Living with Fibromyalgia In 2005 I was officially diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. For about 30 years, everything hurt me and my doctor stated it was arthritis. The pain would move from one place to another. The worst pains were in my neck and back. The neck pains would cause severe head aches. My general MD said I had spinal problems and sent me to a neuro surgeon. He did MRI's and said I wasn't a candidate for any spinal surgery. He did some checking of points which I now know as "trigger points" and diagnosed FMS. Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a complex disease that causes widespread pain and debilitating fatigue. Women between ages 35 and 60 account for more than 80% of Americans with this chronic condition. Despite symptoms that can be difficult to cope with, people with FMS can lead active lives with the help of medication and self care.
Symptoms FMS sufferers have a pattern of symptoms that include some or all of the following:
- Pain: Muscle pain, the most common symptom, can be felt all over or be more pronounced in the neck, back or other areas of the body. It's often described as knifelike, aching or burning, and the severity can vary from day to day. Some people have sever pain while others experience mild discomfort.
- Sleep Disturbance and Fatigue: Despite getting adequate amounts of sleep, people with FMS often awaken feeling as if they haven't slept. Ninety percent experience fatigue that ranges from a chronic tired feeling to exhaustion.
- Stiffness: Body stiffness can occur upon awakening or after remaining in one position for prolonged periods.
- Increased Headaches or Facial Pain
- Constipation and Diarrhea: These symptoms ofter alternate.
Numbness or Tingling: Some people experience a prickling or burning sensation in their hands, arms, feet and legs.Diagnosis No screening methods can detech FMS. Lacking tests, doctors base diagnosis on symptoms, especially the prescence of tender points that are painful when pressed. Treatment Because FMS affects people differently, no one treatment works universally Treatments to try include:
- Medication: Doctors often prescribe tricyclic antidepressants, as well as muscle relaxants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.
- Exercise: Regular gentle exercise can help ease sore muscles.
- Physical Therapy: Many people with FMS find relief from massage; myofascial release and the application of heat and cold.
- Alternative Therapies: Yoga, tai chi, biofeedback, stress management, relaxation exercises and acupuncture relieve some symptoms.
Healthful Lifestyles: Eating a balanced diet, reducing stress and keeping a positive attitude can help people cope with the challenges of FMSLinks 
Disease Center
Fibromyalgia - Pain Management Resource The American Fibromyalgia Syndrome Association
Medline Plus Health Information
National Fibromyalgia Partnership, Inc
National Fibromyalgia Association
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