The National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA) describes fibromyalgia as a syndrome that includes chronic pain, multiple tender spots in the body, fatigue, sleep difficulties, abnormal pain processing and emotional distress. While there is no cure, several treatments can ease pain and help sufferers cope with the syndrome.
Significance
The NFA estimates that there are 10 million people in the United States suffering from fibromyalgia, and the syndrome affects approximately 3 to 6 percent of the world's population. While it is most common in women (75 to 90 percent of sufferers), it can affect men, too.
Medications
Medications for fibromyalgia include analgesics like Tylenol, Ultram, Aleve, and Motrin; antidepressants to help with sleep problems; and anti-seizure drugs, which can help reduce pain associated with fibromyalgia. The drug pregabalin (Lyrica) is the first drug approved to treat fibromyalgia, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Therapies
Physical therapy can be used to stretch muscles and reduce stiffness and pain, and counseling may include cognitive behavioral therapies or relaxation techniques to help you deal with the symptoms of fibromyalgia more effectively.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can help with symptoms. These changes include reducing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating in a healthy way and minimizing caffeine.
Alternative Medicine
Meditation and yoga may be thought of as complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatments, but other types of CAM for fibromyalgia may include massage therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic treatments.
Considerations
Talk with your health care provider before you try any alternative or complementary therapies to see if they are contraindicated in any way.
