Living With Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition resulting in pain involving muscles, ligaments and tendons. Theories as to the cause abound but there is no general agreement as to the cause. Fatigue and multiple tender points are present. More women suffer from this condition than men. The condition isn't life threatening but will probably never completely disappear.

The signs and symptoms are headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbance, pain, and irritable bowels which include constipation, diarrhea or bloating. There may be mood changes, dry eyes, painful menstrual periods, anxiety and depression. The symptoms may vary from day to day. Fibromyalgia is not contagious and non-progressive.

There is no generally accepted cure but there are treatments which can help alleviate the symptoms. These include medication, exercise, psychological intervention and patient education. Major depression is associated with fibromyalgia, but the question is whether depression causes the condition or the condition causes depression. In any event, psychological intervention may help.

Pharmaceutical companies have been working on various types of medication, none of which will cure the condition. These include analgesics, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, serotonin inhibitors, anti-seizure and dopamine medications. Some of these drugs can be used in unison. Exercise may reduce pain and fatigue. Temporary relief may be obtained by using heat. Whirlpool therapy has been effective. Physical therapy, massage or acupuncture can also help.

Although one has no choice but to live with the disease, medical and pharmaceutical groups have been learning more about the condition with an increase in treatments and medication. Living with this condition is being made easier.