FIBROMYALGIA
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common disorder that has only recently received recognition by the medical community. It is marked by widespread pain, fatigue, and tender points.
The exact cause of FM is unknown. However, researchers have identified several factors that contribute to the development of FM:
• Allergies or chemical sensitivities
• Alterations in muscle metabolism: Reduced blood flow to muscles can cause fatigue and pain
• Chemical imbalance in the brain: Alterations in the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine
• Elevated levels of a chemical called substance P, which is involved in our sensation of pain signals
• Infection: Viruses (Epstein-Barr, HHV-6, and cytomegalovirus) and fungal infections by Candida albicans have been implicated
• Nutritional deficiencies in magnesium and antioxidants
• Sleep disturbances: Disturbed sleep patterns may be a cause rather than just a symptom
• Trauma or injury, particularly in the upper spinal region
The word «fibromyalgia» comes from the Latin terms for fibrous tissue (fibro), muscle (myo), and pain (algia).
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of FM vary among people and can be affected by weather, stress, and physical activity.
• Anxiety
• Chest pain
• Depression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Dry eyes, skin, and mouth
• Fatigue and sleep disturbance
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel or bladder
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
• Pain: Most commonly in the neck, shoulders, hips, lower back, and thighs
• Painful menstrual periods
• Swollen lymph nodes
RISK FACTORS
Age: Early and middle adulthood
Autoimmune disease: Those with arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases
Disturbed sleep: Those with nighttime muscle cramps, restless legs, or sleep apnea
Family history
Gender: Women are at greater risk
According to a report in the Annals of Internal Medicine, 33 percent of FM patients also suffer from multiple chemical sensitivities. Annals of Internal Medicine, 1999: 130 (11); 910-921.
DOCTOR’S ORDERS
There is no cure for FM. Prescription drugs are given to reduce symptoms, with limited success. Those commonly prescribed include muscle relaxants (Flexeril), anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen), and pain relievers (acetaminophen, codeine). In some people, antidepressants help to improve sleep, depression, and anxiety.
SHERRY’S NATURAL PRESCRIPTION
A comprehensive program that includes lifestyle strategies, nutrition, and supplements to reduce symptoms and improve well-being offers the greatest benefit for FM sufferers.
Dietary Recommendations
Foods to include:
• Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats to ensure your body gets essential nutrients and energy.
• Eat plenty of magnesium-rich foods such as green vegetables, soybeans, almonds, and cashews.
Foods to avoid:
• Caffeine interferes with sleep, causes anxiety, and reduces mineral absorption.
• Sugar reduces immune function, interferes with sleep, causes mood swings, and encourages growth of yeast, which has been linked to FM.
• Minimize or avoid processed/fast/fried foods, which are high in saturated fats and can trigger inflammation.
Note: Since food allergies have been implicated in FM, it is important to identify possible allergens. Refer to Appendix D for more information.
Lifestyle Suggestions
• Reduce stress, which can trigger or aggravate the symptoms of FM. Try breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and massage.
• Exercise to improve mood, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being.
• Chiropractic improves spinal alignment and nerve flow; can reduce pain and improve sleep.
• Acupuncture can help reduce pain and promote relaxation.
• Sleep is essential; lack of sleep can intensify pain, anxiety, and responses to stress.
• Laughter improves mood and well-being; watch funny movies, read humorous books, and spend time with funny people.
Top Recommended Supplements
5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): Elevates serotonin levels and alleviates depression; may also reduce tender points, anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Do not combine with prescription antidepressants or products that modify serotonin levels. Dosage: 100 mg three times daily. This is less expensive than SAMe (see below) and is a good second choice.
Melatonin: A hormone that regulates our sleep cycles. Supplements shorten the time needed to fall asleep, reduce night wakening, improve sleep quality, and reduce tender points. Dosage: 3 mg one hour before bed.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe): Supports production of neurotransmitters (serotonin), antioxidants, hormones, and joint compounds. Studies for FM have shown that it can reduce pain, fatigue, and stiffness, and improve mood. SAMe is very safe and better tolerated than antidepressant drugs. Dosage: 800 mg daily. Choose a product that is enteric coated. Take on an empty stomach.
Complementary Supplements
Vitamin E: Antioxidants may be depleted in those with FM; preliminary research found that vitamin E improved symptoms of FM. Dosage: 400 IU daily.
Capsaicin: A component of cayenne pepper that helps relieve pain, and works by depleting substance P, thus reducing the sensation of pain. Look for Zostrix or Menthacin, which are available without a prescription. Apply to painful areas; wash hands after application, as it can burn the eyes.
Celadrin: Reduces pain and swelling; improves joint mobility. Dosage: 1,500 mg daily. Ce-ladrin is also available in a cream, which can be applied to sore joints and muscles.
Magnesium: Reduces inflammation; promotes muscle relaxation. Dosage: 200 mg three times daily; may provide additional benefits when taken with malic acid (1,200-2,400 mg), which reduces pain.
FINAL THOUGHTS
FM is a chronic and painful condition that is not curable, but can be greatly improved with lifestyle strategies and supplements. Key points to keep in mind:
1. Nourish your body with a healthy diet and eliminate foods that trigger inflammation.
2. Exercise regularly to reduce stress and pain and improve sleep and mood.
3. Consider massage, chiropractic, and/or acupuncture to reduce symptoms.
4. Top supplements include SAMe or 5-HTP and melatonin.
5. Consider supportive supplements of Celadrin, magnesium, and antioxidants.
