What You Can Expect

If you have just been diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome, than you are probably wondering exactly what to expect in your future. What symptoms will you develop? Will the pain get worse? Will you ever completely recover? Unfortunately, there are a lot of questions when it comes to fibromyalgia, and not always the best answers.

The Course of Fibromyalgia
The course that fibromyalgia takes depends upon the individiual.

Typically, fibromyalgia begins with some minor aches and pains. Gradually, pain will become more pronounced and noticeable. You'll begin to lose some muscle strength and movement, which may affect your mobility. For instance, you may find that you have trouble getting out of bed in the morning or completing your responsibilities at work. You will also begin to notice other fibromyalgia symptoms popping up.

Fibromyalgia symptoms tend to turn up in cycles. You may notice that your symptoms are fine one day and really bad the next. This is known as a fibromyalgia flare. Certain things can trigger flares, like alcohol, overexertion, and insomnia. Over time, you will learn to recognize those things that trigger your flares.

Does Fibromyalgia Get Worse?
Luckily, research shows that fibromyalgia symptoms tend to level out over time. This means that your symptoms shouldn't get any worse. However, fibromyalgia is a chronic illness, which means recovery is difficult. You may always have to live with some symptoms. If your health continues to decline or declines quickly, seek appropriate treatment. Sometimes, fibromyalgia can cause associated conditons that may affect your health.

Visiting the Hospital
Many fibromyalgia patients wonder if they will have to stay in hospital during their illness. Of course, this is difficult to say, as each patient is different. However, it is highly unlikely that you will need to stay in hospital for treatment. Some patients respond poorly to treatment and do require referral to a chronic pain clinic. Most sufferers who receive treatment though, will be able to enjoy their daily lives.

Getting Fibromyalgia Treatment
If you have fibromyalgia, don't expect to find a treatment that works for you right away. Finding the right treatment to reduce your pain takes time. Medications are available to relieve pain and other fibromyalgia symptoms. Alternative treatments are also available. Keep in mind that fibromyalgia treatments don't eliminate pain completely. The aim of treatment is to reduce your suffering and increase your enjoyment of life. It is likely that you will have to endure some pain as long as you have fibromyalgia.