Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Fibromyalgia and Alternative Treatments

[1]From acupuncture to chiropractic, from massage to meditation, alternative treatments are in great demand. That's especially true for people with pain-related illnesses such as fibromyalgia. Alternative medicine, including herbal therapy and homeopathy, it is used in place of conventional medicine. These systems are based on the belief that the body has the power to heal itself with multiple techniques including those that involve the mind, body and spirit. Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine.
For people with fibromyalgia, some alternative treatments work well. That's because holistic therapies influence your total being. In that way, they may allow you to reduce your medications and increase your normal activities.
Study findings show that standard acupuncture may be effective in treating some people with fibromyalgia. Both biofeedback and electroacupuncture have also been used for relief of fibromyalgia symptoms. However, before you try alternative treatments, talk with your doctor. Check to see what limitations might apply to you. Working with your doctor, you can find an acceptable way to blend conventional medicine with alternative treatments or natural remedies. When you do, you may be able to increase restful sleep and reduce your fibromyalgia pain.
Can Acupuncture Treat Fibromyalgia?
With acupuncture, a practitioner inserts one or more dry needles into the skin and underlying tissues at specific points. Gently twisting or otherwise manipulating the needles causes a measurable release of endorphins into the bloodstream. Endorphins are the body's natural opioids. In addition, according to acupuncture practitioners, energy blocks are removed. Removing them is said to restore the flow of energy along the meridians, which are specific energy channels.
Studies show that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry. It appears to do this by changing the release of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters stimulate or inhibit nerve impulses in the brain that relay information about external stimuli and sensations such as pain. In this way, the patient's pain tolerance is increased. One acupuncture treatment in some patients may last weeks to help alleviate chronic pain.
What Is Electro-acupuncture?
Electroacupuncture is another way of stimulating the acupuncture points. It uses a needle hooked up to small wires connected to very slight electrical currents. Heat -- moxibustion -- and massage -- acupressure -- can also be used during this electroacupuncture process.
Laser acupuncture is yet another offshoot of this alternative therapy. It may occasionally be effective for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. While it uses the same points, there are no needles involved.
There are precautions to take if you want to try acupuncture. First, make sure you find a licensed acupuncturist who has a lot of experience. Also, make sure the acupuncturist uses only disposable needles.
There are multiple styles of acupuncture. The style used depends on where the practitioner studied. For instance, Chinese acupuncture depends on larger bore needles and the practitioner may be more aggressive with moving them. Japanese acupuncture uses thinner bore needles with a relatively gentle approach. You'll need to find the style that suits your fibromyalgia needs.
How Can Chiropractic help Fibromyalgia?
Chiropractic care is a very common alternative treatment for fibromyalgia pain. People use it to treat pain of pressure points, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches, and pain from musculoskeletal injuries. Chiropractic may be effective for fibromyalgia because it helps improve pain levels and increase cervical and lumbar ranges of motion.
Chiropractic is based on the principle that the body is a self-healing organism. To reduce pain and increase healing, the doctor of chiropractic uses spinal adjustments. The goal is to increase the mobility between spinal vertebrae, which have become restricted, locked, or slightly out of proper position.
Chiropractors do this by using hand adjustments. With gentle pressure or stretching, multiple gentle movements of one area, or specific high-velocity thrusts, the adjustments are said to help return the bones to a more normal position or motion. This return is said to relieve pain and reduce ill health.
How Does Biofeedback Work To Help Ease Fibromyalgia?
To individualize the reduction of stress in the treatment of fibromyalgia, biofeedback is often recommended. This mind/body relaxation technique uses electronics to measure stress-related responses in the body. The idea behind biofeedback is that people can use information about their body's internal processes to learn to control those processes.
A consensus statement from the National Institutes of Health indicates there is good evidence that biofeedback might help relieve many types of chronic pain. For example, it might be useful in treating tension and migraine headaches. In one study at the University of South Alabama, 80% of children with migraines were symptom-free after receiving intensive biofeedback training. In other research, some headache patients who were able to increase hand temperature using thermal biofeedback also experienced fewer and less intense migraine headaches. 
With fibromyalgia pain, you know the "real stressor" is the pain itself. Nevertheless, other daily stressors can cause your fibromyalgia to flare. What you want to do is respond in a healthy way to the chronic stressors. If learned properly, electronic biofeedback can help you control your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing patterns, and muscle tension, potentially reducing pain.

