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Jane Thompson asked:




Joining a fibromyalgia support group can be excellent psychological and emotional therapy. However, talking and sharing your experiences with others is not likely to take away any of the painful physical symptoms or fatigue you feel. Therefore, many fibromyalgia sufferers need to turn to alternative and medical remedies to find relief from their symptoms.

There are different over-the-counter (OTC) and prescribed medications that a fibromyalgia sufferer may find beneficial to their condition. That being said, not every person with fibromyalgia will have the same response to medical treatment, and may require different treatment to address their specific symptoms.
Although there are a number of medications that can be prescribed for specific symptoms, or those currently being used in clinical trials, the following are the most common medical treatments prescribed:
Analgesics – Analgesics are drugs designed to relieve bodily aches and pains and are also known as painkillers. OTC analgesics include acetaminophen and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Although NSAIDs are primarily used to reduce inflammation and inflammation is not a symptom of fibromyalgia, they offer effective pain relief. The problem with using NSAIDs for pain relief is that prolonged use of this medication can irritate the stomach lining, lead to digestive upset and cause stomach ulcers.

Aside from OTC analgesics, doctors may prescribe opioid analgesics such as tramadol. Tramadol is a narcotic used to treat moderate to severe pain, and is typically used to treat surgical, arthritic and fibromyalgia pain. However, other stronger narcotics may be prescribed for sufferers with severe muscle pain.

The problem doctors have with prescribing narcotics is that although effective, there is a high risk that those who take them will become addicted and dependent on these drugs. Furthermore, narcotics can have many side effects including altering moods, behaviors and fatigue.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are one of the most common medications prescribed for fibromyalgia sufferers. This is because antidepressants elevate the levels of specific brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and serotonin. Low levels of these and other brain chemicals can result in depression, pain and fatigue. By increasing chemical levels these symptoms can be improved.

Doctors provide different types of antidepressants to fibromyalgia sufferers based on how they feel. For instance, tricyclic antidepressants are provided to fibromyalgia patients who suffer from insomnia, as these meds help restore sleep. In addition, tricyclic antidepressants can help painful muscles relax and stimulate endorphins (body’s natural painkillers). Different tricyclic antidepressants that may be prescribed include: amitriptyline, doxepin, cyclobenzaprine and nortriptyline.

Additional antidepressant that may be used to treat depression and other fibromyalgia syptoms are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These include – fluoxetine, sertraline and paroxetine.

Antidepressants can be habit forming and may cause side effects such as dry mouth, weight gain, anxiety, gastrointestinal upset, loss of libido, insomnia, and fatigue. Note: each antidepressant will have different side effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are psychotropic drugs that have been known to help fibromyalgia sufferers relax tense and painful muscles, and with restless legs syndrome, and insomnia. Benzodiazepines have hypnotic and sedative effects, and like antidepressants, dependence and addiction can occur in some patients. Other side effects may include depression, memory impairment, slow motor skills, etc.

Benzodiazepines are usually prescribed to fibromyalgia sufferers who have not responded well to other treatments. Some Benzodiazepines meds prescribed include: diazepam, temazepman, clonazepam, and triazolam.

Despite what medication you may be interested in or your doctor may recommend, you need to make sure you ask your doctor important questions before taking any medication so you can receive the most effective treatment that is right for you.

6 important questions to ask your doctor

1. What are the medications you recommend for my specific symptoms?

2. What side effects can I expect and will this medication have negative interactions with other medications, foods or activities?

3. Should I continue taking medications even if I feel better?

4. What are the long-term effects this medication will have on my health?

5. Can I take any alternative therapies with this medication, or are there any alternative therapies I can try which might provide me with relief for my symptoms?

6. Are there any clinical trials I may be eligible for?

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Tamara Baruhovich asked:




Fibromyalgia or FMS is a chronic musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by pain, tenderness, achiness and stiffness in the muscle tissue, the ligaments, and the tendons. It is like a type of rheumatism but it does not affect joints. Some people report that having fibromyalgia is like living in a permanent state of having the flu.

FMS is a relatively new diagnosis. The very first diagnosis of “Fibromyalgia Syndrome” as such took place in the early 1980′s. Many have claimed a fibromyalgia cure; still most remain in pain without knowing how to help themselves. However, the visibility of fibromyalgia is no doubt attracting more attention amongst medical professionals giving fibromyalgia sufferers hope for a fibromyalgia cure in the near future.

There are about 5 million people affected with FMS in the United States alone. Most affected are women of childbearing age. It can also affect men, children and the elderly but it is less common.

Causes

The exact causes of this complex and perplexing condition are not yet fully understood. There are many theories, but none have been proved conclusively. It is very likely that there are a number of factors involved.

