1. Fibromyalgia Is Characterized By Widespread Pain
This non-contagious disorder is characterized by chronic widespread pain, but its symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. From day to day, individuals may also experience a broad range in the intensity and duration of their symptoms. Fibromyalgia is not life threatening, nor is it degenerative, but its symptoms are persistent and greatly impact the sufferer's quality of life. Typical symptoms include muscle, joint or bone pain, difficulty sleeping, and fatigue. However, fibromyalgia sufferers may also experience headaches, facial pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and enhanced sensitivity to odors, noise, touch or bright light.
2. Vitamins Are Required
Vitamins are characterized as organic compounds that organisms require in small amounts for nutritional purposes. Vitamins have many functions in the body, including functioning as antioxidants, regulators of cell growth and development, and as hormones. Vitamins are classified into two major categories: fat-soluble (absorbed by the help of fats) or water-soluble (dissolve easily in water), and are essential for normal development.
3. Vitamins Treat an Array of Fibromyalgia Symptoms
The National Fibromyalgia Research Association recommends natural preventive treatment, including vitamin supplements, of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. Vitamins may be used to treat various fibromyalgia symptoms including insomnia, joint swelling, pain and fatigue. These supplements may also be used to boost the immune system.
4. Experts Recommend a Variety of Vitamins
Some experts believe fibromyalgia is at least partly due to a vitamin D deficiency and recommend a blood test to determine if you vitamin D levels fall within a normal range. Melatonin, a hormone involved in sleeping, levels may also be below normal range, as many fibromyalgia sufferers complain of difficulty sleeping. Magnesium and malic acid are often used to reduce both pain and fatigue. Individuals with fibromyalgia also commonly take B-Complex vitamins since B vitamins are known to support energy production in the cells. Additionally, low levels of calcium have been found in many fibromyalgia patients. Calcium supplements will also work in conjunction with other vitamins and minerals, for example vitamin C, to repair the damage caused by oxidative stress. Speak with your physician before adding any vitamins or supplements to your diet.
5. Tell Your Doctor Which Vitamins You Use
Although uncommon, it is possible for a vitamin to interfere with other medications or to react adversely with its properties. You should compile a list of the names and doses of the vitamins you already take or are interested in adding to your diet in preparation for your next doctor's visit. It is also important to know that the health claims made by vitamin suppliers are not required to undergo evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Prescription medications, on the other hand, go through rigorous testing based on FDA guidelines to ensure patient safety and efficacy of the medication. Since the vitamin market is largely unregulated, it is possible that a vitamin may cause an undesirable or unknown effect. Your physician can help you determine which vitamins will be best for you.
