I hope this finds it's way to the woman and her daughter suffering from chronic fatigue associated with FM. First off, have you considered that your full diagnosis might be CFIDS/FM (Chronic Fatigue Immune Disfunction)? The illnesses are closely related, but different.
THere is no easy cure for deep pathological fatigue like you are experiencing, so fasten your seat belt--you are in for a long, slow ride.
The best thing you can do for yourself is make sure you are getting 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Try every sleep med your doc is willing to throw at this problem, though try everything that is non-habit-forming FIRST. Like a low dose of a tricyclic like Doxepin, for instance. See a CFIDS specialist or a neurologist knowledgable about sleep disorders. Because a sleep disorder may very well prove to be the underlying pathology of both FM and CFIDS.
THe second thing you MUST do and the sooner you learn this the faster you will improve: you must NEVER "push through" the fatigue. The minute you feel it, you need to lie down. Yes, this will mean missing out on many, many things and I won't kid you--there are times it will break your heart.
But surrendering to this illness is that pathway out. This is NOT an illness that you "Fight," like cancer.
Let me know if there's anything else I can do.
Sincerely,
Tamara Lewis
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Tamara, I've shared your information with the woman who has chronic fatigue. Are you a patient advocate for those with chronic fatigue syndrome?
May 23, 2008 - 9:22amThis Comment
Hi, Tamara:
You sound as though you have had experience with this condition. Were you diagnosed with CFIDS?
Please do share your story. :)
May 22, 2008 - 7:19pmThis Comment