New Diagnostics for FIbromyalgia

This is a SUPER interesting article about the development of NEW standards for diagnosing fibro, and how if doctors are informed more doctors can diagnose, not just rheumotologists.  My tender point test was pretty inconclusive, but my rheumy doc was still convinced I had fibro. He is right, as according to these new standards, I am a typical case, all except for the tender points!

This is a very good step in a positive directionQ

http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/news/20100526/a-new-way-of-diagnosing-fibromyalgia

Arthritis Quiz

Something interesting I just learned:
Research has shown that vitamin C can worsen Osteoarthritis, but it may protect against Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Learn more when you take this arthritis quiz (there is a fibro specific question included!)

http://arthritis.about.com/library/quiz/bldietarthquiz.htm?nl=1

Even though fibro is not a form of arthritis, it seems to have very similar symptoms and some similar overlapping conditions, so I am always interested in learning more about arthritis too.

What Your Fingernails Say About Your Health

This is a really good post that found. I have started wondering lately what my iron levels are, as I know that can cause fatigue (I am eternally looking for that other diagnosis, "maybe its not really fibro, but a simpler fix like anemia!") And I came across this info, some of it on how your fingernails can clue you in on an iron deficiency. The whole list is very interesting and informative! Who knew our fingernails held so much telling info?!

http://mixedhues.blogspot.com/2009/12/what-your-nails-say-about-your-health.html

Book: The Ten Best Questions for Living with Fibromyalgia

The Ten Best Questions for Living with Fibromyalgia
The Script You Need to Take Control of Your Health

Dede Bonnerm PhD

2009

Dr. Bonner is an internationally acclaimed expert in questioning skills.

While she does not have fibromyalgia or CFS, I found this book to be a good guide from your moment of diagnosis to creating your own plan.

She tackles the 10 Best Questions in each of these Categories:

1. Talking To Your Doctor: everything from choosing a good doctor to getting a second opinion
2. Choosing Treatments: From medications to alternative therapies
3. Making Healthy Lifestyle Changes:  Getting good sleep, taming stress, eating well and identifying an exercise regimine suited for you
4. Building Your Future Life and Good Relationships: Telling others, support groups, family, sex and intimacy

Well worth a read. It is current and very helpful.

You CAN live WELL with fibromyalgia, you just have to learn how to take charge of your fibro and find treatments and lifestyle changes that work for you!