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Dr. Peter Gott: Fibromyalgia affects woman's quality of life

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DEAR DR. GOTT: I have suffered with full-blown fibromyalgia since 1997. From the start, there wasn't a symptom I didn't have -- pain, chronic bowel problems, depression, headaches and a lack of sleep. My feet and legs hurt constantly. My fingers are painful, and I have overall pain.

I can't believe the shortage of rheumatologists in my area in small-town New York. I need a doctor who at least has compassion and tries different remedies. My sons are grown and don't believe that my pain or any of the symptoms of the illness is real. I wish you could evaluate and treat me.

DEAR READER: Thank you for the compliment. Fibromyalgia is a poorly understood, controversial disorder that can take over a person's life. Sleep disruption, constant pain, bladder abnormalities, Restless Legs Syndrome and a host of other ailments are a small part of the condition. Finding someone who understands your condition and can work with you toward improving your quality of life can be challenging. A large part of the problem facing any physician is that each symptom can be tied in with a host of other conditions. By the time all the bases have been covered, you've been to a number of physicians, spent a ton of money, and still don't know why you can't get through a single day pain-free. There is no laboratory or X-ray test to confirm or rule out the condition.

I recommend you begin on the home front with self-care and over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen. Ask your physician whether he or she can endorse a course of physical therapy at your local hospital. Practice deep-breathing exercises along with stretching and relaxation techniques. Join a community center for walking and water aerobics. If necessary, engage the services of a counselor for help in ways to deal mentally with your pain. Speak with your physician about the use of prescription medications that can provide relief. Don't be surprised if a tricyclic antidepressant or other seemingly unrelated medication is used. Several have been successful in controlling the pain of fibromyalgia.

Your primary-care physician should be of assistance. If you prefer, however, ask for referral to a rheumatologist who might have some cutting-edge ideas readily available. While you may have to travel, it might be well worth the effort.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my new Health Report "Fibromyalgia." Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a check or money order for $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTT: My sister and I both have tried your banana-peel cure for psoriasis. We both have tried various medications over many years, none of which worked.

After applying the peel once in the morning and again at night, we both noticed remarkable improvement. It only took three or four days. Now, my rough, bleeding elbows are clear and soft. For maintenance, my sister and I continue to apply the peel every three or so days.

DEAR READER: I have received many letters from patients whose psoriasis or eczema either disappeared or improved with the banana-peel therapy. The treatment is safe, inexpensive and easily available.

Since I mentioned this remedy, readers have written in with other home remedies for psoriasis, eczema and many other conditions. I turned all these suggestions into a health report and have just recently had to create a second compilation for the multitude of new remedies.

To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports "Dr. Gott's Compelling Home Remedies" and "More Compelling Home Remedies."