Less diagnosed in Romania, fibromyalgia is characterized by the presence of chronic pain spread in minimum 11 out of the 18 spots that are painful to touch, and also by chronic fatigue, concentration, memory and sleep problems, called ”fibrofog”. Restless feet syndrome can also appear as symptom, as well as irritable colon syndrome, painful menstruations, depression, “dry eyes”, anxiety or cephalalgia. Pain can be felt practically all over the body. Women are affected more often than men.

          In USA there are approximately 3,5 million people with this disease. Most doctors that diagnose fibromyalgia recommend Lyrica as treatment, also very well known in Romania. However it is necessary to know that this medication has side effects such as severe allergies, and that is the reason why it is not recommended for everyone’s use. Other medications are: Cymbalta, Salvelta, approved by the FDA for fibromyalgia treatment.

          Another approach would be tricyclic antidepressants, which are prescribed for fatigue and sleep disorders, symptoms that seems to improve under this medication. Benzodiazepines are not recommended because they lower the pain threshold and exacerbate the pain. Therefore, many doctors recommend physical exercise to maintain one’s health and specifically movements in the water pool.

          Modern approach of fibromyalgia can be summarized as follows:

1. Pain approach plan in order to diminish it
2. Elimination of stress and of causing factors
3. A good night sleep, without lost nights, along with treatment for insomnia and restless feet syndrome
4. More exercise, a healthier nutrition
5. Alternative therapies that result in a well-being mood – such as Pillates technique, Tai Chi, chiropractic treatment, food supplements, neurofeedback, DENAS, laser, alpha stimulation
6. Diet without caffeine or late night alcohol that can interfere with sleep and a diet without spicy condiments, because it can produce gastric burns or indigestion. A good night sleep can be obtained when physical exercises are performed with at least 3 hours before going to bed

          Approximately 90% of patients have reported that alternative treatments such as massage, acupuncture, food supplements, chiropractic treatments, neurofeedback, DENAS, laser, alpha stim, ease the pain. One of the most efficient approaches is the cognitive-behavior therapy, because it changes the body’s response to pain, and so the pain becomes less severe.  SAM-e is a nutritive supplement with a benefic effect in dopamine and serotonin secretion, hormones that adjust the emotional mood, and therefore the response to pain.

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