Ask the Experts- July 2018

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

I’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia by my doctor. As a result of the fibromyalgia, I suffered many symptoms such as feeling stiff; having pain; experiencing extreme fatigue, as well as memory problems. What can I do to help myself and to explain to my family members when they aren’t sure what’s wrong with me? Thank you for any help you might lend.

Maureen

Dear Maureen,

Fibromyalgia is quite common, so you are not all alone in having this condition. In fact, more than 3 million cases of fibromyalgia are reported each year in the United States. And, the majority of those cases are in women. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known. However, it may run in families. It may also be due to infection or trauma. Your doctor should have discussed medication and lifestyle changes. Together with medication and simply changes to your lifestyle, your symptoms may improve.

As far as describing your condition to family members, it is important for you to be open and honest as to how fibromyalgia is affecting your daily function. You might also share how you thing they might be able to help you. They might even ask you just what fibromyalgia is. Simply say “It is a rheumatic disorder that causes muscle tenderness, pain and fatigue”. You might explain to them that your doctor has carefully planned a treatment option with appropriate medication, as well as an exercise program. And, stress the importance that you must eat a healthy diet, and learn how to relax. That might be of some help to you in explaining fibromyalgia to your family.

Thank you for writing into Red Hot Mamas.

Red Hot Mamas Experts