Well, had a call with my doctor today and according to the results of my blood tests I don't have...

rheumatoid arthritis (yay!)
diabetes
thyroid problems
kidney problems
liver problems

What I do have is a slightly - very slightly low blood count (i.e. a tad anaemic) so I'm going back on the Floradix to beef myself up. And back in a couple of weeks for him to test my oestrogen levels.

Don't feel any better of course... but at least I know I'm not dying of some awful disease.

I've just got a terminal condition - old age.

Had all the tests too!
Isn't it awful to feel so bad you almost hope the doctor find the cause?
Nothing to serious but fixable.
Living in this state is just h*ll!

Funny you say this. I hate a bunch of blood work and all was clear, but my joints ache and my hands and fingers swell. Even had x-rays of my hands. All were fine. Glad to know I ma not dying of an awful disease either, but can't understand the pain. Yes, getting old is the reality and the rain makes me know it. I am happy you are well.

Congrats on being well, Tigress! Isn't it ridiculous that we feel so terrible and they can't find anything wrong but these stupid hormones?! I've been through all the blood work, gastro tests and cardio tests (twice on the cardio) and...nada. Doctor says I'm fine except for some anxiety problems. Hard to believe huh? Good luck for your continued good health!

Thanks all!

Rheumatoid arthritis was the one I was concerned about, because my hands, feet, fingers, wrists, elbows, shoulders etc. all ache and my toes feel like they've been stood on by an elephant for no apparent reason at all. Hard to understand why... doesn't seem to make sense.

I mentioned to my Doc that I had been discussing this with other ladies going thru menopause and he said "No, that can't be right, it would be something that came on gradually over a period of months..."

Guess what! That's exactly what it did.

Nasty cold damp weather here at the moment, probably not helping.

actually if you think about it we are all dying, every day is one day closer, i hate to be so morbid and gloomy, just stating the facts, it helps me to appreciate everyday thats given

Just an update ...

After two weeks on the Floradix, it has really started to kick in.

Can you get it over there in the States? It is a herbal/mineral tonic with lots of iron. I call it the Magic Potion! Takes a week or more to kick in but then you really notice the difference. Energy, stamina, everything improved. Well yes I still have aches and pains but they are bearable, and I can do stuff now.

I practise bass for half an hour each day. Two weeks ago I could only do it sitting on a chair. Gradually I began to be able to stand up for a few minutes while playing, now I can stand the whole time, and longer. BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS!