Coping With Fibromyalgia Pain

Answer 1

Pain in the joints and muscles is the most common symptom of the medical condition known as fibromyalgia. Although not considered a disease by medical researchers, fibromyalgia nonetheless affects a good percentage of the population. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known. However, studies indicate that most who suffer from this disorder have a family history of pain and stiffness, have been involved in a traumatic event such as an automobile accident, or are constantly under a great deal of stress. Where The Pain Occurs Fibromyalgia pain is usually widespread, and the most concentrated areas of discomfort are the arm and leg joints. Dizziness and headaches are also common, and a general feeling of weakness and fatigue is most pronounced during the morning hours. Joint and muscle pain causes lack of sleep, and the lack of sleep tends to increase the pain level. This is why most persons living with fibromyalgia experience the greatest levels of joint and muscle pain in the morning hours. Persons suffering from fibromyalgia often exhibit other pain symptoms normally associated with another medical condition. These include irritable bowel syndrome, sensitive skin and skin rash, migraines, and restless leg syndrome. Many patients report sensitivity to bright lights, adverse reactions to temperature fluctuations, and restlessness. Women with fibromyalgia often have painful menstrual periods. Medical Treatments For Fibromyalgia Pain In the United States, the FDA has not approved any particular drug as a medication specifically designated as a treatment for fibromyalgia symptoms. Certain medications are prescribed by doctors to help with the pain symptoms. In addition to pharmacologic treatments, exercise and massage therapies are often suggested. The focus of any treatment plan centers around minimizing pain to such a degree that sleep disturbance is significantly reduced. Coping With The Condition Fibromyalgia symptoms are more commonly seen in women than in men. Women over 40 years of age are more likely to experience the pain and sleeplessness associated with the condition. However, fibromyalgia pain can affect persons of any age. Most people report periods of intense pain followed by periods of up to a month or more where the symptoms all but disappear. Physicians will often draw up a specialized plan for their patients in an effort to cope with fibromyalgia. A regular sleep schedule is considered most important. Sleeping the same number of hours each night and getting up in the morning on schedule seems to have a positive effect. Creating a quiet environment in the home or at work is also recommended. Regular exercise and a Massage Therapy program is usually suggested by the physician.