What is Fibromylgia & what causes it?
78706
I often tell my mom (who has it) that what fibromyalgia really means is "You hurt, we know you hurt, but we haven't an effing clue as to what to do about it"
957943
I don't know much about fibromyalgia.  However, there is a 100% natural, whole food health juice that I heard has helped people wth fibromyalgia.  The product is called ViaViente.  I take it religiously as I used to have extremely high blood pressure (it is normal now as a result of adding it to my diet).  My wife also takes it religiously as it has weaned her off of 3 allergy medications.  There is a lot of clinical and 3rd party research on the product that proves it to be a leading health product.  Visit www.viabenefits.com to read testimonials from people who have added ViaViente to their diets as a result of fibromyalgia.
733143
It could be MANY things...try looking it up on this forum for ideas:\nwww.curezone.com.\n\nYou could have a sugar handling problem. It could be fibromyalgia. It could also be caused by taking too much of a supplement like MSM or too much vitamin B-6.\n\nYou could be having circulatory problems. Often circulatory problems go hand-in-hand with diabetes, but that doesn't mean that you have diabetes. \n\nYou may want to try herbs which improve your circulation such as ginger, cayenne pepper, and garlic.
29099
I have had Fibro since I was 16 and am now almost 36. I have seen more doctors over the years than I can count from Neurologists to Rhuematologists to Chiropractors to Psychiatrists to Pain Specialists. In my experience pain medications do not work. A muscle relaxant is much more helpful. I have also tried biofeedback, steroid shots, trigger point injections, two sleep studies, nerve blocks, accupuncture, foot braces, wrist braces, carpal tunnel release surguries, and so much more. All just torture and I felt like a guinea pig.\nMy best advise is make sure to get plenty of sleep, take a multiple vitamin, keep active in at least low impact sports, and consider Magnesium and Malic Acid supplements (consult the doctor or a nutritionist to have her Magnesuim level checked- it is a simpe mouth swab and not painful), meditation does help some in keeping the pain back if you can seperate your mind from the pain, and try to take 2-3 warm Epson Salt baths a week (Epson salt contains Magnesium and soaking in a warm tub of it helps to get the mineral into the body. Magnesium aids the muscles in using oxygen and when the level is low which is typical in Fibro it can cause are cramps, spasms, and pain.) \nAlso, Fibromyalgia is a neurotransmitter disorder and certain foods can trigger similiar symptoms to Fibro. Try to have her eliminate Monsodium Glutamate from her diet. I did and some of my symptoms (chronic headaches and nausea) went away. It is in everything from Doritos to chicken soup. A few key finding's of an FDA study found MSG to cause a "burning sensation in the back of the neck, forearms and chest". Otherwise, learn your limits and pace herself.\nGood luck!
134651
I have had Fibro since I was 16, actually 20 years now. It does sound like you have some of the symptoms. I am also wondering if you may have Rhuematiod Arthritis because of the joint involvement. Your headaches may actually be Cluster Headaches if they continue to reoccur frequently and you have a sharp pain around one eye. My clusters usually sit in the back of my head until a spike hits me in the eye (what it feels like). Also, these conditions can co-exist (you can have them both). I don't believe I have ever taken Accutane.\nFibromyalgia associated syndromes\n\nIt is not unusual for fibromyalgia patients to have an array of bodily complaints other than musculoskeletal pain. It is now thought that these symptoms are a result of the abnormal sensory processing – as described in the previous section. Recognition and treatment of these associated problems are important in the overall management of your fibromyalgia. \n\nNon-restorative sleep\nCognitive dysfunction\nChronic fatigue\nCold intolerance\nRestless leg syndrome\nMultiple sensitivities\nIrritable bowel syndrome\nDizziness\nIrritable bladder syndrome\nNeurally mediated hypotension\n\n1. Chronic fatigue: The common treatable cause of chronic fatigue in fibromyalgia patients are: (1) inappropriate dosing of medications (TCAs, drugs with antihistamine actions, benzodiazapines etc.), (2) depression, (3) aerobic deconditioning, (3) a primary sleep disorder (e.g. sleep apnea), (4) non-restorative sleep (see above) and (5) neurally mediated hypotension (see below). A new drug called Provigil is of some help when used intermittently for management of fatigue.\n\n2. Restless leg syndrome: This strictly refers to daytime (usually maximal in the evening) symptoms of (1) unusual sensations in the lower limbs (but can occur in arms or even scalp) that are often described as paresthesia (numbness, tingling, itching, muscle crawling) and (2) a restlessness, in that stretching or walking eases the sensory symptoms. This daytime symptomatology is nearly always accompanied by a sleep disorder - now referred to as periodic limb movement disorder (formerly nocturnal myoclonus). Treatment is simple and very effective – DOPA / Levodopa (Sinemet) in an early evening dose of 10/100 (a minority require a higher dose or use of the long acting preparations).