We have all experienced those mornings when we just do not want to get out of bed. Your whole body aches accompanied by complete exhaustion. Perhaps, that achy, tired feeling can be attributed to unrelenting flu symptoms or a body that has been pushed too far the day before, whether through work or sport.
There is solace in knowing that eventually those symptoms will dissipate, and you will return to a state of healthy well-being.
Now, imagine having an aching exhausted body and mind, not just for the short term, but every day; a chronic normal condition of everyday life. How would you cope? This is the reality for fibromyalgia sufferers. This is the reality of the invisible disease.
Fibromyalgia or chronic widespread pain, as it is commonly referred to today, is more prevalent in women than in men, affecting at least two percent of the Canadian population and at least four million individuals in the United States. It is referred to as the invisible disease, although the symptoms are very real to those inflicted with it. Fibromyalgia cannot be detected through any specific test, although lab tests are usually requested in order to rule out other underlying conditions with similar symptoms, such as lupus or hypothyroidism, for example.
In the past, fibromyalgia was dismissed by physicians as being something that is ‘in the head’. Many sufferers were referred to psychiatrists. Today, we know differently. Ongoing research is shedding some light on the disorder, opening new doors and unveiling new answers.
Aside from widespread musculoskeletal pain – tender points in the muscles and joints, often mimicking arthritic pain, fibromyalgia sufferers can also experience chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), cognitive difficulty (fibro fog), sleep disorders, irritated bowel syndrome (IBS), depression and headache – a few of many chronic symptoms.
Often, these symptoms in conjunction with chronic pain, make what most view as normal everyday activities – working, shopping or recreational activities a grueling task. The cause of fibromyalgia still remains unclear, but research seems to indicate that a variety of factors may be intertwined to predispose one to the condition. These factors may include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a proven link to the condition, and genetics – it tends to run in families – and infections which may aggravate or trigger the condition. The predominant triggers remain unknown.
Research has uncovered that sufferers appear to process pain differently. The brains of people with fibromyalgia seem to change, possibly related to repeated nerve stimulation. This change may be attributed to an abnormal increase of specific chemicals in the brain that signal pain. The brain’s pain receptors develop a memory of the pain, becoming more sensitive and causing a subsequent overreaction to pain signals. The central nervous system is always in ‘overdrive”, and although speculative, this is one theory that neuroscience research tends to favour.
The management of fibromyalgia symptoms varies from individual to individual. No single treatment works for everyone. Over time, sufferers learn to balance treatment options that work best for them. Treatment requires an individualized, proactive approach to coping strategies that manage symptoms.
Treating the condition is a symptom-based approach, one that the sufferer and their physician will need to assess in order to determine the required course of treatment. There are a number of medications to treat the pain, depression and anxiety. Severe instances of depression, for example, sufficient to affect well-being, require anti-depressant to calm anxiety, improve energy and promote sleep.
There are a broad range of symptoms, in terms of severity. Most people manage to remain in the workforce and lead fulfilling, productive lives. Fibromyalgia may present a challenge for others who need assistance to cope with and control more demanding symptoms.
Although there is no cure for the condition to date, sufferers need to make the necessary adjustments to live with the condition other than trying to fight it. Perhaps the most important advice is to listen and respect what your body is telling you; rest when needed, but make an effort to give your body that little extra push, if possible.
Exercise programs such as stretching, low-impact aerobics, walking or swimming have proven effective, as have relaxation techniques and stress management. Certainly, it’s always best to check with your physician to ensure that you’re not limited in any way.
Engagement in hobbies of interest will act as a distraction from painful episodes and allow for a rediscovery of self. In addition, it is recommended to share your condition with family and friends so that they may comprehend that a seemingly fine outward appearance is not always a true indication of how a person may be actually feeling.
Compared to 20 years ago, research has disclosed new insights about a fibromyalgia diagnosis. It is crucial to remain a proactive participant in a selected health care regime, while trying to uphold a positive, optimistic outlook on life.
Fibromyalgia shouldn’t define who you are as an individual, but who you are with the strength and determination to face it.