Health Sessions » Fibromyalgia

But it Hurts! Fibromyalgia And Exercise

Editor — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:15:05 +0000

Anyone who suffers from fibromyalgia is constantly aware of the debilitating chronic pain that comes from the 18 trigger points on the body; some of these points are more painful than others, but they are all sources of moderate to intense pain.

Morning stiffness in muscles, joints and connective tissues is not a good way to start the day. As time progresses, trigger point pain increases with stress, lack of restorative sleep, depression and intense chronic fatigue.

Often fibromyalgia suffers are aghast when their physician prescribes the one thing that seems completely irrational: exercise. "I hurt all over my body and you want me to do WHAT?" the patient may exclaim. However, it is undeniable that fibromyalgia and exercise are indeed compatible, if not essential.

How Does Exercise Help Fibromyalgia?

When we examine the facts, the concept of fibromyalgia and exercise makes perfect sense. In fact, without appropriate exercise, fibromyalgia symptoms can worsen considerably, resulting in a vicious cycle of pain from the trigger points.

Successful symptom relief from fibromyalgia is a multi-layered approach consisting of medications, behavior modification such as improving certain dietary practices, and beneficial, low-impact exercise and stretching of the muscles, joints and connective tissues. Mild aerobic exercise can considerably improve fibromyalgia pain symptoms.

The pain symptoms of fibromyalgia make the sufferer much less likely to move and stretch already painful areas of the body. Thus, they become sedentary, which only increases muscle stiffness and pain upon movement. Exercise, the one thing that can relieve these stiff, sore trigger points, seems impossible. Yet those suffering from fibromyalgia need the appropriate, healing type of exercises. Obviously, intense and high-impact aerobic exercise is contraindicated for acutely painful trigger points.

Physicians who treat fibromyalgia often send their patients to an exercise physiologist or physical therapist that specializes in combining effective exercise and fibromyalgia treatment. This type of beneficial exercise can include swimming, slow walking on a treadmill, stretching and yoga-like movements.

These exercises for fibromyalgia don't focus on muscle building or strength; rather, they are designed to increase movement of affected joints and muscles, thereby relieving trigger point pain and stiffness. Initially, the patient may resist the notion of exercise as a form of relief from fibromyalgia symptoms because it hurts to move these tender points. Starting very slowly with mild stretching and swimming are the most often prescribed exercises for fibromyalgia relief.

The goal of exercise for fibromyalgia sufferers is not to run the four-minute mile; without a daily routine of gentle stretching and isometric-type exercises, the pain from trigger points will only increase the severity of symptoms.

Fibromyalgia And Whiplash-Could One Be A Leading Cause Of The Other

Editor — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:00:13 +0000

It happens in a split second-you feel an impact of some sort as you are in your car, and as a result you feel your neck thrust backward and forward. Frequently occurring as a result of rear-end car accidents, this sensation, known as whiplash, is quite common.

Whiplash is also referred to as neck strain or neck sprain, and it occurs when damage is done to the soft tissues of the neck. This, however, is only the beginning of whiplash injuries. Whiplash can be more severe; for example, damage could be done to nerve roots, ligaments, cervical muscles, discs, and non-vertebral joints. Before one can understand the correlation between fibromyalgia and whiplash, it is important to understand and recognize the symptoms and typical course of whiplash.

Symptoms Of Whiplash

The most common symptom of whiplash is pain in the neck. This can occur right after the accident, or perhaps several days later. There are other possible symptoms of whiplash as well; they may vary depending on the severity. Such symptoms include: neck stiffness, dizziness and headaches, back and shoulder pain, paresthesias, muscle and ligament injuries, and difficulty swallowing or chewing. In order to diagnose whiplash, physicians usually do an x-ray. This allows them to see the extent of the damage and the severity of the whiplash case.

Treatment Of Whiplash

Whiplash can be treated in many ways. At first, your physician will require you to wear a cervical collar for a few weeks. However, there are other treatments and ways of soothing a whiplash injury. Many doctors recommend heat therapy, and still other prescribe pain medications or muscle relaxants. Some patients even go through physical therapy or motion exercises to regain the use of their neck muscles. The treatment also depends on the severity of the whiplash case.

When Whiplash Just Won't Go Away….The Relation Between Fibromyalgia And Whiplash

Whiplash typically goes away after two to four weeks. However, due to the correlation between fibromyalgia and whiplash, many people continue to suffer intense pain for many weeks because they have either developed fibromyalgia or because they were misdiagnosed to begin with. If you believe that you have fibromyalgia and whiplash, and the symptoms commonly associated with whiplash have not improved after six to eight weeks, then you should go see your doctor. The doctor may take more x-rays in order to determine if fibromyalgia and whiplash have played a dual role in your injury.

The Latest Treatments for Fibromyalgia that Offer the Greatest Relief

Editor — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:45:14 +0000

Fibromyalgia is a painful condition that affects a number of people in this country. It is characterized by painful muscles, extreme fatigue, sleep disruption and a host of other potential side effects. While fibromyalgia does not do permanent damage to the body, the symptoms can become quite debilitating when they are severe and can most certainly affect the quality of life for many people. For this reason, it is important to be well informed on the latest treatments for fibromyalgia if you suffer from the condition. Keep in mind that there is no known cause or cure for this illness, but there are many treatment options available that will help you to effectively manage the symptoms of your illness.

Latest Treatments for Fibromyalgia Fall on the Patient

Many of the most effective and latest treatments for fibromyalgia can be practiced by you in the privacy of your home. These treatment options include getting plenty of rest, avoiding stress as much as possible, and adhering to a healthy diet and exercise program. It may also include keeping track of the specific events or behaviors that act as triggers to bring on your conditions, and working to avoid them. These triggers can be certain types of weather conditions, physical or emotional stressors, or lack of quality sleep. While these situations cannot be avoided entirely, keeping them in check as much as possible will do much in helping you to control your fibromyalgia symptoms.

One of the latest treatments for fibromyalgia that has proven effective for many patients is a daily dose of exercise. One exercise that many enjoy is water exercise of some sort, whether it is swimming or water aerobics. The water is a great place to get a full workout without having to worry about straining the muscles and joints of the body, making it a great way for fibromyalgia, lupus and multiple sclerosis patients to receive their much needed physical fitness. There are plenty of other exercise programs that can be effective as well. The key is in trying out different types of exercise until you find one that is right for you.

Latest Treatments for Fibromyalgia that come from the Doctor's Office

There are many of the latest treatments for fibromyalgia found in your doctor's office, and these can include a number of different types of medications that can help to keep your pain and fatigue in check. If you are not seeing significant relief in your lifestyle changes, talk to your doctor about the other latest treatments for fibromyalgia that you can try. Relief may just be a phone call away.

Defining Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Editor — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 02:15:08 +0000

There are many different aspects of chronic fatigue syndrome, and there are many different symptoms that go along with these aspects. The idea of this disease is not as simple as just being sleepy sometimes. If you have been diagnosed with this condition you know that the answer is not always as simple as it might appear. There are many different Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms, and many ways that it might appear to be.

Symptoms list

First of all it is important that you recognize the many different Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms, especially if you have been diagnosed with this illness. There are many to choose from, but the most prominent is that you will be sleepy and tired very often, even when you are getting a normal amount of sleep. Many people believe, and scientists have proven it, that there is a precise amount of sleep for each person, at which they function their best during the day. Sometimes this is anywhere from 5 to 10 hours, depending on who you are. A big part of figuring out the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms is testing out different amounts of sleep to see what fits you best. The reason is that you might feel tired and sleepy during the day if you don't get enough sleep, or if you are getting too much sleep.

If you think that your tiredness is a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms, you should first be sure that you have tested out different amounts of sleep. Try allowing yourself to sleep as long as your body needs, but remember that you should regulate this. The most important factor when it comes to regulating your sleep patterns is to get to bed at the same time each night. If you are able to sleep at the same time, you will find that your body normally regulates itself with the desired amount of sleep. However, remember that the best sleep your body can get is before midnight, so be sure that your night starts before then.

After you have gotten yourself on a regular sleep time schedule, you can start to experiment with different amounts of sleep. The recommended amount of sleep is at least 8 hours, so start there, and work your way up. If you find that you are sleeping for 10 or 11 hours and are still sleepy during the day, this might be one of the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms that have been discussed.

Lupus Fibromyalgia: The Ultimate Challenge

Editor — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 21:00:00 +0000

Many think of lupus and fibromyalgia as two different, distinct medical syndromes, and indeed they are. Each has a certain set of symptoms and treatments; in fact, rheumatologists sometimes say that the presence of fibromyalgia interferes with the correct diagnosis and treatment of lupus. These two conditions can be co-existing, complicating treatment for each. Lupus, fibromyalgia, scleroderma and rheumatoid arthritis are referred to as branches stemming from the same tree.

Lupus fibromyalgia, Sjogren's syndrome (excessive dryness of the eyes and mucous membranes), chronic fatigue syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus are all considered to be capable of co-existing. Specifically, both lupus and fibromyalgia are connective tissue diseases and auto-immune disorders. Although they both have similar symptoms and also differing symptoms the lines between these conditions is often quite thin.

