Fibromyalgia or FMS is a chronic musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by pain, tenderness, achiness and stiffness in the muscle tissue, the ligaments, and the tendons. It is like a type of rheumatism but it does not affect joints. Some people report that having fibromyalgia is like living in a permanent state of having the flu.

FMS is a relatively new diagnosis. The very first diagnosis of "Fibromyalgia Syndrome" as such took place in the early 1980's. Many have claimed a fibromyalgia cure; still most remain in pain without knowing how to help themselves. However, the visibility of fibromyalgia is no doubt attracting more attention amongst medical professionals giving fibromyalgia sufferers hope for a fibromyalgia cure in the near future.

There are about 5 million people affected with FMS in the United States alone. Most affected are women of childbearing age. It can also affect men, children and the elderly but it is less common.

Causes

The exact causes of this complex and perplexing condition are not yet fully understood. There are many theories, but none have been proved conclusively. It is very likely that there are a number of factors involved.

The condition usually appears after an injury, surgery or long illness; nevertheless, no specific illness causes fibromyalgia. It is also thought to be brought on by emotional, psychological, or physical drastic changes or trauma. Prolonged periods of stress have also been considered as a possible cause. It is also suspected that there are underlying biochemical causes -alterations in certain body chemicals produced in excess- even though there is no known anatomical reason for the syndrome.

Another aspect of fibromyalgia is its close association with hypoglycemia, although it is not known if fibromyalgia causes hypoglycemia or the other way around. There may also seem to be a direct relationship with people affected with Candidiasis. Vitamin deficiency has also been linked to FMS.

Yet, some researchers believe that fibromyalgia is caused by an imbalance of the brain's chemistry, which could be a direct result of mercury toxicity, while others believe its directly related to diet.

Diagnosis

As we mentioned earlier, the cause of fibromyalgia is not known yet. Subsequently, it is often misdiagnosed as anything from arthritis to psychological problems. A true diagnosis takes place only after other diseases with similar symptoms have been ruled out such as Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Arthritis and Rheumatism amongst others. Usually, lab tests show no abnormalities of any kind. This is why up until recently FMS was believed to be a "just in your imagination" condition. Nevertheless, FMS is a very real condition.

After learning these facts the question remains… is there hope for fibromyalgia sufferers? Is there a fibromyalgia cure? Let's find out…

Treatment

The initial treatment for fibromyalgia is a trial and error process, as the variety and severity of symptoms caused by this condition vary from person to person. Therefore, treatment programs must be individualized.

Several drugs have been prescribed for the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Two of the most common ones are Guaifenesin and Amitriptyline (Elavil). Antidepressants have also been used to treat certain symptoms of fibromyalgia, and cyclobenzaprine has been prescribed to treat the pain, stiffness, and sleep problems associated with FMS. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) has also proven effective to ease the pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia.

On a more holistic note, adding a soy supplement to the diet has helped alleviate pain and improve the quality of life. Some patients have stated that massage therapy, relaxation therapy, and hydrotherapy have helped alleviate their symptoms. Chinese herbal medicine, biofeedback and psycho-therapy have also been helpful in the treatment of FMS. According to a Mayo Clinic study, acupuncture significantly improved symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.

These types of practices can help control pain, increase energy and improve sleep and other symptoms. Taking extra magnesium, calcium and potassium are also recommended.

The good news

Yes, there is good news! First of all, fibromyalgia is NOT a life threatening condition. Fibromyalgia is diagnosable, is treatable and can be reversed. Numerous individuals claim that their symptoms have disappeared for long periods of time. Others claim total remission.

Every time one patient claims a fibromyalgia cure, there is hope for the rest of fibromyalgia sufferers! One thing you can start with to achieve your fibromyalgia cure is making an effort to become more aware of your day to day routine. What do you do? Where do you go? Learn what factors aggravate your symptoms and avoid them, if possible. Symptoms of fibromyalgia may come and go at first. You need to watch what triggers them. Also, watch your diet. Certain dietary and lifestyle changes may help ease the symptoms.

Also, remember that stress can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. For women, hormonal changes throughout the month can play an important role. And overworking at home and work can bring on symptoms of fibromyalgia too.

FMS is not an imaginary condition. It is REAL. Many of its underlying causes can be treated and possibly 100% eliminated. Seek medical attention. Get help. You will feel better!