Unsure about CFS

ReadDeeply

New Member

Joined : Apr 2011

Posts : 13

Posted 4/27/2011 4:46 PM (GMT -8)

I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia 12 years go, but as time goes on and I continue to read and research as much as I can, I am wondering why I was never diagnosed with CFS?? Debilitating fatigue is always my most pronounced complaint (I've seen so many doctors I've lost count)-- to the point where I've lost all quality of life, no longer have friends or do "social" things. A big day for me is a trip to the corner store or to the doctor. It has gotten progressively worse with time. Four years ago I was able to go to the park with my sons, even bounce the basketball around a little and try to make a few baskets. The thought of my trying to do that now is laughable. I feel like I've gypped my kids of so much because of my immobility.

How exactly is CFS diagnosed? Would a doctor even bother, once you are labeled with fibro., do doc.s tend to dismiss CFS as a diagnosis when fibro. will do just as well? I also seem to have a lot of Lupus symptoms-- weird rashes on my face and legs, swollen, painful legs (unrelieved by prescribed diuretic meds), muscle twitches, bad reaction to sun and heat, sores in my mouth, and of course, the painful joints and fatigue.

I now have a great doctor, and plan on asking him about the Lupus at my next visit. I suppose I should ask about the CFS too, just wondering about others' experiences with diagnosis.

ladybugdreams

Veteran Member

Joined : Jun 2008

Posts : 733

Posted 4/29/2011 10:43 PM (GMT -8)

ReadDeeply, It is nice to meet you. I come here & see if anyone has posted about CFS, every so often, and reply as I have the energy. I hope you do not have CFS because there is no cure & I find it hard to have any kind of a life beyond my home. CFS is dx'd in the same way as Fibro, thru elimination of all other possibilities. You should definitely check out the possible Lupus, I thought I might have it but I didn't, it was the CFS & Fibro. I was dx'd with Fibro first & then my Rhuemy dx'd me with CFS as well. I found that the Center for Disease Control web site: http://www.cdc.gov/cfs/ is full of good, up to date info on CFS.

Just like you, my main complaint is overwhelming fatigue & low quality of life. I have had to cancel or postpone many plans made with others. Now most people know I probably can't make it, so no longer ask. In some ways, that's better, as I no longer have to break dates & such but now I feel more isolated from my old life. I have found that I can have a new life & a different life but I do miss my old life. Some of my old friends have stuck by me & my daughter now lives with me so I am okay.

Remember, you didn't ask to be ill, your children will understand that. We can all pack around tons of guilt because of how our illnesses affect our lives with others but it does us no good. All it causes is stress & that can land us in bed for sure. A peaceful, calm life is best for Fibro & for any other illness you may have. Take care of yourself.

I have often hoped to speak with others here about CFS & hope you will stick around & keep me posted about your appointments & dx's. I, also, hope you find the answers you are looking for.

Hugs, Denise

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