Fibromyalgia: How Do You Treat It?

By Alan S. Weiss, MD

Annapolis Integrative Medicine

. http://www.annapolisintegrativemedicine.com/

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Fibromyalgia: How Do You Treat It?

Fibromyalgia affects at least six million Americans and causes significant disability—often more than Rheumatoid Arthritis. Its prevalence appears to be rising, though the exact cause remains unclear. Patients experience chronic widespread pain along with fatigue, poor sleep, cognitive issues, digestive problems, headaches, and other seemingly unrelated symptoms.

Because many conditions can mimic fibromyalgia—such as hypothyroidism, nerve disorders, medication side effects, and autoimmune diseases—accurate diagnosis by an experienced physician is essential. Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment, and unnecessary testing and going down various rabbit holes.

Even with a correct diagnosis, patients are often told to rely mainly on medication. But if those drugs fail or cause side effects, options may seem limited. In reality, a broader approach can significantly improve quality of life.

Key strategies include restoring deep, consistent sleep; addressing nutritional and hormonal imbalances; and treating common gastrointestinal issues that affect absorption and inflammation. Conditions like bacterial or yeast overgrowth, food sensitivities, and Celiac Disease or gluten intolerance can also play a role and are often treatable.

First, getting a good full night of restorative sleep is absolutely critical. Many people with fibromyalgia will say it has been years since they have had a decent night’s sleep. Using a combination of lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, herbal formulas and prescription medications can get people sleeping which is often the first step in getting well.

Correcting the common nutritional and hormonal deficiencies of this condition is critical. And it is important to see a physician who recognizes that the “normal” laboratory reference ranges for nutrients and hormones may not be optimal, especially for people who are struggling with their health. Optimizing thyroid, testosterone and estrogen status may go a long way to restoring health and vitality.

Gastrointestinal problems are often present and must be addressed, both to enhance nutrient absorption and to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Bacterial and yeast overgrowth is common as are food allergies, including the under-recognized phenomenon of celiac disease and gluten intolerance. There are relatively simple ways to treat these issues that make a big difference for people.

And finally pain must be controlled. For many patients pain becomes a sort of vicious cycle, with pain causing muscle spasm, sleep disruption and inflammation, which only causes more pain. There are both natural and prescription methods for effectively addressing chronic pain.

In short, while fibromyalgia is complex and often misunderstood, a comprehensive, individualized approach can lead to meaningful improvement and a return to a more active, fulfilling life.