If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, you’re not alone. Many of us in the fibro community grapple with anxiety, and it’s not always easy to pinpoint its source. Let’s dive into what we’ve learned from our collective experiences.
Just wondering how much anxiety the typical fibromyalgia person suffers from, I’m not talking about anxiety caused by the actual pain but direct anxiety from the disease itself. I see many say it’s a nervous system problem so I’m wondering how much it can affect a person, are we talking like anxiety to the point where it affects every aspect of your life. Or is it mild to moderate for most people?
The Anxiety-Fibromyalgia Connection
It turns out, anxiety and fibromyalgia often go hand in hand. In fact, panic disorder occurs in about 27% of people with fibromyalgia – that’s a significant number! But remember, everyone’s experience is unique.
Medication Experiences
Some of us have found relief with medications like Lexapro and Cymbalta. While these can be helpful for panic attacks, it’s worth noting that they might not do much for muscle pain. Always consult with your healthcare provider about what’s right for you.
Beyond ‘Traditional’ Anxiety
Interestingly, some of our symptoms might feel like anxiety but have different roots:
POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome): This can make your heart feel like it’s working overtime, mimicking anxiety.
Low Dose Naltrexone: Some have reported this dramatically reduced their anxiety, suggesting a strong link to fibromyalgia itself.
Don’t Forget Other Possibilities
It’s crucial to rule out other conditions that can masquerade as anxiety:
Dysautonomia
Hypothyroidism
Remember, our bodies are complex, and symptoms can have multiple causes.
The Takeaway
Anxiety in fibromyalgia can range from mild to severe, affecting each of us differently. The key is to work closely with your healthcare team to find the right treatment approach for you. Whether it’s medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of strategies, there are ways to manage anxiety and improve your quality of life.
Stay hopeful, fellow fibro warriors. With understanding and the right support, we can navigate this challenge together!
Your pain is real, valid, and understood by others in the fibro community!
Rediscover the Person You Were Before. A groundbreaking study revealed something remarkable: people have achieved significant relief from Fibromyalgia. Some even entered remission. The key? There was no one-size-fits-all solution.