The instruments magnify signals that you might not otherwise notice. As a result, you can use this visual or auditory response to learn how to control certain bodily functions. The ultimate goal of biofeedback is to use this skill outside the therapist's office when you are facing real stressors.
With fibromyalgia pain, you know the "real stressor" is the pain itself. Nevertheless, other daily stressors can cause your fibromyalgia to flare. What you want to do is respond in a healthy way to the chronic stressors. If learned properly, electronic biofeedback can help you control your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing patterns, and muscle tension, potentially reducing pain.
How Can Meditation Help Fibromyalgia?
With meditation, you allow your thoughts to take a break from daily analytical routines and give support to the spiritual dimension of life. When you meditate, your body switches from the pumping "fight or flight" response to a calmer, more peaceful mood. Studies show that meditation produces brain waves consistent with serenity and happiness. Meditation provides nourishment for your soul, satiates inner spiritual hunger, and helps you to develop your ability to pay attention to all areas of life without distraction.


What Should I Remember If I Want To Try An Alternative Treatment?


It's important to be openly discriminating when choosing alternative treatments. The fact that something is called "natural" does not mean it is safe. Working with your doctor, look for the alternative therapies that will best boost sleep and decrease pain. The right therapy can help get you on the healthy road again.


Everyday we struggle to find a magical combination of treatment between medication, diet, exercise and mental health in order to take this illness head on. It can sometimes be very frustrating and sometimes scary; however, by keeping an open mind and considering some of the more alternative treatments for fibromyalgia you may be able to find something that will help aide in your daily routine and provide you with more less pain days. Talk to your doctor about integrating a few of these ideas into your treatment plan and give them a try. Just like standard medicine, it takes trial and error to find a good combo but these all offer a win-win solution consider there are no adverse side-effects to your illness. Keep up your fight and please share with all of us any of your experiences with this type of treatment if you have already or once you begin for the first time. The more we know, the better we all are. Pain-free wishes and gentle hugs from Fighting Fibromyalgia.


[1]WebMd



Saturday, May 14, 2011

10 Steps To A More Restful Sleep

According to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately 70 million people in the United States are affected by a sleep problem. Americans suffering from chronic sleep disorders number about 40 million not to mention the additional 20-3- million affected by intermittent sleep-related problems.

Outside of pain, the next big complaint of Fibromyalgia patients is the lack of or intermittent sleep, all of which unfortunately puts our already sensitive systems into a downward spiral of harsher pain, more fatigue, brain fog and longer recovery times. It is also important, that studies have found a relationship between the quantity and quality of one's sleep and many other health problems. For example, insufficient sleep may be linked to weight gain, hypertension, cardiovascular problems and the onset of diabetes.

Here is a list of 10 tips for sleeping restfully. Keep in mind that these are intended for "typical" adults with occasional sleep problems; however through my research and in talking with other FM sufferers these have help aide in decreasing pain and promoting more healthy sleep patterns.


