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9/9/2007:
Name: Linda
City: smyrna
State: sc
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? north carolina
Where Do You Live Now? south carolina
How Long Have You Lived There? 7-8yrs
Your Age? 47
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 5yrs
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 42
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? marketing,yes part time
Medical History: depression/anxiety/ PTSD ,lethargic,
Does Exercise Help? yes,stretches do alleviate the pain to a degree.
What Were Your First Symptoms? stiffness in neck, back area, constant pain and tenderness
What Are Your Current Symptoms? stiffness in neck/back area, upper torso extremly tender and sore. numbness and tingling on left side,
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes, chemicals or solvents as they called them at ABBOT LABS
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? my energy levels have plummeted .only working part time due to muscle and joint pain
What Makes Symptoms Worse? aggrivating the areas by excessive movement in the upper areas of arms, back, neck, cold seems to make it worse
What Makes You Feel Better? warmth applied to areas that are affected
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? sometimes,, can't concentrate,remember well as used to
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? recently,, maybe last year or so
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? gradual decline in health, have taken Cipr for reaccuring UTI, bladder infections
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: OTC, Bayer Back and Body meds, is my latest OTC drug, anything over the counter, i've tried at some point with no long term relief
Your Theories: My comment is to thank you for your tireless effort in helping find out the causes and the wonderful home cures,,am looking forward to trying these,
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? none can think of
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9/8/2007:
Name: emma
City: ellaville
State: georgia
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? atlanta,ga
Where Do You Live Now? ellaville,ga
How Long Have You Lived There? 8 years
Your Age? 51
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 8
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 43
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? medical insurance biller/no
Medical History: lupus, arthritis, depression
Does Exercise Help? walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? pain, depression, fatique
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? can no longer work, very depressed
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress
What Makes You Feel Better? laughter
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? yes, synthroid,antibiotics,steroids
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: injections
Your Theories: i developed this after moving from a big city to a farming area. possible chemicals?
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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9/7/2007:
Name: Julie
City: Salt Lake City
State: Utah
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Utah
Where Do You Live Now? Utah
How Long Have You Lived There? 28 Years
Your Age? 28 Years
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 13
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 14
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Desk Work
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? None so far
What Were Your First Symptoms? Tired & achey - depressed
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Tired, achey, can't sleep well, depressed
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No
Any Military Service? No
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? No
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Yes
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Weather, activity, stress
What Makes You Feel Better? Sleeping
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? As long as I can remember
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No
Remedies Tried: A lot of sleeping pills, provigil, anti-depressants
Your Theories: Not really
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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9/7/2007:
Name: Lori
City: St. Joseph
State: Missouri
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Kansas City, Missouri
Where Do You Live Now? St. Joseph, Missouri
How Long Have You Lived There? 40 years
Your Age? 40
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 18 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 22
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Administrative Assistant & Medical Transcriptionist
Medical History: Arthritis of spine, two protruding discs, migraines, pituitary adenoma, depression and hypothyroidism.
Does Exercise Help? Swimming.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Pain in muscles and joints, fatigue.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Pain in muscles, fatigue, occasional nausea, headaches, memory and concentration difficulties.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Not that I can remember.
Any Military Service? N/A
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Worked in chemical plant for 2 years making herbicide and pesticides
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? A lot of things I cannot do anymore, and I do less outside of home.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Overexertion, physical activities, emotional stress
What Makes You Feel Better? Rest, medications, distracting activities.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Approximately 10
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No. It has been gradual.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? N/A
Remedies Tried: Lortab, Percocet, Flexeril, Effexor, Cymbalta. Presently on Zanaflex, oxycodone, OxyContin, Neurontin, Celexa, and levothyroxine.
Your Theories: N/A
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? N/A
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9/6/2007
Name: Laurie
City: Auburn
State: Georgia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Atlanta
Where Do You Live Now? Same
How Long Have You Lived There? 42 Years
Your Age? 42 Years
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 32 yrs
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Residential Building. Yes.
