Fibromyalgia Rheumatica
Important Facts about Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica
Two diseases, Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica share many common denominators. Both conditions are debilitating, robbing people of quality of life. Although major organs are not damaged, both conditions cause significant pain that makes working, enjoying hobbies and activities, and simply living near impossible on many occasions. New studies show that approximately six million people suffer from these illnesses.
While Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica are very similar, there are differences. For instances, the exact category of Fibromyalgia is still unknown whereas Rheumatica is a form of arthritis. Additionally, the pain experienced with Fibromyalgia covers the entire body but for the other illness, pain is specific to the hips, shoulders, lower back, neck, thigh, and upper arms. In both cases, the individual would experience depression, overwhelming fatigue, aches, stiff joints, and difficulty sleeping.
Another illness that shares many of the same components of the two mentioned diseases is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or CFS. With this disorder, unrivaled exhaustion, cognitive issues, and muscle pain are common. Because all three disorders are so much alike, medical doctors, scientists, and researchers do not feel this is happenstance. However, to prove this belief, intense research continues.
For anyone that has been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica need to know there are treatment options available. Over the years, new medications, therapies, and technologies have been developed, which means that sufferers today can get better help than before. While more research is needed to find ideal solutions and possibly cure one or both disorders, the advancements are impressive.
The greatest challenge is that both illnesses are extremely hard to diagnose. Since the symptoms mimic other illnesses, to include Lupus, many people are actually misdiagnosed. Therefore, it is imperative that any one dealing with the mentioned symptoms talk to a doctor that specializes in this field. In addition, remember that while men can be affected by one or both disorders, they typically target women between the ages of 50 and 70.
If the doctor suspects that Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica are possible culprits, the patient’s entire medical history would be discussed, as well as symptoms. If Rheumatica were the stronger possibility, two specific blood tests would be performed, testing for erythrocyte sedimentation and rheumatoid factors. If the blood test comes back showing a rheumatoid factor, then Rheumatica would be the firm diagnosis. The results of the erythrocyte sedimentation would show degree of inflammation. However, if the doctor suspects Fibromyalgia, no blood would be taken in that there are no known markers for diagnosis.
The most important fact about Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica is that treatment be started quickly and done aggressively. In mild cases, treatment would be ibuprofen but if symptoms were moderate to severe, prednisone is commonly used. Unfortunately, steroidal medication such as prednisone can only be taken for short-term relief in that long-term dosage can lead to other health risks to include cataracts, high blood pressure, and even osteoporosis.
Along with using medication to treat both Fibromyalgia and Rheumatica, doctors strongly encourage the patient to start exercising daily. Even though this can be difficult due to pain and stiffness, it actually helps to reduce symptoms. Just 30 minutes of swimming, biking, or walking every day, along with proper rest, well-balanced diet, and a low stress lifestyle are vital to recovery.