Fibromyalgia: Chronic Pain Disorder Affecting Millions

More than six million people in the United States alone are affected by fibromyalgia, with the highest percentage of those being women. Fibromyalgia is a life-altering disorder which has been recognized as a medical condition only since the 1980's. Because of the dehabilitating nature of fibromyalgia, it can interfere with even the simplest of daily activities, having a serious impact on the person's life and the lives of their family and friends.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and stiffness, flu-like aches, soft tissue tenderness, fatigue, and sleep issues. Any part of the body can be affected by FM, with the most common sites of pain occurring in the back, neck, shoulders and hips. Other symptoms may include:

• Headaches and migraines
• Intestinal problems such as constipation or diarrhea
• Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
• Anxiety or depression
• Restless legs syndrome
• Skin sensitivities and rashes
• Dry eyes and mouth
• Ringing in the ears
• Dizziness
• Impaired coordination

The variety and intensity of symptoms vary from person to person. There may be times when the symptoms are mild, then periods when the symptoms become worse. The length of symptoms can vary, lasting for a few days or continuing for years.

Flare-ups of muscle and joint pain and fatigue are common and tend to worsen under certain conditions such as physical or emotional stress, cold or damp weather, and overexertion. Many FM sufferers report pain to be especially bothersome at night, sometimes waking them from their sleep.

For those with fibromyalgia, even catching a cold can be scary. Cold symptoms are usually far more severe and last longer than in those who do not have the disease. A cold can even lead to a FM flare-up or relapse.

While the cause of fibromyalgia remains a mystery, there are several theories. Some experts think FM may be caused by an injury or trauma which may affect the central nervous system. Another theory is that FM may be related to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Still others believe that FM is caused by an infectious agent such as a virus.

There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but the symptoms can be treated and controlled. Once diagnosed you must select a treatment plan based on your individual needs. Some traditional treatment options could be:

• Light aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, can improve muscle fitness and reduce muscle pain and tenderness.
• Heat and massage therapy may give short-term relief.
• Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or prayer can be beneficial.
• Antidepressant medications may help elevate mood, relax muscles and improve quality of sleep.

Some alternative therapies could include:

• Acupuncture
• Biofeedback
• Chiropractic therapy
• Reflexology, which is the practice of applying pressure to points on the body that benefit other parts of the body.
• S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) which is also used to treat depression.
• 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) which is thought to work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain.
• Nutritional supplements such as vitamin D, vitamin B-12 and vitamin C.
• Herbs such as valerian or evening primrose.

The majority of people with FM try some type of alternative therapy. Most FM sufferers find they benefit from a combination of therapies. Be sure to talk to your doctor who can help you evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the different therapies available.

Currently there are over 2500 scientific journal articles showcasing scientific research and investigations of fibromyalgia but medical researchers have just begun to untangle the truths about this mysterious disease.