Contents
- 1 Myths and Facts about Fibromyalgia: Separating Truth from Fiction and Health
- 1.1 What is Fibromyalgia?
- 1.2 Myth 1: Fibromyalgia is imaginary
- 1.3 Myth 2: There is no treatment for Fibromyalgia
- 1.4 Myth 3: Fibromyalgia is contagious
- 1.5 Myth 4: Fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder
- 1.6 Fact 1: Fibromyalgia is a lifelong condition
- 1.7 Fact 2: Stress can aggravate Fibromyalgia symptoms
- 1.8 Fact 3: A healthy, balanced lifestyle is important
Myths and Facts about Fibromyalgia: Separating Truth from Fiction and Health
Everyone has heard of Fibromyalgia, yet few understand what it is. There are a number of myths, rumours and horror stories floating around – it can be difficult distinguishing fact from fiction. Let’s take a moment to separate the myths from the facts and uncover the truth about Fibromyalgia and its associated health impacts.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic illness characterised by widespread pain throughout the body, fatigue, and tenderness upon physical contact. Symptoms can include muscle and joint pain, sleep issues, painful tender points, and depression. In some cases, other concerns including headaches, numbness, and digestive issues may also be experienced.
Myth 1: Fibromyalgia is imaginary
Fiction. Fibromyalgia is a real, long-term condition that is estimated to affect up to 2–8% of the world’s population. The exact cause of Fibromyalgia is not known, but genetic factors may play a role.
Myth 2: There is no treatment for Fibromyalgia
Fiction. With medical intervention, it is possible to improve symptoms and manage the condition. Treatment options can include lifestyle changes, medications, cognitive behavioural therapy, exercise and relaxation techniques.
Myth 3: Fibromyalgia is contagious
Fiction. Fibromyalgia is not a communicable disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Myth 4: Fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder
Fiction. Fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune disorder, although some individuals with Fibromyalgia also have other autoimmune conditions.
Fact 1: Fibromyalgia is a lifelong condition
Truth. Fibromyalgia is a chronic illness and symptoms can flucuate over time. Although the condition cannot be cured, treatment can help to manage symptoms.
Fact 2: Stress can aggravate Fibromyalgia symptoms
Truth. Stress can exacerbate Fibromyalgia symptoms, and as such it is important to manage stress levels. Relaxation techniques, exercise, and avoiding triggers can help to reduce stress and lessen symptoms.
Fact 3: A healthy, balanced lifestyle is important
Truth. Eating a balanced, healthy diet, and staying hydrated, can help to manage symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Exercise may also help to reduce pain, fatigue and stiffness.
Fibromyalgia is a very real condition estimated to affect up to 2–8% of the global population. Separating truth from fiction is important to reduce misconceptions, promoting awareness, and improving lifestyles for those affected. With effective treatments, it is possible to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Keywords: Fibromyalgia, chronic condition, symptoms, treatment, lifestyle changes, medications, cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, exercise, triggers, pain, fatigue, stiffness.
