Fibromyalgia Case Studies: December 14 - January 11, 2008

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1/11/2008
Name: Cheryl
City: Grants
State: NM
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Durango, Co.
Where Do You Live Now? Grants, NM
How Long Have You Lived There? 14 years
Your Age? 67
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? not sure
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 65
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? clerical/retired
Medical History: none
Does Exercise Help? no makes it worse
What Were Your First Symptoms? aching shoulders bordering on numbness
What Are Your Current Symptoms? painful muscles, pain in legs at night time. pain after and during activities, cooking
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? yes
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? job situation at an oil refinery for four years. Mostly clerical.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? now limited at gardening, exercise, insomia due to pain pressure & restless legs syndrom.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? continuing activity, gardening, cooking, mixing something, holding a hair dryer, sometimes filing finger nails.
What Makes You Feel Better? If lying in bed and hips, back and legs start aching it helps to change positions, but after changing positions then that area begins to ache.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I believe so
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? some time now
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I believe this has been going on for years, it seems to have surfaced worse in the last couple years.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: Roboxin sometimes when I really ache.
Your Theories: no
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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1/11/2008
Name: deb
City: sudbury
State: ontario,canada
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? toronto, on ca
Where Do You Live Now? sudbury,on ca
How Long Have You Lived There? 40 years
Your Age? 57
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 10
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 45
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? sales yes
Medical History: thyroid
Does Exercise Help? yes slow walk
What Were Your First Symptoms? chest pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? muscle spasms and chest pain
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? sell cleaning supplies
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? consumes every day
What Makes Symptoms Worse? lack of sleep, weather change, upper body work
What Makes You Feel Better? heat, sleep,
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? a little
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 5
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no and no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: lorazepam
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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1/11/2008
Name: Elizabeth
City: O'Fallon
State: MO
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Saint Charles, MO
Where Do You Live Now? O'Fallon, MO
How Long Have You Lived There? 2 years
Your Age? 25
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? Food service, still working though looking for something less draining.
Medical History: Thyroid cancer at 15, previously healthy.
Does Exercise Help? Yoga helps.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Fatigue and dizziness.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Fatigue, widespread pain, muscle weakness, headaches.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No.
Any Military Service? N/A
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? None.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Made it more difficult, required me to ask for/accept help from others, stop pushing myself.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Doing too much activity, work, lack of sleep.
What Makes You Feel Better? Sleep, muscle relaxers, Aleve, yoga.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Definitely.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? I've had it since I was 15.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes, but it was not due to drugs, it was the loss of my thyroid to cancer and an additional surgery in 2004.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I've tried but it's difficult. Sources include tap and bottled water.
Remedies Tried: Aleve, yoga, massage.
Your Theories: I definitely subscribe to the theory that FMS comes after significant physical and psychological trauma, both of which I've gone through.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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1/10/2008
Name: Joy
City: Eagle Point
State: Oregon
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Portland, Oregon
Where Do You Live Now? Eagle Point, Oregon
How Long Have You Lived There? 10 years
Your Age? 50
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 14
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 36
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Massage Therapy,I am only able to do one person a day and only 4 days a week on a good week. Yes
Medical History: Arthritis, spastic colon, migrain headaches.
Does Exercise Help? Only gentle stretching and easy walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? Fatigue,came on over several months, with body pain, couldn't be around groups of people or in a grocery store with too many people. And teh forgetting or brain fog.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Fatigue, insomnia,all over body pain,not sleeping,brain fog, memory lapses, forgetting words,joint pain, abdominal pain, headaches, food cravings,reverse letters when typing like word the, teh,
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? not that I was ever aware of.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I have a wonderful life in the country and 2 horses, that I rarely get to ride. I had a good spell this year and rode 6 times in 2 months. I have to say no to a lot of activities, sometimes even going out to lunch,
What Makes Symptoms Worse? the weather, doing too much, being around too many people,having to little sleep,
What Makes You Feel Better? Good solid sleep(which I seldom get) gentle exersize, massage for me, Magnezeum Mallate, lots of other suppliments, acupuncture and chiropractics.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes, I get what I call brain farts, where the thought I had just goes, or I can't remember a word in a sentence. Or things I used to remember, I don't without writing them down and still forget.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? from the begining, 14 years.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Mine came on after a car accident, I was rear ended and was pushing on the brake and clutch at the time.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Only in my tooth paste, I was given Fluoride tablets as a child for several years.
Remedies Tried: Antidepressants for sleep, which help for a while ( a few months to a few years)and then stop working.I started with amytriptaline, then Doxapen, and now I use only the muscle relaxer Flexeril and only occasionally as it has the side effect of brain fog. I now take a combination of 75mg benadryle with 2 theanine serene, 8 calm spirit tea pills and sometimes a muscle relaxer. and still I don't sleep some nights. I take a lot of herbal supplements and vitamins, The magnesium malate helps with the muscle pain. Vemma, a liquid with Mangosteen and minerals which helped for a while and then stopped working.
Your Theories: Sometimes I don't understand this disease, How can I expect my spouse or Dr. to get it when I don't. I get better and worse with no apparent cause. Some I can point to like the weather and doing too much. And sometimes I just get worse with no apparent reason. I wake up feeling like I am moving through wet cement. I have heard that Cymbalta really has helped some. I have no health insurance and can't afford to give it a try. I have participated in 3 studies for fibro meds and was left with some bad side effects.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Maybe food related help. I have given up refined cane and beet sugar and white flour, and this helps some.
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1/9/2008
Name: meir
City: boca raton
State: florida, usa
Your Sex: male
Where Were You Born? israel
Where Do You Live Now? florida
How Long Have You Lived There? last 10 years: boca raton, nyc, israel, boca
Your Age? 62
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 7 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 55
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? rabbi,
Medical History: 2 years past open heart surgery
Does Exercise Help? swiming
What Were Your First Symptoms? numness in fingers, fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus?
Any Military Service? israeli army, 40 yearsn ago
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure?
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? need more sleep in the morning, dont enjoy phisical activity
What Makes Symptoms Worse? alcohol, phisical activity, lack of sleep
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?
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast?
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: vitamins, body cleansing,
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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1/9/2008
Name: Lea Ann
City: Oklahoma City
State: ok
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Cushing, OK
Where Do You Live Now? Oklahoma City, OK
How Long Have You Lived There? 50 yrs
Your Age? 53
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 6
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 47
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Insurance
Medical History: none except the normal colds
Does Exercise Help? usually - I do tan & tone & the machines help
What Were Your First Symptoms? no energy & hurt all over
What Are Your Current Symptoms? still no energy on most days but the pain is not as bad except during certain weather conditions
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? I kept getting bronchontis
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? It has limited me in what I do in may daily life. I have to be careful how hard I push myself. I used to be the type of person who was always on the go. never sitting still. No any more.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? weather & stress
What Makes You Feel Better? exercise & bath in epsom salt & peroxide
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? probably 3
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes - can not recall any meds.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: vitamins & minerals, only drug I take for this is ultram
Your Theories: not at this time
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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1/7/2008
Name: Thelma
City: Violet
State: La.
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? N.O. La.
Where Do You Live Now? Violet, La.
How Long Have You Lived There? most of my life
Your Age? 59
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 9
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 50
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? NURSING No
Medical History: Sinus ,diabetes
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? legs chest back arms
What Are Your Current Symptoms? diabetes HBP arthritis diabetic neuropathy
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 PAINFUL UNABLE TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE
What Makes Symptoms Worse? CHANGE IN WEATHER COLD HOT OR RAIN STANDING OR SITTING FOR A SM. LENGTH OF TIME WALKING AND BEING TIRED
What Makes You Feel Better? NOTHING ONLY WHEN i GET IN BED AND TAKE MY SLEEPING PILL AND PAIN PILL
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? NO
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? NONE
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? NO
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? NO
Remedies Tried: Ultram -Darvocet-Lycria Celexa- Ambien -Tylenol Ibuprofen-Vicodinn
Your Theories: none
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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1/6/2008
Name: Angela
City: Sussex NB
State: Canada
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Sussex
Where Do You Live Now? Sussex
How Long Have You Lived There? 15 years
Your Age? 35
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 13
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 22
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? social services,Yes still working
Medical History: Healthy..Mono prior to onset
Does Exercise Help? exercise because I think if I stopped I would never be able to continue
What Were Your First Symptoms? Extreme fatique..Every fiber in my body hurt and was tired
What Are Your Current Symptoms? extreme fatique..limb pain and tiredness numbness and tingling in hands and feet..sinus problems forgetfulnessetc etc
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? EBV
Any Military Service? No
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Not that I am aware off
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Not the same person anymore
What Makes Symptoms Worse? dont know
What Makes You Feel Better? being busy...worse when I nurse it
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Have it now probably a few years into it it developed..was not an initial symptom
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? had mono..then a steady decline..crept up on me
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? NO
Remedies Tried: calicum magnesium vitamin c d b suplements astriligus combo neti pot for sinuses
Your Theories: No..You feel like you are slowly dying and some days you hope you do..I think it is environmental
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Yes...you need to find out what it realy is and help people so they are taken more serious it is very debilitating
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1/4/2008
Name: lisa
City: ramsey
State: mn
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? hawaii
Where Do You Live Now? minnesota
How Long Have You Lived There? too long - 18 yrs
Your Age? 44
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 12 yrs +/-
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 32?
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Senior Living Yes
Medical History: none
Does Exercise Help? possibly, however, no energy to even try. although, a couple of weeks ago I tried to do a very easy 20 minute pilates - and it made me worse. stretching helps.
What Were Your First Symptoms? shortening/tightening of muscles in legs
What Are Your Current Symptoms? extreme muscle tightness and pain in shoulders, neck, back, hands, fingers, lower back, legs, feet
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? don't know. recently, my dr. determined I may have a low grade viral infection. no other dr has given me a blood test for a very long time
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? unknown
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? completely turned it upside down.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? (trying to) sleep, and sitting or walking for a long time.
What Makes You Feel Better? massages, hot hot showers, whirlpool baths.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? recently...maybe a couple of years?