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? Haven't tried.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Intense pain in body...especially in all pressure points.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Pain in neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, fingers, burning feeling, sometimes numbness.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Not that I know of.
Any Military Service? NA
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? NA
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I am fatigued all the time. I sleep all the time. I hurt all the time.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Stress and sleeping too much.
What Makes You Feel Better? Moving around, heat, ice
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Can't remember.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Probably Paxil or some other mood altering drug.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Didn't know anything about that.
Remedies Tried: Muscle relaxers, Cymbalta to block pain, Darvocet, Clonzepam, massage therapy.
Your Theories: Massage definately helps. Hot water also helps. But that is about it. Most drug therapies don't work.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I wonder if the Herpes Virus has anything to do with Fibromyalgia. Also, does trauma to the body show up later as Fibromyalgia.
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9/6/2007
Name: WADE
City: Nashville
State: TENNESSE
Your Sex: MALE
Where Were You Born? GARY,INDIANA
Where Do You Live Now? NASHVILLE
How Long Have You Lived There? 4YRS
Your Age? 49
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? DIAGNOSED IN 2000
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 35
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? SONGWRITER/MUSIC PUBLISHER
Medical History: US ARMY AND CAR ACCICIDENT IN 1976,AND IN 1997
Does Exercise Help? WALKING.BUT SHORT PERIODS AT A TIME
What Were Your First Symptoms? PAIN IN MY LEGS,AND LOWER BACK
What Are Your Current Symptoms? SHOOTING PAIN THROUGHOUT MY WHOLE ENTIRE BODY MOST DAYS
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? NONE AWARE OF
Any Military Service? 1976-1982 US ARMY
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? CONSTANTLY WHILE IN THE US ARMY AS I WAS A MECHANIC
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I AM NOT ABLE TO DO THE WORK I AM TRAINED TO DO. AS I AM A SKILLED TRADESMAN
What Makes Symptoms Worse? COLD WEATHER IS THE PITS
What Makes You Feel Better? MEDS THAT WILL ACTUALLY WORK NONE FOUND SO FAR
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES AT TIMES I FEEL LIKE I AM IN A COMPLETE DAZE AS TO NOT KNOWING WHAT THE HECK I WAS GOING TO DO
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? SCINCE I WAS DIAGNOSED WITH FIBROMYALGIA
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? YES. ECTADOL
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? NOT AWARE THAT I HAVE
Remedies Tried: ECTADOL AND IT IS NOT WORKING AT ALL THRU VA
Your Theories: WE NEED A MED THAT WILL SLOW DOWN THE PAIN IN OUR BODIES IN THOSE OF US SUFFERING FROM THIS .
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? YES WHY ISN'T IT THAT I HAVE MY DISABILITY CASE ALREADY SETTLED HERE IN TENN. EVEN WITH A LAWYER ASSIGNED TO MY CASE THRU SOC.SEC. ADMINISTRATION AND THERE BEING SUCH A BACK LOG GETTING BEFORE A JUDGE FOR A RULING
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9/6/2007
Name: Franto
City: Perth
State: Australia
Your Sex: male
Where Were You Born? Eastern Europe
Where Do You Live Now? Perth
How Long Have You Lived There? 21 years
Your Age? 50
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 12
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 40
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? boilermaker/Welder
Medical History: none
Does Exercise Help? any
What Were Your First Symptoms? sleeplessness, numbness/spasms in the limbs
What Are Your Current Symptoms? better
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? currently had cough/virus for over two months
Any Military Service? 1976 -78
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? 1995-98
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? it couldn't beat me
What Makes Symptoms Worse? weather, diet, stress, contact with chemicals
What Makes You Feel Better? variety of vitamins, laughter,
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I had some 4 very bad years. i try to believe i am getting better
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? I thought it was stress related. 4 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? i was being misdiagnosed, lots of steroids, mscontine, antidepressants
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: variety of B vitamins, i did get pissed, currently ACV with honey and garlic, cold & hot water showers, deep tissue massage
Your Theories: The doctors mistreated my condition Hand and arm vibration syndrome, poisoned me with their medications upsetting my own self healing/balance/immune system.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Certain conditions if mistreated may cause fibromyalgia. Chemicals and heavy metals, toxics, certain medications may upset our system, leading to fibromyalgia.
