| |
| Standard Definition |
 |
Fibromyalgia is a complex syndrome involving muscle pain and tenderness, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. The condition is not simply a muscle pain syndrome as most patients present with an array of other symptoms. The majority of sufferers are women between 25 and 45 years of age. No cause has been defined, and as such conventional treatment is limited. Because it is not an inflammatory condition, aspirin and corticosteroids are ineffective. |
|
| |
| |
| Underlying Disruption in Function |
|
Patients with fibromyalgia often attribute a distinct event to the initial onset of symptoms. These events include: flu-like illness, viral infections, high stress, chronic sleep disturbance, and physical trauma. Many patients report a history of emotional disorders including depression and anxiety. |
|
| |
| |
| Possible Causes, Triggers & Exacerbating Factors |
|
- Low levels of growth hormone, serotonin and other hormones
- Increased levels of nerve stimulation and chemical toxin exposure
- Viral illness
- Stress
- Sleep disturbances
|
|
| |
| |
| Common Signs & Symptoms |
|
- Muscle pain and tenderness
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome
- Depression, memory loss, headaches, dizziness
- Restless leg syndrome
|
|
| |
| |
| Possible Additional Integrative Medicine Diagnostic Tests |
|
This is additional information that does not replace nor negate conventional diagnosis. Other tests may be useful depending on the individual circumstance.
- Allergy and food intolerance testing
- Heavy Metal and Toxicity assessment
- Vitamin and Mineral assessment
|
|
| |
| |
|
| |
