All About Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia also known as fibromyalgia syndrome, fibromyositis, and fibrositis, is a chronic pain and fatigue disorder which is difficult for physicians to diagnose and for the patients to handle on a day-to-day basis. This illness not only affects sufferers physically, but it also affects them mentally and socially.

Patients with the illness battles with many symptoms that include:

• widespread musculosketal pain felt through the entire body
• muscle spasms
• cognitive and memory problems
• sleep disturbances
• numbness
• sensitivity to weather changes light and chemical insensitivities
• irritable bowel
• chronic migraines
• dizziness
• chronic fatigue
• burning sensation
• dry mouth and dry eyes
• sensitivity to touch
• restless legs
• aching, and twitching pain
• impaired memory and concentration
• skin sensitivities and rashes
• ringing in the ears
• vision problems
• Raynaud's Syndrome
• neurological symptoms
• impaired coordination

Many patients experience or further develop depression and anxiety which are brought on due to the difficulties of the illness.

The causes of Fibromyalgia is still a mystery however medical researchers have found that Fibromyalgia is a disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) which causes the brain to send abnormal messages of pain throughout the body. It is a physiological problem not a psychological problem as was originally thought.  Fibromyalgia affects men, women, and children within all ethnic groups. It has affected about 10 million people in the United States and an estimated amount of 3-6% of the world population.

Several treatments to try:

There are many treatments for the illness such as acupuncture sessions which is will help with reducing pain and brings relief for many patients. 

1. Visit a chiropractor who is well versed about Fibromyalgia and can help with bringing symptom relief. They will be able to focus on the muscles and reducing pain.

2. Take herbal medicines such as Omega-3s which helps with reducing joint and muscle pain. Other herbal supplements such as ginseng, CoQ10, and Echinacea helps with building up the body's immune system. Seeking a naturopath can help with choosing the proper herbs to treat Fibromyalgia symptoms.

3. Try swimming, or water aerobic classes to help with reducing pain and fatigue over time.

4. Limit consumption of carbohydrates, starches, and sugars as those are apt to cause an increase of Fibromyalgia pain for many patients.

5. Avoid caffeine, sugar and alcohol before going to bed and make sure the environment is quiet and free from distractions creating regular relaxation exercises as it will help to fall asleep better.