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9/5/2007
Name: Stephanie
City: Tempe
State: Arizona
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Sacramento, Ca
Where Do You Live Now? Tempe, Arizona
How Long Have You Lived There? 10 months
Your Age? 37
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 30 or so
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? around 5-6
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? I haven't been working in my field for over 2 yrs based on health issues. on short term disb.-FMLA
Medical History: Diabetes Type II, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Neuropathy, Fibromyalgia, and Panic Attacks
Does Exercise Help? Stretching helps only
What Were Your First Symptoms? achy muscles and cramps in my legs
What Are Your Current Symptoms? wake up feeling like I got beat up the night before, achy, no energy, can't think straight like put words and thoughts together, can hardly walk in the morning or get out of bed because my muscles hurt so bad, burning in my feet and legs which progresses throughout the day, irritated skin to the touch(like something brushing against me can hurt) , no motivation to do anything, and there's probably more I'm forgeting which is another issue(sort term memory loss).
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? not that I can think of.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? In every way. It has effected my job performance. My social life, I do not go anywhere during the day unless I have to. My house work, I have a hard time because of energy. Lifting, scrubbing, pulling,etc. I'm afraid to plan things because I don't know how I'll feel.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Weather, sugar, and stress
What Makes You Feel Better? warm baths, stretching, resting
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES!!
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Honestly I'm not sure. I would say it's gotten progressively worse over the years. It has been the most difficult in the last 5 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I have never taken anything specifically for fibromyalgia. I have been going to a naturopathic dr. for the last 6 months which has helped but very expensive and I can't afford to go anymore.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I don't even know why. I never knew there was an issue.
Remedies Tried: massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology
Your Theories: I think with the research I have done that all my issues revolve around the hypothalmus gland. All it would take it a way to get the receptors to get the message to the brain properly. I've been reading so much on this subject because I have multiple issues.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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9/4/2007
Name: LAURIE
City: CLOVER
State: SOUTH CAROLINA
Your Sex: FEMALE
Where Were You Born? WEST VIRGINIA
Where Do You Live Now? CLOVER
How Long Have You Lived There? 14 YEARS
Your Age? 41
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 1 YEAR
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 40
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? SECRETARY. I AM STILL WORKING.
Medical History: HAD EARLY BREAST CANCER 5 YEARS AGO. HAD GALLBLADDER REMOVED IN 1988. HAVE BEEN A RELATIVELY HEALTHY PERSON.
Does Exercise Help? YES, WALKING, JUST ANY KIND OF MOVEMENT SUCH AS SMALL HAND WEIGHTS AND LEG LIFTS.
What Were Your First Symptoms? BURNING ON THE TOPS OF MY TOES AND SEVERE MUSCLE SPASMS, THEN THE BURNING GRADUALLY MOVED UP MY BODY, THE BURNING WAS THE WORST PART OF IT.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? MY SYMPTONS NOW COME AND GO AND MOVE AROUND, SHOULDER PAIN, STOMACH PROBLEMS, BACK AND NECK PAIN, HEADACHES. NOTE I ALSO HAVE THE RED DOTS ALL OVER MY STOMACH THEY ARE REAL SMALL LIKE THE POINT OF A NEEDLE.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? I DID HAVE A STOMACH BUG THAT LASTED 2-3 WEEKS AND I ACTUALLY HAD TO HAVE A SERIES OF SHOTS. WITH THIS VIRUS I COULDN'T KEEP ANYTTHING ON MY STOMACH, IT WAS AWFUL I WAS 13-14 YEARS OLD.
Any Military Service? NONE
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? NOT THAT I KNOW OF??
