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Understanding
Fibromyalgia (often related to CFIDS) Syndrome By. William R. Kellas, Ph.D. |
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| Do you find yourself having brain fog in the middle of the day at work, are you tired all the time, well you might want to explore information on Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFIDS) Many people have asked questions about the Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FS) - especially what can be done about it. Most people do not even know what it is, or that it even exists. In fact, as many as 5% of outpatient doctor visits may be due to the FS. The Fibromyalgia Syndrome is often overlooked as a diagnosis, and many doctors find it easier to diagnose some form of depression. Why is this? There are no diagnostic tests, such as a blood test, x-ray, urine test, or biopsy, to help make a diagnosis. Fibromyalgia: The Facts Originally named fibrositis - meaning connective tissue inflammation the syndrome is a common form of chronic, generalized muscular pain and fatigue. In recent years its name has been changed to reflect the finding that it does not involve inflammation of the tissues, but rather unexplained pain (myalgia) in them. These patients suffer from chronic diffuse muscle aching; muscle soreness accompanied with poor sleep patterns. Fatigue morning stiffness, and frequently an affective dysfunction. Most FS patients complain primarily of muscular pain, but some have also reported articular pain, swelling of the hands or knees and numbness or coldness of the extremities. Fibromyalgia Structural problems such as unresolved whiplash, a fall, concussion, TMJ/TMD or a turned jaw can contribute to fibromyalgia in some people. If the head is too far forward on the body, muscles can fire continuously to balance the jaw and head. The muscles throughout the body release lactic acid which can contribute to muscle pain and fatigue. If this condition remains untreated, the acidity can decalcify the long bones as calcium is released to buffer the acid, setting the stage for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Electrolyte (mineral) imbalance can cause muscle spasm and cramping, especially deficiencies of potassium, magnesium or calcium, or salt. Allergies such as nickel, foods, molds and airborne allergens can cause tightening of the meningeal mediated system, best known for spinal meningitis. This system is the covering of the brain and spinal cord, and toxins and allergens can cause this to contract, which in turn can lead to back, neck & head pain. Pathogenic microorganisms (parasites) such as giardia, bacteria such as helicobacter, fungus, or any long-term infection can put out toxins and blood sugar swings, which can also cause tightening of the meningeal mediated system and affect the head, neck and spine. A total body burden of many or all of these things listed that is greater than one can handle can express itself as overall pain in those who are susceptible, just as the "weak link" of others may be headache or fatigue. Poor blood or lymph circulation or clumping of blood (shown in the Homograph, a test done at CAM). This reduces the oxygen to the muscles and tissues, causing aching similar to that experienced by runners who push themselves too far. Exercise only increases lactic acid and lowers oxygen more. A blood pH that is too acidic may be a contributor. This condition is similar to the aching caused by lactic acid buildup in the muscles of runners. Heavy metals and chemicals may be causing the acidity in the first place. Disorders of the mitochondria, the power plants of the cell, can cause intolerance to exercise. An increase in pain or fatigue after even mild exercise could be related to mitochondrial disorders. What can
be done for Fibromyalgia? Coping with a chronic disease is difficult under the best of circumstances, but dealing with a disease that is not well understood heightens anxiety. For most people, getting a diagnosis is an important first step in the overall healing and coping process. As scientists learn more about fibromyalgia and doctors become more adept at diagnosing it, tomorrow is indeed bound to be better for people with this finally recognized, but still little-understood condition. William R. Kellas
Ph.D is one of the nation's leading pioneers in natural health and
healing. Dr. Kellas also hosts the syndicated California radio program
"Health Talk - A Second Opinion" and is the noted co-author
of "Thriving in a Toxic World", "Surviving the Toxic
Crisis" and author of "The Toxic Immune Syndrome Cookbook."
He is also the co-founder wth Mark Drucker, MD of the Center for Advanced
Medicine in Encinitas, Ca., integrating medical, dental and chiropractic
services and serving patients all over the U.S. LocationCenter for
Advanced Medicine Note: "The information contained on this website and in the audio portions is for information purposes only and is not to be used in lieu of your Health Care practitioners medical advice." |
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