Fibromyalgia, Tools for Survival
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Author: Kristy Haugen Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition categorized as a form
of arthritis. Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread
pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Common
symptoms of fibromyalgia include fatigue, headaches,
painful menstrual periods, tingling or numbness in the
hands and feet, morning stiffness, multiple tender points
on the body, and sleep difficulty. Common sites of pain
include the back, shoulders, neck, pelvic girdle, and hands
but any body part may be affected.
The cause of fibromyalgia is not known. However, many
factors can contribute to fibromyalgia. Researchers
believe that disturbances in sleep patterns may be a cause
of fibromyalgia rather than a symptom. Viral or bacterial
infections may also be a trigger. Injury or trauma that
affects the central nervous system may be a cause of
fibromyalgia. An imbalance in neurotransmitters in the
brain may also be a cause of fibromyalgia. Serotonin is
one such neurotransmitter that researchers believe is
linked to cause fibromyalgia along with depression,
migraines, and gastrointestinal distress. Abnormalities in
the autonomic nervous system may be a cause of
fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia may also be caused by changes
in muscle metabolism such as deconditioning and decreased
blood flow.
Fibromyalgia affects people in early and middle adulthood
but can affect children as well. Those affected by
rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or ankylosing spondylitis are
more likely to develop fibromyalgia. A family history of
fibromyalgia also increases the chance of developing this
disorder. Those with sleep disorders such as restless legs
syndrome or sleep apnea have an increased risk of
developing fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is not a progressive or life threatening
disease. The symptoms of fibromyalgia vary in intensity.
There are many treatments that can improve the symptoms of
fibromyalgia.
Certain medications can treat the pain involved with
fibromyalgia. Certain analgesics used to treat
fibromyalgia include: acetaminophen, NSAID's (non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs), and Ultram (Tramadol). These
medications may be used in conjunction with each other for
better pain relief. However, Ultram must be prescribed by
a physician while NSAID's (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin)
and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are available over the counter.
Antidepressants may be prescribed by your doctor to treat
fibromyalgia. Such antidepressant medications that may be
prescribed include: Pamelor, Elavil, Doxepin, Prozac,
Paxil, and Zoloft. These medications may be prescribed in
conjunction with each other. These medications treat
serotonin levels in the brain and may also promote sleep.
Those affected with muscle pain and spasms may need to take
a muscle relaxant such as Flexeril at bedtime. Your doctor
may also prescribe a benzodiazepine to promote sleep and
help relax muscles. Certain sleep medications such as
Ambien are classified as a benzodiazepine. However, these
medications are not recommended for long term use because
of the increased risk of dependence.
Your doctor may help you to create a unique treatment
program involving cognitive-behavioral therapy and an
interdisciplinary program. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
involves teaching patients to deal with stressful
situations. Interdisciplinary treatment programs may
involve relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and education
regarding chronic pain.
Self care is also very important in treating fibromyalgia.
Self care includes reducing stress, achieving adequate
sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet.
There are also alternative therapies that might help
alleviate the stress and pain associated with fibromyalgia.
These therapies include chiropractic care, massage
therapy, meditation, yoga, acupressure, physical therapy,
light aerobics, aromatherapy, herbs, nutritional
supplements, myofascial release therapy, application of
heat/cold, and acupuncture.
Visiting a doctor of osteopathy may be beneficial for
treating fibromyalgia. Doctors of osteopathy are licensed
to perform the same therapies and procedures as medical
doctors but are also taught the use of manipulation to
address joint and spinal problems. A doctor of osteopathy
may be more apt to see the subtle signs of fibromyalgia.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia yet, but hope is on the
horizon. The fibromyalgia patient has many resources to
help deal with this disorder such as support groups,
organizations, and medical professionals to help improve
your quality of life. Fibromyalgia is not life threatening
and treatments tend to improve the severity of the symptoms
over time. There are many tools that the fibromyalgia
sufferer can use to become a fibromyalgia survivor!
About the Author:
Kristy Haugen is a mother and an experienced nurse. She
also has a bachelor degree in Biology and Chemistry. She
writes to inform consumers about nutrition and health
topics. Learn more about pain relief and arthritis at
about vitamins and your health at
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