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Reducing Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Fibromyalgia, commonly defined as a collection of chronic symptoms, can be a frustrating medical condition. Patients may feel almost normal one day, and the next they may feel severe muscle pain, fatigue, headaches and mental "fogginess." Fibromyalgia patients also have "tender points"--that is, specific points on the body that, when gently pressed, subject the patient to severe pain. It's a good idea to find a doctor who has experience in treating fibromyalgia and will listen to your specific concerns. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, there are a few techniques that patients can employ to reduce their symptoms.

  1. Medications

    • Many medication options are available for fibromyalgia patients. Patients can discuss possible side effects with their doctor and decide upon the best option for them. Antidepressants, anti-epileptic medications, muscle relaxants and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed for fibromyalgia patients because they offer relief from pain symptoms. Painkillers are also prescribed. However, there is a risk that they will be habit forming. And lastly, Lyrica is a medication whose primary purpose is for fibromyalgia patients.

    Acupuncture

    • Try acupuncture for short-term relief of pain symptoms. Acupuncture needles may help to stimulate endorphins at the site, which provides pain relief. Make sure that the acupuncturist you select is licensed. If you feel squeamish about needles, you could also try acupressure, which uses the same pressure points but with no needles--only firm pressure.

    Massage Therapy

    • Massage therapy can help to ease your pain symptoms. It can also help you to relax. However, it only provides temporary relief. There are also mixed results--some fibromyalgia patients experience significant pain relief with massage therapy, but others find they cannot tolerate it--it actually makes them feel worse. Some insurance companies may cover massage therapy for fibromyalgia patients.

    Heat and Ice Therapy

    • To help deal with the pain, you may decide to try ice therapy, or cryotherapy. Icing the area that hurts dulls the pain signals that are sent to your brain. It also eases inflammation. Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas; just don't leave it on the area for longer than 20 minutes or you may damage your skin. You can also try heat therapy to relax the muscles and ease the pain. Use a heating pad or take a warm bath or shower.

    Nutrition

    • Nutrition plays a big role in how you feel. With the counsel of a nutritionist, you may choose to try a fast or detoxification diet to help cleanse toxins from your body. In general, try to eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, as well as whole grains and legumes. Eat lean protein sources, such as chicken or soy. Avoid refined flour and sugar. Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Because fibromyalgia patients frequently feel fatigued, eating healthy to maintain constant energy levels is especially important.

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