Linking Lupus and Fibromyalgia

Systemic lupus and fibromyalgia share many commonalities: intense muscle, joint, and connective tissue pain, peripheral neuropathy, sensitivity to heat and cold, a low immunity to viruses of opportunity such as the flu, severe fatigue, sleep disturbances and an inability at times to focus and concentrate, called "brain fog."

Many rheumatologists refer to fibromyalgia as sub-clinical systemic lupus. Aside from two key symptoms present in lupus, these two conditions can often be indistinguishable. Systemic lupus is definitively diagnosed based upon the infamous "butterfly rash" on the chest or face, and a lab test called a "sed rate" test.

Sufferers of fibromyalgia tend to have the same fear; that they will "convert over" to lupus. Thus, they watch constantly for the butterfly-shaped rash, knowing full well what this would mean for their health. When only these two symptoms are absent, these sufferers are classified as having lupus fibromyalgia.

This diagnosis, however, remains controversial among rheumatologists and immune disorder medical experts. For many, the patient has either lupus or fibromyalgia, not both. Lupus is primarily treated with strong steroid drugs such as Prednisone to reduce the pain and swelling of muscles, joints and connective tissues.

Long-term steroid use causes Cushing's disease, a serious disorder of the thyroid and/or adrenal gland. Lupus also causes hair to thin drastically or be lost altogether. Fibromyalgia is very similar to lupus in symptomology, but physicians are reluctant to treat it with steroids, choosing other medications and therapies that don't involve such serious side effects.

Ultimately, when a patient is asked if he/she has lupus or fibromyalgia, their most common answer is "I have lupus fibromyalgia." As medical researchers continue to debate this issue, sufferers merely do what they can to treat the symptoms and leave the controversy to others.

Living with a Fibromyalgia Disability

Editor — Tue, 10 May 2011 10:45:14 +0000

When you hear the word "disability", you might think of physical limitations that slow people down. This is exactly what a Fibromyalgia disability is, even though you can't see it on the outside of someone.

Living with Disabilities

Many people live with disabilities on a daily basis. Usually, it just takes a few tweeks to the way that they live and to the conditions of their world. Sometimes this requires special equipment or special arrangements. However, with a Fibromyalgia disability, there isn't' much that you can do with your physical space to help yourself.

However, there are many things that you can do to live better with your Fibromyalgia disability. First of all, remember that this is a disease that has many symptoms, therefore it is a disease that you can work on bit by bit. The first step to living with your Fibromyalgia disability is to create a lifestyle in which you are taking care of every bit of your body. Make sure that you are eating exactly the right diet and getting the proper amount of exercise. Rid yourself of vices like smoking and excessive drinking, which might contribute, and try to keep yourself in places that lessen your stress and make you calm and happy.

Once you have done these things, the next step towards living with your Fibromyalgia disability is to work on the different aspects of this disease. First of all, get yourself on a pain regiment to take care of the chronic and constant pain. This should be something that is okayed by your doctor, and be sure to follow his recommendations when it comes to dosage and how often to take the medication. Usually most of the pain can be managed with pain relievers.

Next, you have to deal with the aspect of the Fibromyalgia disability in regards to sleeping. Most of the time, you are going to have very abnormal sleep patterns and therefore you are going to be tired all of the time. You need to make sure that you have yourself on a sleeping schedule and stick to it. Create a period of time each day that you will be sleeping, and be sure that you are following through with this.

Your body will gradually get accustomed to sleeping at certain times, so make sure that you are able to do this. You also might want to look into taking anti-depressants as another way to combat your Fibromyalgia disability because many times they are helpful as well.

Fibromyalgia Trigger Points: A Constant Source of Pain

Editor — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:15:06 +0000

Although the causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, its sources of pain, called "trigger points," are not. These are multiple tender points on the body. In making a clinical diagnosis, a physician confirms the presence of fibromyalgia trigger points on at least eleven out of eighteen parts of the body. These painful areas are typically located in the fibrous tissues of the neck, shoulder, chest, hip, knees and elbows. Many rheumatologists who treat this syndrome do not distinguish between the terms "fibromyalgia trigger points" and "fibromyalgia tender points," while others believe they are not the same. Regardless of the medical terminology used, those affected know only that many parts of their bodies ache with an unrelenting chronic pain.

Targeting Fibromyalgia Trigger Points

Many say that the worst part of this complex syndrome occurs when the trigger points associated with fibromyalgia are in a "flare up." This is known to happen during times of stress, illness, sleep deprivation, changes in barometric pressure, and fatigue. When the trigger points "flare" in fibromyalgia patients, the pain can be so intense that it prevents the sufferer from working and doing the normal activities of life. A vicious cycle is created when pain from the trigger points creates inactivity, and this inactivity makes the pain even worse.

Although many other symptoms of fibromyalgia complete the diagnostic picture, it is most often the trigger point pain that brings the patient to the attention of a physician. In most cases, the patient presents with complaints of areas of intense pain that comes and goes, becoming worse under certain life circumstances or health crises. Patients are asked to show the physician where these areas of pain are located.

Fibromyalgia trigger points are often painful to the physician's touch, especially those in the chest, neck and shoulders. A thorough diagnostic interview by the physician also identifies other classic symptoms of fibromyalgia such as sleep disturbance, oral thrush, irritable bowel, excessive dryness of the mucous membranes, and chronic fatigue.

Usually the patient does not associate these symptoms with the pain of the trigger points and may not understand why the physician is asking about symptoms other than muscle and joint pain. However, an astute physician who is acquainted with fibromyalgia trigger points and their connection to the syndrome as a whole "connects the dots" and makes the clinical diagnosis.

Since none of the symptoms of fibromyalgia are outwardly visible, including trigger points, even after 150 years of study this syndrome has mystified medical researchers. Since it cannot be seen in lab tests or any other type of definitive diagnostic method, the question as to whether or not fibromyalgia is "real," is still open for debate among physicians. It is not at all debatable for those who endure it every day of their lives.

Fibromyalgia with Multiple Sclerosis: Getting an Accurate Diagnosis

Editor — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 08:45:04 +0000

Fibromyalgia is considered a syndrome, which means that a cluster of symptoms will develop with no known cause attached. This makes a condition like fibromyalgia difficult to diagnose, since a doctor will need to perform a comprehensive workup based on symptoms, family history and perhaps medical tests. Unlike other diseases and illnesses that can be diagnosed quickly and accurately with a single exam or collection of tests, there is no conclusive way to diagnose fibromyalgia. This lumps it into a category with other illnesses of similar characteristics, like chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus and multiple sclerosis. To make matters even cloudier, fibromyalgia with multiple sclerosis can be experienced in tandem. This makes it challenging to diagnose and treat either or both of these symptoms.

Seeing Fibromyalgia Symptoms with Multiple Sclerosis

The reason that fibromyalgia is lumped with multiple sclerosis and so many other disorders is due in part to the similarity of many of the symptoms. Some of the common symptoms that characterize fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis include numbness or tingling in various areas of the body, muscle stiffness that primarily occurs in the morning with fibromyalgia, and a loss of muscle function. In the case of fibromyalgia, the loss of muscle function can most often be attributed to the pain and fatigue of the condition, while MS patients suffer from a loss of muscle function due to the neurological side of the disorder. In addition to the fact that fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis present with many similar symptoms, the symptoms can also be widespread throughout the body, and can come and go in a seemingly random pattern.

Diagnosing Fibromyalgia and Multiple Sclerosis

The key in determining the difference between fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis is in the diagnosis process that your doctor follows. Multiple sclerosis generally requires a series of neurological exams for an accurate diagnosis. The good news is that this process will usually turn up an accurate diagnosis that will lead to a quicker and more effective treatment plan. On the other hand, fibromyalgia is generally treated by alleviating the symptoms, since permanent damage to the muscles or tissue in the body rarely result from this condition. While some of the treatment options between fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis can be similar as well, it is important for the focus of the treatment to be in the right place to ensure the most effective results.

A Rare Occurrence: Men With Fibromyalgia

Editor — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 11:15:16 +0000

If you suffer from fibromyalgia, you know the symptoms: the constant fatigue, the intense muscle pain, and the tender areas of the body. While this terrible disease is most common in women of childbearing age, there are men with fibromyalgia as well. This is rare, however. According to a 1999 study, there is only one man with fibromyalgia for every three women with the condition. This makes men with fibromyalgia difficult to diagnose and treat, because cases in men are so rare.

The Symptoms Of Men With Fibromyalgia

Men with fibromyalgia tend to display different symptoms than women with fibromyalgia do. Because it is more common for women to have fibromyalgia, it is more difficult for doctors to diagnose men with fibromyalgia because the symptoms are different and not seen as frequently. Doctors are also predisposed to think of fibromyalgia as a "woman's disease," and thus they often to not think to diagnose men with fibromyalgia when they exhibit common symptoms.

Men with fibromyalgia seem to suffer fewer and milder symptoms than women with fibromyalgia do. The number and severity of the tender points in the body is reduced. Also, the fatigue is milder and fewer men experience irritable bowl syndrome as a side effect.

Finding Help: Limited Support For Men With Fibromyalgia

Because there are so few men with fibromyalgia out there, a man suffering from the condition may have a more difficult time finding support than women. Many support groups exist for women with fibromyalgia, whether they are part of a hospital program or online. However, although these support groups usually welcome men to their ranks, men with fibromyalgia have a more difficult time finding support overall.

And it is the men that may need the support most of all. Because the disease wears away your strength and muscle, men with fibromyalgia often feel a sense of failure or the inability to comply with the standards set for them by society. And because most men have the idea that it is necessary to hide their emotions, the result is repressed anger and difficulty communicating.

What Can I Do?

If you are a man suffering from fibromyalgia, it is important that you follow the same procedures as anyone else with the disease. Make sure to take all medication as prescribed to you. It is also vital that you exercise, eat a balanced diet, and get the proper amount of sleep. It may also be necessary to make changes to your work habits as well. If your work is putting a significant amount of stress or strain on your muscles, then you should re-evaluate your lifestyle so that you can better live with this terrible disease.

Spotting Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Editor — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 17:30:15 +0000

Fibromyalgia is an arthritis-related condition wherein a patient experience widespread muscle pains and persistent fatigue. A patient diagnosed with this condition may experience pain in tendons, ligaments and muscles.

Spotting fibromyalgia symptoms can be confusing to doctors because this condition does not show physical signs. As a result, fibromyalgia is an often-misunderstood disease. Since the symptoms normally described by patients are common and laboratory tests usually give no results, doctors used to tell patients that their condition is normal.

However, medical studies have proven that fibromyalgia symptoms really do exist and the condition was officially legitimized in 1990. Today, patients are diagnosed with this condition when the display the two major fibromyalgia symptoms – pain in eleven or more tender areas and generalized pain for more than three months.

When To Seek Medical Attention

When your body frequently hurts all over and you tend to become exhausted easily, you may want to visit your doctor for tests. Although most tests commonly return without any specific disorders associated with your symptoms, there is a large chance you are experiencing fibromyalgia.

The most reported fibromyalgia symptom is overall, persistent pain. Most patients describe the pain as deep muscular throbbing, aching, stabbing or shooting. Some patients experience severe burning sensations and many reports that the pain, stiffness and inflammation worsen during mornings.

Another common fibromyalgia symptom is fatigue. While some patients experience only mild fatigue, others may suffer from severe fatigue that could cause them to become homebound. Most patients describe their fatigue as "brain-draining" because they feel too weak to concentrate or move their arms and legs. Sometimes, this fatigue can be associated by the lack of "refreshing" sleep a patient receives because of certain sleep disorders caused by fibromyalgia.

According to medical studies, more than 50% of patients with this condition, experience fibromyalgia symptoms such as recurring migraines and tension-type headaches. These symptoms are among the major complaints of patients because they cannot perform their jobs, schooling or other daily tasks.

Irritable bowel syndrome, including diarrhea, constipation, abdominal gas, persistent abdominal pains and nausea could represent fibromyalgia symptoms because these indicators are commonly found in around 60% of fibromyalgia patients.

Other fibromyalgia symptoms may include painful periods, morning pain and stiffness, temporary memory loss, chest pains, numbness or tingling sensations, dry mouth or eyes, dizziness, twitching muscles and other individual symptoms. If you experience most of these symptoms for more than three months, seek medical attention immediately to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Fibromyalgia Relief: Find A Relief Treatment For You

Editor — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 22:15:02 +0000

Fibromyalgia is characterized by severe joint and muscle pain, fatigue as well as a number of other symptoms. It usually affects women more than men and is usually passed from person to person through their genetic makeup. If you have fibromyalgia, you have likely spent a long time trying to find fibromyalgia relief. Well, the good news is that there is relief available. The bad news is that the disease currently has no cure and not every method of fibromyalgia relief works exactly the same in every person.

Prescription Fibromyalgia Relief

As with most diseases and conditions today, there is a prescription drug that can provide relief. Some of them work better than others and, as stated above, some prescriptions work for some while they may do absolutely nothing for the next person. The best way to determine if a prescription drug might provide you with fibromyalgia relief is to talk to your doctor.

However, it should be noted that doctors are not miracle workers. They may have to put you on several prescription drugs before they find one that works for you. The best thing to do when you are seeking fibromyalgia relief in this manner is to be patient. Fibromyalgia is not usually progressive and it's not fatal so if you can just mind the pain for a while, chances are, your doctor will find a prescription that brings you the fibromyalgia relief you're looking for.

Alternative Medicine

There are other treatments out there for fibromyalgia relief, but not all doctors buy into them. These treatments include heat treatments, pool treatments and others that are designed to provide fibromyalgia relief without resorting to drugs of any kind.

There Is No Cure

The cause of fibromyalgia is not yet fully understood and we're still a ways off from finding a cure. However, if you can find a fibromyalgia relief treatment that works for you, you should be able to live with the condition with little to no discomfort whatsoever.

You just have to read as much as you can and listen to your doctor. Experiment with different treatments and, above all, never give up. You don't have to live in pain and discomfort just because you've been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. You just have to find a treatment that works for you so that you can get that relief you've been looking for.

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Editor — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:15:02 +0000

Fibromyalgia, also known as non-articular rheumatism, soft tissue rheumatism and fibrositis, is a condition that affects muscles, tendons and ligaments. It gives a widespread pain in all joints that connect the bones. Fibromyalgia causes people to have trouble of sleeping and regular fatigue.

Although fibromyalgia is a recent term, it is a very common disease, affecting over three percent of all people. However, this disease is more likely to develop in women rather than men. The risk of having fibromyalgia also increases with age.

People with this condition usually experience stiffness and pain of muscles, joints or their entire body, especially in the morning. Some people report numbness in joist and muscles, poor concentration and memory. Other warning signs of this condition include migraine, depression, headaches and jaw pains.

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include pain or swelling of joints and tissues. Because of this, patients may have trouble sleeping, become tired easily or feel weak every day. Some people experience dryness in their eyes, develop sensitivities to medications and certain foods or become vulnerable to cold. Some patients report pain in the abdomen and joint dysfunction.

Fibromyalgia may occur because of illness, infections, accidents, injuries, stress, emotional and physical trauma or surgery. However, the exact causes of this condition are unknown.

Treatments And Prevention

When your doctor believes you may have fibromyalgia, he or she may refer you to a certified rheumatologist because these doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatments of conditions related to bones, muscles and joints. Usually, a person with this condition experiences widespread pain for three months or more.

Unfortunately, there are no known cures for fibromyalgia. However, patients can perform a few things to manage their condition and lessen the symptoms associated with it. Medications are available to reduce pain. These include medications that increase serotonin levels, such as tetracyclic and tricyclic antidepressant medications as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).

Rheumatologists often recommend patients with this disease to follow regular exercise routines to reduce overall pain and strengthen bones, joints and muscles. Patients should start with mild exercises to prevent muscle straining and promote strengthening of muscles.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia also reduce when heat is applied. It also helps in relaxing stressed muscles and reducing swelling or pain. Applying hot compress or taking a hot shower can give patients temporary relief from widespread pain. While fibromyalgia can affect the lives of the patients significantly, some patients lead a healthy and normal life when treated early.

Coping With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Editor — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:45:03 +0000

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition wherein people experience a great deal of fatigue and weakness, making it difficult to perform even the simplest tasks, such as eating, dressing or walking. Although this disease has been around since 1700 with a different medical name, many doctors doubted its existence and regarded it as a psychological condition.

However, medical studies have confirmed that chronic fatigue syndrome is indeed a physical illness, which is not yet fully understood. Since the two most common symptoms of this condition are severe fatigue and extreme weakness, many doctors find it difficult to diagnoses if the illness is associated with CFS.

Chronic fatigue syndrome tends to occur in women than in men, affecting all ethnic and racial groups. Although many patients with CFS are between the ages of twenty and forty, teenagers can also experience this syndrome.

Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome may vary from one patient to the next. However, doctors diagnose people with CFS only if they experience severe and chronic fatigue for more than six months, which cannot be alleviated by rest or medicines. Patients are also diagnose when patients display four or more symptoms including sore throat, temporary memory loss, muscle and joint pains, difficulty of concentrating, recurring headaches and weakness that lasts longer than one day.

Children With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There are no known treatments for CFS. However, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms associated with the condition. If your child was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, you should be aware that leaving his or her condition untreated could lead to various emotional and physical difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, frustration, helplessness or becoming homebound.

As parents, you should help a child cope with his or her symptoms by encouraging them to keep a notebook that records their energy levels and daily activities. Exercise is an important part of therapies, so you should make sure that your child has a carefully planned exercise program to maintain strength and toughen muscles.

Memory loss and lack of concentration can affect your child's education. For this reason, you should help him or her keep track of assignments, projects and other important things for school. Make sure that the entire family supports your child's therapies for chronic fatigue syndrome. Having emotional support for many people could greatly help the child's recovery.

Since chronic fatigue syndrome is still being studied to understand the causes and symptoms better for proper diagnosis and treatment, it is good to support your child in any way you can, in the meantime.

