Struggling with a cold

Posted , 7 users are following.

Hi all and happy new year!

I posted before about a situation I had in the beginning of the autumn term, it took me 3 months to start slowly getting over it with medication. Basically I had all the classic CFS symptoms, and only managed to sort out the horrible symptoms with antidepressants and gabapentin which I take 200mg of 3 times a day. That really seemed to do the trick.

I have been ill with a cold since Wednesday, I am feeling truly awful, everyone else in the family who got it recovered in 2 days with minor sniffles but I am feeling like I have been hit by a truck. Thankfully, I sleep ok (I do take meds for that) and am getting lots of rest.

My question is, how long do colds typically last when one has CFS? Will it take me another 3 months because if that's the case, I d rather die. I had made such great progress in the last 3 months, only to be set back by a stupid virus.

ps. I am drinking lots of warm fluids, I supplement with Zinc and vitamin c, i'm on also on Dequadin and my fever is only low grade, up to 37.1 at most which I know sounds ridiculously low, but is enough to exhaust me completely. But my throat glands are very tender, my elbow joints ache, I feel really woozy and unwell and I am getting chills followed by sweating overnight. 

Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks.

1 like, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Katperd,

    I'm so sorry, because I know how miserable it is and it is really tough.   I really feel for you.  I'm so glad to hear that you are taking care of yourself because I would imagine that you won't be sick for 3 months since you are doing so much. to keep well.

    Best Wishes,

    Love,

    Dawn

  • Posted

    As soon as I start feeling sick, especially if it is throat or sinus related I drink a large amount of citrus juice, it always helps & sometimes knocks it right out. (Fresh juice is much better than vitamins) I drink grapefruit juice or lemonade.

    Every fall/winter I make a extra large batch of Chicken soup. All natural: a whole chicken, onions, celery, carrots & lots of broth. I put it in the freezer in small containers..So when I start to feel sick, I already have some ready when I need it. You would be suprised how much better it can make you feel. (Jewish Penicillin)

    But sometimes no matter what you do, a visit to the Dr. is required to get better & Lots of rest...

  • Posted

    Hi Katperd,

    I've had CFS for 25 years, and in my experience, it takes a lot longer to recover from any illness than most. I often need to get treated by an Ears Nose and Throat specialist to help with the symptoms of the cold or upper respiratory virus.

    Glad to hear that you are getting some relief from the gabapentin for the CFS.  

    Hang in there. I'm sure once the symptoms of your cold subside, you will feel better. 

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