The condition usually appears after an injury, surgery or long illness; nevertheless, no specific illness causes fibromyalgia. It is also thought to be brought on by emotional, psychological, or physical drastic changes or trauma. Prolonged periods of stress have also been considered as a possible cause. It is also suspected that there are underlying biochemical causes -alterations in certain body chemicals produced in excess- even though there is no known anatomical reason for the syndrome.

Another aspect of fibromyalgia is its close association with hypoglycemia, although it is not known if fibromyalgia causes hypoglycemia or the other way around. There may also seem to be a direct relationship with people affected with Candidiasis. Vitamin deficiency has also been linked to FMS.

Yet, some researchers believe that fibromyalgia is caused by an imbalance of the brain’s chemistry, which could be a direct result of mercury toxicity, while others believe its directly related to diet.

Diagnosis

As we mentioned earlier, the cause of fibromyalgia is not known yet. Subsequently, it is often misdiagnosed as anything from arthritis to psychological problems. A true diagnosis takes place only after other diseases with similar symptoms have been ruled out such as Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Arthritis and Rheumatism amongst others. Usually, lab tests show no abnormalities of any kind. This is why up until recently FMS was believed to be a “just in your imagination” condition. Nevertheless, FMS is a very real condition.

After learning these facts the question remains… is there hope for fibromyalgia sufferers? Is there a fibromyalgia cure? Let’s find out…

Treatment

The initial treatment for fibromyalgia is a trial and error process, as the variety and severity of symptoms caused by this condition vary from person to person. Therefore, treatment programs must be individualized.

Several drugs have been prescribed for the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Two of the most common ones are Guaifenesin and Amitriptyline (Elavil). Antidepressants have also been used to treat certain symptoms of fibromyalgia, and cyclobenzaprine has been prescribed to treat the pain, stiffness, and sleep problems associated with FMS. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) has also proven effective to ease the pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia.

On a more holistic note, adding a soy supplement to the diet has helped alleviate pain and improve the quality of life. Some patients have stated that massage therapy, relaxation therapy, and hydrotherapy have helped alleviate their symptoms. Chinese herbal medicine, biofeedback and psycho-therapy have also been helpful in the treatment of FMS. According to a Mayo Clinic study, acupuncture significantly improved symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.

These types of practices can help control pain, increase energy and improve sleep and other symptoms. Taking extra magnesium, calcium and potassium are also recommended.

The good news

Yes, there is good news! First of all, fibromyalgia is NOT a life threatening condition. Fibromyalgia is diagnosable, is treatable and can be reversed. Numerous individuals claim that their symptoms have disappeared for long periods of time. Others claim total remission.

Every time one patient claims a fibromyalgia cure, there is hope for the rest of fibromyalgia sufferers! One thing you can start with to achieve your fibromyalgia cure is making an effort to become more aware of your day to day routine. What do you do? Where do you go? Learn what factors aggravate your symptoms and avoid them, if possible. Symptoms of fibromyalgia may come and go at first. You need to watch what triggers them. Also, watch your diet. Certain dietary and lifestyle changes may help ease the symptoms.

Also, remember that stress can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. For women, hormonal changes throughout the month can play an important role. And overworking at home and work can bring on symptoms of fibromyalgia too.

FMS is not an imaginary condition. It is REAL. Many of its underlying causes can be treated and possibly 100% eliminated. Seek medical attention. Get help. You will feel better!

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Nathan Wei asked:




The cause of fibromyalgia (FM) is unknown but theories pointing toward abnormal hypothalamic pituitary axis function or dysfunction of neurotransmitter pathways in the brain are currently popular.

Several studies have demonstrated different abnormalities in central nervous system functioning. Abnormal sleep studies showing alpha intrusion during delta (stage 4) sleep and a reduction of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep have been seen. In addition, abnormal SPECT scans have suggested lower blood flow to the thalamus and caudate nucleus in the brains of fibromyalgia patients.

Approximately 2 percent of the population has fibromyalgia. About 80 percent of patients with fibromyalgia are women. While fibromyalgia may occur as a primary condition, it is also a secondary condition, occurring in as many as 30 percent of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Patients with fibromyalgia complain of generalized pain affecting both sides of the body and both the upper as well as lower part of the body.

Pain tends to be aggravated by weather changes as well as by stress.

While patients will complain of subjective joint swelling, objective swelling is absent.

Sleep disturbance occurs in almost all patients. Complaints of chronic fatigue and non restorative sleep (feeling as if they haven’t slept) are common. Sleep apnea may aggravate the situation.

Tender trigger points are noted in all patients. A patient with 11 of 18 tender trigger points fulfills a major diagnostic criterion for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. These trigger point tender areas are stereotypic meaning the same areas are tender in all patients with the diagnosis of FM..