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? IN THE BEGINNING I THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO DIE. NOW THAT I KNOW IT WON'T KILL ME. I HAVE LEARNED TO COPE AND JUST KEEP GOING. THE SYMPTONS AREN'T AS SEVERE NOW THOUGH AS IN THE BEGINNING.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? I'M NOT SURE BECAUSE THE SYMPTONS MOVE AROUND SO AND COME AND GO I REALLY DONT KNOW.
What Makes You Feel Better? WARM BATHS, COMFORTABLE CLOTHES, I WAS ON LYRICA IT REALLY HELPED BUT I QUIT TAKING IT AND THE SYMPTONS HAVEN'T CAME BACK AS FAR AS THE SEVERE SYMPTONS. JUST HAVE THE ACHES AND PAINS THAT MOVE AROUND AND COME AND GO.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? THEY DID AT FIRST. THAT HAS GOTTEN BETTER. I STILL FROM TIME TO TIME THINK ONE THING AND SAY ANOTHER AND I DO FORGET THINGS MORE EASILY, BUT I USE STICKY NOTES, THAT HELPS.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? ??
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? YES, I WAS ON TAMOXIFEN FOR 5 YEARS.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? THE ONLY FLUORIDE I GET THAT I KNOW OF IS IN THE TOOTHEPASTE. WE HAVE WELL WATER.
Remedies Tried: LYRICA, THAT REALLY WORKED FOR ME BUT LIKE I SAID I QUIT TAKING IT ABOUT A MONTH AGO AND THE BAD SYMPTONS HAVEN'T REOCURRED,PRAYER AND LOTS OF IT.
Your Theories: THIS IS THE STRANGEST ILLNESS. IT MAKES YOU FEEL LIKE A HYPROCHRONDIAC. I WAS EXPERIENCING A LOT OF STRESS AND NOT SLEEPING GOOD FOR MONTHS AT THE ONSET OF THIS STUFF.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? YES. I WOULD ASK IF PEOPLE WERE EXPERIENCING SLEEP DEPREVATION AND STRESS AT THE ONSET OF HAVING THE SYMPTONS.
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9/3/2007:
Name: alice
City: chorley
State: england
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? chorley
Where Do You Live Now? chorley
How Long Have You Lived There? 40 years
Your Age? 53 years old
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 14 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 39 years old
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Rehab assistant working 3 days a WEEK
Medical History: gynea operation at 35 yrs other wise prenty healthy
Does Exercise Help? yes very much so Walking, gentle gardening play golf
What Were Your First Symptoms? localised pain in my left hip
What Are Your Current Symptoms? some pain in most joints (mainly a nagging ache) keep very active tired and very weary do not sleep well only get at most three hours of undisturbed sleep a night.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not that I am aware of
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? few years ago quite a lot of sick leave due to pain and weary ness unable to sustain any task for any lenght of time that has not changed for years
What Makes Symptoms Worse? inactivity cold weather hot baths !1 over doing things. alcohol
What Makes You Feel Better? gentle exercise, strong pain killers short periods of restrest
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? a little bit but feel that could be due to menopause symptons
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? couple of years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast?
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride?
Remedies Tried: steroids, antiflams, strong painkillers. Gloucoseimine, variety of stuff from health food shop waste of money.
Your Theories: keeping active has helped me the most evn when weary to the point of collapse i forced my self to walk even a short way able to go out to work. Much better for my confidence
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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9/2/2007
Name: Janet
City: Chester
State: USA
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Ohio
Where Do You Live Now? Ohio
How Long Have You Lived There? 30 years
Your Age? 52
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? one
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 51
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? education
Medical History: nothing to note
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? sore bones, muscle, tired, mind fog, depression
What Are Your Current Symptoms? today-fine
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? yes
What Makes Symptoms Worse? becoming tired
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? one
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes but no recall of any specific medication
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: body and back muscle rub
Your Theories: no
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I don't think so
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9/2/2007
Name: Wynona
City: Point Harbor
State: North Carolina
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Elkins, West Virginia
Where Do You Live Now? Point Harbor, NC
How Long Have You Lived There? 40 years
Your Age? 62
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 2 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 60
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? No, I am not working. I am 100% disabled.
