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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.
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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
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