New-Have questions
gardener - Sep 18th, 2009 7:42 AM
[ Original Post ]

Hi

I am 55 years old and have been having lots of pain and swelling in my hands and feet, toes and fingers. Sometimes I feel that I have tendonitis just about everywhere. Have had pain deep in my hips. I've been reading up on arthritis, febro, etc, trying to figure out what is going on. For about the last year, if I read for about 20 minutes or more, I cannot get my eyes to refocus for quite awhile. I read that is a symptom of fibro. I've had trouble sleeping for the past several months. I just don't feel right, but don't think that my symptoms are as severe as some people's here. I think I had Lymes disease back in the 80's. I was never told that's what it was, but I was very ill for quite a long time after having found a tick on my head. On heavy duty anti biotics, muscle relaxers, pain meds, etc.
I have my annual physical Monday. Any suggestions when talking to my Dr?

Thanks so much.

Comment


 

Fantod - Sep 18th, 2009 10:01 AM

Gardner - First of all, there is no swelling associated with Fibromyalgia unless it is a side effect of a medication like Lyrica.

You are 55 years old; at that age your eyes have lost some of their elasticity which causes problems with focus. It is called presbyopia. If you do not already wear eye glasses, you probably need them now. This is a normal part of aging. If you do wear glasses, it is likely time for a new script and bifocals.

And, it is pretty hard for anyone to sleep when they have some level of pain.

You are right that something is wrong. You should have made an appointment to see your doctor long before now. I would make a list of all of the things you have described here and take it with you to the appointment. That way you won't forget anything. If you are not satified with your treatment, make an appointment to see a rheumotologist. Call your local hospital physician referral service and ask them for a recommendation. Assuming that your doctor already knows about the possible exposure to Lyme disease, make sure you mention it to the rheumy.

I'm not convinced that you have Fibromyalgia which I would not wish on my worst enemy. I hope that I am right and it is something else. Good luck with your appointment on Monday. Take care and enjoy the weekend.