Question:
I want as much input as possible from as many suffers as possible. In
you opinion - what is the best medication or treatment for the ongoing control
of the pain of fibromyalgia. I have had this for several years now and have
been given nsaids and told to exercise, etc. I began suffering from migraines
after my hysterectomy last year and the doc placed me on fiorinal #3 - which
helps not only the headache but the muscle tenderness. Does this sound right?
A headache medicine helping muscle pain? Anyway - I will be going to a new
doctor soon and would like to be as informed as possible as I am longing for
some true and real relief (if that be possible).
Answer:
First of all, you need to learn as much as you can about FMS. The "Bible" of FMS
is "Fibromyalgia & Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome," by Starlanyl and Copeland.
I've known members of this FMily who have copied pages in that book, with
pertinent passages underlined, and taken the copies with them to the doctor.
Secondly, after you learn about FM, you need to find out what your doctor thinks
about it. The best way to do this: Just ask him! "Dr. ..., What do you think
about Fibromyalgia?" If he indicates that IAIYH (It's All In Your Head), tell him
it was nice to meet him, and run as fast as you can out of there. Don't waste one
more minute or one more dollar on him.
When you do find an Enlightened One, he / she will help you find the best pain
medication regime for you.
We all have different needs as far as medications go. Just because I take
Darvocet, and somebody else take Morphine does not mean one is better or worse
than the other. Each pain med. is to be giving for a unique situation. I might
take 5 different pain meds at different times throughout the year.
The same holds true of other treatments. Most of us can't exercise too much, and
when we do we plan carefully and pick the best method for ourselves at that time.
Right now, I will be happy when I work up to walking around the entire block.
I wish there was a "Best" of any of the things we try for this DD. I'm all for
"the best."
