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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hinckley, UK

It seems to be worse in the evening or if I have overdone it . I cant get my words out and can only think in 1 word . I then really struggle to say the word and have to point to what I'm saying . If I do say anything it's very slow and laboured

March 30, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members widely identified with the frustrating experience of struggling to find or speak words, especially when tired or after overexertion,... Read more

Members widely identified with the frustrating experience of struggling to find or speak words, especially when tired or after overexertion, with many recognizing it as fibromyalgia-related brain fog or aphasia rather than aging or something more serious. Several members described practical coping strategies including deep breathing, resting with tea, using pointing or descriptive phrases as workarounds, and developing communication systems with family members to reduce frustration and prevent symptoms from worsening. A recurring theme was the loss of confidence this symptom brings, particularly in professional settings, but members encouraged each other to practice self-compassion, use humor when comfortable, and focus on self-care rather than pushing through to the point of a flare.

A MyFibroTeam Member

@tatsgram923- I was diagnosed about 5 years ago officially, but like most of us, felt symptoms for a long time before that. I was teaching full time as a Special Education teacher and took an early retirement. I've been substituting at my local elementary school district as a means of supplementing my income and find I get flustered while disciplining and lose my words more and more lately. The Lord keeps me focused on counting my blessings and not on the problems. Thanks for your kind words.

April 5, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

CookingSherry, it's a rough part of our disease but it affects us at different stages. I was officially diagnosed in 2003 but it wasn't until maybe the last 3-4 years that I've noticed my ability to form sentences that make sense, start to fail. Prior to this there was no problem, so it may not affect you to the point of having you quit your job. Not everyone seems to be bothered by it , maybe some people are able to function despite it. I was a manager of a bookstore and being able to speak correct sentences was kind of important in my job. It does affect your confidence but at my age and with the grey hair, I make a joke of it and blame it on going "senile"! Most people just laugh at it and I laugh along (no one needs to be the wiser). Good luck to you and don't let this defeat you, explain your suffering from an illness that causes it , you don't have to name it unless your comfortable enough to do it. Gentle hugs and Blessings,
Brenda

April 4, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Well I am glad to hear a different reason than old age.

April 2, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes, Aphasia (inability to communicate my thoughts into words) is my warning sign that I've over done it and / or a big flare is on it's way. My husband and I have worked out a communication system regarding those early triggers/warning signs so that I don't get so frustrated (which ends up making symptoms worse for me).

Sometimes I do some really deep breathing when I get to this point or I will go rest and sip on some tea. :) Self care instead of working myself up and getting upset.

Take care!!1

March 31, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes. Constantly. I'm always snapping my fingers or pointing at something/someone (most likely my husband) because I expect him to know the words I'm looking for. There's a term for it. It's called Aphasia. Hope that helps.

March 31, 2016

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