Ask Your Doctor About A Gluten Free Diet For Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Editor — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:00:30 +0000

Fibromyalgia is not a fun disorder to suffer through. Anyone who has it or knows someone who does knows that it is painful and very uncomfortable. The symptoms range from pain and soreness in the muscles and bones to feeling drowsy all the time to brain fog and more. There are many symptoms that come with having fibromyalgia and not every sufferer experiences them all. This just does more to baffle experts when it comes to the disease.

Currently, there is no cure for fibromyalgia and experts really don't know what causes it. All they know is that there are certain symptoms that it's characterized by and the best they can do is try and help to relieve those symptoms for the patient. One of the ways experts have come up with helping with those symptoms is by telling patients to follow a gluten free diet for fibromyalgia symptoms.

What Is Gluten?

Gluten is a type of wheat normally found in such grains as wheat, rye and barley. It is used in cereals, breads and many other types of food. Doctors have shown that patients who follow a gluten free diet for fibromyalgia symptoms actually had a reduction in those symptoms. Of course, since little is still known about the disease, not all doctors are on board with this treatment. Still, it's worth a try. If nothing else, maybe cutting out all those grains will do wonders for your figure.

Not Every Treatment Works For Everyone

Some treatments work for some people and some for others but it's worth it to give every treatment a try, especially one as simple as simply giving up foods that contain gluten. Following a gluten free diet for fibromyalgia symptoms is both safe and it's inexpensive. There are no drugs to buy and you know that you're not ingesting anything that could potentially be harmful for you.

When you try a gluten free diet for fibromyalgia symptoms, don't just try it for a few days and then give up. You should give every treatment some time to work before you expect to see any results.

So, if you have fibromyalgia and you are looking for a treatment program, why not try a gluten free diet for fibromyalgia symptoms. You never know, it could give you the much sought after relief you've been looking for.

Fibromyalgia Info: Find A Support Group

Editor — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:14 +0000

Anyone who either has fibromyalgia or knows someone who does knows how unpleasant it can be. With the bone and muscle aches and the constant drowsy feelings, coupled with other symptoms that affect some with the disease and not others, it can be hard to find relief. After all, experts really don't know what causes fibromyalgia and they are still far from a cure. However, there is help available and you can find that help with fibromyalgia support groups.

Find The Info You Need

When you are diagnosed with any disorder, you want as much information as you can on the subject. It's no different with fibromyalgia info. You can ask your doctor but your doctor is likely busy and doesn't have time to tell you every bit of fibromyalgia info that you seek. You can read books but books are so impersonal, as is any information you get over the internet.

So, if you're looking for a personal connection with someone who actually has the same disease you're suffering from, and you're also looking for fibromyalgia info, you can find all of this and more at a fibromyalgia support group.

Where To Find A Support Group Near You

The best way to find a fibromyalgia support group near you is to search the internet. The internet is full of fibromyalgia info but it's also a great way to find people who are suffering just as you are. There's bound to be a fibromyalgia support group near you and, if there isn't, you can probably find some kind of online chat room where you can still get fibromyalgia info in real time, you just won't be sitting there in front of the person you're speaking to. For a lot of people, the internet chat room often sounds better.

When you meet a support group for the first time, it can be nerve racking but you should understand that everyone is there because they are suffering from the same thing you are. And, it's likely that they are there just to get fibromyalgia info just like you.

However, not only are support groups good for fibromyalgia info but you can also share stories and other experiences that should make living with the disease much easier. Hopefully, you can find some kind of treatment by talking to the support group so that you no longer have to experience the pain and discomfort that comes from suffering from fibromyalgia.

Steps for Treating Fibromyalgia Yourself

Editor — Mon, 25 May 2009 21:00:18 +0000

If you've been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, you might be worried that you have a disease with no sure fire cure, and nothing that can be done to completely rid yourself of it. However, you shouldn't be concerned, because there are several steps that you can take to treating Fibromyalgia yourself.

Understanding Symptoms

The first step to treating Fibromyalgia yourself is to understand the different symptoms that you are having. Firstly, you must realize that the disease is compromised of a lot of unexplainable pain, and exhausted ness. These two things can completely ruin your life and cause lots of damage, but it is important to know that you can do several things towards treating Fibromyalgia yourself to combat these.

The best thing that you can do as far as treating Fibromyalgia goes is to create a healthy lifestyle for yourself and stick to it. Regulate your diet, and work closely with a dietitian to be sure that you are getting all of the nutrients that you need on a daily basis. Be sure to take supplements and vitamins as needed. Also, regulate your exercise, and always be sure that you are getting enough of it. After you have done these things ,take a look at your life in general and work on any vices that might be unhealthy. Also, regulate the sleeping time that you have and set aside exactly the same time each night to be sleeping.

After you have done these things, the next step in treating Fibromyalgia yourself is to work on the constant pain. The best way to do this is to begin a regiment of pain relievers, but you have to check with your doctor to choose one and to pick the amounts that best fit with your body, your lifestyle, and the degree of pain that you are feeling. Then, you can begin.

Another thing that you can do is to combat the tiredness and the depression that you might feel. Anti-depressants are often useful, but if they aren't for you, look into some natural sleep remedies and some natural depression cures that you might use for treating Fibromyalgia. Most of the time, once you have regulated everything in your life, you will find that the depression and the tiredness are much less because the rest of your life and your body is being much more healthy. These are all great ways that you can go about treating Fibromyalgia without medical help.

Fibromyalgia Diet Guide

Editor — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 21:18:01 +0000

Fibromyalgia is a common condition that affects hundreds of people worldwide. Unfortunately, causes of fibromyalgia are still unknown, making it difficult to spot the condition with physical and obvious signs.

If a rheumatologist feels that all your symptoms are associated with fibromyalgia, he or she may recommend a few lifestyle changes, medication and dietary restrictions. Since there are no known cures for this condition, doctors will only recommend treatments to lessen the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

One change patients may require is his or her daily diet. Although most fibromyalgia patients report that their pains are alleviated by dietary measures, there is no specific and proven "fibromyalgia diet program" to treat this condition.

Several studies have been made to determine the effect of certain foods on fibromyalgia in order to formulate an effective fibromyalgia diet for patients. Unfortunately, there are no clear medical evidences that indicate certain foods and dietary supplements could improve this syndrome.

Therefore, if you are looking for the perfect fibromyalgia diet to reduce your symptoms, be aware that it can be misleading to say that there is one single diet, which could effectively reduce your symptoms. Doctors recommend dietary changes for this condition that are based on general principles of a healthy eating program that avoids certain foods known to cause headaches, allergies, hyperglycemia, fatigue and digestive disorders.

Fibromyalgia Diet: Foods To Avoid

Although there are no accepted fibromyalgia diets, many patients continue to report that specific foods effectively alleviate symptoms better than others do. Doctors explain this occurrence based on the important of proper nutrition in keeping the body free from biochemical problems. Since fatigue and inflammation are symptoms that are affected by food, there is no harm in following a fibromyalgia diet that you or your doctor believes can reduce symptoms.

Some patients experience food allergies or cravings. For this reasons, doctors try to alleviate the pain by changing the patient's diet. While many patients report common foods to avoid, be aware that not everyone can benefit from fibromyalgia diet they recommend because symptoms of fibromyalgia vary from one patient to another.

Generally, patients follow a fibromyalgia diet program that contains food that are not linked to headaches, fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation and other symptoms associated with this complex syndrome. Patients are advised to identify and avoid foods that aggravate their individual condition. However, most doctors advise on avoiding foods with aspartame and monosodium glutamate.

If you feel that a fibromyalgia diet can benefit your condition, you can follow a low refined-carb diet, vegetarian diet and any kind of diets that reduce headaches. It is important to note that the diet you choose should specifically treat your individual symptoms and it is not practical to follow other patient's diet because their "formulated fibromyalgia diet" may not work wonders for you.

Fibromyalgia Treatment Targets The Symptoms

Editor — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 22:17:46 +0000

Fibromyalgia affects five percent of the population which is about 6 million people in the United States. This condition produces intense pain throughout the body of the victim of this awful syndrome. The people who suffer from fibromyalgia also feel great fatigue and have a difficult time sleeping at night. These people are very disturbed by this condition so the researchers in the medical community have searched for the cause of this problem but have not found the source of the problem. The symptoms of fibromyalgia are very similar to arthritis except there are no outward signs such as swollen joints.

The mystery of fibromyalgia has forced physicians to make the fibromyalgia treatment a remedy for the symptoms rather than the root cause of the disease. The fibromyalgia treatment begins once the disease is diagnosed by the professionals. The doctors often delay the fibromyalgia treatment until all of the tests and screenings on the patient are in for evaluation. Then the doctors often wait to start the fibromyalgia treatment until the patient feels the intense pain of fibromyalgia continues for three months. The doctors often do not start the fibromyalgia treatment until they determine that there is tenderness in at least eleven tender points.

Fibromyalgia Treatment Starts When The Data Is Collected From Screenings

The fibromyalgia treatment starts when all of the information comes in from diagnostic tests. Sometimes the cases of fibromyalgia are mild, and the symptoms disappear without any fibromyalgia treatment. Other people do not feel the symptoms constantly and their fibromyalgia treatment is based on how they are affected by the condition. The fibromyalgia treatment is often a combination of recommendations from the attending physician. There is not a single treatment that will relieve the patients of this condition.

