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FIBROMYALGIA SYNDROME
Fibromyalgia syndrome is a common form of generalized muscle aches and pains that affects nearly 4 million Americans, primarily women. Along with muscle pain, there is often swelling and stiffness of the joints, tender points along the spine, in the neck and at the base of the skull, and in specific areas of the arms and legs. Other symptoms include difficulty sleeping with excessive fatigue, headaches, loss of appetite, and stomach and bowel disorders. In addition, because of the chronic, long-term nature of the disorder, depression can be a common feature of fibromyalgia. Common causes of fibromyalgia include stress (physical and emotional), or trauma to the body (such as an auto accident) that requires several weeks or months of recovery.
There are no specific laboratory tests to accurately diagnose fibromyalgia; however, your physician can obtain a number of blood tests and x-rays to “rule out” other disorders, and those studies along with obtaining a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination, can all point to a probable diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
While there is no “cure” for fibromyalgia, exercise is the key to controlling symptoms. The process of the condition itself leads to deconditioning of the body as a whole, and an exercise program designed for muscle toning and aerobic conditioning is the Gold Standard of treatment. Your physician can assist you in planning a graduated exercise program, with an ultimate goal of 20 to 30 minutes of vigorous activity, at least four days per week.
Your doctor may also prescribe a mild antidepressant for you at the beginning of your treatment, which not only aids in control of depression but can also act as a safe and effective sleep aid. It is important that fibromyalgia patients avoid narcotic pain medications, muscle relaxants and barbiturates, as these drugs only serve to mask symptoms and are absolutely no assistance in the treatment or recovery of fibromyalgia.
Now that spring is here and summer is just around the corner, if you think you may be suffering from this disorder, now is the time to “get out and get well!” Don’t let this debilitating disorder control you. Its time that you took back control of your life, health and happiness.
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