Everyone has different problems and pain. Are you applying for Social Security benefits? If not you need to do this as soon as possible because it takes a long time to get approved. Everyone (almost) gets turned down the first time. It took me 2 denials. and was approved on the third. Hang in there and don't forget that we are always here for you. No question is a stupid question and if you just need to talk, we are here for you. I am sending hugs and prayers your way. God Bless You...

Has your gp referred you to a rheumatologist? They will confirm his diagnosis. That way you then have a letter confirming what you have. Your gp can also provide evidence in support of a housing benefit claim and other benefits claims. Look into any welfare rights agencies close to you, citizens advice bureau for example. There are other organisations, Google welfare rights advice within your area. Main thing is, if you get refused, appeal, I have done this and won both times. As for symptoms, they are many and varied, sometimes I feel like someone has a voodoo doll of me and is randomly stabbing it!! I'd say the main are the pain and fatigue. Everyone here gets different symptoms, it's a very confusing and frustrating illness. I would also say, just because one medication doesn't work, doesn't mean they all won't, we all react differently. Read up about fibro, so when you go to docs you are armed with info you need and can control what you want from your doc, it should be a discussion, not your doc just telling you what to do and giving prescription after prescription. We are all here to help as well :)

I did get my SSDI on my second try with a lawyer. Steve51 is right, it is hell to do on your own and the lawyer is paid from the back SS money so, you don't pay any out of your pocket for him. I was told once, by him I think, that the SS folks deny everyone on the first application with two exceptions. Blindness and kidney dialysis. Everybody else, without a lawyer, gets denied. And @A MyFibroTeam Member, your mother frankly has no idea how hard it is to function with this crap. Fibro is a real disability and it is stated that in the legislation that determines what kinds of ailments are disabling enough that people cannot work. We have to jump through hoops to get the $ though. Since fibro onset in my life in March of '05, I have tried really hard to work 4 different times and had to stop each time because the additional stress on my body makes me just live in a flare 24/7. I am lucky and can stay home without it being a problem because my husband can make our ends meet but, many are not that lucky and will rely on the SSDI income. Just plan to get that first application in and let them deny you and get that one out of the way and then get started on your second one, or else get a lawyer. You will need doc notes from several specialists. There will be a hearing where a judge will ask you questions. At that point, it is pretty easy for the judge to conclude that you have no business being in the labor force anymore, at least that's what he concluded for me.

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A MyFibro...

Definitely get an attorney. They charge a fee that is set by the disability board but makes the process much easier.

Headaches. My fingers will cramp up and just be deformed for a min. Simetimes its scary