Most doctors will prescribe some type of pain medication for the patient depending on their tolerance for the different substances in each painkiller. These medications will often be recommended on an "as needed" basis. The patient will usually only take the medication when the pain is intense. Some doctors recommend antidepressant drugs for those suffering with fibromyalgia. Other medications include anti-inflammatory drugs. Doctors often recommend that patients attend support groups for those with similar concerns can often make others feel better about living with the condition. Vitamins, fish oil and other supplements are often recommended for the patients suffering from fibromyalgia. Doctors sometimes suggest that the patients visit a chiropractor who might help with the intense pain.

No Cure, No Cause For Fibromyalgia

Editor — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 11:04:17 +0000

Plain and simple, the cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. Without an identified cause of this syndrome, it technically has no cure. The many symptoms can be treated effectively, but fibromyalgia in its entire clinical picture rarely goes into spontaneous remission. The causes of fibromyalgia theories abound in the medical research and literature, each one a subject of hot debate among rheumatologists. If the actual cause of fibromyalgia were known, this would result in much more aggressive and effective treatment of symptoms, and may even result in remission. But as of today, this is not the case.

What Do We Know About The Cause Of Fibromyalgia?

Examining and researching the cluster of symptoms of this syndrome consists of a series of "why?" inquiries that may eventually lead to identifying the cause of fibromyalgia: 80% of sufferers are women in their middle years: why? Depression is a major symptom of fibromyalgia: why? Fibromyalgia symptoms have many similarities with the symptoms of systemic lupus: why? People with fibromyalgia almost always have a close relative who also suffers from the syndrome: why? None of the symptoms of fibromyalgia can be outwardly observed or laboratory-tested: why? The complete fibromyalgia profile includes pain in trigger points on the body, chronic fatigue, Sjogren's syndrome (excessive dryness of the eyes and mucous membranes), lack of restorative sleep, sensitivity to heat and cold, morning muscle and joint stiffness and pain, increased symptoms during periods of stress, a lowered immune system, and episodes of oral thrush: why? Perhaps if we could tie these symptoms together into some rational clinical picture, we would be closer to understanding the cause of fibromyalgia.

Current medical research can only identify possible causes of fibromyalgia: a traumatic emotional experience, stress, depression, deficiencies in magnesium, phosphate and substrate minerals, biological disruption of natural energy production, chronic fatigue, low levels of growth hormones, heredity from relatives who have the syndrome, and disruption of deep, restorative REM sleep. The question is, are these symptoms of the syndrome, or the causes of fibromyalgia?

Successful treatment of symptoms may give some indications as to the causes of fibromyalgia. If a specific treatment works, such as vitamin and herb supplements, medications that strengthen the immune system and disrupt pain signals to the brain, and medications that restore deep, healing REM sleep, may lead to a better understanding of the actual cause of fibromyalgia. In other words, if a treatment works, why does it work?

Medical science is still a long way from identifying a cause for fibromyalgia. It does exist, and it responds to certain treatments, but it remains an "idiopathic" condition without a known cause or definitive treatment to put it into remission.

The Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Affect Many In The United States

Editor — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 03:21:03 +0000

The symptoms of fibromyalgia are obvious although the root of the problem remains a mystery to the medical professionals who have tried to investigate the cause. There are approximately six million people who suffer from this condition in the United States so medical researchers have tried to find the cause of the condition. The medical community has also tried to find relief for the people who suffer from this condition. The pain might ebb and flow in some patients, but in other patients the pain is constant and intense. The symptoms of fibromyalgia are pain throughout the body of the patient. The pain is especially intense at the joints of a patient.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia are located in what the medical professionals call tender points. The symptoms of fibromyalgia are very similar to the symptoms of arthritis, but a patient with arthritis often sees obvious signs of the condition. These signs include swelling and deformity of the joints of the patient. The symptoms of fibromyalgia do not appear in the same way. There is no outward sign of a problem, but the underlying pain remains. The symptoms of fibromyalgia are not usually apparent so often the patients seem to be imagining the pain. The pain from fibromyalgia can feel like a gnawing or burning sensation to the patient.

Doctors Treat The Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Since the medical professionals cannot determine the root or cause of fibromyalgia, the doctors have to treat the symptoms of fibromyalgia for their patients. The symptoms of fibromyaligia are the real problem with this condition for most patients. This is not a life threatening disease so people are not going to die from the problem. People could live with this condition for many years, and many people do live with fibromyaligia for many years. These people just cannot live with the symptoms.

Another symptom of fibromyalgia is fatigue. People who suffer with fibromyalgia are constantly and deeply tired. This affects their performance in daily life. The people with this condition often have trouble sleeping. Some of the people do not feel the effects all day long and then the symptoms appear at night. The people have a difficult time sleeping which means that they are tired the next day when they have to work. People with fibromyalgia often cannot do much exercise because of this condition. Fibromyalgia also causes muscle twitches in some people, and these twitches add to the pain of the patient.

The Best Diet for Fibromyalgia is a Healthy Choice for Everyone

Editor — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:34:21 +0000

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that primarily involves muscle pain and fatigue. The pain is generally intense and widespread, and can be accompanied by headaches, digestive issues, lack of concentration and depression. Sleep disorders are also common among fibromyalgia patients, which can include difficulty falling asleep or experiencing a restless night that will lead to fatigue the next day.

Fibromyalgia is considered a syndrome, which means that there are a cluster of symptoms that can occur without any known cause. While fibromyalgia does not generally cause any permanent damage to the muscles and joints it affects, it is characterized by chronic and constant pain of which there is no known cure. This can lead to other side effects, like depression and anxiety that are the result of the daily necessity for pain management.

Following the Best Diet for Fibromyalgia

Because fibromyalgia is a painful condition, it can affect your life in many negative ways. There is no cure for the illness, but there are ways to manage the pain and enjoy a better quality of life as a result. These coping strategies can include following the best diet for fibromyalgia. The good news about the best diet for fibromyalgia is that the recommended foods are also a part of a healthy diet for the rest of the population. If you are suffering from this chronic condition and want to follow the best diet for fibromyalgia, you can rest assured that the rest of your family will benefit from your menu plan as well.

The best diet for fibromyalgia includes one that is rich in wholegrain products, while eliminating refined foods like white-flour breads, cakes and muffins. Refined carbohydrates like these are not the healthiest choice for anyone, but they can be especially detrimental to the fibromyalgia patient. It is also good to include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in your diet, while eliminating saturated fats that can interfere with optimum circulation within the body. This means selecting the leanest meat and dairy products, and avoiding fried foods completely.

Fruits and vegetables are good for everybody, and they play a special role in the best diet for fibromyalgia. Keep in mind that some fibromyalgia patients will not be able to stomach citrus fruits as easily, but if you find that oranges and grapefruits work okay for you, by all means include them in your menu. A heavy intake of these foods will not only work in the best diet for fibromyalgia, they will help reduce a multitude of other diseases and illnesses as well. Think healthy, eat healthy, and watch your fibromyalgia symptoms diminish to a point where you can manage them much more effectively.

Fibromyalgia Medications Bring Much-Needed Symptom Relief

Editor — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:17:39 +0000

As of yet, there is no identified cause or cure for fibromyalgia. This syndrome consists of a cluster of symptoms including moderate to intense pain in trigger points on the body, depression, sleep disturbance, chronic fatigue, lowered immune system, inability to concentrate, anxiety, and peripheral neuropathy – a condition that causes aching, burning and twitches in the hands and feet. Medications for fibromyalgia do bring about symptom relief for most patients. Sometimes the only way to determine if a medication will help relieve fibromyalgia symptoms is by trial and error by the treating physician. If it works, use it! It if does not, try something else until symptom relief is obtained.

Through years of experimentation, fibromyalgia medications have been fairly standardized. Some are considered as mainstream treatments, and some are still very hotly debated. The last word usually rests with the patient unless a certain medication is contraindicated due to drug interactions and drugs that may provide temporary relief but actually harm the patient in the long run.

Fibromyalgia Medications That Work

Finding the right medication for the right patient is difficult, but there are some medications that have shown proven effectiveness in relieving and even preventing fibromyalgia flare-ups. Gabapentin (Neurontin) is a medication that interrupts pain signals to the brain. It is not a painkiller; rather, it is pain response preventative. Amitriptyline (Elavil) is an old-style tricyclic antidepressant that, in doses of 50-100 milligrams at night helps to restore deep REM sleep as well as interrupting the signals of chronic pain to the brain.

The antidepressant class of SSRI drugs (Serotonin Selective Re-uptake Inhibitors) like Wellbutrin, Effexor, Zoloft, Prozac, Cymbalta and others are very effective medications for fibromyalgia because they relieve the depression that almost always accompanies this syndrome. In conjunction with clonazepam (Klonopin), a mild anti-anxiety drug, the debilitating emotional symptoms of fibromyalgia are relieved by these medications.