  1. Maintain a regular sleep schedule - Our bodies have a natural clock and a regualr sleep schedule conditions our physiology with a sleep-wake cycle. A regular waking time in the morning strengthens this cycle and can help the onset of sleep at night. It is important to keep a regular bedtime and wake-time, even on the weekends when there is the temptation to sleep-in.
  2. Bedtime Do's - Establishing a regular sleep routine will condition your mind and body to switch from activity to sleep. Your routine might include listening to soothing music, reading a book, a warm glass of milk or a hot soak in the tub. Another easy trick just before retiring is to dim the lights to tell your body it is time to rest.
  3. Bedtime DON'TS - Avoid eating a heavy meal before bedtime. Your should finish eating at least 2-3 hours before your regular bedtime and avoid spicy food that may cause heartburn. In addition, a common mistake, many people think alcohol is a sedative, but it actually disrupts sleep, causing nighttime awakening. Other things to avoid include caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate) and cigarettes (nicotine) 
  4. Your Bed is not a Desk - The only purpose for your bed should be for sleeping and sex. Do not use it as a workspace for sorting out papers or surfing the internet. Create a healthy "body" relaxing environment and not a "brain" activity space. Remove work materials, computers and televisions out of your sleep environment. This was one of the hardest things for me to change about my routine, but can honestly say out of all the things I have tried and stuck with this has shown profitable results.
  5. Bedroom Harmony - Your bedroom should be pleasing, clutter-free and reflect the value you have for sleep. Your bed and pillows should be comfortable. Adjust the elements in your room such as light (dark is best), temperature and noise. If necessary, use blackout curtains, eye shades, earplugs, air purifiers, humidifiers, fans and other devices. I was a jet-setter/road warrior for years and became so accustomed to using eye shades and earplugs to block out hotel/plane noise that even now I still use them. 
  6. Nurture Your Body - Visiting a holistic therapist each month will help release body tension, quiet the mind and correct and imbalances. The choices are unlimited, like acupuncture, massage, reflexology, chiropractic and more. All have shown to give promising results to Fibromyalgia sufferers. 
  7. Exercise Regularly (this is the hardest of all recommendations for Fibro patients to integrate due to increased pain and chronic fatigue) - Avoid exercising late at night because it raises your body temperature and makes you more alert. If you exercise at night, complete your workout at least three hours before bedtime. The best time to exercise is late in the afternoon.
  8. Diet and Supplements - Feed your body healthy nutritional food with plenty of fresh green vegetables and fresh fruit. In addition, you can take a high quality supplement vitamin each day as well. This could be crucial for those of us who also suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Knowing what flairs your body can keep you from eating temperamental foods near bedtime.
  9. Resolve Mental and Emotional Issues - Leave your work at work. If there are still things on your mind then make a to-do-list for you to reference in the morning. Avoid having arguments unresolved. If you have an issue with something that was said, or are angry then write your feelings in a journal and do a brain download. Do NOT re-read this journal. If you still have issues in the morning, then speak to that person or speak to a professional.
  10. Don't Watch The Clock - If you can NOT fall asleep, it is best NOT to lie in bed and try to "force" yourself to sleep. Avoid checking the clock repeatedly. According to experts, if you do not fall back asleep within 15-20 minutes, you should get out of bed and go to another room. Try something relaxing such as listening to music or reading. 
We all know that getting a good night sleep every night is important to recharge our bodies and mind. The quality and quantity of sleep is crucial for health , safety and longevity. Try to integrate as many of these into your routine that you are comfortable with and be resilient. Just because one does not work on the first try it does not mean it won't help over time. You have to re-train your mind and body to make the correct changes and if there is one thing I know about Fibro patients is that we are not quitters, so fight your insomnia the right way and hopefully win in the end with pleasant dreams and better nights.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Men And Their Struggle To Find A Place In The Fight

As you know we treat everyday as a chance to create awareness for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (FM/CFS) but with the National Awareness day approaching us this Thursday the 12th of May, I wanted to shed some light and focus on the men who also struggle with FM/CFS.  Though most commonly fibromyalgia does seem to strike out at women, nearly 10%  of those diagnosed are men and are struggling to find their place not only in the treatment arena but in the support and awareness groups as well.

I recently read this great article that not only gave the perfect example of a man's journey from diagnosis to acceptance to becoming a major advocate for the illness, here is his story:


[1]Randy Wold, 58, was an auto mechanic, an excellent golfer, and a bowler who never scored below 200. Then, nearly 10 years ago, when he was suffering from intense chronic pain, he received a surprise diagnosis. His doctor told him he had fibromyalgia.
A disorder that causes chronic pain and fatigue, fibromyalgia strikes mostly women. Of the estimated 5 million adults with fibromyalgia in the U.S., as few as 10% are men. For that reason, the popular perception of it as a women's disease has persisted, even among fellow patients.
"When I first went to a support group meeting, it was all women," says Wold, who is now on the board of the National Fibromyalgia Association - and the only male board member with the disease. "Some didn't want me there."
A neurologist who Wold consulted wouldn't see him, discounting his diagnosis and accusing him of angling to get disability payments.
"It's a tough deal for a man to have fibromyalgia," says Wold, who is no longer able to work and can only occasionally hit the links or the lanes. "One of my best friends doesn't believe I have it," he says. "His wife, who is a doctor, told him men can't get it, that it is in my head. That kind of hurt."
I can't speak for everyone, but Randy's story not only inspired me but reaffirmed my belief that we must self advocate in our medical treatment and continue to keep an open mind about where this chronic illness may lead us. It also brought the scary thought that if it is so hard for women to get a formal diagnosis and now know it is even harder for men,it raises the question of how many more men just give up? Knowing how easy it is to become frustrated and detoured by medical professionals in general, then add the stigma of "men should be tough" to the mix, I can only imagine the fear of never knowing what is really wrong with you, second guessing your mental health and living with the idea that there is nothing that can be done. Is this my life? If you have asked yourself this question, the answer is no. Reach out to support groups, keep searching for a physician who specializes in fibromyalgia and take pro-active action holistically until you are able to get the treatment you need. 
Help is available, don't be afraid to ask for it. This Thursday is National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day, for men and women alike. Take a moment to speak up, spread the word, sign a petition, join a support group and most of all give yourself a supportive hug for making each day count in the fight against fibromyalgia. 
I would love to invite all of you to join a secure web-site created by Fighting Fibromyalgia for anyone who suffers from an invisible illness. Here is the link, I hope to see you there. Fighting Fibromyalgia web-site/support group.

