2002-11-22 - 4:30 p.m.
What is Fibro?
I dont actually have fibro in its 'true' form, but i have a chronic pain condition, so i thought i would give you a weeee explination of what im on about when i have a pain flair up!
Fibromyalgia (fi-bro-my-AL-ja) syndrome (FMS) is a very common condition of widespread muscular pain and fatigue. Seven to ten million Americans suffer from FMS. It affects women much more than men in an approximate ratio of 20:1. It is seen in all age groups from young children through old age, although in most patients the problem begins during their 20s or 30s. Recent studies have shown that fibromyalgia syndrome occurs world wide and has no specific ethnic predisposition.
The Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Fibromyalgia syndrome patients have widespread body pain which often seems to arise in the muscles. Some FMS patients feel their pain originates in their joints. Pain that emanates from the joints is called arthritis; extensive studies have shown FMS patients do not have arthritis. Although many fibromyalgia syndrome patients are aware of pain when they are resting, it is most noticeable when they use their muscles, particularly with repetitive activities. Their discomfort can be so severe it may significantly limit their ability to lead a full life. Patients can find themselves unable to work in their chosen professions and may have difficulty performing everyday tasks. As a consequence of muscle pain, many FMS patients severely limit their activities including exercise routines. This results in their becoming physically unfit - which eventually makes their fibromyalgia syndrome symptoms worse.
In addition to widespread pain, other common symptoms include a decreased sense of energy, disturbances of sleep, and varying degrees of anxiety and depression related to patients' changed physical status. Furthermore, certain other medical conditions are commonly associated with fibromyalgia, such as: tension headaches, migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bladder syndrome, premenstrual tension syndrome, cold intolerance and restless leg syndrome. Patients with estalished rheumatoid arthritis, lupus (SLE) and Sjogren's often develop during the course of their disease. The combination of pain and multiple other symptoms often leads doctors to pursue an extensive course of investigations - which are nearly always normal.
send me luuuuvvv - Sunday, May. 02, 2004
newly free! - Monday, Mar. 22, 2004
its not goodbye - Friday, Mar. 12, 2004
burp - Sunday, Mar. 07, 2004
filling in :-) - Thursday, Mar. 04, 2004