Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that will put the whole body in pain and fatigue and affects sleep. More teenagers are getting diagnosed with this condition. It can be stressful for anyone, but when it comes to teenagers it might affect their whole life.
They will not be able to sleep better which will make them tired all day long. And many times fibromyalgia is mistaken for other health conditions. Not getting enough attention and medical care when you have this can lead to anxiety and in some cases depression.
Continue reading to know more about fibromyalgia, how to diagnose it, the symptoms that you have to look out for, and what you should do once you find out you have fibromyalgia.
What Is Fibromyalgia? Main Symptoms Causing Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a health condition that can cause pain all over the body with fatigue and lack of sleep. Often people fail to diagnose this condition and think they might be just tired.
When teens face this it will affect their whole functionality and will make them miss the joys of their age. This can be disappointing for them as they will not be able to enjoy their life in the way that they want to.
Main Symptoms Of Fibromyalgia:
- Fatigue – Fatigue can be as severe as when you have an illness or when you are bedridden. Sometimes it can be mild tiredness.
- Pain – Pain can be felt in muscles. Some people also experience numbing, burning, tingling, and throbbing pain.
- Compromised sleep quality – It can be difficult to get sound sleep. The sleep will be disturbed and non-restorative.
- Insomnia (in worst cases) – In severe cases, one will not be able to sleep and experience wakefulness.
What Do Teens With Fibromyalgia Experience?
When teens, the school-going ones, and the college newbies at the beginning of their terms, have fibromyalgia, it makes things more difficult for them. They will not be able to concentrate on their studies or have fun with their friends. All they will feel is a constant feeling of tiredness and a lack of interest in doing things.
The teens will want to sleep more but the sleep will never be enough for them. Not being able to do good in academics or sports or arts can affect the coming years of their life. Because teenage is when people mostly realize what they are capable of or passionate about, it is the building years for life that comes ahead.
The teenagers who have fibromyalgia have said that they experience the following:
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Difficulty to remember things
- Headaches
- Stomach aches
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Inability to get a sound sleep
- No energy when waking up in the morning
- Dizziness throughout the day
- Urge to move the legs even while asleep
- and even depression
What Should You Do If You Have Fibromyalgia?
A permanent cure for the condition has not yet been developed. Also, there are no specific lab tests that can confirm this. Doctors arrive at a conclusion based on your symptoms and their severity.
Fibromyalgia treatments include cooperating with a team of medical specialists such as pediatric rheumatologists, psychologists, and physical therapists. The severity of the symptoms can be eased by employing the following:
- Coping strategies
Teenagers will be introduced to coping strategies to manage their body pain. The coping strategies will include cognitive and behavioral therapies to improve functional ability and ease depression.
- Physical therapies
Parents can take teens to physical therapies and massage sessions. It can help to an extent to get rid of physical discomfort, stiffness, and pain.
- Exercises
Exercises are to keep the teens active which can reduce the pain to a level. It has to be done with the help of a physical therapist as the teens need to be introduced to the exercises correctly. They can only do it gently and gradually to avoid any casualties or injuries.
- Medications
Medications for fibromyalgia are not always recommended for teenagers and children. Rheumatologists often suggest a few medications for adults.
To Take Away
If you have noticed yourself having any of the following then there is a high chance that it can be due to fibromyalgia. You should consult a medical care expert to get a professional opinion. You can look out for your friends and cousins.
Many times fibromyalgia goes unidentified leading people to try different medications because they mistake it for other conditions.
If you are a mom or a dad, have noticed your teenager getting tired again and again, and have been wondering what has gotten into them recently, then you sit and have a talk with them. Do not hesitate to proceed to see a doctor.
Read More:- Best Strategy For Controlling Anger In Teens: A Guide For Parents
FAQs
Can Fibromyalgia Be Cured?
There is no permanent cure for fibromyalgia. Although, with the help of doctors the symptoms can be eased down.
What Is Fibromyalgia Caused By?
The cause of fibromyalgia can be due to a lot of factors such as trauma, recurring injuries, repetitive injury on the same specific body part, or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
Can I Live A Normal Life With Fibromyalgia?
You will be having pain and fatigue, therefore, necessary changes will have to be made in your lifestyle. There can be some things you might not be able to do in the way that others without fibromyalgia do.
Is Fibromyalgia A Mental Health Problem?
Fibromyalgia can have an impact on one’s mental health, however, it can not be considered a mental health problem. The symptoms of the condition, mainly pain and fatigue, can cause multiple restrictions in one’s life. This can cause further stress and can even lead to depression.
What Exercise Is Good For Fibromyalgia?
The exercises will be advised by the physical therapists according to the severity of your condition. Generally, exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming and such low-impact aerobic activities are suggested.