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes and no. realized something was different 10 yrs or so ago and that has bee gradual. however, the last few years i've noticed a much more intense progression of pain,along with vertigo, vision loss, stomach and gastric problems, headaches, etc.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? starting with toothpaste tomorrow. we have a water filter for drinking and shower -what else has flouride?
Remedies Tried: exedrine tension headache, darvocet, flexoral, and various vitamins and minerals on and off.
Your Theories: i'm exhausted and need help desperately!
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? don't know
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1/4/2008
Name: Barbara P.
City: Charlotte
State: North Carolina
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Malden, MO
Where Do You Live Now? Charlotte, NC
How Long Have You Lived There? 31 years
Your Age? 55
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 35 to 40 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? late teens
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? medical transcriptionist, part-time, on disability for FM
Medical History: Concussion around age 8, several whiplash injuries, several minor surgeries, 3 full-term babies
Does Exercise Help? No
What Were Your First Symptoms? Knees and legs hurt severely
What Are Your Current Symptoms? chronic headache, severe fatigue, legs and knees hurt sporadically, pelvic rim often hurts and feels like I'm in a vice, lower arms hurt due to tender points at antecubital area, severe brain fog and word finding difficulties, depression, difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? none known
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? You want me to tell you that in this little space? It has destroyed all my hopes and dreams. My husband walked out on me and my brain injured daughter 9 years ago and I'm disability. We live in near poverty and I can't make my life any better. I'm socially isolated because I just don't have the energy to do anything. I'm trying to date, found a few guys on the Internet, but nothing permanent yet. The doctors that have the socalled cures cost so much I can't afford to go to them so I constantly research and try different things, trying to find an answer on my own.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? lack of sleep, stressful events make me shut down completely, usually no rhyme or reason to feeling bad or feeling better.
What Makes You Feel Better? methadone for pain.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES!!!!
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Maybe about 10.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No, the symptoms were very insidious and gradual. I didn't know how bad I felt until I was given some Darvocet for the pain and then I realized how bad I had been feeling.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No
Remedies Tried: remedies: blue-green algae helped for a while. Armour Thyroid which I still take helped somewhat. Every SSRI, amitriptyline many years ago, trazodone, Ultram not helpful, methadone helps the pain, Lidoderm patches help. Now taking methadone, Cymbalta, Wellbutrin, Lyrica, Klonopin, Atarax. The most recent thing I've been trying is D-ribose recommended by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum at endfatigue.com. It has actually helped my energy. Just as I was starting to feel better, after 2-1/2 weeks, I ran out and didn't have the money to get any more. Just reordered today Definitely feel much more tired than I did when I was taking the D-Ribose. I buy it at Corvalen.com.
Your Theories: I tend to believe what Dr. John Lowe thinks, that it is untreated hypothyroidism and metabolic fatigue. I know I was hypothyroid 20 to 25 years before I qualified for replacement meds. Of course, now with the change in the parameters in the TSH, I would have been deemed hypothyroid long before I actually was.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Can't think of anything else. Thanks.
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1/3/2008
Name: Shari
City: Temple
State: Texas
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Wichita, Kansas
Where Do You Live Now? Temple, Texas
How Long Have You Lived There? Forever
Your Age? 58
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 5-6 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 52
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Retired
Medical History: I have Parkinson's, Lupus, Osteoarthritis...
Does Exercise Help? ???
What Were Your First Symptoms? No energy, tiredness, sureness.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Same, but worse..except now I have to go to bed.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No.
Any Military Service? N/A
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? No.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? So many things wrong, hard to pinpoint.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Being out in the heat(lupus), or being on the go too long.
What Makes You Feel Better? Rest, warmth..
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Oh yes..
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Been coming on for about 2 years.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I am on so many pills, it is hard to know. I wish I could come off of them..
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride?
Remedies Tried: I am using ACV, Peroxide.. Am going to try another for 'vaginal odor'. I wonder if some of my meds are causing problems. I hate medical doctors! Only after your money..
Your Theories: ThankYou for Caring!!
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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1/2/2008
Name: Carrie
City: Longmont
State: Colorado
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? California
Where Do You Live Now? Colorado
How Long Have You Lived There? 2 years
Your Age? 41
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 16
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 26
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Worked in high power corporate industry for 10 years prior to quitting work 4 years ago due to FM.
Medical History: NONE!! That's what's so crazy about this. I had abundant health and energy prior to CFS and FM diagnosis.
Does Exercise Help? Stationary cycling, sometimes low impact aerobics but only for 30 mins every other day. More than that exhausts me too much or hurts my hips/back too much. Yoga hurts too much for me.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Extreme insonmia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Hyperhidrosis, Fibro-fog, Depression, Restless Leg Syndrome--lasted for first 6 years.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? For the last 12 years, Fibro-fog, exhaustion after exertion (like vacuuming) or high stress periods (holidays), chronic pain in back, neck, hips, shoulders, ankles, hypersensitivity to light and sound, poor sleep
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? No!
Any Military Service? n/a
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Cleaning products, pesticides and fertilizers
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I've been lead to believe that my problems are psychosomatic and that there's no quanitfiable reason why I should feel so bad. This belief plus the lack of energy and "contorl" over my body lead me to feel depressed and helpless. I have two children and I've never wanted to be the mommy who's always "sick and tired". In an ironic way, FM has actually made me stronger because I've had to fight every day to not let it keep me totally down all the time. I definitely am couch-bound for days at a time still, but I'm getting better. It also forced me to leave a very high stress job and refocus in my health and well being. This has been such a huge blessing. FM also forced me to heal my toxic childhood. Without the pain and fatigue of FM, I would never have had the motivation to look deep within me to see what was hurting. It's the classic, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". In a very divine way, my FM has been a blessing because I'm a much happier person because it forced me to heal.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Stress, my kids when they're on "high"!, menstrual cycle (insomnia, debilitating pain), too much stimulation (a crowded mall, driving in the snow and ice)
What Makes You Feel Better? Reducing chaos in my environment by being organized, taking my time to accomplish tasks rather than pushing myself to do it faster, giving myself plenty of quiet time, hobbies that are calming and relaxing (scrapbooking, beading)
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? The entire time, so 16 years.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? YES, YES, YES!!! OMG, thank you Jason Uttley and earthclinic! I found his article re: Cipro and I fell into a puddle of tears because I've finally put the puzzle together of what happened to me! For a two to three year period I was given Cipro for everything from a bladder infection to sinus infections. About three times year I'd get sinus infections. Each time my doctor would give me Cipro (because I'm allergic to Penicillin, etc.) and he'd give me Diflucan as well (both Fluoride based drugs) because I'd get gnarly yeast infections from the Cipro. Over a three year period, I probably was dosed with both meds at least 6-8 times. Now that I look back, my symptoms morphed from the lower level FM symptoms to the higher level as time progressed.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Yes, I am now. I've cut out black and green tea, we're putting a reverse osmosis system on our house, I've thrown out the flouride toothpaste and dental rinses, I'm buying only organic produce to minimize fluoride exposure
Remedies Tried: I was determined from the beginning to not be a walking pharmacy because I knew it would do more harm than good and because I didn't want to mask my symptoms because then I wouldn't be able to track if I was getting better or not. Emotionally, mentally and spiritually, traditional and holistic counseling has helped me quite a bit in dealing with depression, in connecting to Spirit, and in finding empowering ways of coping with life. Physically, I've just started the Borax detox this week. I'm also going to boost my vitamin intake because I think I'm not getting quite enough of what I need.
Your Theories: I'm so incredibly grateful for this website. For years I've known that my body couldn't just break overnight..that there had to be more to this problem. Now at least I know what I'm dealing with and I don't have to feel like it's all in my head. When a problem is truly "psychosomatic", if you work on your issues (emotional, mental, etc.) that supposedly are creating the problem in your body, you'd assume that your symptoms would improve. Mine did not. In fact, even though I've moved emotional mountains over the last 16 years, my symptoms stayed the same or got worse. Now, the truth is finally here for me! For everyone else out there who's suffering with FM, and for earthclinic too, I wish you Love and Light. Don't ever give up :o)
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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1/1/2008
Name: Grace
City: Ipswich
State: Australia
Your Sex: F
Where Were You Born? Netherlands
Where Do You Live Now? Australia
How Long Have You Lived There? 26 years
Your Age? 56
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? I have the feeling I have always had it since my twenties
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? Various problems since my early 20's
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Career Counselling/Training
Medical History: Hysterectomy after on-set of cancer and about 5 years of female problems
Does Exercise Help? Water-aerobics
What Were Your First Symptoms? As far as I remember pain in various parts of my body -including back and shoulders
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Pain!!! Stiffness
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not that I know
Any Military Service? na
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? na
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? It holds me back from being as active as I want to be but I don't allow it to cripple me.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Increased physical activity, stress, a very busy period of life,on-set of rain and humid weather, cold weather
What Makes You Feel Better? I really don't know except a good massage and peace.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? sometimes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? can't remember
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No, it seems to have been there for a long time and has increased. I have never found a docotr useful and have not really taken much medication. I mean, I don't wat to start taking anti-depressants or tramadol!!
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Yes, I avoid wheat, dairy and fluoride. Our water will get fluoirde added and I will buy a water filter. I use natural toothpaste.
Remedies Tried: I use a variety of supplements and have found magnesium, ginseng and Co-enzyme Q10 useful.
Your Theories: I feel that a life with much stress and emotional pain has contributed to this condition.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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12/31/2007
Name: Jessica K.
City: Ormond Beach
State: Florida
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? New London, CT.
Where Do You Live Now? Ormond Beach, FL
How Long Have You Lived There? 10 years
Your Age? 21
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 3.5
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 17
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Unemployed due to Fibromyalgia
Medical History: Endometriosis, Hypothyroidism, Chronic Colds, Chronis knee cap popping out, Insomnia, Obesity, IBS
Does Exercise Help? No.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Severe muscle aches/spasms, extreme joint pain, chronic yeast infections, insomnia, brain fog
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Severe muscle pain/spasms, severe joint pain, bradytachycardia, migraines/constant headache, insomnia, depression, infections, skin problems, IBS, EBV, Breast pain, Severe back pain, obesity, brain fog, hot flashes, trouble swallowing (choking-mostly on water), prominent left liver lobe, skin problems, hiatal hernia, etc. Positive ANA, ENA, Scleroderma Antibodies, on & off.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Yes.
Any Military Service? No, child of retired USAF father.
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? No.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I am unable to work, schooling has been limited, I don't have an active lifestyle or social life, my sex life isn't as good, very depressed, I can't sleep regularly, etc.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Bad heat or cold, stress, physical activity, weather, other health conditions
What Makes You Feel Better? Massages, sleep, pain medicines, soft
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 3.5
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes. I do no recall what medicines I was on in the 6 months prior. Most likely only Synthroid.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No.
Remedies Tried: Trazadone, Lunesta, Ambien (CR & regular), temazapam, lots more sleeping meds. Anti-depressants, Lyrica, Cymbalta, pain medicines, physical therapy, O24 Oil, hot baths, massages, rest, exercise, ben gay cream, dietary changes, Lupus/RA Meds (steroids, bextra, methotrexate, plaquenil)
Your Theories: I believe I have an underlying condition possibly coexisting with the fibromyalgia or disguising itself as Fibro.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? What medicines are you currently on? Have you tested positive for any autoimmune disorders? Do you feel Fibromyalgia is the correct diagnosis for your symptoms?
-----------------------------