Monday, May 9, 2011

When I Watched A Woman Weep

The day had been like any other, nothing out of the ordinary in fact the weather was warmer than usual for this time of year, people out and about enjoying the spring day. My pain and fatigue wouldn't be a good enough excuse to not at least walk the short distance to the park and sit in the sun, even if just to get some extra vitamin D.

Following my usual routine starting with the long hot shower to ease the muscle pain, putting my comfy clothes on, packing a small bag with water and the common emergency pain pill tucked away for safe keeping I was finally ready to sit down and take a short rest before leaving the house. I could hear it, that voice in my head saying, "Well you made a steady effort, just turn on the heating pad and call it a day". Where does that come from? After spending the entire winter wishing for warm weather, sun on my face and the visions of less pain were thrown right out my will power window. Of course my long history with Fibromyalgia taught me that it's the reminisce of long winter days and the depression those months tend to bring. Depression is a quirky thing, the longer I get to know it the more I realize it can be either a motivator or a desolater, sometimes both.

Ditching my depression demon with keys in hand I headed out the door and down the path that leads me smack in the middle of a nice little park only a few blocks away. I don't know about you, but on occasion I like to people watch. Imagine what conversations the couple holding hands are having or what the children are giggling over on the jungle gym. Maybe it's the writer in me, but there is a certain charm in inventing these imaginative scripts as if there were my own. I remember when it was me, the one walking hand in hand, playing soccer with my children and looking out into the day without a worry in the world. Now, shuffling through the brain fog that vision is, at any moment my body will just collapse from within saying, "enough is enough, pain is here and possibly to stay". Planning ahead has become a necessity and knowing if I choose to be physically active on one day, I will pay the price for it days after. Not that this has stopped me from doing the things that I love, I just can't do them as often or with as much gusto.

So, the afternoon warmed my face, as did the bench beneath my bum and though my heart wanted to stay and absorb as much of this beautiful day as I could, my body was already telling me to start heading home. I proactively took my pill knowing my muscles would settle into their common pain position within the hour and gathered my things. It was very satisfying, the walk, the park. But I also found myself somber, having to cut things short, thinking of the things I was once able to do and my willingness to give anything to have it all back.

There is a smile on my face most days, but not far beneath the surface these are the things that fester behind the fibromyalgia facade. The amazing ability to hide the doubt, questions, frustrations, pain, anxiety, depression and wonder of what each day will bring. After making it home I headed to the changing room to freshen up and then as I looked up into the mirror to splash my face it occurred to me, that I was a woman  weeping. I just stood there patiently waiting for each tear to take their turn, releasing what I can only explain as an overwhelming need to expel my worries. It was just me, back from a perfect afternoon of sitting in the unexpected sun when I watched myself weep for the first time. Mind you I have cried on many occasion, but had never really observed its reflection. To watch the way my cheeks flush pink from the rush of emotion, the tears trickling over the plump of my cheeks only to fall to the floor. It was in a way, liberating. Not the word you would expect, even I am surprised by it but that is what I felt. I was ok with the woman weeping in the mirror that day. I was worn, flushed, weak and yet still held my character as everything I feared most in this world came spilling out.

