Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because it often copies the symtoms of so many other diseases. Because of this, a simple cure has not been achieved. Management of the disorder is the key.
Some studies have shown that small doses of tricyclics, which are used to treat depression in larger doeses, may reduce the severity of the symptoms. Examples of these are amitriptyline and doxepin. For more information on these drugs, contact your doctor.
Many people with fibromyalgia have found that heat and massage will provide temporary relief from the pain, while aerobic activities such as walking and swimming may reduce muscle pain and tenderness. Some people find that a change in diet to be helpful. It must be understood, though, that no food has ever been implicated in causing fibromyalgia.
Although there isn't a certain cure, people suffering from fibromyalgia and similar disorders must keep going. Management is the key.
The Arthritis Foundation is offering a Fibromyalgia Self Help Course in many areas across the United States. This course is designed to help fibromyalgia sufferers learn better ways to manage physical symptoms, shows exercises to do to help keep muscles more flexible, stress relief methods and needed support for sufferers and their families. For free information on a class in your area, or how to get one started, contact the ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION or call 1-800-283-7800.
I have compiled some coping skills that I have found helpful in living with fibromyalgia.
The most important is finding the right doctor. This might take several attempts before you find the best one for you. If it isn't a good match, keep trying. Remember, you are the number one person on your health care team. Study about fibromyalgia and be sure to ask questions of your doctor.
This is your body, try and take care of it yourself with basic healthy living. Even though it seems impossible, try a 5-minute walk every other day. Eat a well balanced diet. Limit the amount of caffeine taken daily, could cause less sleep, which we don't need.
Don't let yourself feel guilty because you have fibromyalgia! You didn't cause it.
Find a support group or start one. It is very important that you do not isolate yourself. Dealing with a chronic illness is tough but is easier if you can share with others who know and understand what you are going through. With Fibro sometimes it is difficult to seperate feelings of tiredness and that helplessness and hopelessness associated with depression. If you need help for depression, please consult your doctor and get counselling, it does help.
Realize you limits and try not to go beyond the limit line. Learn to make a list of things to do, things that can wait, things others can do for you. Be realistic about yourself and learn to say NO without feeling guilty. Other people can do jobs at church, meetings, etc. You don't have to be superwoman and do it all.
I have found some information regarding fibro put out by the Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association. In a case study they conducted on 25 people with FMS and 12 with CFS and 13 with both conditions, they found that nutritional supplements had some effect on making certain conditions (fatigue, weakness, and unrestedness) better and more manageable. These supplements were classified into two "generations".
The first generation were Glyconutritionals. These were made up of freeze dried aloe vera extract and additional plant-derived saccharides known to be important in cellular communication, glycoconjugate synthesis, and the healthy functioning of the body. (Murray RK,. Harpers Biochemistry. Appleton and Lange, Stamford CT. 1996.)
The second generation were Phytonutritionals. These were made up of glyconutionals and various naturally ripened, flash freezed dried fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants and other nutrients required for optimal health.
The study was over an 18 month period and some subjects took as many as 12 glyconutritionals and 6 phytonutritionals per day.
Following nutritional supplementation, subjects reported an increase in physical and social activities and abilities. 75% reported improvements in their present health status and 100% reported improvement in their own quality of life.
I want to make sure everyone understands that this site is not endorsing any type of supplement. Always check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement or drug.
