Fibromyalgia is a misunderstood disorder, so much so that many myths still surround this often debilitating condition. What are some of the common fibromyalgia misconceptions and myths?
Fibromyalgia is not a real disease. This is true in part as fibromyalgia is considered a disorder rather than a disease. Diseases have a known cause, whereas disorders are a group of conditions with no known underlying cause. It is not fully understood what exactly causes fibromyalgia, but there are treatment options available to deal with the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is psychological. Many people, including some doctors, still believe that fibromyalgia is all in a patient’s head. This is not true. Fibromyalgia is a real disorder with real pain issues and other symptoms that can affect a patient’s quality of life. Although a direct cause is not known does not mean the disorder is all in a patient’s head.
Fibromyalgia is a rare disorder. Fibromyalgia is not a rare disorder. In fact, it is believed to affect more than 3.7 million people in the United States alone.
Fibromyalgia is a woman’s disorder. Men are also affected by fibromyalgia, though it is true that women appear to be 10 times more affected by the disorder than men.
Fibromyalgia only affects the elderly. Although fibromyalgia is more often diagnosed in older adults, children and teenagers may even experience this disorder. Fibromyalgia is most often first detected in people ages 20 – 50 years old.
Fibromyalgia is not serious. Although this disorder is not life-threatening, fibromyalgia is a serious group of conditions that can affect health by way of disrupted sleep and even depression and anxiety. The pain can even become disabling in some individuals.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia. This is true in part, that there is no actual cure for fibromyalgia. However, this should not keep those affected from seeking treatment. There are many effective treatment options for the symptoms of fibromyalgia. If you think you suffer from fibromyalgia, please seek medical advice from your doctor.
RESOURCE:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia/AR00056
FURTHER READING:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6126048/hydrotherapy_and_fibromyalgia_how_does.html?cat=5
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7919257/exercise_therapy_for_fibromyalgia.html?cat=5