For acute flare-ups of intense trigger point pain, a physician may prescribe a short-term course of narcotic painkillers to completely interrupt the "pain panic" that often accompanies this symptom. However, the use of long-term narcotics is not an effective medication regimen for fibromyalgia. These drugs are highly addictive, and in the long run, they create more problems than they solve. Instead, tramadol (Ultram) has become a specific medication for the treatment of fibromyalgia. This drug works like a narcotic in its painkilling properties. It is not, however, of the narcotic class. It works on the brain to relieve pain from trigger point flare-ups, but with none of the addiction problems of the opiate narcotics. Tramadol, combined with gabapentin, Klonopin, amitriptyline, and a sleep medication like Ambien CR or Lunesta, work together as very effective medications for the treatment of fibromyalgia.

Life After Trauma-The Correlation Between Fibromyalgia And Auto Accidents

Editor — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 04:46:09 +0000

Fibromyalgia is a serious and painful disorder, affecting only two to four percent of the population. Some of the common symptoms of fibromyalgia are extreme fatigue, chromic pain in the muscles, stiffness in the morning, and waking up without feeling refreshed.

There are many problems and side effects associated with fibromyalgia, such as problems with memory and concentration, dizziness, headaches, abdominal cramping, and numbness. People with fibromyalgia also experience intense pain when pressure is put on the "trigger points" associated with the disease. This is an important distinction between fibromyalgia and other similar disorders.

So now you know a little about fibromyalgia, but you still don't know the all important question-how does one get fibromyalgia? Is it genetic? Can it be passed from person to person? Do not be concerned about being mysteriously afflicted by this disease. Although unsure of the exact cause, doctors have found a direct relation between fibromyalgia and auto accidents.

The Causes Of Fibromyalgia-Are Auto Accidents To Blame?

Doctors are still unsure about what exactly causes fibromyalgia. However, they do know that this disorder is not something that can be transmitted from person to person. They have determined that women with a family member who have had fibromyalgia are more likely to get the disorder themselves, though they may not experience fibromyalgia at all.

One of the possible causes of this disorder, doctors have determined, is associated with trauma that occurs after illness or injury, surgery, or an auto accident. Thus, fibromyalgia and auto accidents go hand-in-hand. In a five year study conducted from 1990 to 1995, the records of two thousand fibromyalgia patients were studied. Of these two thousand people, sixty-five percent of the cases were due to a traumatic incident. Of this percentage, fifty-two percent had fibromyalgia because of an auto accident.

This proves the direct correlation between fibromyalgia and auto accidents. Fibromyalgia and auto accidents are most likely to be associated together due to the possibility of neck and shoulder injuries during an auto accident.

Other Possibilities

Fibromyalgia and auto accidents are not the only possible reason for the disorder. There have been many other cases of fibromyalgia that have not occurred after trauma. Some doctors believe that the disorder is associated with neurohumoral dysfunction, or with too much stress. Still others think that fibromyalgia is caused by emotional, physical, or sexual abuse that occurred during childhood.

Chronic Fatigue Treatment: It's Not Just A Lack Of Sleep

Editor — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 00:20:02 +0000

Many people feel tired throughout the day and they usually attribute it to a lack of sleep. These people will try everything, from changing beds to changing pillows to taking sleeping aides, thinking it has something to do with their quality of sleep that's causing them to feel so tired throughout the day. However, it may be more serious than that. If you feel tired all the time, it could be because of chronic fatigue syndrome and they may require chronic fatigue treatment.

What Is Chronic Fatigue Treatment?

Chronic fatigue treatment involves trying to help patients with the extreme tiredness, pain, aching in the bones and muscles as well as brain fog that they feel constantly. There are other symptoms as well, for chronic fatigue syndrome, that some experience and some don't. However, there is really no known cause or cure for chronic fatigue syndrome but there a number of chronic fatigue treatments.

Some treatments include certain prescription drugs, holistic approaches and then there are some that are controversial, that is, some doctors think that some chronic fatigue treatments work and some think they are mere 'quack' medicine.

Regardless if it's quack medicine or not, however, if you have chronic fatigue syndrome and you find a chronic fatigue treatment that works, then, by all means, use it. Little is known about the disorder and anything that will alleviate the symptoms can't be all that bad.

Get Tested Right Away

If you feel that you could possibly have chronic fatigue syndrome, you should get tested by your doctor immediately. Your doctor will usually conduct tests of your blood, urine and other bodily fluids, as well as conduct a series of other tests that will determine if you require chronic fatigue treatment or not.

Because of the ambiguity of the symptoms, your doctor should be the one to diagnose you. You should never try to diagnose yourself of any diseases or disorders from information you get from books or the internet and you definitely shouldn't try to treat any diseases or disorders that you only suspect you have.

Get An Official Test By A Qualified Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor and get an official test for chronic fatigue disorder. That way, you'll know whether it is the quality of sleep that's making you tired all day or if it's a disorder. Your professional and personal lives no longer have to suffer because of your constant drowsiness. You can finally get the chronic fatigue treatment you require and you can finally get the relief you've been seeking.

Many people suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, and most of them are women. However, no matter if you are a man or a woman, if you feel tired all the time and are experiencing other symptoms as well, such as aches and pains or anything else, get tested right away. You'll thank yourself for acting on it instead of letting it affect your life.

What Is Fibromyalgia Remains An Unanswered Question

Editor — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:42:26 +0000

Six million or more suffer from fibromyalgia in the United States alone. When their doctors tell them about the diagnosis, their first question is usually the same. What is fibromyalgia? This question often remains unanswered. They return to tell their family what the doctor has told them, and their family members ask the same question. What is fibromyalgia? They cannot answer this question because there is no research that has provided a definitive answer. Often people like to do some independent research, and they might go to the local library. The librarian will help them once they tell them about their search. The librarian will probably ask the same question. What is fibromyalgia?

Medical researchers have worked on this question for many years, and no one has been able to answer the root of their research. What is fibromyalgia? The researchers have studied many of the same people who have come to them with similar symptoms. They will say that they have intense pain throughout their body. They will also say that they have many tender points throughout their body. The symptoms are similar to those of arthritis, but these patients will not have the outward signs that appear with arthritis such as swollen joints. They will appear to be normal from their outside appearance.

What Is Fibromyalgia May Remain Unanswered Forever

This question may remain unanswered for a very long time. The disease is not life threatening so it is not so important that the root cause is discovered. The doctors at this time treat the symptoms of the disease rather than the cause. The doctors often prescribe some pain medication for the intense and often constant pain. The doctors will sometimes prescribe antidepressant medication to provide relief to the patient. The patient with fibromyalgia may benefit from the services of a chiropractor who can help to relieve some of the pain.

Vitamins and other supplements are often helpful to those with fibromyalgia. These include fish oil which seems to have some benefit for those with fibromyalgia. Doctors often recommend that those with fibromyalgia join a support group to meet with others who suffer with this disease. It is sometimes helpful to hear how others deal with this disease. Fibromyalgia can be very difficult for people who have this disease, but there is some relief for the symptoms. Sometimes this condition will disappear only to return some time later.

The Unrecognized Connection: Peripheral Neuropathy And Fibromyalgia

Editor — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 13:09:54 +0000

The complex and controversial syndrome of fibromyalgia has gained increasing medical status among physicians as being a "real" condition instead of the "depressed woman's hypochondria." After nearly 150 years of medical research, this syndrome is now well-recognized, with a particular set of symptoms. Although there is no cure for fibromyalgia, its painful and exhausting symptoms can be medically managed. However, there is one symptom of fibromyalgia that is only now gaining recognition as yet another common manifestation of this syndrome: peripheral neuropathy associated with fibromyalgia.

Peripheral neuropathy in general is a tingling, burning, twitching or numbness of the hands and/or feet. It is most commonly associated with many metabolic conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, connective tissue diseases and auto-immune disorders like lupus. Peripheral neuropathy is often present with fibromyalgia because fibromyalgia is considered as both a connective tissue condition and an auto-immune disorder. Many rheumatologists regard fibromyalgia as a form of sub-clinical lupus, the only difference being that in fibromyalgia, there are two key lupus symptoms missing; the infamous red "butterfly rash" on the patient's chest or face, and a definitive lab test called a "sed rate." Apart from these elements, lupus and fibromyalgia are almost indistinguishable. Thus, peripheral neuropathy present in fibromyalgia is much more common than previously considered.

Treating Fibromyalgia's Peripheral Neuropathy

The accepted medical protocols for treating peripheral neuropathy associated with fibromyalgia differ only slightly than conventional treatment for other types of peripheral neuropathy. Since neither fibromyalgia nor peripheral neuropathy can be cured, the focus is on managing symptoms. The medication Neurontin (gabapentin) is very helpful in relieving the pain, burning and numbness of peripheral neuropathy. This is not a narcotic pain-relieving medication; it acts by interrupting pain signals to the brain rather than masking them with an addictive opiate. The old-style tricyclic antidepressant medications like amytriptaline (Elavil) in low doses are proven, dependable treatments for fibromyalgia with or without peripheral neuropathy.