1/4/2008
Name: Rosemary K
City: Deptford
State: N.J.
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Camden, NJ
Where Do You Live Now? Deptford, NJ
How Long Have You Lived There? 30 years
Your Age? 48
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? September 2005
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 46 years old
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Registered Nurse On SSD
Medical History: Excellent Health
Does Exercise Help? Yes. Slow muscle exercises for upper/lower body
What Were Your First Symptoms? woke up and unable to get out of bed because of all over body pain. Every muscle, ligament and tendon
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Fatigue, muscle, ligament and joint pain, tinnitus, numbness/stiffness in hands (at times). Stumbling at times, forgetfulness (a real problem) Up 3/4 times per night do to pain.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? I contracted a staph. infection of the skin(I believe at work)and was put on IV vancomycin. That's when this all started. It was an allergic reaction to the vanco.
Any Military Service? No
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? No
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I lost all my future dreams.I can't think clearly, I forget simple things. I'm in pain 24/7. I feel know one understands or cares about what I'm going through. I feel completely isolated. I feel alone. I want someone to take responsibility for what happened to me. I don't know who to turn to.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Sitting for more then 2/3 min. Getting up/down. During waking hours and inbetween sleep. The cold weather.
What Makes You Feel Better? gentle stretching techniques that I taught myself while ling on my water bed. My weakly deep tissue messages help a little. I try to find comfortable positions to meditate but it only works for a minute or so.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Oh yes. See above.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? It's hard to remember. I just started to realize it several months ago.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes. It was over night.At the time I was on IV vancomycin
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I don't know what you're talking about. The only fluride I get is probably in my tooth paste.
Remedies Tried: Many antidepressants and pain meds.which non worked, so now I just take cymbalta (it doesn't help the pain but I feel it helps me cope with this devastating problem). I also tried colostrum plus,from the health food store, but that didn't help at all, so now I just take vit. supplements.
Your Theories: Yes. Antibiotics cause fibromyalgia along with many other diseases/illnesses on a cellular level.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? I didn't read your site yet. I came here first to fill in this questionnaire. I hope it's not like the many other sites that claim they found a cure but really all they want is the money. Well, I don't have any like I use to. I'll just continue with my own research. I'm bound and determined to come up with the answer even if I have to get the media involved. I'll tell the world. Sincerely....Rose
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1/4/2008
Name: Cathy
City: Bailey
State: NC
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Wilson, NC
Where Do You Live Now? Bailey, NC
How Long Have You Lived There? 45 years
Your Age? 52
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 9
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 43
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? I'm on LOA right now, trying to get disability, however I've been denied and am appealing it now.
Medical History: none,prior to FM
Does Exercise Help? just started yesterday to ride stationary bike, walk on treadmill. Today I'm extremely sore and stiff.
What Were Your First Symptoms? couldn't sleep more than 3-4 hours per night
What Are Your Current Symptoms? sore to touch, stiffness, muscle pain all over my body, sleep deprivation, TMJ, high bp, high cholesterol and triglycerides, diabetes, fatigue,can't concentrate, can't get words out,forgetfulness, sleepy during the day, short attention span,extreme low back cramps and 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? stopped me from doing yardwork, not able to stand up for more than five min.without pain,used to walk 15+ miles per week, weight gain, can't ride in a car for more than an hour
What Makes Symptoms Worse? any kind of physical activity; exercise, using my hands to hold on to anything,ie. rake,vacuum,stirring food.. bending over or down, lifting
What Makes You Feel Better? lying down resting, hot tub, pain meds, sleep
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? last four years have been progressively worse.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, I don't remember the first meds I was on.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? not sure what that is
Remedies Tried: celebrex, neurotin, darvocet, oxycodone, oxycontin, zanaflex, lots of other meds for all health problems
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? yes, how do you think you got FM? I was hit by a man hanging out of a truck 9yrs ago while walking for my daily exercise.

