It's wonderful news if you don't have RA. Fibromyalgia can be a real pain (no pun intended) to live with -- but can be managed for many patients if they take good care of themselves. I have two family members with FM -- as long as they get plenty of rest, eat properly, careful but diligent exercise when feeling well - (the way ALL of us should take care of ourselves regardless) - they cope with the FM quite well.
Only time they have problems is when they have stress -- problems on the job, illness or death in the family, etc. We try very hard not to have drama in the family - that's probably better for all of us as well. It takes a certain level of maturity from the patient NOT to use the FM as an excuse to avoid helping with the chores, etc. And more maturity in the rest of the family to accept that when the patient says she cannot do something, she truly cannot. And to not make undue demands or try to lay guilt on her.
I hope with this diagnosis you will be able to manage your symptoms and get back to a normal life. |