Fibromyalgia is a relatively new diagnosis (recognized in the 1980s). Common widespread aches and pains, along with other symptoms makes this disease difficult for physicians to diagnose but it can be controlled through exercise, rest and diet.

Fibromyalgia is a condition where several signs and symptoms exist at once primarily associated with widespread aches and pains, stiffness and fatigue. Common everyday activities, such as peeling potatoes, washing dishes, or lifting a gallon container are painful or difficult at best. In addition, your physician may have a difficult time diagnosing Fibromyalgia.

Because Fibromyalgia is a syndrome of many different combined symptoms, it has been difficult to find a specific cause. Some theories suggest that nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain may cause oversensitivity due to changes in chemicals that regulate pain. The imbalance in brain chemicals may cause mood swings and sleep disorders as well, making tissues more sensitive and painful.

Hormones are also a possible cause. Hormonal imbalances, such as cortisol and growth hormone may cause fatigue, memory loss, concentration difficulty, mood swings, low pain tolerance and other symptoms.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia include headaches, constipation or diarrhoea, memory and concentration problems, numbness or tingling "pins and needles" sensation, anxiety, or depression. Symptoms are flue-like and can last from days to months.

Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting, chronic, condition with no cure; however, you can gain control with exercise and medications for sleep disorders. So when do you call the doctor? If you have the following symptoms for more than 6 weeks, notify your health professional.

Pain and muscle tenderness on both sides of the body, above and below the waist. Disturbed sleep (restless, frequently waking, feeling tired when waking). Joint and muscle stiffness that does not improve as you move around. Depression or mood swings

Physicians find it difficult to diagnose Fibromyalgia. There are no specific tests; therefore, when symptoms exist, having ruled out other laboratory test results, physicians use your medical history and physical exam to diagnose Fibromyalgia.

To date there is no prevention or cure. Treating symptoms may reduce the amount of time of the flare up. Medications to relieve sleeping disorders and muscle and joint pain are available through your physician. However, home treatment is the most effective part of managing Fibromyalgia.

A home management program might look something like this:

- Starting a regular exercise program 
 - Identify sleeping problems and learn what you can do to create better sleep 
 - Use heat and cold packs to relieve pain 
 - Reduce stress 
 - Identify what makes symptoms worse

Use your physician for guidance and instruction. Use low impact exercising every other day, increasing activity as your body allows. Most importantly, listen to your body, learn what triggers Fibromyalgia and keep your physician abreast of your condition.

What should I do if my condition gets worse? First, understand that Fibromyalgia is not a progressive disease and does not cause fatal or permanent damage. However, if worsening of any of these symptoms occurs, your physician should evaluate the possibility of other medical conditions associated with Fibromyalgia.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Fibromyalgia