Posted by arthritis_sufferer on
November 13, 2008
Fibromyalgia Syndrome - Symptoms Of Fibromyalgia Syndrome
If you are hurting all over and feeling fatigued on a regular basis then it could be fibromyalgia at play. While that’s a little hard to determine without seeking proper medical attention, fibromyalgia is often the last thing considered when people suffer these symptoms.
Fibromyalgia syndrome is somewhat of a silent affliction but has been brought more and more to the forefront in the past few years. It’s one of those syndromes that is usually considered as a last resort explanation when all else fails yet those who have it have to battle a daily dose of restrictive symptoms.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Let’s take a look at some of the symptoms to be aware of with fibro syndrome. Common symptoms include;
- widespread pain
- sleep disturbance
- regular fatigue
- pain in the face
- regular headaches
- sensitivity to touch and noise.
- diarrhoea and or constipation
- anxiety and mood swings
Fibromyalgia Treatment
There is not much information available regarding diet and nutrition for fibromyalgia it is not sure if any diet affects fibromyalgia positively or negatively. As a general rule, eating a well balanced diet that has all the food items from food pyramid is important to keep our body and mind in best shape. Fibromyalgia diet is not special but it just includes food items that are low in fat content and high in oxidants that boost the immunity. These work along with phytochemicals to maximize energy and minimize fatigue.
Some people have been able to deal with fibromyalgia by making some changes in their diet and lifestyle. There are some healthy recipes that can help you cure it and Internet is a good place to look for. You can also talk to a dietician who can draft a diet plan for you.
More Treatment Options
The most important thing that you can do to fight fibromyalgia is to take care of yourself. There are small changes that will take you a long way. It is good to reduce the stress in your life. You must give yourself time to relax and if possible meditate. It is also important to get enough sleep and you can do this by developing good sleep habits like going to bed on time, and getting up at the same time each morning. Limit your daytime sleep so that you can get a good sleep in the night.
Exercise will be very helpful in treating fibromyalgia though it might be difficult initially but persistence is the key. You can start with easy forms of exercise such as walking or swimming and then gradually increase the intensity. Even during the day, keep yourself active. Eat a well balanced diet and avoid alcohol, drugs and caffeine. Engage in the physical activities that interest you.
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Posted by arthritis_sufferer on
September 18, 2008
Pain Relief For Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disease that affects the musculoskeletal system. Symptoms vary widely among sufferers, but generally include muscle and joint aches, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches and tenderness in several of eighteen specific areas, or “trigger points” on the body. Fibromyalgia is often overlooked by sufferers as the inevitable result of a busy schedule and everyday stress. When patients do seek treatment, doctors often misdiagnose fibromyalgia as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, or another musculoskeletal condition. It affects women far more often than men, at a ratio of about ten to one. While some cases result from a specific trauma, more often the exact cause is unknown.
The first step to fibromyalgia pain relief is being properly diagnosed. The condition is not completely understood by the medical community, and there is no specific course of treatment. Most advice given to patients reads like a weight-loss program, recommending low-intensity exercise, drinking lots of water, and reducing mental and physical stresses such as those caused by saturated fats, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, meat and sugar.
Anti-depressants are often prescribed as part of the treatment, which elevate the mood of the patient. Muscle relaxants and sleep aids may also be recommended. Since fibromyalgia sufferers are often found to be low in manganese and magnesium, both of which help balance thyroid function, nutritional supplements may prove beneficial as well.
Physical therapy is another essential component for fibromyalgia pain relief, as it teaches patients methods of walking, stretching, and exercise that reduce muscle tension and fatigue. A physical therapist will also teach patients how to make use of ergonomic tools in their daily life, like padded chairs and special keyboards designed to minimize muscle strain.
Some patients choose to incorporate alternative treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage therapy into their treatment. While the efficacy of these natural treatments has not been carefully studied and quantified, testimonials of fibromyalgia sufferers indicate that all of these alternative treatments may help alleviate symptoms of the disease. Whatever patients decide upon, it must be remembered that there is no simple cure for fibromyalgia, and a comprehensive plan that address mental and psychological symptoms and promotes healthy lifestyle habits is the most direct method of obtaining fibromyalgia pain relief.
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