Medical History: L Kidney removed;developed COPD;asthma; diabetes; glaucoma;spasmodic torticollis following a car accident; both knees are bone-to bone
Does Exercise Help? NO! It makes me feel worse. If I work in my home, or go to a store, the pain is almost unbearable for many days, weeks, or months, depending on how much was too much.
What Were Your First Symptoms? I thought I had the influenza virus, because I ached all over. It all began within a month or two following a car accident in July 2, 2005
What Are Your Current Symptoms? muscle aches; every extremity aches; memory loss, at times; sleep is hard to come by; had to purchase a foam mattress cover (3 inches thick) in order to lie on my bed. Totally exhausted; weak; the pain is excrutiating; tired; cannot sleep most nights.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No. After re-reading, I remember a streptococcus infection in my throat when I was 16 that lasted about 2 months.
Any Military Service? None. Wife of career Coast Guard Senior Chief Machinery Tech, now deceased
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? None that I know of.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? It has made my life miserable. I almost feel I do not exist anymore. There is so much I cannot do.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? overworking or over doing anything. At times, it seems that I have to do nothing to bring on the pain and symtoms.
What Makes You Feel Better? Staying in bed. I now have about 10 pillows on my bed, and they help in many positions.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? DEFINIETLY
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Since the auto accident two, July 2, 2005
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes. I could walk, talk, write poetry, sing, go to the beach, fish. I can remember no drugs within a six month period prior to the car accident which were different than those I always took.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I do not have city water. I am in a rural area with well water. I have false teeth, so brushing them is not providing me with fluoride exposure.
Remedies Tried: A generic, LYRICA, given by Dr James Owens of Jarvisburg, NC.EVEN TAKEN WITH 2 ADVIL AND 2 DARVOCET, I RECEIVE NO RELIEF. SLEEP EVADES ME.
Your Theories: HELP! FIND SOMETHING THAT WORKS. My theory is that this is somehow related to the auto accident. I was stopped at a (red) traffic light, and was struck from behind (her car was at a high rate of speed) I stiff-armed the steering wheel and "stood" on the brakes when I realized she was going to hit me.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? YES! HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT. IF SO, WHEN. IN REGARDS TO THE FIBROMYALGIA, WHEN DID YOU SYMPTOMS BEGIN. HOW LONG AFTER THE ACCIDENT DID SYMPTOMS BEGIN?
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9/2/2007
Name: Kristen
City: Richmond
State: Virginia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Richmond
Where Do You Live Now? Richmond
How Long Have You Lived There? 20 years
Your Age? 20 years
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 3 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 17 or 18
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Student Can't work parttime though, as standing on feet for hours is impossible
Medical History: Nothing major, just a few bad viruses.
Does Exercise Help? Some, Yoga/Pilates, Recumbent exercise bike, and light Weightlifting
What Were Your First Symptoms? IBS, Extreme Fatigue, Weight Gain, Migraines Sometimes Insomnia.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Fatigue, Muscle Pain, Brain Fog, Extreme Thirst, Muscle Spasms, Occasional severe shooting stabbing pains, and Insomnia. Sensitive skin.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Probably about a year or so before I was diagnosed, I had a stomach virus that lasted a month or two
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? None
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I had to take time off from school because I had so much trouble with stairs and walking. Now, I just have to adapt everything so I can manage. It puts strain on all relationships basically.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Stress, Working Too Hard, Non organic Meats (probably other foods as well), often Non organic personal care products as well. Lack of sleep.
What Makes You Feel Better? Acupuncture, Light Exercise, Hot Baths (with Lavender and Epsom Salts), Heat Packs
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes... which is hard for a college student to explain to professors.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Two years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I guess so. I don't recall any symptoms before going to college, then they all started piling up. I wasn't taking any medications besides birth control regularly. I think I may have been taking Allegra and Singular in the Spring/Fall months though.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I don't drink water with floride in it, nor use toothpaste with it. I suppose I should look into other things as well.
