Fibromyalgia: Faking Pain or the Real Thing

Fibromyalgia Syndrome is a real medical condition that affects the central nervous system starting in the spinal column. Pain and discomfort is often more severe in the morning, after physical or mental stress or over exertion, inactivity, sleep loss and weather changes (cold/humid conditions). The muscle is often inflicted with deep aches, twitching, numbness, tingling and sometimes a burning sensation occurs inside the muscle.

Fibromyalgia was often treated as other diseases such as arthritis or a mental disorder. There is clear evidence that fibromyalgia triggers the pain receptors in the brain and increases a persons sensitivity to a lower level of pain tolerance. Some research suggests that the brain holds on the pain sensation for abnormal amounts of time.

A lack of a substance called dopamine in the central nervous system is partly to blame for the abnormal pain levels transmitted to your brain. You're not lazy or crazy, science has proven that abnormally low levels of dopamine released at the moment of pain causes the pain memory in the brain to hang on for extended lengths of time.

Managing your pain is often a challenge. Things to try on your own are eating a balanced and nutritious diet, mild to moderate exercise, massage therapy, yoga, and if possible, ask for support and help from friends and family. Things your doctor can help with are anti-depressant medications, suggest a good over the counter pain tablet, help with excessive stress if needed, and shortening your work day or work load.