Seeking Help for Fibromyalgia

If you know someone who is experiencing the pain and chronic fatigue of fibromyalgia syndrome, they are not alone. There are about six million people in North America, who suffer from the same widespread pain and fatigue. While not life-threatening, fibromyalgia syndrome is severe enough to impact a person's quality of life. People should understand that the pain they are feeling in their muscles and joints are not caused by damage to the affected areas.

Doctors do not like to prescribe narcotic painkillers for fibromyalgia because of the addictive properties of these medications. The first thing they need to do is find a doctor that understands the syndrome. Some doctors have difficultly treating fibromyalgia because there is no underlying disease. If a doctor has a negative attitude toward fibromyalgia, it is advisable to seek help from another doctor.

There is a new medication for those who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome. It is called Lyrica. Lyrica is the first FDA approved medication for fibromyalgia, and can help improve muscle and connective tissue pain in as early as one week of use. With the lessening of pain comes better sleep and less fatigue.

On days when a fibromyalgia sufferer is feeling better, they should not overdo it. A steady program of low impact aerobics, water aerobics, or light yoga, would be beneficial. It is important to keep hydrated and to keep moving. Always stretch before any exercise and have a cool down period afterward. A simple daily walk is better than no exercise at all.