Fibromyalgia: A Common But Complex Chronic Pain DisorderBY DR. ALI GHAHARY

Whether it’s a headache, a sore back or joint pain, everyone experiences pain at some point in there lifetime.

However, there are those who suffer from debilitating forms of pain on a daily basis.

Fibromyalgia is one of the most common types of chronic pain disorders. Affecting the central nervous system, fibromyalgia is accompanied with widespread pain as well as other associated symptoms such as fatigue, changes in mood, and neurological manifestations (sensitivity to light and sound, numbness, tingling.)

As of 2010 nearly 500,000 Canadians had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia according to data from Statistics Canada, and while it is a condition that affects individuals of all ages and genders, it is most prevalent in women, as 80% of those in Canada who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia are female.

Currently there is no appropriate testing to accurately analyze fibromyalgia, thus making it a difficult disorder to diagnose, and is instead determined by ongoing symptoms presented by the patient such as muscle tenderness and pain throughout the body.

In severe cases, individuals diagnosed with Fibromyalgia have reported that they have significant trouble in their general day-to-day activities such as preparing meals and doing housework, and activity being limited as a result of painful muscles. It also affects one’s social interactions and ability to work, which may lead to depression and other mood-related disorders such as anxiety, which is commonly linked to fibromyalgia patients, as well as PTSD.

Since little is known about Fibromyalgia, it is important to find a health care provider who understands the symptoms associated with this chronic pain disorder. As a qualified physician, Dr. Ali Ghahary understands the complexity of dealing with chronic pain and the importance of tailoring a treatment plan based on the symptoms presented by the patient.

While there is no specific treatment for fibromyalgia itself, the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia can be treated with anti-epileptic medications such as Lyrica (Pregablin) and anti-depressants like Cymbalta (Duloxetine.) Physical therapy has also been shown to ease the pain of fibromyalgia symptoms.

If you suffer from severe or constant pain, this could be fibromyalgia. However, there are also many other conditions that present similarly to that of fibromyalgia, thus it is important to book an appointment with your GP for a thorough medical examination.