\n\n3. Irritable bowel syndrome: This common syndrome of GI distress that occurs in about 20% of the general population is found in about 60% of fibromyalgia patients. The symptoms are those of abdominal pain, distension with an altered bowel habit (constipation, diarrhea or an alternating disturbance). Typically the abdominal discomfort is improved by bowel evacuation. Due to abnormal sensory processing these symptoms may be quite distressing to fibromyalgia patients. Treatment involves (1) elimination of foods that aggravate symptoms, (2) minimizing psychological distress, (3) adhering to basic rules for maintaining a regular bowel habit, (4) prescribing medications for specific symptoms; constipation (stool softener, fiber supplementation and gentle laxatives such as bisacodyl), diarrhea (loperamide or diphenoxylate) and antispasmodics (dicyclomine or anticholinergic / sedative preparations such as Donnatal).\n\n4. Irritable bladder syndrome: This is found in 40-60% of fibromyalgia patients. The initial incorrect diagnoses are usually recurrent urinary tract infections, interstitial cystitis or a gynecological condition. Once these possibilities have been ruled out a diagnosis of irritable bladder syndrome (also called female urethal syndrome) should be considered. The typical symptoms are those of suprapubic discomfort with an urgency to void, often accompanied by frequency and dysuria. In a sub-population of fibromyalgia patients this is related to a myofascial trigger point in the pubic insertion of the rectus abdominus muscles – and may be helped by a procaine myofascial trigger point injection). Treatment: involves (1) incr
476463
Holy Cow!  These are NOT appropriate drugs for a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia!  Find a new doctor ASAP! These are very, very, very dangerous drugs!\n\nBest wishes and good luck.\n\nP.S. I just did a Medline search of the scientific medical literature and there were NO research studies listed for the treatment of Fibromyalgia by either of these dangerous drugs!
29167
Camelia, ery sory to hear you have such a problem. A few questions first: A doctor would like to know your age, how many children you have, and maybe your marital status amoung other things. Fibroids are uterine swelling of some parts of uterine muscle. The can cause pain at any time during your menstrual circle and also maybe more blood. People differ. However they can be removed depending on their size and may even later have babies.\n\nThe fear of cancer affects everyone when something unussual affects us. Try not to jumb to conclusions. Yes see your doctor. Anyway with the little infprmation you hve given, it`s a treatable fibroid and not cancer.\nSee yor doctor please before you get too many mabe cofusing answers.
698802
I would suggest posting at fibrohugs.com asking for a doctor in your area. The website has a lot of posters, so they might be able to help.
421602
Vitamin D - many cases of Fibromyalgia are actually cases of Vitamin D deficiency.\n\nTake lots of antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, Selenium, Glutathione, NAC (N-acetyl-cysteine: it is converted into glutathione in the body), and Lipoic Acid.\n\nAll of the B-vitamins.\n\nAll of the essential minerals, with special focus on Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium and Zinc.\n\nOmega-3 essential fatty acids as fish oils.\n\nLots of nutrients to help detoxification: Indole-3-Carbinol, MSM, Curcumin, Calcium-D-glucarate.\n\nA quality protein supplement (hydrolyzed whey protein).\n\nA quality probiotic with very high concentrations of bifidobacteria and acidophilus.\n\nA quality multi-vitamin/mineral supplement.\n\nThere are a lot of potential 'causes' of Fibromyalgia.  The listed supplements may help with many of the causes.  However, it may be better if you seek professional guidance to help you properly evaluate what may be the source of your Fibromyalgia.\n\nUnderlying health problems that can produce Fibromyalgia include:\n1) Heavy Metal Toxicities (lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.)\n2) Intestinal dysbiosis (abnormal types of bacteria, fungi/yeasts, parasites) in your gut\n3) Leaky gut syndrome (intestinal hyperpermeability)\n4) A variety of nutrient imbalances/deficiencies (Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin D, etc.)\n5) Food allergies/intolerances - especially allergies to 'nightshades'\n\nI would also like to suggest an excellent book that may help you.  It is by Sherry Rogers, M.D. and is called:  "Pain Free in 6 Weeks".  It is available at Amazon.com or from the publisher at 1-800-846-6687.  I highly recommend this book (and others by Dr. Rogers).\n\nBest wishes and good luck.
