Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia.
Yep, I've long suspected it, but unti l saw my new specialist on Wednesday, it wasn't diagnosed. [Read: hundreds of doctors refuse to say if it's stress, ME/CFS or Fibromyalgia.] He's given me a script for Lyrica, so we're out of pocket for over $100 at least. If it doesn't work in a week, I can move on to stronger painkillers. Think Vicodin, OxyContin, etc. My new specialist, for once in my life, thinks that there is no way I can become an addict if I use it to treat pain! Besides, I don't have an addictive personality, and if I didn't require all these meds to survive, I would stop all of them. I'd rather be med free!

What this means for me:
Well, finally, a definitive diagnosis that sounds like a real illness. People say: "OH, so you're just tired and get to sleep all the time." when you say "CFS". When you say "Fibromyalgia", they say: "What is that? It sounds terrible!" Also, it means, for the first time in about 9-10 years, my pain will be treated. This gives me so much hope for my return to school; I sleep more when I'm pain-free, and I can stay at school longer when I'm pain free. I can also study for hours each night when I'm pain-free. If whatever painkiller this specialist gives me works, I will be so happy!

I've also been referred to another sleep specalist, although my new specialist reassures me that this person is an expert in the field. Hope so! I don't want to hear the words "sleep hygeine" again! I'm also being referred to someone about my dizziness, blacking out, etc. The aortal valve leakage isn't causing it to this extent, so I need a tilt table test. It really doesn't sound pleasant, but I do want answers!

Does anyone have any advice for how to deal with Fibro, what meds to try/request, and just general info, I don't know a lot about it! Thanks!! xoxo