Fibromyalgia is a condition believed to correlate with abnormalities in the central nervous system that lead to pain and sensitivity to pressure throughout the body. In addition to pain, symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, depression and anxiety, bowel and bladder problems, numbness, and cognitive dysfunction. Some consider fibromyalgia controversial because no specific set of symptoms are present in all patients. This has led to misunderstandings in conventional healthcare about the disease. There have also been instances of people feigning symptoms of fibromyalgia in order to gain access to prescription drugs, adding to the speculation that it is not a full-fledged disease.
Symptoms are not always identical from patient to patient. Some may experience long- or short-term memory problems, while others experience symptoms that are more physical than mental. According to Dr. Robin Terranella of Southwest Integrative Medicine in Arizona, the disease is less controversial than it used to be. Part of the problem with fibromyalgia is that it is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that instead of looking for a group of existing symptoms to determine the presence of the disease, doctors rule out other diseases based on what symptoms are not present.
What Causes It?
There is also debate concerning the cause of fibromyalgia. While there is no known cause, there are several schools of thought based on common factors shared by those suffering from the disease. Some researchers believe there is a genetic component to the disease because it appears to run in families. Stress may also play a role. While most would agree stress is not a single cause of fibromyalgia, stress-related disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are often present in a person who suffers from fibromyalgia. Some believe exposure to stress may trigger the development of fibromyalgia and others think there is a connection between imbalanced dopamine, human growth hormone, and serotonin levels and the disease. A more controversial connection is believed by some to exist between fibromyalgia and depression. Depression is sometimes present in patients with fibromyalgia but no one has determined if one is the cause of the other.
Treatment Options
Treatment for fibromyalgia varies. Conventional doctors often prescribe antidepressants to combat the fatigue, pain, disrupted sleep, and depression that is sometimes present in those with fibromyalgia. Anti-seizure medication and medications that control dopamine have also proven helpful for some patients. It is important to remember medications do not cure fibromyalgia; they help control the symptoms. However, patients who choose medication to cope with their condition may find that the side effects create a greater problem than their fibromyalgia. Side effects will differ from person to person, so individuals should speak with their doctor about the ratio of benefit to risk. The list of possible effects includes lethargy, weight gain, emotional numbness, and increased feelings of depression or suicide.
Natural treatments for fibromyalgia are often more popular among doctors and patients. Dr. Terranella believes vitamin injections may be helpful in treating the disease. He states, “…for treatment we would use nutrients based around proposed mechanisms of why someone would get fibromyalgia. (There is proof) the cells are not producing enough energy, this causes free radical damage, which creates inflammation and cell death. The patient experiences this as pain. To improve this, we would use B vitamins, specific amino acids, and other nutrients. Sometimes these need to be given intravenously to be effective. The basic idea is to enhance the cells’ mitochondrial system.” Building cell health improves overall health, which may reduce a person’s sensitivity to pain.
Doctors also believe exercise is helpful in managing the pain associated with fibromyalgia. Movement reduces fatigue and helps the body heal, so exercise is good for managing fibromyalgia in the same way it is helpful in alleviating other conditions like high blood pressure and stress. Some patients have also found hot compresses ease the pain, as well as treatments like massage and acupuncture. Both treatments affect the energy in the body which lessons sensitivity to pain and improves overall well-being. Doctors occasionally recommend behavior therapies and some have found hypnosis helpful in dealing with the pain of fibromyalgia.
Health professionals have found the best method for dealing with fibromyalgia is using an integrated treatment program that targets the symptoms of the disease. Dr. Terranella recommends patients and their doctors choose a method of treatment and stick with it for at least a month to determine effectiveness. Over time, patients are able to manage their symptoms and live normal lives with fibromyalgia.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