12/31/2007
Name: Lin
City: Bowmanville
State: Canada
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Ajax, Ontario
Where Do You Live Now? Bowmanville, ON
How Long Have You Lived There? 25
Your Age? 41
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 11
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 30
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? call-in center
Medical History: broken back 23 yrs of ago-septic miscarriage 11 yrs ago-II diabetic for 7 yrs-high blood pressure
Does Exercise Help? yes-daily walking @ least 30 minutes a day-swimming 1 wkly
What Were Your First Symptoms? fever (low grade) extreme fatigue-IBS-vomiting, nausea, severe headache
What Are Your Current Symptoms? the same, but add vertigo,heart papitations,nevousnous,chronic joint pain, chronic muscle pain
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? yes, Mono for over 6 wks when I was 19
Any Military Service? n/a
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? none known
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? drug dependant due to chronic pain, isolated becuase people don't understand my limitations. Depressed from always being tired and in pain
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress, weather
What Makes You Feel Better? sunshine, hot tub of very warm water
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 3 yrs
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes I can go to a very acute state within hrs, but no I can't recall any new meds other than anibotics for recurring UTI's
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I have just know seen research about this issue and will from now on try to remove ALL fluoride exposure!
Remedies Tried: auto immune meds, plaqual-NSAIDS-Narcotics
Your Theories: my theories is that I some how got fibro after I got septic when I had an incomplete spontanous abortion-I got very, very sick and almost died, after surgery and back on my feet I had recurring "episodes" of sickness and mentioned above,,I was never well after that...
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
-------------------------------------------