898337
U can go to ur gp and tell him of ur symptoms. Here is some informatiom on fibromyalgia. \nhttp://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia/DS00079
222778
I have had Fibro since I was 16 and am now almost 36. I have seen more doctors over the years than I can count from Neurologists to Rhuematologists to Chiropractors to Psychiatrists to Pain Specialists. In my experience pain medications do not work. A muscle relaxant is much more helpful. I have also tried biofeedback, steroid shots, trigger point injections, two sleep studies, nerve blocks, accupuncture, foot braces, wrist braces, carpal tunnel release surguries, and so much more. All just torture and I felt like a guinea pig.\n\nMy best advise is to get as much rest as she can. Nap if she needs to and sleep when she can. Try delegating some responsibilities to others whether it's at work or at home. \n\nTaking a muscle relaxant (I take Zanaflex) is more helpful than pain killers. Have her take a good multiple vitamin, a B Complex supplement (helps in dealing with stress), keep active in at least low impact sports, and consider Magnesium and Malic Acid supplements (consult the doctor or a nutritionist to have her Magnesium level checked- it is a simple mouth swab and not painful), meditation does help some in keeping the pain back if you can seperate your mind from the pain. You may want to learn some home massage techniques for people with Fibro.\n\nHave her try to take at least 2-3 warm Epson Salt baths a week (Epson salt contains Magnesium and soaking in a warm tub of it helps to get the mineral into the body. Magnesium aids the muscles in using oxygen and when the level is low which is typical in Fibro it can cause are cramps, spasms, and pain.) \n\nAlso, Fibromyalgia is a neurotransmitter disorder and certain foods can trigger similiar symptoms to Fibro. Try eliminating Monsodium Glutamate from herr diet. I did and some of my symptoms (chronic headaches and nausea) went away. It is in everything from Doritos to chicken soup. A few key finding's of an FDA study found MSG to cause a "burning sensation in the back of the neck, forearms and chest". Otherwise, help her learn herr limits and pace herself.\n\nThe last source below is a study that shows how Fibromites differ from "normal" people in their reaction to pain. I found it very interesting and it helped me verify that this is all real and not just "in my head".\n\nGood luck!
978579
It is a relatively new diagnosis with lots of controversial opinions. Mainly it is pain without any association to injury or arthritic condition.  Fibromyalgia has insurance companies scrambling for answers as they really do not want to pay for treatment of something that has yet to be clearly defined by the medical profession. \nThe following wikipedia description clearly states that the nature of it is not understood.\n\nFibromyalgia (FM or FMS) is a debilitating chronic syndrome (constellation of signs and symptoms) characterized by diffuse or specific muscle, joint, or bone pain, fatigue, and a wide range of other symptoms. It is not contagious, and recent studies suggest that people with fibromyalgia may be genetically predisposed[1]. It affects more females than males, with a ratio of 9:1 by ACR (American College of Rheumatology) criteria[2]. Fibromyalgia is seen in 3% to 6% of the general population, and is most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 20 and 50. The nature of fibromyalgia is not well understood, with many frustrated physicians driven to accusing their patients of feigning illness. There are few, if any, treatments available[3], and there is no cure, but the disease is not life-threatening.
