What Is Fiber Myalgia?
According to the Mayo Clinic, 2 percent of Americans are afflicted by fibromyalgia. This disease is trademarked by chronic, widespread body pain and fatigue. There is no known cause or cure for this disease, although there are treatments that can reduce the pain and improve quality of life for fibromyalgia patients.
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Risk Factors
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Most commonly, fibromyalgia patients are adult women with a family history of fibromyalgia. However, men and women of any age and genetic background can develop this disease.
People who already suffer from rheumatic diseases or sleep disorders are more likely to suffer from fibromyalgia, also.
Symptoms
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Fibromyalgia symptoms can be worsened with stress, physical activity, fatigue, and even changes in climate. Often, fibromyalgia is diagnosed in people who suffer from chronic pain but do not show symptoms of any other disease.
Chronic pain throughout the body, on both sides and both above and below the waist, is a trademark of fibromyalgia. Patients often describe this pain as constant and dull. To be diagnosed as fibromyalgia, the pain must worsen when pressure is applied to certain points of the body. These areas are called 'tender points.'
There are two requirements that must be met before pain can be diagnosed as fibromyalgia. First, the pain must be chronic and last more than three months. Out of 18 potential tender points, at least 11 must trigger a 'positive' or painful response.
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Co-Existing Conditions
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Many people who suffer from fibromyalgia are also afflicted with other conditions. These include sleep disorders, depression, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, or restless legs syndrome.
Treatment
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Fibromyalgia is not a progressive disease and does not worsen over time. However, the effects of pain, depression, and sleeplessness on the body can be damaging. To ease the pain, a doctor may prescribe painkillers and antidepressants. Physical therapy and counseling may also be recommended.
It is generally the responsibility of the patient to care for themselves to reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These self-care treatments include reducing emotional and physical stress, getting adequate sleep, and eating healthy foods.
Coping
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The National Fibromyalgia Association encourages fibromyalgia suffers to stockpile fun distractions, remember the good things in life, and maintain a positive perspective.
Fibromyalgia patients can keep themselves happy and distracted by keeping a journal of their good days, building a support network of family and friends, and interacting with other fibromyalgia sufferers online. Patients can also keep favorite toys, movies and games nearby to distract themselves from the pain.
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