Teens Are Also Victims of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia attacks the muscles and strikes any age, even teenagers. Teens have a hard time accepting it. Because the pain is so severe at times, it can turn their life upside down. Not only do teenagers have to deal with growing pains but they also have to deal with Fibromyalgia pain. This makes it more difficult to manage their lives. It can change their personalities from very outgoing to being depressed and withdrawn.

Some of the symptoms they experience include feeling achy all over, unable to sleep through the night, feeling tired and daily headaches. The pain can be so severe that it interferes with school and extracurricular activities. It is said that there as many as seventy symptoms. Therefore, some symptoms can be misdiagnosed as other disorders. It is also said that to be diagnosed, an adolescent must have had the pain for three months and feel tenderness at trigger points in specific areas of the body when pressure is applied.

The prognosis for teens is very good. Many recover completely, letting them participate in exercises such as swimming, aqua therapy in warm water, yoga or other low-impact sports. It is also important for them to have a good diet and nutrition. It is suggested to check the food list designed for Fibromyalgia patients.

Fibromyalgia is difficult to treat. A team-like approach of treatment is best. Rheumatologists, personal doctors, chiropractors and dietitians are utilized to treat teens. The team's goal is to help properly diagnose, medicate and treat them to help them function in school, home and recovery.