Fibromyalgia Comfort, Care and Routines

What kind of treatment are you receiving for your fibro?

I am dealing with it on my own. I take NSAIDs when I am feeling pretty bad. I put heat pads on the areas that hurt the most. During the day when I can't sit, I put gel like Biofreeze on my lower back and other areas. I also try and rest as much as I can. I do however pick a few things to do around the house and do it. Then I rest. I don't have insurance right now and can't go to doctor. 

How is your day to day life impacted by fibromyalgia?

I always hurt in my legs and lower and upper back. I have other medical issues and have stiffness in my joints. When stress, lack of sleep because I hurt, and doing too much gets to me, I have a problem holding my pans, getting my pants on, putting on shoes. I would prefer to just stay in bed and try to sleep if I could ever do that. My spouse doesn't seem to get it, I can't do what I used to be able to do. I can't keep going and going and going or lift the things he expects me to lift. That I have to pick and choose what I do. He is not much of a help. 

How has fibro affected your relationships with family and friends?

My spouse and I think some family members on my side don't understand how hard it is for me. Of course my husband gets a headache and is in bed all day and as a woman, I am supposed to be cooking, cleaning, taking care of him. I could barely be able to stand and he would want me to fix dinner. I am working on being by myself. I don't need the extra stress, extra work, and lack of support from somebody that is supposed to be there for me also. I just don't know really what my family thinks. I think sometimes my mom thinks it isn't as bad as it is. I don't think anybody really knows what it is like unless they live with somebody that has it or they have it themselves.