Last Updated on December 22, 2019 by melissanreynolds
My book Melissa vs Fibromyalgia: My journey Fighting Chronic Pain, Chronic Fatigue and Insomnia is available for preorder on Amazon now! I am so excited, I can’t even tell you!
It was a bucket list entry that I didn’t think I could realise. It took a lot of time sitting at the computer, which isn’t so great for me, but I managed it in small chunks. A little at a time. One step at a time, which is how I suggest approaching the fibromyalgia!
This is what I wish the doctor had pressed into my hands when I was given, at last, a reason (or as close as I can get) for the pain, fatigue and insomnia I had been fighting for nearly 10 years already.
Who wouldn’t want a road map that lays out the specific steps to take to reduce pain, increase energy and generally limit the misery of not knowing?
I can’t provide a finely detailed road map tailored to you, but I have done the next best thing – I wrote up my experience combined with the research.
What’s in it?
I share the key things that help me and what the research says about these things so that you have somewhere to start. I have gone through many books, articles and pieces of research. I’ve done numerous experiments on myself – from figuring out my ideal walk length to trying low dose naltrexone
Nothing I’ve tried has severe side effects. I do share my experience with amitriptyline, an older tricyclic antidepressant that can help with sedation (to fall asleep), pain and headaches. This has several potential side effects, mostly mitigated for me by the low dosage, that means the cost/benefit ratio doesn’t work for many. The chances of it working, of the effects not wearing off and potential side effects make it a tricky option. I’ve always said I am lucky that the locum GP – who I saw once, saw my history of insomnia and put me on it – gave it to me prior to my being able to research, because I’d probably not have tried it.
Other than the low dose naltrexone and amitriptyline, the things I do are generally low in the side effect profile and self-controlled. There are tons of natural options and tips and tricks in here.
Self-efficacy is vital in managing this illness. Every day we have to do the work. We can’t hand this off and expect to be well.
The free ecourse that goes with it
Simply sign up here and you will gain immediate access to the You vs Fibromyalgia micro course in addition to joining the team for all of the tips and tricks I offer in my newsletters and access to my free resources page! I would love to help you with your journey.