Diagnosed with Fibromyalgia – What next?
I try to live as healthy a lifestyle as possible through a combination of a healthy balanced diet and exercise. Sadly in 2016 I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type (EDS) – a connective tissue disorder, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).
Fibromyalgia, or fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), is a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body. People suffering with widespread pain from fibromyalgia may also experience increased sensitivity to pain, fatigue (extreme tiredness) and muscle stiffness.
I was shocked when I received my diagnoses, and I don’t think 2 years on I have properly come to terms with it. So, what do I do to make living with Fibromyalgia and these other conditions a more positive experience?
- I have learnt my limits and effectively a new ‘normal’. I now work part time as I cannot sustain full time work, this is a big help. I listen to my body.
- I swim. This is 30-60 minutes of pure bliss. If I am feeling more energetic, I may take part in an Aqua Fit session.
- I aim for 8 hours of sleep a night. That said, there has been many a time recently when I am wide awake in the early hours because of pain.
- I have distraction techniques. I watch a movie at home or go and see one at the cinema.
- My local Disability Resource Centre gave me details of a local support group. I am considering joining it as it may help hearing about other peoples coping techniques.
- I use special tools to make day to day living that much easier. These tools have in particular transformed my ability to prepare meals from scratch.
I do not know what triggered my fibromyalgia, but it can have controversial link with trauma incidents, including car accidents (although not in my case). If you were diagnosed with fibromyalgia after a car accident there is help and advice available.
To summarise, I try to be as positive as possible about my conditions as I cannot change the cards I have been dealt. They don’t define who I am. I have learnt to adapt accordingly and actually appreciate what I have so much more.
Disclaimer – I am not a medical professional. This is not medical advice. If you are concerned about your health, you should consult your GP or other health professional.