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NFT: SGMen and Gulf War Syndrome

Sorry guys but I will wasn't sure SGMen would get the message if I didn't start a new thread.

I am also a Gulf War Veteran with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

My non-VA doctors have placed me on Flexeril 10 mg at bed time for the Fibro and it has really helped. My pain in the morning went from an 8 to a 6 (scale 0 to 10) in the morning which is a huge improvement.

Another doctor suggested swimming as a form of exercise. There is some evidence that suggests part of the problem with chronic fatigue is it stems from a body temperature regulation problem. Apparently, there is thoroughfare channel in the capillaries (think of it as a bypass through the capillary beds) and it is not opening and closing like it should. I have done 1.5 hours of exercise in a pool with my 6-year-old without any problems (and I am almost constantly moving when I am in the pool). When I have done something similar (basically the same amount of work) outside of the pool, I would be severely exhausted for at least three days.

I have learned to be really careful about emotional stress. I can't give you or anyone any details but my wife had a medical issue and it sent me into a chronic fatigue relapse that lasted a year (my wife doesn't want people to know the specifics and I totally respect that). You might want to look into mindfulness. I am still trying to understand it (it's like peeling an onion) but I find it really helps with the day to day stress.

And with all due respect to others, the cognitive issues are nothing like the cognitive issue seen with depression. It can be like your brain has shut off. Imagine doing something like doing a google search and not being able to remember how to do it. It is totally different.

If you have any questions (or any new advice) email me at cblanch69@hotmail.com. I don't check this account every day, so it might take a day or so to get back to you.



A noodle can also be used in deep water exercise  
idinkido : 7/14/2017 1:19 pm : link
which will further help deal with both issues and especially help reduce aches and pains in joints and muscles.
Fibromyalgia  
djm : 7/14/2017 1:54 pm : link
is a symptom. Get the root of the problem. My wife found out she was vitamin deficient and also had thyroid issues. No more Fibromyalgia.
I forgot to add this.  
The national gulf war resource center is a good place to finding out information on a number of issues, especially disability filings. I have met several of the top members, including the one on the VA's advisory committee. Good people who are willing to help not only Gulf War veterans but also veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
national gulf war resource center - ( New Window )
Sorry and Thanks  
Percy : 7/14/2017 11:54 pm : link
Regret you have these problems. I hope you find an answer to them. Thanks for your service
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