Thank you for taking time to respond at such length.  There is a psychiatrist involved who is very good.  We had the depression sort of under control...and this eye pain just exploded.  So we're in the trying things mode again, which really triggers my frustration.  I really am working on gentleness and patience and walking each day.  meggie

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply.  I have been on anti-depressants for many years.  I agree some of them are awful...horrible side effects and no help.  But I did finally find a really good psychiatrist by telemetry (like Skype) who put me on a couple of meds I'd never taken before and experimented with doses and times a day and it was almost working...until this eye pain exploded.  Sounds like you're not on a health plan that covers a psychiatrist??  Be sure to find a really good one if you do decide to go this route...one you can really talk to.  I hope your holidays bring some joy and peace.  meggie

Jim * I became very concerned about you when you talk about depression and suicide. I am nowhere in the same pain as you, so I cannot relate to that. A few things you have not mention is acupuncture, foot massage, foot vibrator (a good one* mine cost $125 and that was eight years ago.), mixture of tree tea oil and frankincense. some of these might seem silly to you, because you have tried so much. My neurologist has recommended large doses of vitamin b-12 ( I take shots plus 5000 mgs under the tongue every day. I will be thinking of you

Thank you so much for your response and your prayers.  It sort of helps to know Jesus suffered too.  May you have something special planned for these next weeks of holidays.  meggie

Thank you so much for taking time to reply and to give suggestions.  Living in the present moment or awareness is a Benedictine discipline that is standing me in good stead.  I admire your courage to keep trying...and to take time to reply to a stranger.  meggie

Thank you for taking time to respond.  It means a lot.  meggie

I take tramadol doctor prescribed it for me saying I could take it every six hours for pain if needed. She was giving me a two week supply. I have osteoarthritis in all my joints sever scoliosis and have had a THR in April. When I called a few months ago to have it renewed, two week supply lasted me 3 weeks was told I have to make it last a month. Have neck degeneration cannot carry anything more then ten pounds if a do I have a constant headache. Now am having problems with both of my knees. Sit down can hardly get back up. Blamed it at first on the THR. Still recovering from that. Have not been able to walk outside the home without the aid of a cane. I also take an herbal joint aid and Tumeric which has helped with my joints. I only take one Tramadol at night. You are right people don't understand by looking at us. I have tried going to a chiropractor for my back because since my surgery pain has been bad. He has helped somewhat. At my daughters urging I have started going for Reiki sessions which has helped a lot. Come out feeling relaxed and am able to sleep better. Can't believe the things she has told me. Without even touching me she told me about all my problems. Last session told me I was having a problem with my right knee and try to keep weight off it. Next day I went for my Swedish massage and she told me I had a problem with the muscle above the right knee leading to the hip didn't feel that way other months. Told me to try and keep weight off it too. Recommended I see my doctor. Haven't done that yet wanted to do another Reiki session and see what she says. Seemed strange for a Reiki master who didn't touch me told me the same as my therapist.

Thankyou so much for taking time to reply.  I agree, the combination of Lyrica and Tramadol take it down to the bearable stage.  I'm lucky I live in a rural area and have a very understanding family dr.I admire your courage and perseverance and hope you have a Thanksgiving that's joy filled and peaceful.  meggie

I'm sorry to hear of your struggles-it's difficult and frustrating to hear "just manage" when obviously we wouldn't be seeking help from the medical community if we could-diet,exercise,hot pads,massage pads,medication,dietary supplements,humor and remembering to be grateful for every blessing that comes my way has been the most helpful for me.I wish you well!

@meggie Hello, It's quite frustrating to have to deal with depression as well as fibromyalgia pain isn't it? It is one of the many complexities of the condition along with IBS, sleep issues, etc. I have learned to listen to my body and limit what I do. But I make sure that on those days when I don't want to get out of bed or off the sofa, I get up and move. I find turning on uplifting happy music helps, having a positive attitude and prayer are important too. Talking to others who understand is beneficial but only if the other person isn't wallowing in self pity. Blessings to you.