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FMS (fibromyalgia syndrome) is a widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue disorder for which the cause is still unknown. Fibromyalgia means pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons – the soft fibrous tissues in the body.

Most patients with Fibromyalgia say that they ache all over. Their muscles may feel like they have been pulled or overworked. Sometimes the muscles twitch and at other times they burn. More women than men are afflicted with Fibromyalgia, and it shows up in people of all ages.

Symptoms:

• Deep muscle pain or burning

• Fatigue / Lack of Energy

• Sleep disorder (alpha-EEG anomaly)

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Chronic Headaches

• TMJ Syndrome

• Painful periods in women

• Chest pain

• Excessive morning stiffness

• Memory problems

• Numbness and tingling

• Muscle twitches

• Dizziness

The cause of Fibromylagia Syndrome is not yet known.

Aggravating factors - Changes in weather, cold or drafty environments, infections, allergies, hormonal fluctuations (premenstrual and menopausal states), stress, depression, anxiety and over-exertion may all contribute to symptom flare-ups.

Traditional treatments for fibromyalgia are geared toward improving the quality of sleep and reducing pain, which means that a sleep study may aid with individualizing your therapy. Deep level (stage 4) sleep is crucial for many body functions (such as tissue repair, antibody production, and the regulation of various neurotransmitters, hormones and immune system chemicals). Therefore, the sleep disorders that frequently occur in fibromyalgia patients are treated first because they may be a strong contributing factor to the symptoms of this condition.

Medications that boost your body's level of serotonin and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters that modulate sleep, pain, and immune system function) are commonly prescribed in low doses, such as amitriptyline, cyclobenzaprine and Cymbalta. Ambien, Lunesta, clonazepam, and trazodone are just a few of the medications that may be used to aid sleep. Ultram may help with the pain, although stronger opioids may be needed for treating moderate to severe pain. Muscle relaxants, anti-epileptics (such as Neurontin and Lyrica) and other drug categories may be prescribed as well.