Am I crazy? Or, is FIBROMYALGIA real?

By: Dr. Hulon Crayton 
 

“Within the medical field, not all physicians believe in the condition referred to as Fibromyalgia. However, when I first meet with a patient, if they tell me they hurt … I believe them!  Doctors may look at an x-ray and just because it looks normal, they may assume that the patient is not experiencing any pain. Unfortunately, Fibromyalgia has no definitive way to diagnosis the condition, because there are no lab tests or x-rays that can determine this insipid disease. Conversely, an abnormal x-ray might not show the real source of the person’s pain,” said Dr. Crayton.

Diagnosis as a process:

“The way I approach the diagnosis of any disease is by compiling a thorough history of the patient in combination with a good physical. After reviewing that data, I listen to what the patient has to say about their symptoms and then ask them the right questions to finalize the most accurate assessment. It’s truly a team effort between me and the patient to reach a definitive conclusion regarding their health needs.

“Another misconception that people need to realize is that Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are not the same thing!  People experiencing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may not have any pain whatsoever. In addition, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome could be caused by thyroid problems, medications (like blood pressure prescriptions), or sleep apnea to name just a few possible culprits.

“As I indicated above, Fibromyalgia has no primary way of being diagnosed, but we often use lab work to rule out other causes of the patient’s condition so that we can be absolutely certain there is not another secondary cause of the pain. Prior to coming to our office, the person may have been seeing a series of doctors for the various symptoms, (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Pain Management, Depression, and Sleep Apnea, etc.), but when these signs are combined they may point to Fibromyalgia.

There IS help!

“My work with patients who have Fibromyalgia has been very gratifying because I see their lives turn around for the better. People who have been reclusive, withdrawn from their family and friends, who haven’t been able to do the most common of daily routines like driving, grocery shopping, or interacting with the outside world – after therapy – become a part of society again, and have a new lease on life with a more positive attitude.One woman said, through her tears, ‘For someone to finally believe me when I say I have a problem, and that I’m not crazy, gives me hope for the future.’

“While the symptoms of Fibromyalgia may never totally go away, we try to work on the triggers within the patient’s environment to relieve some of their anxiety and pain. If you feel you may be a candidate for a consult regarding this “stealth disease”, we’d like to encourage you to contact our office so that Fibromyalgia won’t be able to steal any more of your life.”

How to Shake the Winter Blahs

About the time we have to set our clocks back, and the days begin to grow darker – quicker – many people tend to slide into a condition commonly referred to as “Seasonal Depression”.  Don’t give in to the “blues” … get up and take some very positive steps towards the sun … literally!  We are so fortunate to live in Florida where the sunny days outnumber the cloudy ones.  When things are dreary, immediately turn on the lights, go for more walks on the beach when the sun is out, or if your condition is really severe, you can invest in a Light Box, which is said to boost serotonin levels.  Regardless, get access to good light within an hour or two of waking. 

Some doctors feel a diet rich in figs (Vitamin B6), Swiss Chard (Magnesium), and dried, dark cherries (Melatonin) will also help this condition.  You might also consider having your levels of Vitamin D measured.  Setting regular times to sleep, and getting up at the same time each morning, will also help.  (If you have a hard time getting to sleep, a one (1) mg tablet of melatonin can be purchased across the counter.) 

 

It may also help to insert bright colors into your wardrobe, followed by trying to keep a “sunny” attitude!  Consider keeping a journal on the days when you feel “down”, recording your emotions within its pages.  It’s just like free therapy, because once you begin to focus on the good things in your life, you find that behind every cloud there really is a silver lining!  If you do all of the above and depression and/or anxiety persists, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your physician.  Dr. Crayton and his staff at The Arthritis and Infusion Center welcome any questions you might have about your health. We’ll address those topics in future blogs, e-newsletters, or our print edition of the practice newsletter.  Remember:  Pain is not normal.  Let us help!

Fatigue Got You Down?

Are you CONSTANTLY TIRED?  …

… even after a good night’s sleep?  You could have a vitamin or mineral deficiency, an underactive thyroid, depression, sleep apnea, or your adrenal glands could be overworked. When all other symptoms have been ruled out, you could be suffering from a condition that has been referred to as a “stealth illness” – Fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue syndrome.  This condition usually affects more women than men, and there can also be a genetic predisposition.  While some doctors frown on this diagnosis, Dr. Hulon Crayton knows that the symptoms are very real, and blood tests can actually provide significant “markers” regarding an accurate treatment plan.  Jump starting your energy is possible, once you learn the root cause of your condition.  Call our office today to discuss your symptoms and how The Arthritis and Infusion Center can assist with a better quality of life for you or someone you love.  Remember:  Pain is not normal.  Let us help!