Another Dr. More Test.....

How many Dr's does it take to find out what's causing pain?


1) My Family Dr.

2) Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist

3) Rheumatoidologist

Hopefully, the third time IS the charm.

I saw the Rheumatoidologist yesterday.

He did a full examination and MORE blood test. This time they are checking my muscle enzymes. It seems that when you have muscle damage, the enzyme levels are elevated.

So, the only way to find out is to take my blood.

At least I'm getting better at having this done. I used to pass out frequently when they took my blood. I haven't done that, yet!

The Dr. checked my bones, my reflexes, my muscle strength, my breathing, etc, etc, etc....

He says that I have Osteoarthritis and Fibromyalgia. Both can cause wide spread muscle and joint pain, which I have. One of the main symptoms of Fibromyalgia is fatigue. It affects your non-rem sleep, or your deep level sleep, the restful rejuvenating sleep.
He suggested that I work on my sleep patterns by:

Going to bed and getting up at the same time every day
Avoid caffeine, sugar and alcohol before bed
Avoid eating immediately before bed
Practice relaxation exercises while falling to sleep
Avoid exercising within three hours of bedtime
Maintain a sleep environment that has a comfortable temperature and is quiet, free from distractions such as television
Limit daytime napping.

The hardest one for me will be the limiting of caffeine. Since Dr. Pepper is about all I ever drink.
However, if it will help me sleep and feel better, I'll learn to drink water.

The Dr. also talked to me about a clinical study that they are participating in. It is a "Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Safety and Efficacy Study of XYREM in Subjects with Fibromyalgia." A 27 week study.
Jazz Pharmaceutical Researchers want to find out if the drug Xyrem can help people with Fibromyalgia.

This drug is in the family of the date rape drug, a known drug of abuse. (Fun stuff....Huh....)It can be addictive. When you take it you are to be in bed and ready for sleep, not responsible for any child or elderly person and can not drive or do anything that requires mental alertness for 6 to 8 hours after taking the solution.

Not really sure that I want to participate in that study.

Anyway, I am supposed to cut WAY down on the caffeine and try to get restful sleep. Continue taking Advil or Tylenol for the pain. The Dr. will call when the blood test results are back and I am to see him on April 9th for a follow up and to decide what we will do next.

One good thing the Dr. mentioned, is that massage therapy is very useful in helping with the pain.
A VERY good reason to visit the spa. I know I sure enjoy a good massage....

I'll keep you posted.............