Body falling apart

To be brief, I have felt horrible for 3+ years-- severe fatigue, reoccuring infections, etc. Other than an enlarged thyroid and persistent swelling and inflammation/edema, my blood work is always normal. However, over the last 9 months or so, my symptoms have gotten much worse and now i have new symptoms. Headaches and dental problems (never had those before), muscle weakness and pain, worsening abdominal pain. Up to now, the doc has suggested that it may be chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. over the past 3 years i have had no choice but to "tough it out" as I am a single mom and I have a full time career. But, I am now officially scared that there is something really wrong with me and I feel like my body is shutting down one piece at a time. I felt so bad last night that I was honestly afraid I might die in my sleep. My doc finally referred me to a rheumatologist to check for autoimmune disorders but I can't get in for 3 weeks and I am not sure I will make it that long. For the past 2 days I have had worse abdominal pain and strangely severe dry mouth and lips. I do not have diabetes (I recently passed my glucose tolerance test). Help???

First of all Guest, you need to relax and use your breathing techniques because you will tax your brain to death if you keep thinking this way. Yikes!

When you over-think all your symptoms you are making them worse than what they actually are. You're psyching yourself out. Stress and tensing cause more symptoms that is the last thing you need right now.

3 weeks is not a long time to wait at all. I am in Canada and have waited up to almost a year for a much needed procedure so count yourself lucky that they are able to get you in so soon. That is a great start to getting a diagnosis.

They said you may have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Fibromyalgia did they ever start or prescribe you any medications for it? Do you take any kind of medications right now associated to your symptoms? Do you take anti-anxiety medication as well, as you should be on one to control your thoughts at least for now.

Remember to stay hydrated as that helps a lot of the bodies ailments. It helps in so many ways. Maybe think about electrolytes as well, they can be bought at any drugstore just talk to the pharmacist about it. Probiotics for your immune system might go a long way for you too.

Good luck and hope this helps in some small way.