We individualize the treatment for each of our fibromyalgia patients.
Depending on the individual case, we may treat with natural or prescription antidepressants or sleeping aids, low-dose Naltrexone, Guaifenesin, thyroid hormones (T3), intravenous (IV) vitamins and minerals, magnesium, etc.
Fibromyalgia, like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, is a recently recognized disorder regarded as a common cause of chronic musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. In fact, fibromyalgia and CFS may be one and the same.
The only difference in diagnostic criteria is the requirement of musculoskeletal pain in fibromyalgia and fatigue in CFS. The likelihood of being diagnosed with either is dependent upon the type of physician you consult. Specifically, if you are seeing a rheumatologist or orthopedic specialist, you are much more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
Diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia
Diagnosis requires fulfillment of all three major criteria and four or more minor criteria.
Major criteria
Generalized aches or stiffness of at least three anatomic sites for at least three months
Six or more typical, reproducible tender points
Exclusion of other disorders which can cause similar symptoms
Minor criteria
Generalized fatigue
Chronic headache
Sleep disturbance
Neurological and psychological complaints
Joint swelling
Numbing or tingling sensations
Irritable bowel syndrome
Variation of symptoms depending on activity, stress, and weather changes