Other symptoms include migraine headache, decrease in short term memory, cognitive dysfunction, blurred or double vision, hypersensitivity to sound and smells, shortness of breath, chest pains, palpitations, irritable bowel, irritable bladder, painful menses, painful urination, multiple drug allergies, multiple sensitivities to chemicals.

Laboratory testing will not be diagnostic. However, laboratory testing will help to exclude other conditions such as polymyalgia rheumatica, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc., that might masquerade as fibromyalgia. FM is a diagnosis of exclusion so it is imperative that other possible causes of aches and pains are ruled out.

Imaging tests may also be helpful in establishing the presence or absence of FM.

Treatment must be individualized. Most patients will respond to a combination of non impact aerobic exercise (swimming, stationary bike, elliptical trainer), cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication.

Medications that have been found to be helpful include tricyclic antidepressants in low doses, muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine, also in low doses, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Other medicines such as gabapentin and tramadol may also be helpful.

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David J Horton asked:




TMJ (Temporomandibular joint disorder) is an extraordinarily painful affliction that affects many people all around the world. Drug treatments can not cure the disorder, but can give some relief to the semi-regular symptoms that are associated. One such drug is Flexeril (generic Cyclobenzaprine).

This medication is a muscle relaxant. It is used in combination with rest and physical therapy to help relieve muscle strain, spasms or other muscle injuries. Flexeril is taken as prescribed by a doctor. Dosage may vary depending on your medical condition and response to therapy. The normal dosage however is three times a day. This drug is intended to be used for short periods of time, usually a maximum of three weeks.

Side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, blurred vision, or constipation may occur as one’s body adjusts to the medication. If any of these symptoms continue or worsen, please contact your doctor without hesitation. Your doctor will prescribe this medication because he or she feels the benefit of taking Flexeril outweighs any side effects which may occur. In rare occasions other side effects may occur such as mental/mood changes, difficulty in urination, pounding irregular heartbeat, fainting, yellowing of the eyes, stomach and abdominal pain, nausea, lack of appetite, seizures, and loss or coordination.

A serious allergic reaction is uncommon but please seek medical attention if you experience a rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

This and many other drugs do serve a benefit as they relieve the symptoms of TMJ, but they do not cure the disorder. As you consider the fact that taking any drug brings with it additional regular costs and possible side effects, would you like to consider a way of not only relieving your symptoms but eliminating the disorder itself?

There is a natural way to bring relief!

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Nathan Wei asked:




At one moment, a life of activity consumed with enjoyable activities like biking, golfing, going to the movies, out to dinner. Then one day, it’s gone. Replaced with constant pain and fatigue. Here’s the lowdown on fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is one of the most common forms of arthritis seen in a rheumatology practice. It is actually a soft tissue form of rheumatism. Typically, a patient will complain of feeling achy all over, being chronically tired, and feeling like they’re walking around in a constant fog. Often a patient will complain of short term memory problems.

The American College of Rheumatology has set criteria by which fibromyalgia symptoms can be classified. These consist of a history of widespread pain for three or more months and pain in 11 of 18 tender point sites when 4 kilograms (about 9 pounds) of pressure is applied. When accompanied by a history of chronic fatigue and non-restorative sleep (waking up and feeling as if you haven’t slept), there is a strong suspicion that fibromyalgia is to blame.

People affected by fibromyalgia experience two unique responses to stimuli. They perceive normal stimuli as being painful and they perceive painful stimuli as being more painful than it should be.

These abnormal responses are thought to be due to an abnormality involving pain-processing pathways within the central nervous system.

History and physical examination is the first step in evaluation. Unfortunately, there are no specific laboratory tests that confirm the diagnosis. However, the tests can be helpful in excluding other conditions that can mimic fibromyalgia such as hypothyroidism, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment consists of a combination of four approaches. The first is patient education. Talking with the patient about the diagnosis and presenting what he options are. The second is institute medications. These may include one or more of the following:

o Analgesics which help to control pain. An example would be a drug such as tramadol

o Antidepressants which are used for their ability to elevate serotonin and nor-epiephrine levels in the brain. Examples include amitryptiline, fluoxitene, and duloxitene.

o Muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine

o Anti-seizure medicines like gabapentin

o Anti-fatigue medicines (modafinil)

The third therapy is non-impact aerobic exercise which helps to increase endorphin production in the brain and helps to recondition muscles.

Finally, the fourth is cognitive behavioral therapy which helps with goal-setting, coping and other measures which reduce the sense of victimization that people with fibromyalgia often have.

Fibromyalgia can be treated effectively. It is important that a patient seek out a qualified and empathetic rheumatologist to help them.

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