Fibromyalgia is a mysterious illness with a long name and a bad reputation. According to the Arthritis Society, fibromyalgia is an arthritis-related condition characterized by muscle pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia is a real medical syndrome that has been taken more seriously recently thanks to a study at the University of Alabama.

University scientists state that the underlying causes of the pain are a reduced blood flow to the part of the brain that processes pain. This part also helps produce twice the average level of the chemical known as Substance P. Substance P helps nervous-system cells process more pain in the body.

The term itself refers to pain in muscles, ligaments and tendons. Patients with this syndrome often experience headaches, memory and concentration problems, dizziness, and severe numbness and tingling. Fibromyalgia is referred to as a syndrome because of the symptoms that generally occur together.

The pain often varies according to time of the day, activity and energy level, weather, sleep patterns and stress. The Arthritis Society says that it can lead to mood swings, headaches, difficulty concentrating and even slurred speech. Most sufferers even experience pain while resting. The pain is most noticeable when they have used their muscles in a repetitive activity, meaning doing something too many times (like typing) makes it worse. Their pain can even be so severe that they can no longer work or do ordinary tasks!

Fortunately, there are ways to help. Experts suggest that when living with fibromyalgia, the sufferers may have to simply live a different lifestyle: for instance, to reduce stress, they may need to work only part time or quit work altogether. The experts claim that getting plenty of sunlight is the key treatment, because a cheerful and warm environment soothes the body. A lot of rest and mental relaxation is also necessary, along with exercise, massage and a good firm mattress.

A number of websites indicate that the future for fibromyalgia sufferers doesn't seem bright. There is very little research being done. There are a few medications that will dull the pain, but there is no cure.

Apparently, antidepressant medications are the most effective treatments for patients. These drugs increase the amount of time a person spends in deep sleep, and also relieves the pain temporarily.

In my opinion, there is not enough research being done for this horrible condition. I thought there would be more attention brought to it, especially now, with all the new inventions the world is producing. My own mother has this illness, and it hurts me to see her in such discomfort. These people do not deserve to live in pain!

In conclusion, fibromyalgia may be a puzzling, mysterious illness, but the world of science should at least be more aware! I hope that I have taught you something about this terribly painful condition and that you are now at least aware of its existence.

I would like to leave you with this one question: Would you be able to stand torture every single day of your life?

-Bracelet :)



Resources:
http://www.arthritis.ca
As well as other booklets I found at local hospitals!