1.  Fibromyalgia By: Nicholas Bono

2. What is fibromyalgia?  Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome in which an individual may experience long-term, body wide pain and tenderness in joints, muscles, tendons, and any other soft tissues.  Studies suggest that the fibromyalgia is an overreaction of the nervous system. It perceives and reacts to pain in an extreme way.  This is not entirely proven, the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown.  A number of possible other causes or triggers have been identified.

3. Symptoms  Pain is the main symptom of fibromyalgia and can range from mild to severe.  The pain can be widespread throughout the body. Is described as a deep ache, shooting, or burning sensation.  The pain may worsen depending on daily activities, weather, as well as an individual’s levels of anxiety and stress.  The majority of patients with fibromyalgia also experience depressed mood, sleep issues, and fatigue

4. Other possible symptoms  Irritable bowel syndrome  Memory and concentration problems  Anxiety and depression  Chronic headaches  Abdominal pain  Hypersensitivity to cold and heat  Numbness or tingling in fingers and feet.  Stiffness.

5. Statistics  An estimated 5 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia.  1 in 50 Americans, or 2% of the population  Fibromyalgia is the second most common musculoskeletal aliment after osteoarthritis.  90% are women and women are 7 times more likely than men.  Most commonly affects women during their childbearing years.  Also commonly found in young women who have “Type A” personalities that lead ambitious, busy, and stressful lives.  Has the ability to affect both men and women of all ages.

6. Statistics continued  60% of fibromyalgia patients are diagnosed in there 30’s and 40’s.  Another 35% are diagnosed in there 20’s or between the ages of 50 and 65 years old.  40% of fibromyalgia cases appear spontaneous with no clear cause.  It takes on average around 5 years to receive an accurate fibromyalgia diagnosis.

7. Stress and Fibromyalgia  A person’s history of chronic stress can play a role with the onset of the disease.  This stress can be physical trauma or physiological.  Stress can attribute to many of the symptoms.  Proper stress management techniques can significantly aid in the treatment and prevention of this disease.

8. Stress Management Techniques  Regular exercise  Practicing relaxation techniques  Taking a warm bath  Getting a good night’s sleep

9. Treatment options  Physical therapy  Developing fitness and exercise program  Medication (antidepressants, muscle relaxants, sleeping aids, pain relievers.)  Cognitive behavioral therapy

10. Treatment continued  Joining a support group  Eating a well balanced diet  Avoid caffeine  Proper sleep hygiene  Acupressure/Acupuncture

11. Sources  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001463/  http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/what-is- fibromyalgia  http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site896/mainpageS896P1. html  http://www.self-guided.com/fibromyalgia-and-stress.html  http://www.myfibro.com/fibromyalgia-statistics