Fibromyalgia a hot issue

DEAR DR. GOTT: I’m a 42-year-old female recently diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I’ve been unable to work for four months. My meds keep getting changed, and I can’t function while in such pain, with stress and fatigue controlling my life. I have a long family history of lupus, but my doctor tells me I don’t have it. Some people don’t even believe I’m sick.

DEAR READER: Yours is a typical case that many physicians fail to understand or accept. Fibromyalgia is a controversial disorder, best explained as chronic, widespread pain of muscles and ligaments of unknown cause.

If over-the-counter or prescription medications don’t provide relief, consider counseling, chiropractic, acupuncture, massage or yoga. Practice relaxation and stress-reduction techniques. Exercise to the extent you are capable. And, if your physician is incapable of working with you for relief of your symptoms, ask for a referral to someone such as a rheumatologist, who will better understand this complex condition.