Tuesday, January 16, 2007 10:26 PM CST
Understanding fibromyalgia
By DAWN SCHABBING, Features Writer
dschabbing@jg-tc.com
Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia, a rheumatic condition, can vary depending on the weather, stress levels and levels of physical activity.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by fatigue and widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons.
Sufferers may experience sleep disturbances, restless legs syndrome, cognitive and memory problems, among other physical ailments, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases in a brochure distributed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, but have been associated with physical or emotional trauma. Some link it to repetitive injuries or an illness, while other cases seem to come on spontaneously, according to the NIAMS.
The American College of Rheumatology reported in June 2004 that fibromyalgia affects 3 to 6 million, or about one in 50, Americans. Between 80 to 90 percent of those diagnosed are women.
Most people are diagnosed during middle age, although symptoms often become present earlier in life.
Diagnosing fibromyalgia usually comes after the patient has seen several doctors and other potential causes of symptoms are ruled out. Symptoms such as pain and fatigue often overlap with many other conditions, making it difficult to determine the ailment.
Sometimes, doctors conclude the patient’s pain is not real, therefore telling the patient there’s nothing they can do, according to the NIAMS.
Many physicians prescribe anti-depressants because these drugs elevate the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help with depression, pain and fatigue.
It is also recommended that fibromyalgia patients benefit from physical therapy, pain-management therapy and a proper balance of rest and activity, according to the NIAMS.
Fibromyalgia is not fatal, however it is chronic, meaning it lasts a long time. Once controlled, it can improve over time.
Alternative or complementary therapies to medications have had positive results for some patients. Treatments being sought include Pilates or movement therapy; chiropractic treatment; acupuncture; and herbs and dietary supplements.
For additional information on fibromyalgia check out the National Fibromyalgia Association at http://www.fmaware.org.
Contact Dawn Schabbing at dschabbing@jg-tc.com or 238-6864.
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