Decrease Fibromyalgia Pain

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain in muscles and connective tissues. People who suffer from it are sensitive even to a soft and gentle touch. Although a certain diagnosis is not known, research shows that abnormalities in central nervous system have something to do with this health condition. No cure exists for fibromyalgia, but there are a few ways for sufferers to decrease the pain.

The first method of pain relief is medication. At first, patients start out with just a pill of aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. If these over-the counter anti-inflammatory drugs don't decrease the pain, stronger analgesics can be prescribed. Since central nervous system is believed to cause the pain, antidepressants are used in many cases of fibromyalgia. They increase the activity of serotonin and norepinephrines, both of which are neurotransmitters that are responsible for the condition. At times, an antiseizure medication such as Pregabalin can be used. Dopamine agonists have also given successful results.

Besides medications, exercise is a great way to reduce the pain of fibromyalgia. Staying active helps reduce sleep apnea and stress levels, both of which are contributing factors to fibromyalgia pain. Besides moderate exercise, many people have found that physical therapy, massage and even acupuncture are very good pain relievers. Cognitive behavioral therapy is used alone or in combination with exercise and medication. Although many people try this as their last resort, it's been proven to decrease the pain. It is used mainly for anxiety disorders, but it helps fibromyalgia patients manage stress, sleep and pain better.

Fibromyalgia is not a life-threatening disease, but it is one that is very painful. The most important thing one must do is to keep a positive attitude and to find the best way to reduce the pain.