Have you heard of fibromyalgia? Do you have a friend or family member who lives with fibromyalgia? Do “you” have fibromyalgia? Perhaps you’ve answered “Yes” to one or more of these questions, and if not, the intent of this article is to share some insight and awareness about a condition that over 5 million people suffer with in the United States.
So what exactly is fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia is a “chronic widespread pain condition!” Generally, most of those diagnosed with fibromyalgia, are women and mothers.
That’s why Fibromyalgia Awareness Day was on Mother’s Day this year, and ongoing resources of information regarding Fibromyalgia Awareness continue to be shared throughout the month of May!
Acknowledging the significant effect that fibromyalgia has on women, especially moms, hopefully you’ll take some time during the month of May to go to: http://www.fibrocenter.com where you’ll find more information regarding fibromyalgia, useful resources, and be able to show support for mothers who live with this “challenging condition” by sending them a unique Fibromyalgia Awareness e-card! These e-cards are perfect to share through your social media sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, as well. Exposure like this will really help raise the awareness of fibromyalgia!
I’d like to introduce you to Jan Chambers, a mother of five children who has fibromyalgia and is also the President of the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association. Jan was kind enough to do an interview with me that I believe you’ll find quite informational and inspiring! Jan Chambers
Here is my interview with Jan Chambers:
#1. VICKI: What symptoms were you personally experiencing that encouraged you to contact a doctor, and as a result, be diagnosed with fibromyalgia?
JAN: In December 2005, I underwent surgery, and when I woke up from the operation, my world was forever changed. I had electrifying, shocking pain going through my body, and my left leg was numb. I kept saying that something felt terribly wrong, but my doctors told me it was just the after-effects from the anesthesia. When I went home, I was still hurting everywhere. I stayed on my couch for the next 16 months. The pain was so intense that I couldn’t allow anybody to touch me, and I slept with pillows all around me to keep my arms and legs from touching each other. The pain became so debilitating that I contacted my physician. I ultimately found out that these symptoms were due to fibromyalgia.
#2. VICKI: Is there a specific treatment for fibromyalgia or is medical care or therapy based on individual diagnoses?
JAN: Fibromyalgia symptoms can vary from person to person, so it is very important to work with your own physician to determine a multi-disciplinary treatment option that is right for you.
#3. VICKI: If you believe you may have symptoms of fibromyalgia, would your primary physician be the first person to contact?
JAN: Yes, your primary care physician is a good starting point, and he or she can work with you to manage your fibromyalgia symptoms once diagnosed. The key is education and early detection. This condition requires a lot of attention and improved lifestyle changes. Education, perseverance and a positive attitude are some of the best tools a person facing fibromyalgia can be equipped with every day.
#4. VICKI: You’re a mother of 5 children and living with fibromyalgia. How do you do it?
JAN: Being a mother can be difficult at times for any woman; however, when you’re living with fibromyalgia, it definitely can pose certain challenges. Fibromyalgia Awareness Day and Mother’s Day both fall on Sunday, May 12th this year. If you know a mom with fibromyalgia, show her your support by sending her a special e-card and thanking her for all she does. Visit http://www.Fibrocenter.com, a website provided by Pfizer, Inc., to send a special e-card to a mom with fibromyalgia.(website also mentioned earlier in this article)
VICKI: Thank you for you time jan, your very helpful answers, and great websites for our readers to visit!
I personally have a dear friend with fibromyalgia, and I’m going to send her an e-card at the link Jan provided above. I’ve known her for some time, and though she may have a fibromyalgia flair from time to time, I’m amazed at her wonderful positive attitude, and endless sense of humor. She has adapted to some lifestyle changes, and empowered herself with education about fibromyalgia, and really knows how to enjoy each moment!
I encourage all of you who read this article to send one of these e-cards to a friend or family member who has fibromyalgia. It will truly brighten their day!
“This initiative is supported by PFIZER, Inc.!”
“Tips for Living with Fibromyalgia:”
• “Get Active”: “A healthy and active lifestyle may help you decrease your fibromyalgia symptoms. Please see your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program.”
• “Find Friends”: “Support groups exist all over the country, as well as online.”
• “Chronicle your experience”: “Write down the things that may have brought about your pain and keep this list on your refrigerator as a reminder.”
• “Get some Zzzz”: “Stick to a sleep schedule. If you go to bed at the same time every night, your body will get used to falling asleep at that time. So choose a time and stay with it, even on weekends.”
• “Chat with your Physician”: “Getting diagnosed with fibromyalgia can be a challenge in itself. Once your doctor has determined that you have the condition, speak to him or her about the best treatment options for you.”
Jan Chambers has also provided a website where you will be able to find even more information about fibromyalgia: http://www.fmcpaware.org
I inspire you to visit this website, keeping in mind that women and moms deal with fibromyalgia on a daily basis, and ongoing awareness is essential!
Many thanks for your support!
(Quotes and Paraphrased information in this article obtained from PR-Fact Sheets, PFIZER, Inc, and my personal commentary)