Fibromyalgia And Interstitial Cystitis

Hi Teex and thanks for bringing your concerns to EmpowHER.

Working presents many challenges to a person with a chronic illness, and you have a double challenge. It's not easy, it it?

One thing that may help you is to join an online support group for people with fibromyalgia. Being around other people who do not judge and who understand what you are dealing with lessens the isolation and often leads to helpful tips that improve your quality of life which medical professional may not even consider.

This link has some suggestions from Fibromyalgia Network: http://www.fmnetnews.com/coping-resources/support-groups

In terms of your job, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects your right to employment by requiring most employees to make changes -- called "reasonable accommodation" -- to help keep you working. It would help you to become familiar with your legal rights before approaching your employer and to have a clear idea of what type of support, or accommodation, would be helpful to you in order for you to continue to do your job. Please see the following link for in-depth information, and there are other, newer resources about the ADA online as well.

Fibromyalgia and the ADA: http://www.fmpartnership.org/articles/ADA%20Article.pdf

Another suggestion is to consider physical therapy as therapists knowledgeable about fibromyalgia can help in learning how to relieve some of the pain and stiffness, and how to build more strength and endurance to better manage life's daily challenges and take steps to prevent painful flareups. It may take some research to find a therapist with this knowledge.  

The urinary frequency that comes with interstitial cystitis is a tough one, not just at work but in daily life, such as when a person needs to travel. There are some helpful articles in our Interstitial Cystitis Community section, including this one: Dietary Products for Bladder Health.

There is no one magic or quick solution that will help you, but with some additional knowledge and some work, you can hopefully take many steps forward to gain more control over your life, your health and your job.

Will you let us know if this has been helpful? We wish the best for you.

Take care,

Pat