Remedies Tried: Flexeril, Cymbalta (which made me feel a million times worse), Valium (which apparently is a stronger muscle relaxant according to the ER). Successfully, only Acupuncture
Your Theories: I think it's an accumulation of toxins from environment, food, and personal care products.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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9/1/2007
Name: Wyiki
City: Singapore
State: Singapore
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Singapore
Where Do You Live Now? Singapore
How Long Have You Lived There? 27 years
Your Age? 27
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 23
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 4
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? seeking employment.
Medical History: excruciating abdomen pain during menstruation. had surgery to remove endometriosis, but did not help. still senver pain during menstruation.
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? chronic pain, esp in right eye and general weakness
What Are Your Current Symptoms? same as above
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? caused me inability to sleep, causing me inability to study or concentrate. got thrown out of the house because i was perceived as lazy and "sick", always sleeping (although not deep sleep, just trying to sleep)
What Makes Symptoms Worse? ?
What Makes You Feel Better? ?
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? no
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? na
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? don't take fluoride, except in toothpaste, and i don't eat it.
Remedies Tried: naturopathy, western medicine, yoga, everything. nothing works.
Your Theories: none, just very victimised. especially because FMS is not regonised in singapore, hence i cannot receive any treatment or help.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? they're all good : )
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8/30/2007
Name: valorie
City: san juan
State: texas
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? harlingen tx
Where Do You Live Now? san juan tx
How Long Have You Lived There? 18 yrs
Your Age? 38
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? about 5-6 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 29
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? self employed
Medical History: severe endometriosis
Does Exercise Help? am in to much pain to move around but when i clean my house i do feel beter, that is until i stop and try to start again.
What Were Your First Symptoms? upper back pain neck pain behind my knees pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? same
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not long lasting but frequent
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? i can not play or exercise with my kiddos.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress
What Makes You Feel Better? hot baths
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yep
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? don't remember
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes. after my hysterectomy i am taking hormone pills now but started with a hormone patch
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? i have no idea what other than tooth past has flouride.
Remedies Tried: only tylenol or advil
Your Theories: can you please send me some info i really need some help. My Doctor tells me he does not believe that this is a legiament disease so i dont know what to do
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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8/30/2007
Name: Kay
City: Paola
State: Ks
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Chicago
Where Do You Live Now? Paola, Ks.
How Long Have You Lived There? 18 years
Your Age? 59
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 32
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 27
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Administrative Assistant - still working
Medical History: I didn't give enough info before - usual childhood diseases, early puberty - periods at age 9. Was on birth control 2 years before baby and 7 years after, had an IUD inserted when the pill started raising my blood pressure. Think the IUD might have had something to do with fibro symptoms. It made my periods very painful and heavy, sometimes I could hardly stand up. Had IUD 5 years then had tubes tied. Breast reduction at 37 did a little to alleviate shoulder pain.
Does Exercise Help? Walking seems to looseen me up. tried an exercise bike, hurts my lower back, even recumbent bike. Want to try water walking.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Terrible burning in shoulders, exhaustion, forgetfulness.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Everything, all the pressure points hurt when pressed, but main problem is in lower back. Bad, bad brain fog, sometimes I sound like the proverbial zombie. My husband laughs at me when I mix up words, he doesn't understand. I bruise easily and have the little red dots on my skin that someone else mentioned. I wonder if they are related to fibro.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No
Any Military Service? No
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Not that I know of
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? in all ways, I love to hike, but can't stand the heat or extreme cold. So, I am limited to how and when I exercise. I am tired a lot, don't socialize much.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Changes in weather - stress ties me up in knots. Overexertion in any way, sometimes it hurts just to stand up and cook or bake.
What Makes You Feel Better? Getting enough sleep. Siting in the hot tub. Using an electronic nerve stimulator on sore back. I love the Thermacare heat wraps to use at work, but they are expensive!
