Fibromyalgia
Introduction
Fibromyalgia is an arthritic condition, meaning that it is associated
with a long-term infection of the body resulting in pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia
is difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms of the disease are similar to those
of many other chronic conditions. Fibromyalgia may have similar symptoms to
such disorders as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, multiple sclerosis, as well as Chronic
Fatigue Syndrome. Because Fibromyalgia interrupts the normal sleeping patterns
of the sufferer, as well as causing constant pain through out the body, massage
is indicated to treat those suffering from Fibromyalgia. Massage has been shown
to help the body restore its natural sleep cycles by creating deep relaxation
and reducing muscle pain and tension. Recent studies have shown that an hour
of massage a week for Fibromyalgia patients can benefit the sufferer significantly.
Nutrition may also play a role in improving a Fibromyalgia sufferer's health.
Fibromyalgia Types and Symptoms
Because Fibromyalgia shares many of its symptoms with other disorders,
especially other diseases and disorders associated with arthritis, diagnosis
from a doctor is important, though it may take considerable time to rule out
other disorders. Doctors are currently researching a possible connection between
those who have suffered from abuse or have a history of neglect. Depression
may also be associated with Fibromyalgia. Those that suffer from the disease
often find that the fatigue and pain is worse when under stress, feeling anxiety,
or feeling depressed. Mood swings and sleep disturbances are also common with
Fibromyalgia, as are migraines, tension headaches, and abdominal pain and cramping
that may resemble irritable bowel syndrome.
| Fibromyalgia |
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome |
Depression |
Migraines |
Irritable Bowel Syndrome |
| Widespread pain and points of tenderness, which vary with
the time of day, the weather, and stress levels of the sufferer. May feel
like a persistent flu. |
For some people, CFS appears after a bout of hepatitis,
bronchitis, a cold, an intestinal bug, or mono. |
Persistent "blue" or "down" feeling. |
Dull ache develops into constant throbbing, pulsing pain. |
Affects 10-20% of the general population |
| Fatigue, lack of energy, decreased endurance |
Associated with headache, fatigue, sore muscles and joints. |
As with Fibromyalgia, may be associated with a history of
neglect or abuse |
Associated with Nausea |
Bloating, gas, constipation |
| About 25% of those diagnosed have a history of depression
or anxiety |
May be mistaken for Lupus or multiple sclerosis. Diagnosis
is essential. |
Lethargy, lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities |
Sensitivity to light and noise |
Frequent abdominal pain and cramping |
| Numbness or tingling in arms, hands, feet, legs, may be
mistaken for other disorders such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome |
Difficulty concentrating. |
As with Fibromyalgia, interruption in normal sleep patterns |
Loss of sight possible |
May be caused by miscommunication between brain, bowels,
and nervous system |
| Headaches, especially tension or migraines, are common,
as are colon and bladder spasms and irritability. |
Sore lymph nodes |
Difficulty thinking or concentrating |
Usually last from four hours to a week, depending on severity
and type-some types, such as Ophthalmologic Migraines, can last for months
|
May be possible to regulate IBS through diet changes |
| Problems concentrating or performing simple tasks |
People with CFS often suffer from Fibromyalgia and vice
versa. |
Thoughts of suicide or death. |
Migraine sufferers find it difficult to continue with daily
routine, especially if the migraines are frequent |
Associated with fatigue, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. |
Fibromyalgia
The causes of Fibromyalgia are widely unknown, though it is thought
to be brought on my emotional, psychological, or physical changes or stress.
Long periods of anxiety or fatigue may actually trigger the disease. Smoking,
bad posture, and inappropriate exercise may contribute to furthering the symptoms
of Fibromyalgia and should be avoided or treated if possible. People with Fibromyalgia
may find themselves feeling anxious or stressed about their condition, and may
find it difficult to keep exercising on a regular basis. This pattern of stress
and inactivity may actually make the disorder worse, so it is essential that
those suffering from Fibromyalgia avoid anxiety and stress in whatever way possible.
Fibromyalgia sufferers should avoid internalizing their concerns or depression,
as that can result in muscle pain and tension, instead, it is recommended that
they find outlets to their stress.
Prevention and Treatment
As the causes of Fibromyalgia are generally unknown it is a difficult
disease to prevent. However, in people suffering from depression, or those who
have a history of abuse or neglect that are concerned about Fibromyalgia, there
are several keys to relaxation and regulating stress that may help prevent Fibromyalgia.
These same keys may help promote health, improve sleeping patterns, and create
relaxation in those already suffering from Fibromyalgia.Take time apart each
day to relax or meditate, breathing deeply and creating a peaceful atmosphere
· Take time apart each day to relax or meditate,
breathing deeply and creating a peaceful atmosphere
· Get regular massage treatments. These will
help improve sleeping patterns and help the body cope with stored up stress
and anxiety
· Never be afraid to talk to someone. Whether
suffering from Fibromyalgia, depression, or any other disorder, it may be easier
to cope with things if provided with an outlet for stress and concerns. Holding
back may result in physical stress, exhaustion, and muscle tension.
· Stretch and exercise regularly. Fibromyalgia
sufferers may find it exhausting to exercise vigorously and are encouraged to
exercise for 5-10 minutes at a time through-out a whole day. Exercise and stretches
can help the body cope with the pain and tension of Fibromyalgia.
· Diet changes may be indicated. Try to eat
a diet that promotes healthy well-being. Avoid foods that may cause the body
distress, such as caffeine, chocolate, spicy foods, and foods high in sugars
and fats. Also avoid foods that may have triggered problems in the past.
There are networks of people all over the world to help support
those who are suffering from Fibromyalgia. Doctors are currently researching
other keys to preventing and treating Fibromyalgia in a more holistic manner.
In some cases, Doctors may prescribe sleep-aids and other medication to help
deal with the different aspects of Fibromyalgia, however doctors prefer the
less-invasive approach to treating Fibromyalgia and encourage regular massage
accompanied by regular exercise, stretching, and a regular, healthy diet.