I am FlowerChild Fee, I am a Fibromyalgia Warrior. I was informed that I had been afflicted with fibromyalgia a few years ago by my rheumatologist at Kaiser Permanente. After going back and forth to the doctor, including replacing my doctor, I was sure that I was not losing my mind and somebody was going to listen to me. I finally got a doctor that I liked and who listened and didn't make me feel rushed or as if I was imagining what I was feeling. My doctor performed a complete physical exam, then contacted a rheumatologist, and the rheumatologist instructed my doctor to perform some specific tests. After receiving the test results, the doctor arranged my first appointment with the rheumatologist. The rheumatologist told me that all the tests that she ordered returned negative, which was a good thing. Then, she performed an examination focusing on certain areas of my body. And -- it's an understatement to say that I almost jumped off the bed when she hit certain places.

 

It was at that time that I was informed that the diagnosis was fibromyalgia, and was given a prescription for steroids and muscle relaxants to ease the inflammation and muscle pain. Once I got over the initial shock of my diagnosis and did some research, I knew I didn't want to be on steroids or other strong or addictive medications forever. I knew that I had to make some serious changes and find out all that I could about fibromyalgia. I educated myself on natural remedies, lifestyle changes, inflammation, and fighting foods. I'd much rather do it naturally before taking a bunch of medications that will most likely cause side effects and/or other medical conditions that will need to be treated. No, thank you, I chose to try it this way first. Well, I did, and it is working for me. Herbal teas, natural, healthy, organic foods including herbs and spices, essential oils, and vitamin supplements - one of the reasons that things hurt is most likely due to some type of vitamin deficiency.