National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day

Today is "National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day"
"Fibro Fighters & Survivors"

"National & International Fibromyalgia Awareness Day, is a day of recognition and compassion for all those who suffer from this debilitating illness. May our nation & all the world know and be educated. Let's support one another and get the word out. Together we can find a cure!

ABOUT FIBROMYALGIA:

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons. As well as fatigue and multiple tender points( places on your body where slight pressure causes pain) Common areas that can be affected is the back of your head, neck, and upper and lower back. Also your chest, elbows, legs, hips, knees, ankles, hands and wrists... pretty much your whole body.

The pain from fibromyalgia can be mild to extreme followed by overall stiffness. Other symptoms include fatigue and sleep disturbances, a sleep disorder called "Alpha Wave Interrupted Sleep Pattern". This is a condition in which deep sleep is frequently interrupted by bursts of brain activity similar to wakefulness. Also night time muscle spasms occur. Other symptoms of fibromyalgia include Irritable bowel syndrome "IBS" Headaches, anxiety, difficulty concentrating "Fibro fog" Mood changes, numbness in hands and feet and the list goes on.

Doctors do not know what causes fibromyalgia. There are many theories and factors that may be the cause include sleep disturbances: Injury, infection, abnormalities of the autonomic "Sympathetic" Nervous system, changes in muscle metabolism, stress and hormonal changes. Fibromyalgia isn't life threatening. But the frustration and extreme pain can interfere with your ability to function on a daily basis and live a normal life. Fibromyalgia is a very real and misunderstood condition that often leaves the sufferer isolated, lonely and unbelievably frustrated.

Trying to explain this invisible illness to doctors, family members and friends can be very difficult. Most of the time fibromyalgia patient's feel that they are not being taken seriously. Often the sufferer is left with the impression that others are thinking "It's all in your head" or "You don't look sick, just get over it". Those who have this condition end up suffering in silence due to the lack of understanding one feels. Having fibromyalgia is like what I call being a "Prisoner of pain". The pain is just indescribable. I too suffer from this illness on a daily basis and I would like to share any ounce of encouragement or hope to anyone who suffers from fibromyalgia.

Hugs to you all who suffer daily.

Sincerely, Janet. : )"

"Fibromyalgia:  Prisoners of Pain Support Group"
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=180662724880#!/group.php?gid=75145195252&v=wall