The American College of Rheumatology established the official diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia in 1990. This includes widespread pain felt in all four quadrants that is considered chronic by lasting for longer than three months, and hyper-sensitivity to pain in at least 11 of the body's 18 tender points.
The cause of fibromyalgia is unclear, but it is thought a trigger, such as injury, emotional distress or a virus, changes the pain signals in the brain and causes the condition.
Treatment is primarily for the symptoms, and to help improve the daily lives of patients through lifestyle changes and other non-pharmaceutical treatments.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective treatment options for those with fibromyalgia. The aim is to learn distraction techniques that help patients focus outside of the painful spots. Physical reconditioning is also a part of this successful therapy, and teaches patients to work their bodies in ways that minimize pain and tenderness.
Pharmaceutical options are limited, but generally include drugs like Lyrica, which block Substance P, the neurotransmitter that sends pain signals between the brain and areas of the body. In those with fibromyalgia, Substance P is over-active, causing hyper-sensitivity to pain. Antidepressants are also used to help patients cope with the condition, and overcome emotional barriers to exercising. Lifestyle choices, such as exercising and proper sleep, are a key part of any fibromyalgia patient treatment plan.
Patients often seek out support groups to help with the emotional struggle. Tom Hintz started a weekly support group in Appleton, Wis. for patients in his town and the surrounding area. He says that living with constant pain and fatigue, especially before a diagnosis, can make fibromyalgia patients feel "crazy" and frustrated. The support group is a way to provide education, share experiences, relate to one another and help maintain hope within the group.
Hintz, now 58, has lived with fibromyalgia since he was 20. He has found success with Lyrica. Vikki Schumann, 59, has suffered from the condition for the past 20 years. She has had no success with pharmaceuticals and manages her pain through massage therapy, meditation and other similar techniques. Both have to struggle with a health care system that often argues fibromyalgia does not exist. Hintz's comeback? Regardless of the labeling, it is very real for the person experiencing it. These hardships are softened by support groups like Hintz's.
Jack Chanceling is a contributor to Fibromyalgia Feed
