Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because many of
the symptoms mimic those of other disorders. While
tests cannot specifically identify fibromyalgia as the
problem, they can help rule out other disorders.
Often, the blood work and lab tests come back normal and
this compounds the problem. For many years,
patients not only had to cope with the pain, but they
also had to deal with doctors who were unable to diagnose
the problem. As fibromyalgia has become more widely
recognized within the medical community, the number of
diagnoses has increased dramatically. The American
College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed criteria for
fibromyalgia that physicians can use in diagnosing the
disorder. According to ACR criteria, a person is
considered to have fibromyalgia if he or she has
widespread pain in combination with tenderness in at
least 11 of 18 specific tender point sites.
There are many facets for treating Fibromyalgia.
The first is pain management. NSAIDS such as ibuprofen
are often used for pain. If the pain is intense,
your physician may prescribe some pain relievers.
Sleep management is another important factor. Since
FMS interrupts your deep sleep patterns, it is important
to regulate your sleep patterns. Try to maintain
the same routine such as going to bed and getting up the
same times each day. Avoid or minimize the use of
caffeine, sugar, and alcohol.
Your psychological
emotional well being is very important. Ensure that
you have a doctor who believes you and understands
your disorder. Join a support group in your area or
on the Internet. People provide emotional support
and can provide empathy where others cannot. Your
family support is also critical and can help you with
this disorder.
Alternative Approaches
Many people suffering from FMS are turning to holistic
methods to improve the quality of their life. They
are combining exercise with vitamin supplementation. This
safer and more holistic approach to fibromyalgia involves chondroprotective agents and vitamin supplements which use glucosamine,
chondroitin, ester-C & MSM, among others. An example is a product called
Free &
Easy. It is an excellent commercially tested and approved product effective
at easing the pain of Fibromyalgia. Take
action now to prevent the pain and misery of
Fibromyalgia.
