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It may be reassuring to hear that fibromyalgia will not progress, damage your body, or lead to other medical conditions, but you want more than that. What treatments can the doctor offer to put an end to the misery?

Treatment for fibromyalgia includes medication which may or may not work for you, and a lot of good advice for improving general health. In the absence of a cure, doctor and patient must work together to manage the symptoms. Sometimes alternative treatments are added to the treatment plan. Each person is different, and will respond differently.

Analgesics may ease pain and stiffness. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pills, or prescribe medications. Lyrica, an anti-seizure medication, is the first FDA-approved drug treatment to reduce fibromyalgia, pain and improve daily functioning. Results vary.

Antidepressant medications such may improve mood and help promote sleep. A newer class of antidepressants, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, may hinder the transmission of pain signals. Field trials are in progress, and more study is needed.

Muscle relaxants may be prescribed short-term to help treat muscle pain and spasms.
Sleeping pills may provide short-term benefits, but long-term use will create more problems.

Doctors generally avoid narcotics for treating this condition because of potential dependence. Corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation, are not effective for treating fibromyalgia.

Cognitive behavior therapy seeks to teach you how to deal with stressful situations and reinforce your belief in your own strength and capability. Interdisciplinary treatment programs combine a variety of approaches, such as education, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques.

Self-care plays a critical role in the management of fibromyalgia. It is important to reduce stress, overexertion, and emotional pressures, without becoming inactive. People who drop everything and rest do worse than those who keep moving. Stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises or meditation, can help.

Getting enough sleep is important. That may involve a change in sleeping habits. Get up at the same time every morning, and limit or eliminate day-time napping. Be careful with caffeine and late-night excitement. Give yourself time to wind down.

Exercise may increase pain at first, but will often decrease symptoms. A physical therapist can help develop an appropriate program. Walking, swimming, biking and water aerobics are popular. Include some stretching and relaxation exercises.

Physiotherapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, hypnotherapy, chiropractic care, and other therapies may be useful additions to your program. Don't forget to find somebody to talk to! A support group can help you realize that you are not alone.

Pace yourself, eat healthy foods, and do something enjoyable every day.. Many patients find that their symptoms improve in time. The key to unlocking the mystery of fibromyalgia has eluded researchers so far, but research is ongoing with brain imaging and clinical trials. While you are waiting, try to keep a positive attitude, and reach out to others.

Sources and resources:
http://www.mayoclini c.com/health/fibromyalgia/DS00 079
Mayo clinic fibromyalgia information

http://www.fmaware. org/site/PageServer
National Fibromyalgia Association

http://www.webmd.co m/fibromyalgia/guide/fibromyal gia-overview-facts
facts about fibromyalgia

http://www.rheumat ology.org/public/factsheets/fi bromya_new.asp?aud=pat
American College of Rheumatology

Learn more about this author, Christine G..
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