ALIQUIPPA — Most 26-year-olds don’t have to keep track of their various medications with an oversized seven-day pill box.

But it’s a reality for Evan D’Orazio, who spread numerous bottles of prescription and over-the-counter medications he’s been taking to treat his fibromyalgia symptoms across his kitchen counter on a rainy spring afternoon.

Since he was 19, he has been periodically plagued with widespread body pain due to his severe fibromyalgia, which is sometimes compounded with digestive and concentration issues.

“Honestly, the best way I can describe it: It feels like if you had a hangover and the flu, but were awake for three days straight,” said D’Orazio, of Aliquippa, who was diagnosed about three years ago. “I have insomnia too from it, so it’s a constant battle of trying to work and have a normal life while dealing with this.”

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder with no known cure, but medications can help control symptoms.

At one point he had the strength to be a powerlifter, but now he’s thankful to be able to get through his workday without being in pain.

Some of the medications he’s taken have had severe side effects, like seizures and suicidal thoughts. [Read more @ timesonline.com]