Understanding Fibromyalgia for Family and Friends

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Understanding Fibromyalgia for Family and Friends

Source: Fibromyalgia & Fatigue Centers Inc.

The greater the knowledge, the greater the comfort level. Encourage your family

and friends to learn as much as possible about Fibromyalgia. We highly recommend

they read this email to help them better understand facts about a condition that

affects millions and controls every aspect of your life.

Fibromyalgia Basic Facts

Greater than 4 million people, in this country, currently have a diagnosis of

Fibromyalgia. It does not discriminate; children, those in the prime of their

lives, elderly, men, and women have been diagnosed with this condition.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that produces chronic pain of the soft tissues that

may include the muscles, ligaments and tendons. It also may produce a number of

other symptoms including temperature sensitivities; numbness and tingling that

may travel throughout the body, fatigue, insomnia, concentration problems,

gastric upset, headaches, joint discomfort and depression.

Diagnosis is difficult. Currently, there is not a medical test available that

will clearly diagnosis the condition. Fibromyalgia does not provide a clear

physical, visual trait that can easily be recognized by a physician. Many

patients suffer with symptoms for years before receiving a definitive diagnosis.

Currently, diagnosis is based on patient history and tender point sensitivity.

18 sites on the body have been classified as " Tender Points " . Extreme

sensitivity upon palpation of at least 11 of these 18 points as well as a

history of widespread, chronic body pain for at least 3 months provides the most

definitive diagnosis at this time.

The underlying cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown. Research is ongoing to

understand the exact cause and new treatment options. To-date, researchers agree

that Fibromyalgia patients have an enhanced pain sensitivity and response

originating from the central nervous system. Traumatic illness or injury may

trigger the condition. In addition, research is continuing to determine if other

factors may lead to the development of Fibromyalgia including; genetics,

environmental factors, autoimmune dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies and

connective tissue disease.

Frequency, degree and location of pain vary from day to day for Fibromyalgia

patients. It is important to understand that on any given day a Fibromyalgia

patient's level of discomfort may range from mild muscle stiffness to extreme,

radiating pain so severe they feel completely debilitated and unable to carry

out simple daily activities.

Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms. Since the severity of the

condition varies from person to person and day to day, the treatment plan

focuses on the determination of the underlying causes and an effective regimen

to alleviate the symptoms to attain and meet the lifestyle goals of the patient.

It must be an individualized plan based. There is no simple answer and

management of this condition requires a multi-therapeutic approach. The patient

must be focused, determined and dedicated to taking control to increase their

functionality.

A well-rounded management program, with the assistance of a knowledgeable

physician who will work diligently to determine the underlying factors, may also

include; nutritional counseling, conditioning and exercise programs, alternative

therapies such as acupressure and massage, stress management and relaxation

techniques as well as, some lifestyle changes.

Support from family and friends are critical. Understanding of the condition,

the limitations it creates and working with your loved one to assist them to

stick with their management program can make a tremendous difference in helping

them get through the lows and together, enjoy the highs!