Fibromyalgia

1. Fibromyalgia By: Nicholas Bono

2. What is fibromyalgia? • Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome in which an individual may experience long-term, body wide pain and tenderness in joints, muscles, tendons, and any other soft tissues. • Studies suggest that the fibromyalgia is an overreaction of the nervous system. It perceives and reacts to pain in an extreme way. • This is not entirely proven, the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. • A number of possible other causes or triggers have been identified.

3. Symptoms • Pain is the main symptom of fibromyalgia and can range from mild to severe. • The pain can be widespread throughout the body. Is described as a deep ache, shooting, or burning sensation. • The pain may worsen depending on daily activities, weather, as well as an individual’s levels of anxiety and stress. • The majority of patients with fibromyalgia also experience depressed mood, sleep issues, and fatigue

4. Other possible symptoms • Irritable bowel syndrome • Memory and concentration problems • Anxiety and depression • Chronic headaches • Abdominal pain • Hypersensitivity to cold and heat • Numbness or tingling in fingers and feet. • Stiffness.

5. Statistics • An estimated 5 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia. • 1 in 50 Americans, or 2% of the population • Fibromyalgia is the second most common musculoskeletal aliment after osteoarthritis. • 90% are womenand women are 7 times more likely than men. • Most commonly affects women during their childbearing years. • Also commonly found in young women who have “Type A” personalities that lead ambitious, busy, and stressful lives. • Has the ability to affect both men and women of all ages.

6. Statistics continued • 60% of fibromyalgia patients are diagnosed in there 30’s and 40’s. • Another 35% are diagnosed in there 20’s or between the ages of 50 and 65 years old. • 40% of fibromyalgia cases appear spontaneous with no clear cause. • It takes on average around 5 years to receive an accurate fibromyalgia diagnosis.

7. Stress and Fibromyalgia • A person’s history of chronic stress can play a role with the onset of the disease. • This stress can be physical trauma or physiological. • Stress can attribute to many of the symptoms. • Proper stress management techniques can significantly aid in the treatment and prevention of this disease.

8. Stress Management Techniques • Regular exercise • Practicing relaxation techniques • Taking a warm bath • Getting a good night’s sleep

9. Treatment options • Physical therapy • Developing fitness and exercise program • Medication (antidepressants, muscle relaxants, sleeping aids, pain relievers.) • Cognitive behavioral therapy

10. Treatment continued • Joining a support group • Eating a well balanced diet • Avoid caffeine • Proper sleep hygiene • Acupressure/Acupuncture

11. Sources • http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001463/ • http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/what-is-fibromyalgia • http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site896/mainpageS896P1.html • http://www.self-guided.com/fibromyalgia-and-stress.html • http://www.myfibro.com/fibromyalgia-statistics