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Fibromyalgia Facts For Females
By James Brann, MD
Fibromyalgia is one of the most common diseases affecting the
muscles, tendons, and joints in women. Many health care
professionals still do not recognize the condition as a disorder,
most likely, because x-rays, blood tests, and biopsies often show
no prevalent evidence to support the patient¡¯s complaints.
However, in recent years, the use of thermographs, a device that
tests and measures the heat produced by areas of the body, has
helped diagnose the condition. Studies indicate that fibromyalgia
patients have decreased blood flow and decreased skin
temperatures in sites of tenderness. Symptoms include long-term
muscle soreness, muscle stiffness, sleeplessness, fatigue, mood
changes, anxiety and depression. Often times the condition is
worsened by stress and weather changes. Unlike other rheumatic
conditions that cause swelling and inflammation of the tissues in
the body, fibromyalgia does not cause any type of joint deformity or
does not damage any internal organs.
Many times, patients that suffer with fibromyalgia have other
conditions or disorders that will occur. One of the most common
disorders associated with fibromyalgia is TMJ, a disorder
associated with the jaw. Many sufferers of fibromyalgia may be
diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, as well. Some patients
complain of migraine or tension headaches, irritable bowel and
bladder syndromes. Some women may develop a loss in memory
and concentration. Fibrocystic Breast Disease and Endometriosis
is often present in women that have fibromyalgia, although there
has been no studies conducted regarding the correlation of the two.
Causes of this condition is still unknown, many experts are
researching the relationship between menopause and
fibromyalgia. Most women are diagnosed with this condition
between the ages of 40 to 55 which is when menopause usually
occurs, and approximately 85%-90% of all reported Fibromyalgia
conditions are women. Hormonal changes, such as the decreased
amounts of estrogen in the female body, may contribute to
symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleeplessness in
fibromyalgia patients. Research shows, however, that estrogen
and progesterone replacement therapy is not that beneficial to
fibromyalgia sufferers. There are mild benefits reported when
using the estrogen patches rather than the estrogen pills. Some
studies indicate that the low thyroid function and decreased levels
of thyroid hormones, as well as estrogen and progesterone
hormones, may contribute to muscular pain, fatigue, mood
changes, and anxiety. At the present time the correlation between
menopause and fibromyalgia is uncertain, due to the lack of
research on the subject. Fortunately, more tests are being
conducted to find out how declining estrogen levels affect the onset
of fibromyalgia. On-going research is being conducted that may
suggest abnormally low levels of the hormone Cortisol, which is
the hormone produced by the adrenal gland may also be a linked
cause.
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent this disorder or completely
cure it, either¡ Therefore, most treatment¡¯s center on conquering
the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. Treatments for
women suffering from fibromyalgia vary according to symptoms. In
some cases, physical therapy or light exercise may be prescribed.
Research has shown that the use of ice immediately following any
exercise may decrease muscle and joint pain. The use of tricyclic
anti-depressants usually used in treating depression; has also
been shown to be an effective medication for treating firbromyalgia.
These medications usually relieve depression, anxiety, reduce
fatigue, and restores effective sleep patterns. Some physicians
may prescribe local injections of analgesics to the sore or stiff
areas. The use of pain-relievers and muscle relaxers has both
been beneficial in reducing pain symptoms and improving sleep.
Often times, doctors will discuss pain and stress management to
their patients; which can eliminate some symptoms of the disorder.
Diet plays an important role in the prevention of symptoms
concerning fibromyalgia. Eating organic foods, such as fruits and
vegetables; increasing the intake of low-fat, high fiber foods; those
high in Omega-3 Fatty acids, found in fish may benefit sufferers.
Some physicians suggest lowering sodium rich foods or
eliminating additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG¡¯s) and
artificial sweeteners, like Aspartame may relieve many symptoms
of fibromyalgia. And recent studies indicate the use of a vegan diet
may help alleviate symptoms. Alternative treatments, specifically
in the field of homeopathic remedies, suggest taking magnesium,
B-12 Vitamins, and Vitamin C.
Other non-medical treatments involve massage therapy, heat
therapy and cold packs that may temporarily relieve symptoms.
The use of Hydrotherapy or water therapy can increase circulation
and decrease muscle aches. Currently, there are studies being
conducted that may offer more treatments or one specific treatment
for helping relieve fibromyalgia symptoms.
Women suffering with this disorder may find themselves
withdrawing from society due to the pain and anxiety associated
with fibromyalgia. Many times, women find themselves unable to
work a physical or stressful job. The best advice is to seek
treatment and maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes light
exercise, good eating habits, and staying active in both, work and
life.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/womens_health.htm
About the Author
Dr. James Brann is a board certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He is also the Editor of Women's Healthcare Topics an information source for all women.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com
At Women's Healthcare Topics website you will find valuable and up-to-date information on numerous topics related to women's health including Early Signs of Pregnancy, First Pelvic Exam, Genital Warts and more.
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