I was the weeping woman. Now, I am the woman not afraid to weep.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Off Topic And In Honor Of Mothers Day

There is an unspoken translation between mother and child. The smile that brings light, the kiss of comfort, the touch of security. She watched you grow, experience life, create your own path and follow your passions. She never stopped cradling you; first from the crib to her arms then from her arms to her heart where she'll cradle you for a lifetime. I'v watched in awe as my mother touches the lives of everyone she meets, but none more than I. A teacher by profession and in life, her actions speak volumes; creating a ripple effect as if a pebble skimming water, it's mesmerizing ripples outstretched. Even now, just as a child taking her hand in mine, life becomes simple and safe. Today I thank you, for this gift of life and the unconditional love and support towards the paths I have chosen. You are my best friend, my sister, my confidant, my strength, my biggest fan, honest critic and my creator. You are my history, my future and am proud to say, my mother. 
For all of the amazing, strong mothers and women out there, today belongs to you. 

Friday, May 6, 2011

Dr. Oz Analyzes Different Treatments For Fibromyalgia

This article just thrilled me, out of all the topics to choose from Dr. Oz, known most for his appearances on Oprah and now hosting his own show chose fibromyalgia as his first article for "O" magazine. I love it, a great step in awareness through an amazing platform! The following is his evaluation of fibromyalgia, where the medical community stands as well as what treatments he suggests.
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{1}Defining Fibromyalgia: Though classified as a disorder of the musculoskeletal system, the condition is now seen as a central nervous system problem. Symptoms include increased sensitivity to pain, achy and stiff joints, fatigue, and specific tender points on the back, chest, arms, and legs. Migraines, sleep disorders, and irritable bowel syndrome are also common complaints. Up to 3 percent of the population may suffer from fibromyalgia, but with no clear cause, the condition is difficult to diagnose.

Western Medicine Approach: A formal diagnosis for fibromyalgia didn't exist until 1990, but now there are three FDA-approved meds to combat the pain. Still, says Nancy Klimas, MD, director of the Allergy and Immunology Clinic at the University of Miami, "there is much more to treatment than a pill." Strategies are needed to improve sleep, stretch and restore symmetry to muscles that have been shortened by spasm, and raise overall conditioning through exercise.

Energy-Based Approach: Practitioners believe the root of fibromyalgia is a disturbance in nerves that blocks energy. The disturbance, says Devi S. Nambudripad, MD, PhD, and a licensed acupuncturist, is caused by sensitivities to substances ranging from pollen to vaccines to chemical agents in fabrics. Anxiety and depression may also play a part. Practitioners use acupuncture to release energy and allergy testing to identify problem substances.

Psychological Approach: "The pain of fibromyalgia is not caused by depression," says Leonard Jason, PhD, professor of psychology at DePaul University, "but depression can deepen a patient's experience of pain." Mental health professionals may play a complementary role in treatment, but it's a vital one. Cognitive behavioral therapy can relieve depression and help patients identify sources of stress that magnify their symptoms.

Nutrition-Based Approach: Fibromyalgia is a systemwide breakdown, says Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, medical director of the nationwide Fibromyalgia & Fatigue Centers. After suffering from the disease in the 1970s, he developed his own protocol; in studies, patients improved by as much as 91 percent. He recommends supplements to help sufferers sleep, balance hormones, boost immunity, and improve nutrition. He also prescribes regular exercise. (Try Dr. Oz's 20-minute workout plan)

My Recommendation: Because Western medicine was slow to accept fibromyalgia, it is behind in its work; this is an area where patients will want to take a serious look at alternative approaches. Energy-based medicine could offer some important advances in treatment over the next decade, but since it has yet to be tested by independent research, I think it's premature to base your therapy solely on this approach. I'm more impressed by Teitelbaum's supplement regimen, and not only because he has tested his theories: I've put patients on this program with very good results. I would add counseling, as it should always be a part of fibromyalgia treatment. If after a couple of months you don't see improvement, talk to your doctor about drug therapy.

{1} O' Magazine 

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

5 Common Mistakes Fibromyalgia Patients Make

Dealing with the constant, daily pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia(FM) can be a tough task. But the task can be even tougher if you fall into some common traps. We all make mistakes, but there are some missteps that can make it even harder to cope with FM.  Here are some suggestions on how to avoid them and make managing your Fibro lifestyle that much easier.