12/31/2007
Name: Stacy
City: city in Michigan
State: Michigan
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Wisconsin
Where Do You Live Now? Michigan
How Long Have You Lived There? three years
Your Age? 37
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? one month
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 37
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? unemployed due to IBS
Medical History: IBS
Does Exercise Help? walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? severe muscle and joint pain, fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? same
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 distressing and draining in every way
What Makes Symptoms Worse? lack of sleep, not supplementing
What Makes You Feel Better? sleep, supplements, activity
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? a little
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? one month
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? The day after receiving acupuncture I developed these symptoms
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No fluoride that I know of.
Remedies Tried: Mucuna Pruriens, 5-htp, sam-e, l-carnitine, liquid magnesium, d-ribose, l-glutamine. Tramadol medication for pain.
Your Theories: Avoid acupuncture, I know for a fact that it caused these symptoms as I never had them before and developed them the next day. I don't know if it released toxins from my IBS into my body, or did something to the soft tissues that affects the nerves.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Acupuncture as a possible cause.
-----------------------------------

12/30/2007
Name: PJ
City: Berwick
State: PA
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? California
Where Do You Live Now? PA
How Long Have You Lived There? 30 yrs
Your Age? 45
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 6
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 38
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? not able to work
Medical History: severe degenerative disc disease, osteoporosis, numerous allergies,asthma
Does Exercise Help? have been doing resistance exercises for 1 yr
What Were Your First Symptoms? severe pain/sensitivity upon contact, extreme fatigue, insomnia, inability to concentrate
What Are Your Current Symptoms? pain has been minimal with treatment
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? numerous times
Any Military Service? not enlisted but born and raised in military
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure?
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? severe depression, years of thinking I was crazy until a wonderful doctor diagnosed and started treatment
What Makes Symptoms Worse? overexertion, illness, menstruation
What Makes You Feel Better? medication, gluten free, low-fat, sugar free diet
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? not currently
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 2
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, vioxx, oxycodone, darvocet, various nsaids,prednisone, cortisone injections
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: currently taking Ultram for pain, 50 - 100mg not exceeding 400mg per day for approx. past 18 mths. has helped immensely. Changed diet and lost all excess weight.
Your Theories: I have always felt there may be some type of hormonal connection, my pain has always worsened during menstruation.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
-----------------------

12/28/2007
Name: Bennie
City: Omaha
State: NE
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Arkansas
Where Do You Live Now? Omaha, Ne
How Long Have You Lived There? 45 years
Your Age? 61
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 15 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 46
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Auditor, yes
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? Yes, low impact
What Were Your First Symptoms? Triedness, can't sleep
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Pain, triedness,
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 can't function most the of the time. Difficult to work sometimes and socialize with family and friends
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Lack of sleep and stress.
What Makes You Feel Better? Sometimes sleep and sometimes nothing.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes, I have difficult times remembering words.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? About 10 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes, I have trouble taking drugs. I am so chemical sensentive. I am taking Celebrex now for pain. Many side affects.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No.
Remedies Tried: I have tried Lyrica the new drug on the market. Did not work for me. Celebrex does stop the pain.
Your Theories: I need help. I thought about going to the a Fibromyalgia Health clinic, but can't afford it right now. I think this maybe my great source. Because it sound they truly work with the patient on an individualized matter.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
------------------------------------

12/28/2007
Name: Megan
City: Melbourne
State: Victoria Australia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Melbourne
Where Do You Live Now? Melbourne suburb
How Long Have You Lived There? 55
Your Age? 55
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? Have had ill defined symptoms for five or six years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? Not sure
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Nursing/Midwifery/NICU: No
Medical History: Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia; Erythema Nodosum 1992: Severe Plantar Fasciitis 1992 - present time; Pityriasis Rosea 2002: Asthma; Mycoplasma Pneumoniae - 2005 to 2006
Does Exercise Help? No exercise definitely does NOT help. In fact it causes all sorts of muscle and joint injury after doing even gentle exercise.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Very tender spots all over my body. Always have had flitting pains all over my body - one day one joint, the next day a muscle another day another joint or two etc etc.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Peripheral Neuropathy since July 2007; Extreme fatigue -August 2007; rotating (sometimes excruciating) pains/stiffness in different parts of the body each day; muscle fatigue; exercise intolerance; fasciculations; some occasional stomach issues but not bad at the moment; just the last week or so pain is starting to impinge on my sleep - up til now I have slept like a log!
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Is Mycoplasma Pneumoniae a virus or a bacteria? Have had EBV.
Any Military Service? No
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Not that I know ofapart from mercury in teeth fillings.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? The last six months (if this is Fibromyalgia that I have) YES! When the fatigue is very bad I cannot keep up with the housework. I do a little bit and then sit down. I AM NOT DEPRESSED!!! I think I am very boring when the fatigue is bad!!
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Still trying to figure that out. I think I have noticed if I do too much one day then I may suffer the next day. I think if I have a glass of wine the PN gets slightly worse.
What Makes You Feel Better? Distracting myself as best as possible when able. Reading, working on the computer, TV, doing puzzles (if my brain allows it).
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I believe I have had brain fog for some time preceeding these most recent symptoms and have always put it down to my adrenal insufficiency. I have recently started taking a high dose of Shark Liver Oil and have noticed some improvement to my fatigue and brain fog.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia is as yet not diagnosed but all other tests for causes for my Peripheral Neuropathy have yielded no clues and I am reluctantly wondering whether CFS/Fibro may be the diagnosis.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? In some ways, yes and in some ways, no! I have been progressively not been feeling very well for a couple of years but on August 3rd 2007 I went downhill quickly. Last year in August 2006 I had a severe asthma attack and had stacks of IV and oral drugs for the nine days I was in hospital and for several weeks afterwards.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? I avoid fluoridated toothpaste and we filter all our water.
Remedies Tried: Vit B12: Shark Liver Oil: N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine: Yellow Dock: Chlorella: Multi mineral/vitamins; Betaine HCL; My normal medications for my adrenal condition are Hydrocortisone; Fludrocortisone. Also take DHEA: Progesterone and Oestrogen cream (bioavailable); Thyroid Armour: and Symbicort Asthma preventer
Your Theories: As I said before I do not even know if I have this condition but all tests have not uncovered the cause of my Peripheral Neuropathy and ongoing fatigue. The Neurologists I have been seeing would probably not countenance a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia....but what else do I do?
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
---------------------------------

