fibro for 14 years now

[cdwimmer73]

I was diagnosed with fibro, RA, and another connective/autoimmune disorder which they couldn't pin down 14 years ago, I was 27 years old I am now 41. Recently past two years I have gone down hill, but have remained working etc., I'm not ready to throw in the towel just yet, I deal with it even though in the morning and at night I can barely walk it hurts bad.  My neurologist said its time for a spinal implant to send my brain signals that there is no pain, two years ago I also was diagnosed with neuropathy, and due to pain my neurologist says its important I have this surgery, I am not  diabetic, my blood tests always show positive ANA, high sedrate, high for all three or four kinds of arthritis, my neurologist hates the word fibromyalgia because he says its a copout for underlying issues when a specialist can't figure out what's really wrong with a person.  I am going to see another specialist who deals with disorders such mentioned n my post.  Does anyone or has anyone have or had these same issues, or the spinal implant please I see my neurologist in January again to give him an answer about the implant I just don't want to make a decision yet even though he has told me two years ago about this surgery.

[Pattinich]

Be extra careful when dealing with any 'Specialist' who does not believe in Fibromyalgia.   It REALLY does exist as evidenced by so many who have been diagnosed with it and it is an auto immune system dysfunction which is different from disease in that it is not progressive.   You will not die from it but will sometimes wish you could.  Keep researching and you will find ways to help you.   Many doctors and natural healing professionals are aware of Fibro and understand how to help.

[OldFatChick]

I have fibro, Sjogren's, UCTD, Hashimoto's, polymyositis, Raynaud's and IBS. I have had back problems for some time. I have arthritis throughout my spine and in my hands. I also have neuropathy. I am not diabetic, but it runs in my family. I have had one spinal fusion, back in 2001. It worked well and I was pain free for years. I was diagnosed with autoimmune disease back around 2006 or 2007, but I really couldn't tell you how long I had it. The IBS started when I was a kid. I was in physical therapy for a while, and the e-stim was awesome.

You mentioned a neurologist, but have you seen a rheumatologist? That is who generally treats most autoimmune issues. Is that the specialist you are going to see? My rheumatologist diagnosed my fibro. It's a different kind of pain than arthritis or muscle spasms or any of that. I wish you luck, whatever you decide.