Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This week we continue to hear more from Dr. Mel Hauser and essential insights to understand Autism better, which will help you understand fibromyalgia better. There is so much stigma and misunderstanding about autism, neurodivergent minds, and fibromyalgia that is deservedly discussed and reframed to grow a better understanding. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. If you have a question, hundreds of others will likely have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com  to learn more through blogs Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia.  Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Have you ever felt broken, isolated, or misunderstood because of your neurodivergence? In a powerful conversation, we explore the world of narrative medicine and its significance in understanding and recognizing neurodivergent patients with overlapping pain syndromes like fibromyalgia, migraines, and IBS, as well as the crucial role of lifestyle medicine in managing these conditions. Dr. Mel Hauser opens up about her own emotional journey of being diagnosed with autism, overlapping pain syndromes, and ADHD. This has greatly influenced her care for others with similar struggles. And the shocking statistic is that the average life expectancy for an autistic person is just 36 to 54 years of age.But there's hope and reassurance as we discuss the awareness and try to create a better environment for those to succeed. We also tackle the challenges faced by autistic individuals in accessing inclusive employment opportunities and the incredible work being done by All Brains Belong to bridge access gaps. If you can relate to these experiences or have a loved one navigating through similar hardships, you won't want to miss this enlightening and heartfelt episode. So hit the like or subscribe button, follow, leave a 5-star rating, and review to spread awareness and understanding of these vital topics.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you ha Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Dr. Mel Hauser, a family practice doctor dedicated to helping those with neurodivergent minds, discusses the surprising connection between autism and fibromyalgia. They explore stigma faced by fibromyalgia patients in the healthcare system and highlight the interconnectedness of various health conditions and neurodivergent traits. The episode also delves into personal experiences with neurodivergent conditions and the challenges faced by neurodivergent medical students.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This is the last of 3 interviews from listeners of the podcast. Lynn from Minnesota shares her journey. Here is some of what she had to share."It's that whole moderation aspect or the balance aspect. I used to joke that having fibromyalgia was like living between two bookends on a narrow shelf.  It sounds limiting, and I don't mean to make it sound that way, but I have found that I must be so intentional.   I pay attention to everything. Fortunately, I have a disciplined personality, which works for me.You also commented about the brains of fibro people sometimes coming alive at nine o'clock or at the end of the night. And I went, yes. I was yelling out while listening to that. So again, that was just another example of something new that I had learned. When I heard your podcast, it was more like, Wow.Here's a doctor that pays attention, that cares. And here are the stories of these other people. I'm truly not alone. And then hearing what other people have done for success.  So often mimicking what I've already learned, but it was confirmation that I had approached things in a good way, and I knew that."But just to hear and have that, I guess connection with other people is something that is lacking when you are just living in an environment where all your peers or family members are totally healthy.  It's that sense of hope." Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions After battling with chronic pain and struggling to obtain a diagnosis, Amy from New Zealand finally uncovered her life-altering condition: Fibromyalgia. How did she manage to find relief from her agony and regain control of her life? In this heartfelt episode, Amy joins us to share her challenging journey, from her initial frustrations with the medical system to her success with self-advocacy through lifestyle and dietary changes.Amy's story unravels the complex world of living with Fibromyalgia and hypersensitivity, demonstrating the power of determination and self-care. We discuss the importance of understanding and managing chronic stress, as well as the impact of genetics on a vulnerable nervous system. Amy dives into her experience with a plant-based diet and the role it played in her recovery, shedding light on the transformative potential of such a lifestyle change.Together, we explore the challenges and successes of Amy's journey, forming a bond within the Fibro Nation community. Join us as we delve into Amy's story and learn invaluable lessons for those living with Fibromyalgia and those who want to provide better care and support for their loved ones struggling with this often-misunderstood condition. Don't miss this inspiring and informative episode with Amy from New Zealand.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Ever struggled to manage your health while working in the healthcare field? Meet Anne, a certified pharmacy technician from Phoenix, Arizona, who has been living with fibromyalgia while working in healthcare. Listen as we uncover her unique challenges by keeping her diagnosis a secret from her coworkers due to the stigma. Discover how Anne navigated through the three levels of stigma surrounding fibromyalgia, including patients who don't want to accept the diagnosis and the lack of education in both traditional and alternative medical communities.Hear Anne's personal story of getting a diagnosis at the Mayo Clinic and the emotional issues she faced at a young age. Learn about the cognitive challenges that come with living with fibromyalgia and how Anne experiences the push-pull of wanting to be active but not having the energy for it. We also tackle the common issue of catastrophic thinking and discuss how difficult it can be to turn off those negative thoughts. Plus, find out the effect of prescribed Concerta her condition. Join us for this powerful episode and gain insight into the life of someone living with fibromyalgia while working in healthcare.