Also useful are the NSAIDs – Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs – such as ibuprophen (Aleve, Motrin, and Naproxen) which helps relieve the swelling and pain associated with fibromyalgia peripheral neuropathy. For simple pain relief, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is helpful. Keeping hands and feet warm is also important; many sufferers wear gloves and heavy socks year-round to reduce flare-ups. Others find wearing tight but comfortable canvass shoes, and even sleeping in them, very helpful. Finding a regimen that works and using it consistently is the key to comfort.

Fibromyalgia Information: Ask Your Doctor First

Editor — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 22:17:46 +0000

When you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, the first thing you want to know is what it is and how you can get rid of it. Unfortunately, there is no cure for fibromyalgia and experts still don't really know what causes it. They just know the symptoms, which are characterized by fatigue, muscle and bone aches, as well as a number of others. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fibromyalgia information. Your best bet is to ask your doctor as many questions about the disease that you can so that you can better understand the disorder you've been diagnosed with.

Regroup, Then Ask

When you are diagnosed with any disease or disorder, there is often a feeling of shock that comes over you. You can't really think straight and you certainly don't really know all the questions to ask. That's why, if you are diagnosed with a disorder such as fibromyalgia, you should wait until that shocked feeling wears off and then go back to your doctor. Prepare a list of questions that will give you as much fibromyalgia information as possible so that you actually know what you're dealing with.

Some Questions To Ask

Good questions to ask your doctor are what fibromyalgia is, what are the suspected causes, how is it treated and if there are any support groups that you can go to. Support groups are great because you know that you are surrounded by people who are going through the same thing you are. What might work for one person as a treatment may very well work for another and it's these types of things that support groups share with each other.

However, no matter what you ask your doctor, make sure you get all the fibromyalgia information you're after before you leave the doctor's office. Write the list down and take it with you. Don' t leave anything out. You want to know what you have and how to treat it and tell your doctor you want to know as much as possible.

If you're still hungry for more fibromyalgia information, there are many books on the subject or you could look it up on the internet. There's plenty of information on the internet, especially about fibromyalgia. It should be noted, though, that not all information on the internet is valid so you should always back up any fibromyalgia information you get off the internet with an actual credible source, such as your doctor.

Chronic Fatigue Relapse Can Be Most Discouraging

Editor — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 01:55:16 +0000

Many of the people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia suffer for some time, and then the condition seems to disappear. The condition can be most discouraging and damaging to the lives of the people affected, their families and friends. When the symptoms of these conditions disappear, the patients are so grateful and they often forget how awful the symptoms were while they lasted. When a chronic fatigue relapse occurs, this can be devastating to the patient for they feel that they are starting all over again. Many patients do suffer chronic fatigue relapse after a period totally free from the symptoms of this condition.

These people feel the terrible fatigue and the depressing feeling that they cannot do all of the things that are their responsibility. A chronic fatigue relapse often appears from out of the blue. There does not seem to be anything specific that triggers a chronic fatigue relapse. A chronic fatigue relapse could begin with the onset of a migraine headache or just a feeling of aches all over the body. A chronic fatigue relapse could begin with difficulty remembering simple things.

A Chronic Fatigue Relapse Should Be Treated Immediately

People should identify warning signs and should treat the chronic fatigue relapse as soon as possible for best results. Those that recognize and deal with the onset of symptoms of a chronic fatigue relapse will be better equipped to deal with the symptoms while they last. This condition returns in cycles so a chronic fatigue relapse is not unusual. People should be prepared for a chronic fatigue relapse at any time. People should try to change their diets and behavior as soon as they realize that they are experiencing a relapse. Patients might return to yoga or other exercise that helped them in the past.

Patients should do other things that helped them in the past. They should try to get plenty of rest and relaxation. They should also get a massage if this is something that helped in the past. Alcohol could contribute to this problem so when a chronic fatigue relapse seems to be approaching, the patient should cut back or eliminate alcohol consumption. Vitamins and dietary supplements often help with this condition so the patient should make sure that they do not forget to take these helpful supplements. Any patient who has suffered from this condition should expect a relapse so they should be ready to reduce the impact this can have on their daily lives.

Fibromyalgia Syndrome Causes Misery For Many

Editor — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 13:34:36 +0000

Fibromyalgia syndrome affects many people every year, and the causes and cures remain elusive for some of these patients. Although fibromyalgia syndrome affects so many people, the experts in the medical field have not been able to provide great insight into this condition. Some people seem to develop fibromyalgia syndrome more readily than others, and these people are usually older people. Fibromyalgia syndrome appears to cause great fatigue in many of those afflicted, but it is not clear why this condition makes people so tired. Fibromyalgia syndrome also causes debilitating pain for those afflicted, and many with this condition cannot function on a daily basis.

Fibromyalgia syndrome does not just affect one isolated part of the body, and most people who suffer from this condition feel pain throughout much of their body. Current statistics show that about five percent of the population is affected by this condition. There are approximately six million people in the United States who suffer from this condition. The pain affects the muscles and the bones throughout the entire body. The person seems to have pain all over their body. The muscles seem to be very affected by this condition. Fibromyalgia syndrome causes muscle twitching which increases the pain of this condition.

Fibromyalgia Syndrome Continues To Baffle Many Doctors

Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic condition that can affect a person for many years, and although so many are affected, doctors do not know of an exact cure for this condition. Fibromyalgia syndrome has been the focus of attention for researchers trying to find a cure, but these experts still do not have a perfect cure for this condition. Often the primary doctor refers the patient to other specialists for some relief from the pain. The researchers have not found the root cause of the condition so the treatment has to be for the symptoms of the condition rather than the disease.

Fibromyalgia syndrome symptoms are often treated by some alternative medicine specialists such as chiropractors who manipulate the bones for some comfort. These treatments do help some of those that suffer from this condition, but it does not eradicate the condition. The pain and suffering from this condition is not always constant and those affected feel worse at times. The patients need to work closely with their physicians and others to alleviate the symptoms of this condition. The researchers continue to work with those affected to try and find as much comfort as possible for those with this problem.

Ouch! Fibromyalgia Characterized By Fibromyalgia Pressure Points

Editor — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 17:04:11 +0000

Chronic pain, extreme fatigue-these symptoms could apply to numerous diseases, disorders and conditions. However, they are frequently symptoms of fibromyalgia, a disorder that usually effects women from ages twenty to fifty.

Though it is rare for fibromyalgia to occur in men, it is possible. Fibromyalgia is often induced by severe trauma, such as that caused by whiplash or an auto accident. There are several things that make fibromyalgia different from other pain-related disorders.

Fibromyalgia patients have to fit a certain set of criteria before a doctor will diagnose them. First, the patient must have experienced diffuse, widespread pain for at least three months. Secondly, the patient must have at least eleven out of eighteen specified fibromyalgia pressure points-that is, tender areas that cause severe pain when pressed.

Because patients have to meet such specific criteria, many patients-especially men-are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. If more people were aware of the eighteen specific fibromyalgia pressure points, then perhaps the likelihood of being diagnosed would increase, resulting in a wider recognition of this terrible condition.

About Fibromyalgia Pressure Points

When pressed, fibromyalgia pressure points do not cause severe pain all over the body. Rather, pain will only occur at that particular point on the body. Some describe the fibromyalgia pressure points as bruises in various stages. There are eighteen specific pressure points in the body, though to be diagnosed with the disease, you only have to have eleven of tem.

The first two fibromyalgia pressure points are located at the base of the skull. These are known as the Occiput pressure points. The next two pressure points are located at the lower vertebrae of the neck, and are referred to as Low Cervical pressure points. Next, one may discover pressure points throughout the neck, mid back and upper back muscles between the shoulder blades; any fibromyalgia pressure points falling in these areas are called Trapezius pressure points.

The Supraspinatus pressure points are located near the spins, and the Second Rib pressure points are located near the second rib. Two pressure points known as Lateral Epicondyle pressure points are located near the elbow. The Gluteal pressure points can be found in the muscles of the buttocks. Finally, the two pressure points located in the outer thigh are called Greater Trochanter pressure points, and there are two pressure points located at the knee as well.

Options for Treatment for Fibromyalgia

Editor — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 06:46:37 +0000

You have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. The good news is that doctors know what is wrong with you. You might finally have reasons as to why your body hurts all over and you can't sleep, and you are exhausted during the day even when you do sleep. This is the good news, they know what is wrong. Now you need to focus on what kind of treatment for Fibromyalgia is the best for you.

Many Different Kinds

There are many different kinds of treatment for Fibromyalgia because there are many different symptoms that are associated with it. First of all, the best treatment that you can get for yourself is total body care. This means making sure that you are eating the right foods and that you are getting the right amounts of exercise for your body.

Secondly, you have to be sure that you are doing whatever you can to eliminate things that might be stressing you out or causing you pain. Part of the treatment for Fibromyalgia is taking a look at your life and fixing what is going wrong. Eliminate all the stress that you can, and change your lifestyle so that you aren't being caused so much pain.

After you have done these things, the treatment for Fibromyalgia can take one or several of many different roads. First of all, you should start a daily dose of a pain reliever to take care of the pain that you feel. Most of the time, aspirin or other pain relievers can be effective, but you should check with your doctor to see what the safest pain reliever is for you to take every day, depending on your body and the other factors in your life.

