Fibromyalgia - Does anything help relieve severe pain during flares?
I was officially diagnosed with Fibro two years ago. I don't take any medications except for 5mg Flexeril (muscle relaxer) at night during flares, and some supplements recommended by my functional medicine Nurse Practitioner that don't seem to be helping. A hot bath before bed helps a little.
I'm now in the middle of a flare and in extreme pain all day. I try to stay busy to take my mind off it, but it's very hard to cope.
I'm very reluctant to go on meds such as Cymbalta, Lyrica or Gabapentin. I've read they often don't help and have bad withdrawal issues if you want to stop taking them. Most doctors don't offer much help except for offering drugs, with little knowledge about their effectiveness and side effects.
I'm looking for support or help with how to continue living with this. What works for others with Fibro to lessen the pain?
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I have an electric heating mattress pad. It heats directly to my muscles. My muscles draw and needs Stretching at least twice daily. It makes me feel so much better. If you have utube, they have gentle guided programs. It workers wonders. Walking starting slow and building up as much as you are able. I also do a " Sit and be fit" on PBS.
How does the Lyrica help you? My Dr won't prescribe any Oxy pain drugs. Thanks.
Lyrica works like Gabapentin. Supposed to calm down the overactive nerves.
I switch back and forth between the gabapentin and lyrica about every other year with flexeril twice a day and it helps with the chronic pain and lowering the amount of flares that I have.
I've been seeking answers for 24 years while living with Fibromyalgia. There was a particularly severe period lasting 10-12 months, marked by intense pain, tenderness, cognitive difficulties, and insomnia. Treatments like Cymbalta and Savella left me feeling zombified and forgetful. Although there was some improvement, the condition persists with new symptoms emerging. At my worst, I was in so much pain that I cried out during the few hours of sleep I managed to get, finding solace only in hot baths 3x's daily. I had to mentally fight to prevent the condition from dominating my life, using positive affirmations to remind myself that the situation was temporary and focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or fearing the future. This mindset helped me handle each day without becoming overwhelmed. Currently, I manage my symptoms with 200 ng of Lyrica, Flexeril for muscle spasms, and recently, LDN. It's crucial to pace oneself, as overexertion, stress, surgery, injury, or illness can trigger flares. Stretching and walking are also beneficial when possible. Remember you're not alone. There are many of us that understand what you're going through.
God Bless and good luck…!!!!!
Can you explain why you stopped taking Lyrica? Thanks.
I use my tens machine .
Heating pad and electric blanket. I also have an electric vest for going out side. Sleeping pill when the attack is 2 much to bear.
I had terrible side effects which ended in affecting my vision as most drugs do.
Did your vision improve or go back to normal after you quit taking it? I have been prescribed a low dose for my fibromyalgia, but haven't started taking it yet. Thanks.