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Fibromyalgia

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“Fibromyalgia is a disorder of unknown etiology characterized by chronic widespread pain, abnormal pain processing, sleep disturbance, fatigue and often psychological distress” (Pain Physician, 2011). The central symptom of fibromyalgia, namely widespread pain appears to result from neuro-chemical imbalances including activation of inflammatory pathways in the brain which results in abnormalities in pain processing (Sept, 2011). The brains of fibromyalgia patients show functional and structural differences from those of healthy individuals, but it is unclear whether the brain anomalies cause fibromyalgia symptoms or are the product of an unknown underlying common cause. Some research suggests that these brain anomalies may be the result of childhood stress, or prolonged or severe stress (October 2008).
Fibromyalgia (also known as FM or FMS) is estimated to affect 2-4 % of the population (October 2007) with a female to male incidence ratio of approximately 9:1 (2009). The pain associated with fibromyalgia is described as a constant dull ache, typically arising from muscles. FM is characterized by additional pain when firm pressure in applied to specific areas of your body. These are called tender points and include the back of the head, between shoulder blades, top of shoulders, front sides of neck, upper chest, outer elbows, upper hips, sides of hips, and inner knees. In order to be diagnosed you must have 11 out of the 18 total tender points. Not all Fibromyalgia patients are not restricted to just pain, which leads to the term “fibromyalgia syndrome” for the condition. “Fibrofog” is another name for cognitive dysfunction such as problems with long and short term memory, short term memory consolidation, inability to multi-task, and impaired speed of performance.
The exact cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown but is believed to involve psychological, genetic, neurobiological and environmental factors. Central Sensitization is a theory that proposes that patients with fibromyalgia have an increased reactivity of pain-sensitive nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord which causes a lower threshold for pain. Some of the neurochemical abnormalities that occur in FMS also regulate mood, sleep, and energy. Although it is not guaranteed, FMS can be passed from mother to daughter like other rheumatic diseases. A persons’ genes regulate the way their own body processes pain stimuli. It is said that people with FMS have a certain gene or genes that cause them to react differently to pain stimuli that most people would not perceive as painful, although these genes have not been identified.
There are many ways people with Fibromyalgia can manage their symptoms. Regular exercise is very important because well toned muscles can reduce the pain of Fm. Endorphins and serotonin levels are raised by exercises, both of which lessen pain and boost moods. Walking, swimming, water aerobics, and biking are low or no-impact aerobic exercises that can help relax muscle pain without overtaxing them. A number of medications are also used to relieve symptoms of the condition. Anti-depressants used in small doses can help by relaxing muscles, and restoring often disturbed delta-wave, or deep sleep.
Alternative remedies like acupuncture, acupressure, massage, biofeedback, and yoga are considered unproven or experimental until repeated, controlled and with scientific studies show they work without dangerous side effects. Other techniques for reducing pain and stress such as meditation, hypnosis, and guided imagery or visualization can help relieve symptoms such as stress, depression, and pain. Natural remedies such as herbs and supplements are appealing to people with chronic conditions like Fibromyalgia. Although supplements offer convenience of popping a pill along with the idea that natural ingredients pose little danger, natural doesn’t always mean safer.
“There is no such thing as a “fibromyalgia diet.” No food, or combination of foods, has been proven to relieve symptoms. Yet some people do claim that they feel better when they eat—or avoid—certain types of foods. You may need to keep a food diary to find out which foods seem to trigger or improve your symptoms. Eating a balanced diet is a good idea for anyone—whether or not you have fibromyalgia. That diet should include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein such as chicken or fish. Avoid unhealthy foods, including anything processed, fried, and high in saturated fats. Also, try to limit the amount of salt and sugar in your diet. Another benefit of eating a healthy diet is that it can help keep your weight under control. One Study in the journal Clinical Rheumatology found that obese people with fibromyalgia enjoyed a better quality life once they lost weight. They had less pain and depression, fewer tender points, and they slept better after taking off a few pounds. This study suggests that weight loss can be an important part of fibromyalgia treatment. Fibromyalgia can make you feel tired and worn out. Eating certain foods can give you more energy. Avoid sweets, which will only give you a quick sugar boost. Your body will burn right through them, and then you’ll crash. Instead, eat foods such as almonds, broccoli, beans, tofu, oatmeal, and whole grain bread. These foods will give you more energy to get through your day.” (Watson, 2013)

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