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can als Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This week discusses heart disease, the number one killer of men and women. In addition to having a strong interest in fibromyalgia and related problems, he also has a strong interest in preventing and treating this serious condition. In this week's episode, you hear about his journey. Nearly all heart disease, the accumulation of plaque in the heart's arteries, is preventable. Still, most, including those with fibromyalgia, are unaware of this silent, lurking disease.  Last week we heard Martin Keogh, author of Naked Realities, share his journey into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which started with a heart attack. A large study showed a 65% greater risk of heart disease in those with fibromyalgia. Early identification and treatment with appropriate medications and lifestyle have proven to reverse heart disease. You will learn more about advanced lipid testing and others that can identify if you are at risk.Dr. Lenz also discusses a study about the concern many with fibromyalgia have about using statins and the worsening of their fibromyalgia symptoms.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormich Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Martin shares more poems and his journey of living with an invisible illness known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. In this week's episode he shares what is called the Missing Neighbor Exhibit. "It's this whole idea of the millions missing and the people who aren't seen, because they're just too ill to go out. So it's our missing neighbor. "The Missing NeighborConnect with Martin Keogh through the following links:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083998309919Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/the_missing_neighbor/Naked Realities: Living with an Invisible Chronic Illness: USA Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Realities-Invisible-Chronic-Illness-ebook/dp/B0BHQZCZQP/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1678723599&sr=8-1Naked Realities: Living with an Invisible Chronic Illness: Canada Amazon:https://www.amazon.ca/Naked-Realities-Invisible-Chronic-Illness-ebook/dp/B0BHQZCZQP/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1678723634&sr=8-1Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this two-part series we get to hear from the author of Naked Realities, Martin Keogh. The compilation of poems takes a no-holds-barred look at chronic illness. There is no sugar coating within those pages. Those of us living with any of the complex illnesses, such as ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, or long covid, are grouped under the moniker, ‘the millions missing.’ We have grown to become a considerable throng of people whose disability makes it challenging to be seen and heard.If you are one of us, these reflections are for you.This book delves into five themes:* Living with chronic disease* Living with symptoms* Living with people* Living with loss* Living with curiosityAn iconic painting from one of history’s celebrated artists accompanies each poetic reflection. The writings speak to the realities and hardships of living with a disability, while the paintings, through their beauty, celebrate the restorative acts of resting and sleep. These reflections arose to help remind us that each breath breathed is a breath of life and possibility. May this book help you grapple with what has come crashing into your world and give you language to communicate your experience with others. Let’s together explore the naked realities of living day-to-day with a long-haul condition.I wish you the best in your health marathon.––The Missing NeighborConnect with Martin through the following links:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083998309919Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/the_missing_neighbor/Naked Realities: Living with an Invisible Chronic Illness: USA Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Realities-Invisible-Chronic-Illness-ebook/dp/B0BHQZCZQP/ref=tmm_kin_swa Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions We continue the conversation with Dr. Bruce Campbell discussing narrative medicine as a useful but often neglected tool for doctors and patients to help them feel better and live healthier with fibromyalgia and other chronic health conditions. Every patient has a story that goes beyond the symptoms they bring into the doctor's office.Those stories illuminate how a person became ill, the tipping point that compelled them to seek help, and the barriers to getting better. Stories can offer the depth that promotes and nourishes empathy, prompting a provider to switch from asking, "How can I treat this disease?" to "How can I help my patient?" This reframing can improve patient care. This week you will hear the first of a two-part series on narrative medicine in a conversation with Dr. Bruce Campbell. Dr. Lenz encourages you to write down your story.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. If you have a question, hundreds of others will likely have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com  to learn more through blogs Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia.  Support the showWhen I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...