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes, it seems like I always have brain fog, had IQ measured at 135 in high school, you wouldn't know it if you were talking to me. I am easily distrcted and confused. Plus, sometimes I can be vague in a conversation, maybe short attention span.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Always had it, ever since I noticed the pain.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I do believe it went back to the IUD, that changed my life. After I got that device, my whole life changed, everything hurt. Sometimes symptoms come on quickly. Right now, I am having a real problem with my lower back and hips and I don't know why. I was not diagnosed with fibro until I was 48, then I took Flexeril for a while. But, in early years, no meds, except otc pain relievers.

Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I am checking into that, and will cut out treated water, toothpaste anything with fluoride.
Remedies Tried: Took Flexeril prescribed a by a rheumatologist, but after 2 refills, she cut me off. She said fibro would stop at 50, she was wrong, some flare-ups are worse now than ever. I am in the midst of a lower back flare up that is about to drive me nuts. Using a combination of rubs, electronic stimulation, heat and OTC pain medication.
Your Theories: I am tired of doctors who say it's all in the mind. They are not walking around in my body. Think stress and weather have an affect on me. Rheumatologist told me fibro will ease up at age 50, am nearly 60 and still have flare ups, sometimes severe. It's a mysterious physical problem that a lot of physicians seem to believe is in a persons mind. One G.P. told me she can tell I have been on the internet, there is not such thing as fibromyalgia.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Does weather affect others with fibro? Perhaps if people can tell if their symptoms come on stronger with changes in the weather. I believe I can tell when a strong front (hot or cold) is coming through.
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8/28/2007:
Name: robyne
City: mt desert
State: maine
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? boston
Where Do You Live Now? mt desert
How Long Have You Lived There? 12 years
Your Age? 45
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 35
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? restaurant management still working
Medical History: migraine, hypothyroid, chronic tendoitis
Does Exercise Help? yes, walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? pain moving between muscle groups and tendons
What Are Your Current Symptoms? controlled pain with some flair ups.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? mono
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? unknown
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? alot less active. stopped hiking and running. To many pain pills to begin. Lots of Dr.s' did not believe me. Caused depression.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Not enough sleep.
What Makes You Feel Better? Rest and walking and yoga and meditation
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 7
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, don't remember
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: pain meds, yoga, Celexa, meditation, anti-inflamatories
Your Theories: extreme frustration
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? What have your Doctors' reactions been and what have they said?
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8/27/2007:
Name: aster
City: fort wayne
State: indiana
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? ethiopia
Where Do You Live Now? fort wayne, indiana
How Long Have You Lived There? 18 years
Your Age? 37
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 2 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 35
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? socoal worker not working
Medical History: 2 surgery
Does Exercise Help? nope/none
What Were Your First Symptoms? charple tunnal,migranes,flu like symbols
What Are Your Current Symptoms? fibro fog more pain in my musele
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? very much
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress,lack of sleep,
What Makes You Feel Better? medication,no stress
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 2 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, ultrem
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: everything possible for fibro patients
Your Theories: will I ever get a chance to feel the way i did before i got fibro?
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? yes how are you copping with your family since fibro?
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8/26/2007
Name: Lisa
City: Amersham
State: United kingdom
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Windsor
Where Do You Live Now? Amersham
How Long Have You Lived There? 3yrs
Your Age? 38
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 5mnths
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 37
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? i work in a book shop
Medical History: ulcer, ibs, a blood disorder called von willebrands. depression. recurrent shingles.
Does Exercise Help? No, if anything it makes it worse
What Were Your First Symptoms? I've had ibs for years so maybe i have had fibromyalgia longer than i realised, but when i had my first real flare up was in April when i was recovering from shingles. i started to get pains in my arms, as if i'd been carrying really heavy weights, within an hour the pain had travelled through my body, i couldn't move my neck, i was bedridden for 2 wks.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Pain all over, i feel like i've been run over by a bus! Fibro fog and extreme tiredness.occasional head aches and depression.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? I get shingles about 4 times a year.