12/27/2007
Name: GAIL
City: phx
State: az
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? denver, co
Where Do You Live Now? phx,az
How Long Have You Lived There? 20yrs
Your Age? 38
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 8
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 30
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? shipping/receiving working p/t
Medical History: normal health
Does Exercise Help? no/working out on a bow flex 1yr
What Were Your First Symptoms? spock hold on the shoulders
What Are Your Current Symptoms? muscle pain,spazsums headache,mental
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? plory?
Any Military Service? 0
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? dont know
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? i get to have one or more pains everyday
What Makes Symptoms Worse? if the dog barks, my body reacts as if someone close has passed.
What Makes You Feel Better? pot....
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 8
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? hepatitis vacine
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no , but i will now.
Remedies Tried: vicodine etc
Your Theories: the hepatitis vacine has some serious flaws, i only had it done as a requirement for work. wish i had investigated it much more.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
------------------------------------

12/27/2007
Name: Kathy
City: Lexington
State: KY
Your Sex: F
Where Were You Born? NY
Where Do You Live Now? KY
How Long Have You Lived There? 25 years
Your Age? 56
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 17
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? mid thirties
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Administration yes
Medical History: meningitis, mono, chicken pox, measles, herpes, dairy and ragweed allergies developed cat allergies
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? stiff painful neck and shoulders
What Are Your Current Symptoms? brain fog, exhaustion joint paqin and tenderness
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? herpes
Any Military Service? military wife 1971 to 1987
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? no energy, must rest more
What Makes Symptoms Worse? any soda pop, sugars, stress, fatigue
What Makes You Feel Better? guaifenesin, rest, 100 oz of water a day
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? YES
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 6
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? filtered water only, can't get away from the toothpastes
Remedies Tried: perscription sleep aids, guaifenesin
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? How about the lack of treatments and MD concern out there? Any reprecussions at work?
------------------------------------------

12/26/2007
Name: Lissa
City: Yuma
State: Az
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? phoenix
Where Do You Live Now? yuma
How Long Have You Lived There? 30 yrs
Your Age? 35
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 1
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 34
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? sales, yes
Medical History: asthma, allergies
Does Exercise Help? used to do aerobics, walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? tmj
What Are Your Current Symptoms? feet achem lost of pain in legs, pins and needles, feel sore and tired
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not that i know
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? not that i know
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? yes can;t stand for long always tired, dont work out any more gaind 45 lbs
What Makes Symptoms Worse? activity
What Makes You Feel Better? rest
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yas
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? HMMMMM-nt sure
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, I cn't remember
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: lyric, despramine, gaberphentine
Your Theories: I believe my husband and I got some illness- he has similar symptoms but thy are calling it vasculitis
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? ?
------------------------------

12/25/2007
Name: Mike
City: Miller
State: Michigan
Your Sex: Male
Where Were You Born? Detroit
Where Do You Live Now? Detroit
How Long Have You Lived There? 41 years
Your Age? 42
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 1.5
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 41
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Instructor and still working
Medical History: Have been healthy othewise
Does Exercise Help? yes-stationary bike-stretching
What Were Your First Symptoms? 18 months to 2 years ago
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Numbness in right side limbs, pain in spine, frequent headaches, Reflux, preoccupied, difficulty concentrating, mind wondering, difficulty sleeping
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Seems like I have had sinusitas for the last 3 years
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Lots of exposure to automotive chemicals, welding and manufactureing areas-not aware of prolonged heavy metal exposure
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Used to be a pretty happy go lucky guy, now I am depressed and anxious! Need I say more?
What Makes Symptoms Worse? inactivity OR STRESS
What Makes You Feel Better? Being on my feet, working on things, keeping my mind occupied
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? They sure do!
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? the last 2 years
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes-have been prescribed Naproxin, Elevil, Darvaset, Ambien, and lots of other crap!
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? yes, I buy distilled water but do use fluoridated tooth paste
Remedies Tried: chiropractic, Physical Theropy, Condrointon/Glucosamine/ Psyllyum, B Multi vitamin.
Your Theories: I have been diagnosed with DDD of the T11-T12, T12-L1, and a bulging disc in C5, am showing symptoms of a L5-S1 nerve compression
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Did symptoms of Frbro coinside with diagnosis of spine disorders? It did for me and has for 99% the folks I know with Fibro
----------------------------------

12/23/2007
Name: Cheryl
City: MOUNT VERNON
State: OH
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Illinois
Where Do You Live Now? Ohio
How Long Have You Lived There? 17 years
Your Age? 46
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 13
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? Early to Mid 30's
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Cost Accounting, Still working.
Medical History: Scarlet fever, mono, bronchitis, rheumatory arthritis, chronic back pain, hypothyroidism.
Does Exercise Help? Water exercise, any other physical activity makes me hurt all over.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Excrusiating pain in my back.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Muscle pain and stiffness, knots, spasms, weakness, tired.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Had bronchitis for about 3 months.
Any Military Service? Yes, 1980 for about 3 months.
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Not that I am aware of.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? It has made it very hard to be physically active and has really taken the joy out of living.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Cleaning house, any hard physical activity. Laying flat to sleep. Walking, sitting and standing for long periods of time.
What Makes You Feel Better? I have been taking vitamins for about a little over a year. I take Magnesium, calcium, zinc, and potassium. After starting this regiment the muscle spasms subsided and I was able to sleep better. I also have an adjustable bed where I have my head and legs elevated. It took a while to get use to but my back doesn't hurt as much in the morning.
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes, I have a hard time concentrating and sometimes remembering things.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? It happens almost daily.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? I am not sure. I just remember having all this trouble with my back and going to a chiropractor wasn't helping. After xrays and going to a specialist, I was sent to a rheumatologist. He was the one that diagnosed me. I was then doing water therapy to help with my condition. I was taking muscle relaxers to help with the muscle spasms that usually came in the morning after sleeping, before the adjustable bed.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? The only fluoride I get is in my toothpaste but we did have it in our water growing up.
Remedies Tried: Muscle relaxers, and antiflamitories.
Your Theories: I think that it could be caused by some kind of vitamine deficiency. If I stop taking my vitamines my symptoms get worse. I think they need to research the cause of fibromyalgia instead of just trying to treat the symptoms. Find out what is causing this, I am sure there are plenty of people who would volunteer to under go testing, I would be the first to sign up. I noticed a pattern in the age of onset which is around 30 to 40 years old. Just an observation.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Not that I can think of.
-------------------------------------

