Further to a discussion future down the page 'Possibly have CFS'
Posted , 4 users are following.
Hello everyone,
Just an update on the discussion I posted 'Possibly have CFS'
Today I went to the doctors to receive the results on my latest blood tests, absolutely fine no action needed. I was tested for Lymes disease, Lupus, HIV, bone problems, thyroid problems ECT ECT... I have had a C.T scan which showed a broken rib. Also an Endoscopy on Wednesday which was completely clear.
So today the doctors have referred me to a CFS Clinic in York to get some help. I feel like someone has listened to me and not thinking I am a hypicondiact making up what is happening to me. Today I am having quite a good day. But the symptoms I get are: extreme fatigue, heavy arms so I can't wash my own hair some days, heavy legs, alcohol intoralance, sleep problems, foggy mind, concentration problems, joint pain, flu symptoms, dizzy now and again, headaches also IBS symptoms.
Some days are worse than others I do manage to get myself out of the house most days with my little dog so that is a god send. I have days when I can drive my car but then there are days when I know that I shouldn't drive as I would not be safe. I work near Leeds so getting to work is not an option and when I tried to go back on a phased return it didn't work at all, after 4 hours I was completely exhausted. I am frightened I will loose my job as only on a contract until the end of January but I know my health has to come first.
I understand that the clinics don't have all the answers and everyone is different when it comes to this condition. I just hope that as well as helping me they can help my partner come to terms with the way I am now, as before this I was active and reasonably healthy. Also help my family understand.
I have had an invitation to have the flu jab and wondered if this would be a good idea?
Thanks for reading.
Tracy
0 likes, 9 replies
pixie22 tracy_40507
Posted
I've had ME/CFS for many years and i find i can safely have the flu jab with no ill effects. I also think it's wise for me anyway because flu is caused by a virus, and virus infections usually cause relapses of the ME for me. The vaccine is deactivated viruses so it's safe.
tracy_40507 pixie22
Posted
elaine62759 tracy_40507
Posted
Hi Tracy
Your symptoms do sound like typical CFS/ME ones. I'm a bit like you being able to get out the house some days with my dog but struggling other days. I also tried a phased return to work and managed to work part time for a while but spend all the time I wasn't working in bed trying to have the energy to go to work again which looking back was a terrible way to live. I eventually lost my job on ill health grounds which I found really upsetting at the time but now see it as a relief as I don't have the constant stress of trying to be well enough to go into work. If you do lose your job try and see it as an opportunity to take some time out and try and focus on your health. Financially you might be entitled to benefits or, if not, it's amazing the money you can save by shopping about and leading a simpler life.
I'd be vary of getting the flu jab as I've heard mixed reports about it. I have a friend whose ME/CFS was caused by the flu jab! She was perfectly healthy before getting it but has never been the same since. You need to weigh up the risks of how having the flu could impact on you (you can still catch it even though you get the jab as it only protects against certain strains) or taking the chance and trying it. Some people have it every year and are fine. Everyone is different.
It's great all your other tests are clear so you can finally just focus on dealing with the CFS. I hope you find the clinic helpful and get some advice that helps you manage your illness better. Sorry if my reply is a bit jumbled but not having a good day today. Off the rest and try and get some energy back!
Elaine
tracy_40507 elaine62759
Posted
Hi Elaine thank you for your reply and advice. I used to work in a school and had the flu jab for years. Then I was stopped from having it when I left the school. I had only left the doctors for about 2 hours and I had the text asking me to go for it. I think I will have it, I am going on a cruise in 2 weeks which all the doctors think will be good for me as long as I don't push myself. So I will have it when I get back.
I don't live with my partner so money is going to be a massive problem. One issue at a time I think so will worry about that later.
elaine62759 tracy_40507
Posted
If you've had the jab before and been OK with it hopefully you should be fine getting it again. Hope you enjoy your break - hopefully a change of scenery, some rest and sun will make you feel a bit better. Just try and forget all your worries and have a great time!!!
tracy_40507 elaine62759
Posted
I am so looking forward to it, just a complete change. I hope you are having a good day and can get out with your dog. Bye bye for now.
Beverley_01 tracy_40507
Posted
Hi Tracy,
Thanks for the update and glad you got the referral! Yes, they should have a booklet for family members and friends to read. They're there to support you and can workout what can help you. I think most people here were active before cfs/me and yes, it takes some adjustment ! Don't give up hope as there are people who spontaneously recover and others who are helped with resting and pacing.
Be gentle on yourself.
Beverley
tracy_40507 Beverley_01
Posted
Thank you Beverley. I hope you are not too bad at the moment. Thanks again for your reply and for been so helpful. 😁
Beverley_01 tracy_40507
Posted
Hi Tracy,
Glad to help. Am swimming against the flow at the moment but can hopefully rest a bit more today. It's a difficult condition at times but remember your system is trying to protect itself which in itself isn't a bad thing!
Beverley