A Deeper Look at Fibromyalgia

Are you suffering from daily pain and fatigue?

Do you feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, and wake up feeling achy and exhausted? It is possible that you are one of six million Americans who are suffering from a misunderstood condition called fibromyalgia (FM).  Having no clear cause, no specific diagnostic test, and no direct cure, the disorder is a challenge to the physician and patient alike.

FM is a chronic condition causing widespread pain and tenderness, often associated with sleep and mood disturbances. Most often beginning between the ages of 30 and 50, it is more common in women. The pain may be experienced in several ways: as an increased sensitivity to sensations, as a deep ache which worsens with stress or activity, as stiffness or spasms, or as a migratory series of painful sensations.  Patients may also have anxiety or depression, or troubles in concentrating or thinking.

Diagnosis is difficult; indeed, sometimes symptoms are present for years before the diagnosis is made. The symptoms can be confused with thyroid conditions, chronic fatigue syndrome or depression. There is no blood test which makes the diagnosis; testing is used to rule out other causes. Sometimes, a consultation with a rheumatologist is in order.

Once you are diagnosed with FM, it is important to realize several points:

1. FM is a chronic condition, which will wax and wane over the years.
2. There is no cure for FM, but there are a number of helpful management strategies.
3. It is important that you take an active role in your care.
4. There is no permanent damage to your nerves, muscles or any organ.

A good mental outlook is very important. This is easy to say, but often hard to achieve. Whether through family and friends, community support groups, or professional counseling, being able to share your frustrations and focus on the positive helps coping with the daily symptoms.

Regular exercise, which on some days may be difficult, can reduce pain and increase energy. This sometimes is facilitated by formal physical therapy. General health advice-good sleep habits, healthy eating, tobacco cessation and alcohol moderation are essential.

There are a number of medications which, although not curative, can be very effective in decreasing symptoms. Simple acetaminophen is often the first step. If symptoms are still significant, a number of medications in the anti-depressant and anti-anxiety class may help.

For a good overview, I suggest you visit this website. For an appointment with a NuHealth specialist in Rheumatology please call 516-572-6262.