What broke me: Not just PTLS

So, for many years now when I thought about my physical ailments, I attributed it to PTLS (Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome). But now it seems that there is quite a bit more than that. Do I still believe I have PTLS? Yes I do. Do I believe PTLS caused these newly diagnosed issues? Yes I do. So, now on with the show. Here are two new diagnoses I've had over the last couple of weeks.

First, let us visit fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. I was actually relieved to get the diagnosis. At least now I knew I wasn't going completely crazy. So, the treatment we settled on was the anti-depressant I had been on in the past - Cymbalta. It also works as a pain reliever. I was also given my usual muscle relaxers to help with the muscle spasms. Right away I noticed a difference. My body was no longer screaming at me hysterically. It was just screaming at me normally. And once again my depression and anxiety were on their way to being under control. I was a happy girl. then I went back for a second doctor visit and some blood tests. And here comes the second diagnosis.

Severe Iron deficiency. I was prescribed iron pills right away and the doctor tested my ferratin levels and today I got the call about that. The numbers were extremely low. And as I researched more and more I found out that low ferratin levels are associated with... guess what? Fibromyalgia and Hypothyroidism. Both things that I have. So, now I see a hematologist to see if I will need iron infusions or if I just stay on the treatment course I'm on now. It's kind of scary folks. I know fibro can't kill you but low iron levels can and that is really scary. What if I hadn't been able to get to the doctor this time. How bad would it have gotten?

Anyway, my strength is getting a bit better and I hope to start exercising soon. Once the iron levels come up I should start feeling much better. I'll always have the pain and some fatigue but hopefully the other stuff will start to ease and I'll at least be able to enjoy some time out of the house with my family. Wish me luck as I go on this journey. It won't be cheap and it might not be easy but I'm ready to start feeling better!

Fibro symptoms: This is not the list I was diagnosed from but it is a decent list.

Common symptoms include:

• widespread pain

• jaw pain and stiffness

• pain and tiredness in the face muscles and adjacent fibrous tissues

• stiff joints and muscles in the morning

• headaches

• irregular sleep patterns

• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• painful menstrual periods

• tingling and numbness in the hands and feet

• restless leg syndrome (RLS)

• sensitivity to cold or heat

• difficulties with memory and concentration, known as “fibro-fog”

• fatigue

The following are also possible:

• problems with vision

• nausea

• pelvic and urinary problems

• weight gain

• dizziness

• cold or flu-like symptoms

• skin problems

• chest symptoms

• depression and anxiety

• breathing problems

Symptoms can appear at any time during a person’s life, but they are most commonly reported around the age of 45 years.

Low Iron symptoms:

Iron deficiency anemia signs and symptoms may include:

• Extreme fatigue

• Weakness

• Pale skin

• Chest pain, fast heartbeat or shortness of breath

• Headache, dizziness or lightheadedness

• Cold hands and feet

• Inflammation or soreness of your tongue

• Brittle nails

• Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances, such as ice, dirt or starch

• Poor appetite, especially in infants and children with iron deficiency anemia

If you think you might have one of these disorders, please talk to your doctor about being diagnosed. I hope you'll stick with me on my journey.

Until Next Time...