Any Military Service? N/A
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? None
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I dont go out as much as i used to, i dont like making plans to go out as i know that come the day i may not be feeling up to it. I hate feeling tired all the time, i find myself constantly saying to my 4 yr old, ''Mummys tired, give me a minute and then i'll play''
What Makes Symptoms Worse? If i'm stressed or dont get enough hours sleep.
What Makes You Feel Better? Nothing that i can pin point really.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES!! I feel like my head is full of cotton wool.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? About a month after my first flare up.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes, definately. I hadn't taken any different drugs to what i'd been on for many years.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No i havn't, reading the articles on this website was the first time i'd heard of the link.
Remedies Tried: Only pain killers & my rheumatologist is going to recommend some anti depressants.
Your Theories: Not really...i think i've had fibromyalgia for longer than i realised but i think its been made worse by the shingles for me.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? ...How has it effected your relationship? Do your nearest and dearest understand how you are feeling?
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8/26/2007:
Name: Kate
City: NW Florida
State: Florida
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Chicago
Where Do You Live Now? Florida
How Long Have You Lived There? 15 years
Your Age? 57
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 47
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Used to work waitress and Video store On disability now
Medical History: nothing out of the ordinary
Does Exercise Help? Water therapy
What Were Your First Symptoms? chronic fatigue muscle aches headaches
What Are Your Current Symptoms? chronic fatigue muscles aches muscle pain poor sleep 2 fingers are numb hair loss neck pain vision problems headaches depression
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not that I remember
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? not that I know of
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? By a night and day difference. I was athletic and strong. Now I'm tired and fat.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? doing anything that takes physical exertion. After grocery shopping I have to take a nap.
What Makes You Feel Better? a long hot bath is good for about 30 minutes of slight relief. It helps the pain and aches.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? sometimes. The more pain that day the more brain fog.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 10 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, pretty much. I can't remember what medications I took back then, if any.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I don't know what sources flouride is found in.
Remedies Tried: samE hot baths lying/resting in bed
Your Theories: None right now
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Not that I can think of
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8/26/2007:
Name: Linda
City: Chandler
State: Texas
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Far westTexas
Where Do You Live Now? EastTexas
How Long Have You Lived There? 6 years
Your Age? 56
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 18
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 30+
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Nursing No
Medical History: Healthy
Does Exercise Help? no, if I hurt-I hurt, I do stay up as if I dont then I get stiff and hurt more
What Were Your First Symptoms? pain,burning movable spot areas,swelling and sometimes just by touch can make me feel pain and soreness.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? about the same and worse as I get older
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Lymes Disease
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? what life ? It destroyed my career and drained my bank account and stress that I had to have a tripple bypass at 50.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress, no sleep
What Makes You Feel Better? sleep,rest and a quiet life
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes,It comes and goes now.air pollution makes me so dizzy,I cant drive o hardly walk and thinkig is impossible.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? The fog started with the Lymes,so bad I couldnt remember about medication I gave to patients,very scary and I went into another work field and was fired as I was so tired and couldnt write due to dizzyness.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I had Lyms first and it was unheard of then,I had heart problems and the Dr. thought it was stress. The Lymes went untreated for years and destroyed my body ,that another Dr. said I was left with Fibro,I didnt know what fibro was either as it was new diagnose.I took TONS of meds and unable to recall names,but NOTHING has worked or helped.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: LOTS of medication but if I hurt,I have not found anything that helps unless I am just OUT.
Your Theories: I have so much pain here and there that I almost killed myself with my heart as I went to DR. and went straight to hospital and had surgery the next morning ! I had a 100% and 2- 95% blockages, Dr. said I should have had a massive heart attack. Yes, I had horrible heart pain but I had thought it was the fibromyalgia !!!
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? sometimes I think that fibro is a catch all name for problems that Dr. just dont know about or how to help the patient.
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