Life of a Fibro-mite

Hello friends.

I've been away for a few months. Since I was last here in the Fall, a lot has happened. My family moved, I am 'officially' unemployed, I applied and was turned downfor SSD...and that's just the beginning.

Just last week I was sent to a neurologist. (I should have gone years ago!!!) I found out I have bilateral Carpal Tunnel, neuropathy in hands and feet and suspected to have Sjogren's Syndrome. I have to go back to see him Wednesday of this week. At that time he is going to do nerve tests on my legs and feet. I am also have a ton of blood work...including being tested for diabetes.

I suppose this is really nothing new here at this site. Many of us seem to have several similar and/or overlapping illnesses or syndromes 0r whatever they're calling these painful "things." I just know they are getting harder and harder to deal with.

I also recently have started seeing a therapist and next week I go to my first "psychiatrict" evaluation and medicine consultation. Maybe that will help with the depression I have fallen into. My regular PCP did increase my Cymbalta to 120 mg per day. That has helped with my crying bouts, but not really for the fibro/lupus and "possible" sjogren's s.

I asked my regular PCP about the extreme burning hands/feet and the fact that I'd been dropping things with my left hand. I was happy she sent me to the neurologist. When they were testing my hands/arms with the electrodes, the girl asked me how severe the pain was in my hands and wrists. Of course,  I told her I hurt somewhere ALL of the time, so I didn't think that was any worse that what'd I'd been feeling. Apparently the Carpal Tunnel is severe in my left hand...oh well. What's new.

I will try to do better about writing here. I've found with the depression I've pushed a lot of things and people away that I shouldn't. I often go into my own little world where I can pretend I have no pain, no burning...just hide like it isn't real or it will go away. I know that is only a facade, but sometimes it helps me escape.

Well, I'm going to rest my hands now, take something to relieve the pain and watch the snow/sleet/rain mixture. I really appreciate those of you that have "hugged" me and thought of me while I've been out of the loop here. It means so much to me. I need to remember that this place should be my escape...this is where people can understand what I deal with....you are my brothers and sisters here and I need to cling to you guys when I feel I must push away the outside that don't have a clue what chronic illnesses do to us.

Hoping all is well with the rest of you.

Many blessings,
Karen