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1349329 tn?1276985202

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Hi, I am a 55 year old female, and I was diagnosed with Fibro about 2-3 years ago.  At the same time I was also Diagnosed with a Thyroid disorder and Severe Vit D deficiency.

The best suggestion I received for the Fibro was exercise, however it's a little dificult since I have bad Arthritis in every level of my spine, and my right knee is shot.  I recently joined the Y so I can do swimming exercise.

I also get depressed from  time to time, just don't feel well, fatigued,etc.  My Dr. started me on Tramadol about 2 months ago, and it works pretty well.  However, I just read on the Substance Abuse side that many people are addicted to Tramadol.

I've never used more than prescribed, and although it doesn't take away every ache and pain, it really has helped me alot.  I can't take Lyrica, and most other meds because of side effects.

Is anyone else here being treated with Tramadol for their Fibro.

Also, I just wanted to introduce myself and say hi.
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611067 tn?1458591483
I think different things seem to work for everyone differently.  If that makes sense.  Fibro even seems to affect us all differently as well.

I take Wellbutrin once in the morning and Savella once in the morning and once around 3 p.m.  Those 2 medications together have made a HUGE difference.  I started the Savella about a month or so ago.  The side effects for Savella were horrible!  I managed to push myself through the worse of it and am so thankful I did - it's been worth it.

I take Lortab for breakthrough pain.  

Also, I take Tizidine every night before bed.  It helps with muscle cramps.  I no longer wake up in the middle of the night in horrendous muscle cramps and pain.

If Tramadol works for you, yes, please take it.  But, as mentioned above do not STOP it without tapering.  Tramadol needs to be stopped slowly over time and your doctor should help you with that.  It's true that it can be addictive but if you use it appropriately you should be fine.

Good luck!
Helpful - 0
1353650 tn?1429463374
Hi and welcome, I to suffer with fibromyalgia, thyroid inflammation and very low vit. D levels. I found a Endocrinologist that listened to all of my complaints. First off the only way I could get my vitamin D levels to rise was to take digestive enzymes with my meals. Second when my doctor found the inflammation of the thyroid she put me on 1 grain of armour med. even though my blood showed normal thyroid levels. She said that even though I had normal levels they may not be my normal. I was on the armour for about 4 weeks when I noticed my constipation and full feeling after eating went away. My fatigue, low body temp., and brain fog got a little better also. I didn't improve as much as she thought I should so she had me do a glucose / insulin tolerance test. She discovered that I had reactive hypoglycemia and a high normal elevation of glucose. She put me on a strict diet but it didn't help very much. I told her it seemed that whenever I would ingest any sugar or carbs my pain would suddenly become worse. She then diagnosed me with insulin resistance even though my blood work didn't show it. I am currently on medication for insulin resistance and low thyroid and it has helped me tremendously. I have never taken any other medication for my fibromyalgia. My rheumatologist offered me plenty of drugs and said there is no cure for my condition. Give me 6 more months and I believe I can prove him wrong. For some reason not even my endo. doc. can explain why I have problems with pain in my abdomen when I ingest to much food or to much fat. The digestive enzymes help with absorbing my omega 3 fats and fat soluble vitamins. Hopefully as my body heals so does the abdomen. I hope this helps you in some way. I don't believe everyone with fibromyalgia has the same problem I do but, It wouldn't hurt to have it checked. Doctors seem to always over look the simple diagnosis. I have much more energy and a lot less pain and looking forward to the future. I wish you the best. If you need any more info. let me know.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Some folks have luck with a B-vit complex, Omega-3, and Evening Primrose as support for energy and Fibro.  Hopefully you are getting regular check ups for the Thyroid & Vit D deficiency.  As TrudieC mentioned, one of several anti-depressants may prove to lift some of the fatique.  Cymbalta and Savella are advertised to help.  I've had success with an older one: Wellbutron.  Swimming is the least stressful exercise on bad joints.  Try a heated spa if available and massage therapy.  Your doctor can prescribe massage.  Sorry, not familiar with Tramadol. I do know it's wise to watch your liver and kidney function on this drug and extended use will most likely reduce it's effectiveness, requiring higher quantities for the same help. WebMD may have something to say about the Rx. Nice to make your acquaintance!
Helpful - 0
483733 tn?1326798446
Welcome!  Tramadol is one of those drugs that either works or doesn't.  It didn't do anything for me and I've had good luck with Lyrica.  Everyone is different and the key is finding the mix that works best for you.  Are you taking an anti-depressant?  They can really help too.  I'm on Remeron and once my depression lifted I found I had more energy and could more easily deal with the pain issues.

I wouldn't worry about the addiction.  If you are following your prescription right you are not abusing it.  If you decide to stop you can't do that cold turkey - it must be done on a gradual basis.
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