Fibromyalgia: Understanding and Coping with the Condition

Fibromyalgia, according to the arthritis foundation, is formerly know as fibrositis, is a chronic condition characterized by pain and tenderness of the muscles, tendons, and joints. Pain is the most prominent symptom and usually involves "tender points" on the body where pain seems the greatest. The severity of pain may vary from day to day, but most people with fibromyalgia report that some level of pain is always present. Physical or emotional stress, poor sleep, or even bad weather may increase the intensity of pain. Fibromyalgia is also characterized by fatigue, depression, sleep disturbance, memory problems or "fibro fog", tingling in the hands and feet, irritable bowel syndrome,low pain tolerance, and migraines. Fibromyalgia is an often misunderstood condition. Because its symptoms are quite common and laboratory tests appear normal, people with fibromyalgia were once told that their condition was "all in their head". However, in 1990, the American College of Rheumatology finally legitimized fibromyalgia.

Treatment with fibromylagia is customized to each patient. Exercise including swimming and walking, which is low impact, are suggested. Physical therapy in the form of gentle massage, strengthening exercises, acupuncture and relaxation techniques may prove to be helpful. An antidepressants, in low doses, have been shown to be beneficial in decreasing depression, relaxing craniofacial and skeletal muscles, improving sleep and releasing endorphins. Benzodiazepines also promote better sleep, relax craniofacial as well as skeletal muscles and help restless leg syndrome associated with fibromyalgia. Many herbal and alternative choices exist for those suffering from fibromyalgia, which work to treat the cause of the ailment, rather than just its apparent symptom. Alternative medicine such as over-the-counter dietary, vitamin or herbal products, spiritual practices, homeopathy, reflexology, chiropractic strategies and massage are also beneficial. A variety of nutritional supplements exist that have shown effective in treating fibromyalgia and its symptoms.

Lastly, dealing with fibromyalgia can often be frustrating. The pain and fatigue that comes with fibromyalgia can often be overwhelming. Know that this is a chronic illness, you are not crazy and you are not "just out of shape". Fibromylagia is a real disorder that probably will not go away and the cause is unknown, but it does not lead to anything else and is not crippling. It causes no inflammation, and it does not damage the joints, connective tissue, or muscles. It is often beneficial to educate family members on this disorder so that they can also understand the symptoms that you are feeling. It is also helpful to realize that you are not alone. There are organizations such as The Fibromyalgia Network and The National Fibromyalgia Association that provide links to support groups. You should try to avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol. Also avoid smoking and learn to deal with stress in other ways like yoga or massage.
Although difficult at times, maintaining a positive attitude and surround yourself with friends and family that support you and help you, will help you better live with your condition.

Sources:
http://www.arthritis.org/conditions/DiseaseCenter/Fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia.asp
http://www.medicinenet.com/fibromyalgia
http://www.cureresearch.com/f/fibromyalgia/stats.htm