After you have taken care of the pain, there is the sleeplessness to counter. Most of the time, because depression might go hand in hand with Fibromyalgia, anti-depressants are used to not only pull you out of the depression, but to help you to sleep. However, some people don't' like using these drugs because of the other effects they might have. In this case, you should seek a natural sleep remedy that works for you.

Because of the many symptoms of this disease, the treatment for Fibromyalgia varies from person to person. The good news is that this condition isn't going to get any worse, and it isn't going to be terminal. That means that you can afford to experiment with different solutions and treatments until you find one that fits your lifestyle and helps you the most. With proper treatment that works for you, Fibromyalgia can be completely manageable.

Knowing when to Take Medication for Fibromyalgia

Editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 03:49:51 +0000

Fibromyalgia is a chronic and painful condition that affects the muscles of the body. It can lead to extreme fatigue, sleep problems, depression and digestive disorders. While fibromyalgia does not seem to do any permanent damage to the body in any way, the symptoms can be difficult to cope with and lead to other side effects that will require treatment. There is no known cause or cure for this condition, but there are some medications for fibromyalgia that have proven to be effective in treating the painful symptoms of the illness. These medications for fibromyalgia tends to primarily focus on the pain and sleep issues that accompany the illness, and are used most often with those patients who are suffering from symptoms that can be classified as severe.

Antidepressants are More than a "Head" Medicine

Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants as a medication for your fibromyalgia for a couple of reasons. First, it is not unusual for patients that are coping with chronic pain to become depressed as a result of their ongoing symptoms. An antidepressant can help with those feelings, leading to better sleep and an enhanced ability to relax. It is also true that antidepressants can be effective pain blockers, which can alleviate some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. There are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market today, and some will be most effective in treating the depression itself while others will work better on the pain and sleep problems. Your doctor will be able to recommend the best medication for fibromyalgia for you, and may try more than one before finding the most effective medicine and dosage amount.

Muscle Relaxants Relieve Pain and Help you Sleep

Muscle relaxants are another medication for fibromyalgia that have proven to be effective in managing pain and enhancing restful nights. There is also a variety of these medications on the market, so your chances are very good for finding one that will work well for you. Many of the muscle relaxant medicines can make you drowsy, so it is best to take these medications for fibromyalgia in the evening before bed. The other advantage to this practice is a better night's sleep, if sleep disturbances have been an issue as well. While some patients report that the muscle relaxants do not do a particularly good job of eliminating all of the muscle spasms that can be associated with fibromyalgia, most agree that there is significant pain reduction with these medications.

If you are suffering with the symptoms from this painful condition, talk to your doctor today about medications for fibromyalgia that could be effective for you. You may be on the road to more pain-free days and an improved quality of life in no time at all.

Celexa For Fibromyalgia Could Ease The Pain

Editor — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 18:31:51 +0000

Celexa, also known as Citalopram, is an anti-depressant that is classified in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Celexa is used to treat depression. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin supplied to the brain. Because people with depression have an imbalance of neurotransmitters, the excess serotonin supplied by Celexa is used to level this chemical imbalance. However, despite the original intent of celexa, the drug has come to be used for several other purposes as well.

The Other Uses Of Celexa-Celexa For Fibromyalgia

Experiments with Celexa have been done to determine the drug's effectiveness for use in treating other disorders. In several cases, these experiments have been successful. Besides being ideal for treating depression, Celexa can be used to treat panic, anxiety, bipolar depression, Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, chronic fatigue, arthritis, lupus, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, eating disorders, and Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Finally, celexa for fibromyalgia has proven to be a successful treatment as well.

The Side Effects-Why Celexa For Fibromyalgia Could Harm Your Health

There are many dangerous sides of celexa for fibromyalgia, so it is up to the patient to decide whether or not the potential side effects are worth the risk. Anyone considering taking celexa for fibromyalgia, or any other reason, should discuss this action with their doctor before doing so.

Some of the common, less severe side effects of celexa include: drowsiness, dizziness, trouble concentrating; feeling nervous, restless, or unable to sit still; sleep problems such as insomnia; weight changes; urinating more than usual; nausea, gas, upset stomach, loss of appetite; dry or watery mouth, yawning, or ringing in your ears; or decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

Other, more severe side effects of taking celexa for fibromyalgia or any other disorder are: seizure or convulsions; problems with balance or coordination; tremors, shivering, muscle stiffness or twitching; or agitation, confusion, sweating, fast heartbeat. If you have taken celexa for fibromyalgia and are experiencing these side effects, it is important to call your doctor as soon as possible.

It is also common for people who are taking celexa to have increased tendencies of suicidal thoughts or behaviors when they begin taking the drug. This likelihood increases if the patient is under the age of eighteen. It is for this reason that it is important that anyone considering taking celexa to consult with their physician prior to doing so.

Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Similarities and Differences

Editor — Sat, 01 Sep 2007 11:15:32 +0000

Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome can present in a similar enough way to make either one a challenge to diagnose and treat. Currently, there is no definitive way to make a diagnosis of either condition, which means that doctors generally have to compile a bulk of information from the patient to determine what the cause of the symptoms might be. One of the first things a doctor might research is whether there is a family history of either one of these conditions. If someone else in the family has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome there is a better chance that you will be as well.

Many patients will try to self-diagnose between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, since many of the symptoms can be similar and some treatments can run along the same lines. The danger in attempting to self-diagnose any condition is that if you are incorrect in your assumptions, you will be seeking a treatment for your condition that is incorrect or even harmful. It is best by far to seek professional medical guidance if you believe that you are suffering from either of these conditions. Find a doctor that will be willing to listen to your host of symptoms and walk carefully through your medical history to ensure that you receive the best diagnosis and treatment plan that you can.

Similarities between Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There are some symptoms that are common to both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. These can include painful muscles and joints as well as extreme fatigue. These symptoms can lead to other symptoms, including depression, inability to concentrate and headaches. Some doctors believe that because of the similarities in the symptoms between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome that they are actually at opposite ends of the same disorder. In the case of fibromyalgia, the focus is on the chronic pain, which will include tenderness at a number of pressure points around the body. With chronic fatigue syndrome, the primary focus is on the fatigue, which can get worse with exercise and lead to impaired mental function.

It is thought that a contributing factor to both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome is a malfunctioning immune system. It is also thought that chronic fatigue syndrome can be the result of a virus. The bottom line is that doctors do not know for sure what causes fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, but there are treatments available that can be effective in managing the symptoms of many patients. The primary focus of treatment for both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome is in dealing with the pain and the sleep disorders through medication and other treatment options. Exercise and diet are also thought to be important in managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Supplements And Herbs For Fibromyalgia

Editor — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 18:06:19 +0000

If you suffer from the painful and debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia, chances are you have a knowledgeable physician who is treating your symptoms with a variety of medications and behavior modification that helps bring relief. However, medical studies conducted in the past decade suggest that certain supplements and herbs also bring relief from fibromyalgia symptoms.

Because of the trigger point chronic pain that is probably the most debilitating symptom of fibromyalgia, sufferers are often prescribed narcotic medications for pain. This inevitably results in a serious addiction to these medications; most physicians who treat fibromyalgia will not prescribe long-term narcotics, but may recommend short-term use during acute pain flare-ups.

For those seeking safe and effective symptom relief, alternative methods are frequently used such as massage therapy, acupuncture, natural supplements and herbs for treating fibromyalgia. Patients should consult with their doctor before taking these alternative supplements and herbs to make sure there are no adverse interactions between them and prescription medications.

Safe And Effective Herbs For Fibromyalgia

Deficiencies in critical vitamins and minerals have been documented to cause or worsen the onset of fibromyalgia: the B vitamins, magnesium, malic acid, and manganese. Along with a healthy diet, taking these supplements appears to provide better sleep quality, reduction in trigger point pain, and relief of chronic fatigue.

Herb preparations for fibromyalgia are considered helpful because their stems, roots, or leaves contain chemicals with healing powers; many prescription medications are directly based upon herbs that have been used to heal for thousands of years. Unlike drugs, herbs for fibromyalgia are in their pure form. They contain chemical substances that boost the immune system, restore sleep, ease pain, and help the body to heal itself.

Specific herbs for treating fibromyalgia include: (1) Red clover; this herb provides energy and boosts the immune system. It is an important herb for fibromyalgia patients because high concentration of B and C vitamins. (2) Passionflower; this herb plays an important part in treating fibromyalgia because it relieves stress, anxiety and insomnia – all classic symptoms of this syndrome. (3) Valerian; this herb has been a front-line treatment for fibromyalgia because of its beneficial effects on sleep and muscle tension. It is a natural sedative that increases the quality of sleep for fibromyalgia patients. It also increases focus and concentration to reduce the "brain fog" that occurs with fibromyalgia. (4) Chamomile has relaxing properties, contributing to the restoration of deep REM sleep. It is high in selenium and zinc, minerals that strengthen the immune system. (5) Ginseng is one of the oldest herbs used to treat fibromyalgia is a powerful immune system stimulant, helping the body to fight off bacterial infections and viruses. (6) Griffonia Simplicifolia is an herb that contains large amounts of 5-HTP, a natural pain reliever that can significantly reduce the pain of the fibromyalgia trigger points on the body.