Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Fibro Fears

I think everyone with any kind of a chronic illness has some kind of fears. I was thinking about this and realized that I too have fears associated with this Fibromyalgia. There are so many different symptoms that affect my body. There are the migraines, the muscles cramps, the irritable bowel syndrome, the numbness in my feet and hands, the achiness all over, the pins and needles poking me here and there, the fatigue that hits me like a mack truck,the jaw pain,the carpal tunnel, the disc problems, the balance problems, and now most recently my lungs have a problem! I recently had two lung function tests and did not do well on either of them. I now need to see a pulmonary specialist to have him evaluate me and see what is going on. Naturally, I have concerns. Sometimes I am concerned that the day will come and I won't be able to drive anymore...that I would absolutely hate! Then, of course with my hands going numb quite a bit I am concerned about their use. I do as much writing as I possibly can while I can....I have so much I want to write about! So much has been left unsaid! Then, I guess sometimes I fear that there will be no one to care, or be there for me when I really am not able to care for myself. I hope and pray I am  never in that situation, but know there are some of my friends who are! I keep reminding myself that God has always taken care of me one way or another and He knows what is ahead. This is a disease the medical profession knows very little about....therefore I have some fears concerning the diagnosis itself! Since so little is known it is possible for them to not be able to help me the way I need it.  This is such a mystery illness! That is why there is such a need for research and public awareness! When you tell someone you have Fibromyalgia they pretty much look at you and say..".Oh, that's not so bad... is that all?"  Do you even have a clue? Please ... at least look it up and educate yourself and realize that it is a disease, and if someone you love has it be supportive. Do not expect them to feel better in two days as if they only have a "bug". Their illness is not going away! You may not think they are sick because when you see them they look fine to you, but believe me...when I tell you that when you live with this everyday, you learn how to fake feeling good to your friends when you do finally get the energy to get dressed and get out of the house!