Not tracking your pain
[1]"The problem with fibromyalgia is that patients are always in pain so it's hard to judge when things get better and when they don't get better," says Bruce Baethge, MD, a rheumatologist with Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine.
As I have mentioned before, my daily pain diary was and is my salvation when it comes to tracking my health. Keeping a pain diary can help you keep track of the ebbs and flows of your FM, this way when things are better, you can also figure out what made them better and what to do next time.

Expecting too much from medication
There are three drugs the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved for fibromyalgia: Lyrica, Cymablta and Sevella. These drugs may or may not work for you, or only be partially effective. They can also be expensive and have side effects, including some psychiatric problems.
The tip here is to be flexible about your options and be willing to switch if necessary. "Treatment for fibromyalgia is not just one medicine. It's a lifestyle," says Dr. Baethge.

Refusing to consider off-label drugs
Personally I think this is one of the biggest mistakes people make, when many off-label drugs are those that are approved for use with one condition but frequently given to people with another condition. For example, FM patients are often treated with antidepressants, even though not all are specifically approved for this condition; however, many people get dramatic relief with both older and newer generations of antidepressants. Take the stigma out of these forms of treatment, otherwise you are cutting yourself short in more ways than you could imagine.

Sticking with the wrong doctor
Whether you are still on your path or have already been diagnosed, you learn quickly that there are physicians out there who still think that fibromyalgia patients are making up the symptoms. Ultimately this kind of doctor isn't going to explore all the options for your care. Don't be afraid to switch if you think you may be seeing one of these non-believers. Seek out a specialist, such as a rheumatologist who focuses on FM or try the Co-Cure Project which has a list of patient-recommended doctors by state.

Not moving because it hurts too much
I am the first to admit that I fall into this trap, on more than one occasion I am afraid to admit. But the number one thing that has shown the best results for managing FM pain in exercise. Whether it's swimming, walking or Yoga it is crucial to find a way to get out there and move. I have not only been there myself but can understand the feeling of not wanting to exercise because when you first try it, we hurt even more.
I am constantly working on finding a balance for my own treatment plan, but through my journey of meeting other patients, there are those who have had such success they have been able to forgo medication altogether and get by on exercise alone to help with pain.

As we keep saying, fibromyalgia is a lifestyle and just like life itself there are going to be ups, downs and windy roads so we have to learn to be flexible with ourselves and our diagnosis. Just remember to not take life too seriously all the time, seek out support and give yourself a break. After all, we are only human.


[1] MSN Health

Monday, May 2, 2011

Fibromyalgia: Life Sentence Or New Lease on Life?

I suppose this question could be answered by weather you are a glass half empty or half full sort of person; however, either way when it comes to managing Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (FM/CFS) the "life sentence" could be the easy choice. I've never been a fan of this saying, I am more the "Live it up, or drink it down!", kind of person but am the first to admit that even now after all these years of managing my symptoms, there are days where it feels like I have been dealt the dead mans hand and my only option is to fold.

My rough attempt at using poker for play here, my reference to "fold" does not relate to any personal suicidal tendencies, but through all my chatting in different support groups for people with FM/CFS this is a real and sensitive issue. The depression involved in your fight may have highs and lows or you may not have any real anxiety at all making your full time focus to managing your pain. The reason I bring up depression and the slippery slope it can take, is because I feel that it is overlooked not only once diagnosed but also during the journey to discovering answers.

No matter who you are, it is a natural response to have increased stress and anxiety in regards to your health which leads to different levels of depression. For me, my treatment plan has to consist of some sort of mental health treatment, whether it be a counselor or medication. In fact I started seeing a therapist long before I was formally diagnosed just to deal with the how this illness was effecting my work, family and lifestyle in ways that I could have never imagined. Any support group is a plus in my book, but I am also a firm advocate in seeking professional mental heath experts to help you reach your physical and mental health goals. If you haven't met with someone as of yet, I would highly recommend it - you've got nothing to lose.

Fibromyalgia is a life sentence and until there is a cure we will continue to learn, fight and move forward. Now, after saying that I will also say that Fibromyalgia is or can also be a new lease on life. I know more about my body than ever before, faced physical pain on a daily basis proving that I am much stronger than I will ever give myself credit for and I have met amazing patients, Dr.'s, fighters, supporters that have changed my life forever. All of these would have never happened if it were not for my continuing survival of FM/CFS.

Half full or half empty? That is up to you, just make sure you live it up in the meantime and be honest with yourself, your health needs both mental and physical and never be afraid to ask for help.