12/20/2007
Name: Kelly
City: Christiansburg
State: VA
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Bluefield, WV
Where Do You Live Now? Christiansburg, VA
How Long Have You Lived There? 8.5 yrs
Your Age? 38
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 8 yrs
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 30
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? stay at home mom
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? stretching exercises and walking
What Were Your First Symptoms? immediate onset of severe sleep problems--it happened almost overnight
What Are Your Current Symptoms? severe sleep problems, back pain, muscle stiffness, headaches, skin disorders, short term memory loss, difficulty losing weight, lack of energy, minor hair loss, depression and anxiety, allergies
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? yes, when my sleep problems began 8 yrs ago it was during the winter and I was sick the entire winter-I would get over it and then get it again and it ended up turning into pneumonia
Any Military Service? n/a
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? flouride in drinking water-which I've known for years that I have an allergic reaction to and a few fillings in my mouth
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I take gobs of supplements and try different things all the time to feel better and I feel like I'm struggling just to function. Having a baby 16 mos ago really kicked the FM into high gear and I want to have another baby but I'm afraid that might kill me. It's difficult to even play with my daughter because I can't sit on the floor and I get tired so easily and it's hard to hold her if I'm not sitting. It's all very frustrating to be so young.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? lack of sleep or not sleeping well is the primary
What Makes You Feel Better? sleeping well and I've recently learned that I feel much calmer not having sugar and caffeine
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I'm not sure if I'm to that point but I have been experiencing short term memory loss
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? the memory loss that I've noticed has been for the past few months-maybe 6 mos
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, I was taking over the counter cold medicines and was given antibiotics and expectorants by my doctor
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? yes, I use non-flouride toothpaste but I still have it in my water which the common filters don't remove
Remedies Tried: I take a good multi-vitamin, B100 multi, magnesium, holy basil, ribose, fish oil, Vivarol, kelp and aloe, amino acids, vit c
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
------------------------------------------------

12/20/2007
Name: Lisa
City: Cleveland
State: OH
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? Cleveland, Ohio
Where Do You Live Now? yes
How Long Have You Lived There? 36 years
Your Age? 36
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 9 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 27
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Human Resources
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? nausea
What Are Your Current Symptoms? nausea and fatigue
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? no
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? dramatically, this is my 1st bout in 6 years, my grandmother recently died and it triggered the symptoms
What Makes Symptoms Worse? heat/cold/eating
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? since the was diagnosed
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: none
Your Theories: my symptoms seemed to be triggered by major trauma or events in my life (stress)
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
-----------------------------------------------

12/19/2007
Name: Mary
City: Stoughton
State: Wisconsin
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Stoughton
Where Do You Live Now? Stoughton
How Long Have You Lived There? 37 years
Your Age? 79
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 40 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 39
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Retired
Medical History:
Does Exercise Help? swin pool excercise I think helps
What Were Your First Symptoms? arthiritic
What Are Your Current Symptoms? pains in the legs,hips,back and elsewhere
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? chikenpox,measels and scarlet fever
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? None
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? A life of pain
What Makes Symptoms Worse? no excercise
What Makes You Feel Better? a good nights sleep
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? I dont think so???
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia?
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? gradually
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? Not sure
Remedies Tried: currently- Hydrocod./acet5/325 mg and extra strength Tylynol
Your Theories: NONE
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? My question to you- What will help???
---------------------------------

12/15/2007
Name: Jane
City: Adelaide
State: Australia
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Australia
Where Do You Live Now? Australia
How Long Have You Lived There? 35 Years
Your Age? 35
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 7
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 28
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Studying
Medical History: Spondylithesis, L5/S1 Back fusion, L4/L5 Disc bulge.
Does Exercise Help? Yes, very gentle weights, walking and exercise machines at the gym with no weights or very light weight, no more than 10kg
What Were Your First Symptoms?
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Extremely sensitive, no pain threshold, bad neck, arm problems, hand problems, knee problems, loss of feeling in both feet and half way up outside of calves. Cannot sleep, Depression and Anxiety. Bad pain in right foot, cannot wear enclosed shoes. Very bad memory, cannot focus on tasks, headaches. Constantly getting ill, very low immune system.
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? have had glandular fever in past, but did not actually know i had it.
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? always seems to be a new problem with my body. Always in pain, no energy, cannot handle the slightest of stress.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress, menstrual cycles, long days doing things,
What Makes You Feel Better? sleep when i can, relaxing,
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes, if that means not being able to concentrate or remember things.
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? At least 5.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes, will be feeling healthy and well one day, and be extremely ill the next.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No, never heard of it.
Remedies Tried: Am on medication for chronic pain. Was taken medication for depression, been off it for around 8 months.
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
------------------------------

