Fibromyalgia

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Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is defined in terms of widespread body pain. It is evident that

fibromyalgia syndrome is more than a muscular problem. Many fibromyalgia

patients experience sleep trouble, fatigue, headaches, depression,

premenstrual syndrome, fluid retention and dizziness. Strategies for

managing fibromyalgia must take into consideration that fibromyalgia is a

chronic condition and expectations for treatment should be aimed at

relieving symptoms since so far there is no cure.

Patients should understand that muscle is a living tissue, and if not used

properly it becomes shortened and stiff. Exercise is very important in

fibromyalgia patients to prevent this from happening. Exercise should be

geared toward stretching and non-impact types including aerobics, walking,

and even water exercises. Exercise should be done 3 to 4 times per week for

20 to 30 minutes. Many patients may not be able to meet this goal at first,

but it is achievable over a 6 to 12 month period.

The majority of patients with fibromyalgia complain of sleeping light and

walking frequently during the night. Most wake up in the morning feeling

tired. Some fibromyalgia patients also have a sleep disorder known as sleep

apnea. Although this can cause sleep disruption and daytime sleepiness, it

could lead to more serious problems such as hypertension and irregular heart

beat. No cause of sleep dysfunction in fibromyalgia patients can be found,

but it is usually treated with low dose tricyclic antidepressants.

Many fibromyalgia patients experience psychological distress in result to

chronic pain. Depression and anxiety are common problems. Medication and

therapy are usually considered and effective. Many patients who suffer from

fibromyalgia have become inactive and deconditioned in order to avoid pain.

Fibromyalgia is a complicated chronic pain condition. Treatment is directed

at symptoms since there is no cure. The goal of treatment is to improve

function. The treatment is individualized because of the widespread

symptoms.