Fibromyalgia can affect men, women and children alike. For some unknown reason, however, close to 90% of its sufferers are women. Since most symptoms appear around middle age, we often watch a once extremely active person become debilitated with fibromyalgia symptoms with seemingly no relief for the pain. Just imagine waking up to chest pains and stiffness every morning. The day is just getting started for the fybromyalgia sufferer.

There are many symptoms fibromyalgia patients can expect but they may change from day to day. Fibromyalgia symptoms include chronic migraine headaches, muscle and ligament pain, fatigue, sleep disorders, restless leg syndrome and countless others. Most Fibromyalgia sufferers describe pain around muscles and ligaments as throbbing or stabbing which limits their mobility.

What triggers might bring on these fibromyalgia symptoms? A simple change in the weather can be the difference between a decent day and one filled with dizzy spells, dry mouth, dry eyes, or numbness. Stress, anxiety, depression and over-exertion are a few other symptom aggravating factors. It does seem like a vicious circle as living with these difficulties can trigger depression or stress, which in turn can invite more fibromyalgia symptoms.

Is there medicines, or anything else that can be done to alleviate the pain? There is some help but sometimes the medications prescribed can cause a negative reaction also. Still, it is imperative that each symptom is identified and treated. This will take careful planning and should be done with a doctor. Medications approved by the FDA are available, but since there are so many symptoms, it becomes necessary to experiment with what fibromyalgia medicines produce the fewest side affects. Unfortunately, Fibromyalgia can be eased but not cured, and no one remedy will work for everyone.

A healthy diet is recommended, and a consistent exercise routine can at least reduce flare-ups. Exercise can also reduce stress and increase energy. Many studies show that swimming in a heated pool can be helpful with less stress on the body. Power walks with a friend is another possibility. Hard surfaces should probably be avoided. Exercise might also aid the body in processing pain and help to regulate sleep patterns. Of course, when pain is felt in all parts of the body it is hard to start moving, let alone exercise. Nonetheless, the point is to just start moving. Always begin by stretching before any exercise regimen.

While maintaining a well-balanced diet is suggested, experts still do not know which foods can cause flare-ups for the fibromyalgia patient. Some patients have reported that they felt better after eliminating caffeine and alcohol. More research, however, is necessary.

Since fibromyalgia symptoms often have no discernable cause, it is hard for family members to understand what a Fibromyalgia patient is going through. There are plenty of networks and support groups and perhaps these groups can also be good for the family. It never hurts to be surrounded by loved ones who understand.

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