12/15/2007
Name: gladys
City: chestertown
State: maryland
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? baltimore
Where Do You Live Now? chestertown
How Long Have You Lived There? 15 years
Your Age? 51
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 3 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 48
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? not working
Medical History: nothing significant, pretty healthy
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? stiffness, when rising, nerve pain on tops of hands, then feet, feeling of pulling a muscle with excercise, tired all the time, no sleep
What Are Your Current Symptoms? none
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? 6 months prior I had a bad virus, was sick for about 6 weeks
Any Military Service? none
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? mo
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? I quit my job because of it
What Makes Symptoms Worse? excercise, stress
What Makes You Feel Better? taking pantothentic acid and vitamin c relieves all my symptoms
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 3 yrs
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? no
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: neurontin, lots of anti depressents
Your Theories: I started taking pantothentic acid 500mg 3 times a day, and vit C 1000 mg 3 times a day and my symptoms disappeared. If I stop it they return in 3 days these 2 vitamins help you body produce natural cortisone It also works for arthritis, especially rheumatoid.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? no
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12/15/2007
Name: n
City: seattle
State: wa
Your Sex: female
Where Were You Born? van nuys, california
Where Do You Live Now? seattle
How Long Have You Lived There? 7 yrs
Your Age? 42
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 6 yrs
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 36
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? self employed import sales - not working currently
Medical History: osteoarthritis - ddd, chondromalacia, migraines, herpes type 1 & 2
Does Exercise Help? yes, but hard to stay consistent - cannot tolerate when in a flare
What Were Your First Symptoms? all over body aches & fatigue
What Are Your Current Symptoms? insomnia, chronic all over body pain, fatigue
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? not sure
Any Military Service? Army reserves - yrs
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? with certain jobs I've had (1-2 yrs)
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? trouble completing basic household chores & exercising-so have gained some weight, had to stop working. total change -extremely active lifestyle to somewhat sedentary one. cannot commit to social outings because I don't know how I'll feel - socially isolated.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? not sleeping well, flare up of old back injury/arthritis pain.
What Makes You Feel Better? when i'm able to sleep well, and stay somewhat consistent with exercise
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes, most definitely!
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? not sure (brain fog) - really noticeable problem for maybe 2-3 yrs and seems to be getting worse
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes - no, but I have taken several different medications in the past- especially different ones for migraine control
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: trying to sleep well, eat well and exercise. For me, I feel exercise is key, just hard to stay consistent.
Your Theories: never ending battle - slowly getting a little better on my own, but it's taking years . . ,
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
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12/14/2007
Name: Kelley
City: St. Louis
State: Missoui
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Oak Ridge, TN
Where Do You Live Now? St. Louis, MO
How Long Have You Lived There? 5 years
Your Age? 31
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 15
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 16
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Engineering. Yes.
Medical History: allergies, gastritis, reflux, arthritis
Does Exercise Help? Sometimes. Stretching helps the most.
What Were Your First Symptoms? Tired achy all the time and insomnia.
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Constant pain all over body, insomnia, vertigo that comes and goes, unexplained allergic reactions, vision problems, headaches, exhaustion, cannot concentrate sometimes
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Yes
Any Military Service? N/A
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? Maybe
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? My work suffers because it is hard to get up in the morning. I cannot do as much as I used to because I am tired or in pain.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? cold weather, doing too much physical activity, stress
What Makes You Feel Better? warm baths, massage, stretching
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? 2 or 3
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No, it progressed over a few years.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? No
Remedies Tried: chiropractic, massage therapy, OTC drugs, Trazodone, guaifenesin, Flexeril, Cymbalta, Lyrica
Your Theories:
Are We Missing Any Important Questions?
-------------------------------

12/14/2007
Name: Susan
City: Hendersonville
State: Tennessee
Your Sex: F
Where Were You Born? Springfield,Tn
Where Do You Live Now? Hendersonville, Tn.
How Long Have You Lived There? 7 years
Your Age? 39
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 9 years
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 28
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Nursing
Medical History: Bilateral Mastectomy in 1997,
Does Exercise Help? don't have time
What Were Your First Symptoms? pain and parasthesias L sided mainly
What Are Your Current Symptoms? pain with parasthesias, brain fog, fatigue
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? had strep throat 4 times in 1 year was admitted to hospital for IV antibiotics, also had camploybacter jejuna
Any Military Service?
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure?
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? Have lost one job, problems within family due to fatigue and depression
What Makes Symptoms Worse? weather changes
What Makes You Feel Better? heat
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? really realizing now due to being in school to further nursing education. Have to use a lot of caffeine to make my brain feel like it's awake.
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? yes, started within one month after mastectomy
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: Lyrica,Cymbalta, and Zanaflex
Your Theories: Trying to understand why so many doctors consider this a wastebasket disease, the medications treating pt.s with the diagnosis of fibromyalgia are also the drugs used in treating MS.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? Is fibromyalgia a CNS condition or not?
--------------------------------------

12/14/2007
Name: Melanie
City: Paducah
State: KY
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? KY
Where Do You Live Now? KY
How Long Have You Lived There? 31 years
Your Age? 31
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? <1
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 31
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? Customer Service Rep - yes, barely
Medical History: hysterectomy 1 year ago
Does Exercise Help? No
What Were Your First Symptoms? Swelling of ankle, pain in shoulder, lower back pain
What Are Your Current Symptoms? Swelling of ankle, pain in shoulder, lower back pain, painful back spasms pain in rib area, neck tension, insomnia
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? Yes- mono at age 15 - strep several times through adulthood
Any Military Service? n/a
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? no
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? It's destroying my life. I can't play with my kids or be intimate with my husband. SOme days I can't even walk.
What Makes Symptoms Worse? Sometimes it just flares no matter what. Cold or overexertion exacerbates it. Stress.
What Makes You Feel Better? Hot showers, Darvocet takes the edge off a little, flexeril
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? Yes
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia? <1
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? Yes, Ciprofloxacin for a bladder infection about the same time asonset of symptoms.
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? no
Remedies Tried: Prednisone, Naproxen, Darvocet, Lortab, Flexeril
Your Theories: It's so hard to get doctors to listen to you long enough to put all the symptoms together. The pain is real.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? No
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12/14/2007
Name: Deborah
City: Santa Rosa
State: CA
Your Sex: Female
Where Were You Born? Modesto,CA
Where Do You Live Now? Santa Rosa
How Long Have You Lived There? not long
Your Age? 56
How many years has it been since you developed your symptoms of fibromyalgia? 14 yrs
Your Age At Onset of Symptoms? 42
What is Your Line of Work? Still working? not workign
Medical History: too much
Does Exercise Help? no
What Were Your First Symptoms? soreness like I ha d the flu
What Are Your Current Symptoms? mostly gone. But still have soe points. get tired easy. No interest in (sex)
Did You Ever Have A Long Lasting Virus? what type how long? I had a ( non cancerous) tumor removed ( 10 lbs) size of basketball, ! year after that I was diagnosed with fibromyalisa.
Any Military Service? no
Chemical or Pesticide Exposure? yes! possilby when I worked as a Mechanical Assembler, for waverlys ( disc'c were put in some t ype of liquid. and Spectra physics, they made lasers.
How Has Fibro Affected Your Life? YES!!!!
What Makes Symptoms Worse? stress, some types of food: ( like diet soda with aspartame), corn,peas,cabbage,kidney beans, some mexican foods, pizza paste, or italian sauce ( red),
What Makes You Feel Better? paintg,singing,crafts,walks, my dog!
Do Your Symptoms Include Brain Fog? What is that?
How many years has it been since you developed the brain fog associated with fibromyalgia?
Was Your Rate of Decline Fast? No!
Have You Tried Avoiding Dietary Fluoride? ? I don't know
Remedies Tried: mostly relaxing, and prayer
Your Theories: yep! I have been eating pumkins seed and they seem to have all but gotten rid of most of my symptoms. And only what is natrual will heal.
Are We Missing Any Important Questions? What is brain fog.

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