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Fibromyalgia By: Nicholas Bono

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome in which an individual may experience long-term, body wide pain and tenderness in joints, muscles, tendons, and any other soft tissues.

Studies suggest that the fibromyalgia is an overreaction of the nervous system. It perceives and reacts to pain in an extreme way.

This is not entirely proven, the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown.

A number of possible other causes or triggers have been identified.

Symptoms

Pain is the main symptom of fibromyalgia and can range from mild to severe.

The pain can be widespread throughout the body. Is described as a deep ache, shooting, or burning sensation.

The pain may worsen depending on daily activities, weather, as well as an individual’s levels of anxiety and stress.

The majority of patients with fibromyalgia also experience depressed mood, sleep issues, and fatigue

Other possible symptoms

Irritable bowel syndrome

Memory and concentration problems

Anxiety and depression

Chronic headaches

Abdominal pain

Hypersensitivity to cold and heat

Numbness or tingling in fingers and feet.

Stiffness.

Statistics

An estimated 5 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia.

1 in 50 Americans, or 2% of the population

Fibromyalgia is the second most common musculoskeletal aliment after osteoarthritis.

90% are women and women are 7 times more likely than men.

Most commonly affects women during their childbearing years.

Also commonly found in young women who have “Type A” personalities that lead ambitious, busy, and stressful lives.

Has the ability to affect both men and women of all ages.

Statistics continued

60% of fibromyalgia patients are diagnosed in there 30’s and 40’s.

Another 35% are diagnosed in there 20’s or between the ages of 50 and 65 years old.

40% of fibromyalgia cases appear spontaneous with no clear cause.

It takes on average around 5 years to receive an accurate fibromyalgia diagnosis.

Stress and Fibromyalgia

A person’s history of chronic stress can play a role with the onset of the disease.

This stress can be physical trauma or physiological.

Stress can attribute to many of the symptoms.

Proper stress management techniques can significantly aid in the treatment and prevention of this disease.

Stress Management Techniques

Regular exercise

Practicing relaxation techniques

Taking a warm bath

Getting a good night’s sleep

Treatment options

Physical therapy

Developing fitness and exercise program

Medication (antidepressants, muscle relaxants, sleeping aids, pain relievers.)

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Treatment continued

Joining a support group

Eating a well balanced diet

Avoid caffeine

Proper sleep hygiene

Acupressure/Acupuncture

Sources

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001463/

http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/what-is-fibromyalgia

http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site896/mainpageS896P1.html

http://www.self-guided.com/fibromyalgia-and-stress.html

http://www.myfibro.com/fibromyalgia-statistics