136475
Symptoms of fibro vary from person to person, but can include:\n\nwidespread pain, in all areas of the body (meaning not just right or left, legs or trunk, but everywhere) that is not the result of a known disease or trauma.  This is usually described to non-fibromites the following way:  remember the last time you had the flu - your body ached all over, right?  Just imagine that it does that every day and now you know a little about fibro.\n\nit has been going on for at least 6 months\n\nfatigue - knock you down, can't stay awake for another second, hope I'm not driving a car when it hits kind of fatigue\n\nsleep disturbances\n\nmemory problems\n\nproblems with heat or cold\n\nirritable bowel/irritable bladder\n\nbeing touched, even a soft touch, can hurt\n\ngrinding your teeth\n\nheadaches\n\nmenstrual pain\n\nsensitivity to brignt light or loud noises\n\nstiffeness upon waking or when walking after sitting for  long time\n\nSorry, no cure yet.  You can manage it.  I take OTC meds like Midol and Pamprin if I absolutely have to.  I can't stay in bed for more than 8 hours at a time or I feel worse, even if I haven't slept well.  I get up and do what needs to be done and take a nap later.\n\nAvoid heat or high humidity.  This seems to aggravate the fatigue.  I worked in an office where the boss was cold natured, so she kept the building warm, and it made me SO sick.  I also can't spend a lot of time outside in the summer.\n\nAbove all, avoid stress.  This is the biggest trigger I know of.\n\nThere are plenty of web sites that can give you more information, but if you think you have it go see a doctor.  When you call for the appointment, make sure the dr treats fibro.  Even now, some of them don't believe in it and will treat you like a slacker.\n\nGood luck and blessed be,\n\nGypsy
929192
Do you have any other medical problems, or are you taking any medications?  I have fibromyalgia and get the same stinging, burning in my skin when I have flair ups.  Also my doctor had me on Vicodin for chronic pain and I had to switch to another pain killer because it was making the burning worst.
680739
Fibromyalgia causes pain in muscles and soft tissues.  While it is a long-term disease, it causes no permanent damage to any organs.\n\nFor more detailed information:\nhttp://aolsvc.health.webmd.aol.com/hw/fibromyalgia_cfids/hw196368.asp?z=1673_00000_0000_rl_01
701829
Fibromyalgia is a neurological disorder of hypersensitivity, not a muscular disorder. \n\nFMS isn't, technically, considered to be a degenerative disease at all. It does not directly cause any degradation of muscles or tissues, but can lead to decreased activity, which would of course lead to a decline in muscle tone.\n\nIf FMS isn't treated properly, though, the hypersensitivity can get worse, leading to a greater degree of disability.\n\nAlso, FMS can make any other condition the patient has more difficult to deal with, because it amplifies any associated pain. \n\nFor instance, I have arthritis, which is a degenerative disease, as well as FMS for which I didn't get proper treatment for over a decade after diagnosis. In my case, FMS has been degenerative, and as a result, I am disabled.\n\nMy daughter, on the other hand, was treated as soon as she was diagnosed when she was 9. At 16, she is NOT disabled, nor is she likely to be. She's very active, and she knows that she has to stay aware of the fact that she has FMS but she doesn't have to live in fear because of it. \n\nYour prognosis and course of treatment really depend on your current health and background. The things I suggest most strongly to everyone are to educate yourself, get a good healthcare team of doctors who "believe in" fibromyalgia, and to surround yourself with family and friends who are supportive of you. \n\nStress will make fibromyalgia worse, so reducing the stress you can control in your life will improve your ability to deal with FMS and to deal with the stressors you can't control. If there are negative people around you, remove them. They're poison.\n\nThe same goes for environmental stressors. Drink plenty of clean water - put a filter on your kitchen tap or use a filtered pitcher in your fridge. Reduce the amount of everything else you drink - soda, coffee, alcohol, whatever. Watch what you eat, especially packaged stuff with preservatives and artificial coloring and so on. Put a HEPA air filter in your bedroom and change the air filter on your furnace/air conditioner every month. Keep your living environment as uncluttered as possible, and use non-toxic cleaning products - the Method line that Target carries is pleasant, effective, and reasonably priced. If you smoke, STOP - and don't hang out around people who do smoke. \n\nMove every day, somehow. Stretch, especially - carefully :-) Many people who have fibromyalgia have hypermobile joints (or, more accurately, many people who have hypermobile joints develop fibromyalgia). If you have access to a pool, swim. Non-weight-bearing exercise is great for allowing you to keep moving without increasing your pain levels.\n\nAnd keep your spirits up! Play, treat yourself, have fun. Give yourself a daily "whine budget" and then STOP and move on to focusing on what you can do.\n\nGood luck!
574945
I also live in PA.  try this webiste for some very good doctors.  www.geisinger.org    This hospital is fundemental in fibromyalgia and other problems that other hospitals can't fix.  I hope it can be of some help.  Glad to see I can help a neighbor.