what are the normal tests for fibromyalgia?
Question:
Answers:
Your question is not very clear however, you can find lot of information on Fibromyalgia on Google. Try this link to start with. It has all the information you nee. Good luck.
http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalgia_diagnosis.html
Other Answers:
in my opinion, fibromyalgia is a non-existing condition, the pain people claim to experience is not explainable, the majority of people who claim to have fibromyalgia suffer from other problems, mainly obesity and depression which can cause these symptoms, i believe if you treat the underlying cause the "fibromyalgia" will go away
I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia several years ago, and found that
what helped me the most was vitamins,Womens Ultra Mega One at GNC, and herbs,(ginsing,echinacea),chan. in diet,staying away from carbs(bread,rice,and pasta) has helped me the most. Also, Anti depressants, or anxiety medication, low doses.
Gathering friends and laughing more has helped too, and an occasional job change and house location change. Get some variety in your life is Good!
Source(s):
GNC
Diagnosis is based on the exclusion of other conditions, especially chronic fatigue syndrome and myofascial pain syndrome; the patient's history of symptoms; and evidence of tender points located at specific areas of the body.
Tender points are 18 specific points located from the neck to the knees. To diagnose fibromyalgia, at least 11 of these points must be painful when touched. Some physicians believe a patient can have fibromyalgia even if the required number of tender points is not met.
Antidepressant agents known as tricyclics relieve sleep disorders, reduce muscle pain, and treat depression. The tricyclic drug most commonly prescribed for fibromyalgia is amitriptyline (ElavilĀ®).
Another class of antidepressants used in fibromyalgia is selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). They boost the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which modulates mood, but do not improve physical symptoms. Fluoxetine (ProzacĀ®) is a commonly prescribed SSRI.
Taking two types of antidepressant may be more effective. A low dose of Prozac combined with Elavil is more effective than either medication used alone.
Antidepressants are first taken at the lowest possible dosage and then gradually increased, if necessary. Their overall benefit appears to be limited, as far as relieving pain, fatigue, and sleeplessness. Many patients are unable to tolerate the side effects of these drugs, even at low doses, and stop taking them. Side effects include nausea, loss of appetite, and insomnia.
Small doses of aspirin or acetaminophen may provide some pain relief and relieve muscle stiffness. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; e.g., ibuprofen), narcotics, and corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) have not proven to be effective. Due to potenially severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects, NSAIDs should only be used as instructed.
Trigger point injections involve injecting a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, and/or a corticosteroid into a tender point and then stretching the involved muscle. Local anesthetic increases blood flow to the muscle and corticosteroids reduce inflammation. The injections can be painful, and it may take 2 to 4 days for improvement.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms include avoiding caffeine (it can aggravate sleep disorders), sticking to an exercise program, avoiding nonessential activities, performing tasks more efficiently, establishing regular sleep routines, and eating a healthy diet. Learning relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation, biofeedback) may help control symptoms.
Exercise
Routine low-impact aerobics and strength may help reduce pain, tender-point counts, depression, and sleep disturbance. During aerobic exercise, endorphins, hormone-like substances, are released. Endorphins help relieve pain and produce a feeling of well-being. Walking, swimming, and riding a stationary bicycle provide excellent low-impact aerobic exercise.
The patient should choose an exercise program they enjoy and stick with it because exercise must be routine to be beneficial.
Physical Therapy
Depending on symptoms, heat, ice, massage, whirlpool, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation may be used to reduce pain. Physical therapists can also design an exercise program to improve flexibility, fitness, and posture.
Behavior Modification
Behavior modification involves learning coping skills, relaxation exercises, and self-hypnosis. Pain perception involves both physical and psychological components. Counseling or another type of therapy may help patients learn better methods of coping with their illness, enhance self-esteem, and reduce stress.
Behavioral cognitive therapy effectively strengthens a person's belief in their own abilities and enables them to develop tools for dealing with stress. A specific goal of cognitive therapy is to change the idea that patients are helpless against their pain.
Emotional Support and Education
Patients who take an active role in their care can often improve their quality of life. Emotional support is very important when dealing with a chronic condition such as fibromyalgia. Some patients find support among family and friends, and others find support groups or group therapy to be helpful.
Good luck.
And Fibromyalgia does exist.
Source(s):
Personal Experience
Neurology Channel
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