newly diagnosed. what do you feel is important to know ?

Welcome, I too have suffered severe pains in both hands, wrists, arms,shoulders, neck and back for over 20yrs. Have had various tests done to rule other many symptons like carpel tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthiritus, alignment of my back by a chiropractor, reflexology, acupuncture. I have tried various anti-inflammatory meds and also homeopatic and herbal remedies over the years.  Only in Aug 2014 I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.  It was a relief to have finally have a name put to my pains rather than it just being identified with chronic pain. It was at this point I seeked CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) which is helpful in mindfulness and helps with your thought process on a daily basis.  It has taught me to deal with a day at a time and that we are not robots and can only do what we can whenever we can? With Fibro everyone experiences different pains and it's all trial and error. 

So staying calm and positive is the main help we can deal with and hopefully everything else will follow.  Diet is another thing that you may wish to consider looking into as well.

You will get so much support and advice on this forum.

Gentle hugs and take care  x

Hiya...Amithriptilyne is  the only med I take for Fibro...gives me a great pain free sleep..- no pain..still feel a tad drowsy waking up...but that sleep is what makes this Fibro manageable for me..only get flare ups now..once  it was just constant  pain almost everywhere and sleepless nights..I take it 7pm before bed..it really does work wonders ( for me..that is,) we are all very different..I take 25 mg...never had it increased either ...started on 50mg but I was like a zombie...all the next day..dropped to 10mg for a while-still not too good but 25 mg is perfect for me..it is actually an antidepressant that works excellent for pain..it numbs the nerve ends and stops the pain from jumping on to the next nerve..hence a very painful body...the antidepressant is probably a lil bonus as most of get depressed from time to time..yes it does knock me out to give me that great sleep which is just sooo needed, to be able to deal with the pain etc the next day..but once I'm up and dressed..I'm fine.....Its great...16yrs down the track..have to be woken up in the morning..but once up and about I'm just fine.....when I was first on them I was like a zombie..but it's like a miracle med for me... it takes a while to settle in.

I also take double recommended dose of  magnesium and vitamin d3... For Osteo  Arthritis I take slow release Osteo Panadol 600mg x 6 a day-recommended by specialist...doesn't build up I've been on that for 15 or so years..it's a Paracetamol,lots of hit water bottles when needed and hydrotherapy and sauna....also, please remember that less stress is the key to Fibro...that's basically my regime..but what works for me might not work for you...that's what everyone says..the muscle soasms/cramps are just horrid..I do take Ducerne/Valium 5 mg...a low dies that relaxes my muscles ok..too only when needed..I only use  three boxes a year, as I know how addictive they can be...I guess it's about taking your health in your own hands and being informed,,research as much as you can. There are plenty of reputable sites out there...be blessed..have a lovely day..:-) xxx