Fibromyalgia induces a series of pain across the body. It has affected more than 2 million Americans at present and here is why.
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that affects the entire body, especially the bones. It has become one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed diseases in the U.S. It is also known as
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Being a chronic condition, it never progresses into anything complicated or life-threatening nor, does it damage your organs, muscles, or joints irreparably. Patients will only experience episodes of pain and fatigue.
What Causes Fibromyalgia?
How do you get fibromyalgia? It is often triggered by physical or emotional stress like injury, trauma, or a viral infection. The mental condition manifests as physical pain. Fortunately, depending on how long you have had the disease, there are high chances of it going away on its own. It is often confused with rheumatoid arthritis but both are different conditions that can occur together.
What Are the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?
The common signs of fibromyalgia are:
- Fatigue, twitching, tightness, headache
- Chronic pain and tenderness across the joints
- Difficulty to concentrate, remember or sleep (Fibro Frog)
- Unusual anxiety or nervousness
Fibromyalgia symptoms in women are:
- Morning sickness
- Unusual mood swings
- IBS
- Heavy cramping
How Is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?
Fibromyalgia diagnosis is difficult since it resembles the symptoms of stress, depression, or a general lack of a good lifestyle. There are no specific tests to diagnose this disease. Therefore, doctors perform an elimination test, where they test for everything else using various methods.
It is suggested to get tested by a family doctor who is aware of your previous conditions and family history to receive a better diagnosis.
How to Treat Fibromyalgia?
Severe Fibromyalgia is triggered by exposure to certain foods and emotions. You can treat the disease by following a restrictive diet and by making a few lifestyle changes. Here is the list of foods you should avoid:
- Processed, fried and junk food
- Red meat and gluten
- Refined sugar and carbohydrates
- Nightshade produce may aggravate symptoms
- Alcohol and caffeine
Joining massage sessions, support groups are recommended to relieve physical and emotional trauma. Apart from the above, over the counter painkillers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs are also prescribed for individuals experiencing extreme symptoms.
