Hi all. I was finally diagnosed today as having FM and Hypermobility. I say 'finally' as I've suffered for years, but only now has someone been prepared to listen and take me seriously! I was also recently diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel in both hands, for which I will be having surgery.
How am I feeling? I guess the first word that comes to mind, strangely enough, is 'Relieved'! Having been in pain for so long and facing all sorts of potential diagnosis, I now at least know what is wrong. The next word that comes to mind is 'Fear'. I know it's not life threatening and there are many people out there facing far worse, but it's scary to think that I will have this for the rest of my life and that I can't be 'fixed'. How will I cope and manage it, particularly as I get older and my body is less likely to do what I want it to? Over the last 5 years I've noticed it's getting harder - the pain is worse, I'm stiffer more often and I get tired much more easily. I'm only 41, but some days I feel twice my age.
I refuse to give in to it and try to carry on as 'normally' as possible. I try not to let it stop me doing things, but some days I'm screaming in pain inside and just want to roll up in a ball and ignore the world. I don't, because I have a daughter, a partner and a job (I'm a teacher) and all these people depend on me and deserve the very best I can give them. I don't want them to suffer, or miss out, because I'm actually hurting and so very tired. Yes, they are supportive and understanding and never have unreasonable expectations of me - but I guess I have expectations of myself. I don't want to give in to it - not even a little bit.
I've agreed to join an 8 week programme to learn of ways to manage FM better and I'm hoping I can. I guess I've joined this site in the hopes that other sufferers can offer tips and advice on things that work for them and that I can find what works for me as soon as I can.
I look forward to learning more and to chatting to some of you soon