Fibromyalgia has got to be one of the most confusing and complex diagnoses to digest. What started as a series of physical ailments and misdiagnoses during my university years (I'm now 30 years old) quickly turned into a life-altering chronic condition that I had nearly no control over.
A few aches here, lots of throbbing there, random bruising and blotchy purple skin, migraines every two weeks, emotional sensitivity and losing my train of thought every 10 minutes or so... I thought I was losing the plot! So, I understand why so many people around the world see this condition as perplexing and almost unreal.
After doing my own research and seeking out countless specialists, I've realised that this illness is very real and debilitating, especially in severe cases. Unfortunately, medical experts are still to uncover the definitive root cause of the illness, or a cure.
So, what is it?
The South African Rheumatism & Arthritis Association (SARAA) describes fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) as a disorder medically identified by widespread musculoskeletal pain (muscles, bones and joints), accompanied by fatigue, and sleep, memory and mood issues.
According to SARAA, researchers believe that fibromyalgia "amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals". Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression."
Once I was diagnosed, my doctor called this type of processing of pain signals 'somatic', which means that any psychological and emotional distress I experienced would be physically expressed in the form of physical pain, nausea and fatigue. So, there was a clear mind/body link. But why was I experiencing this? Was I born with it? I had so many questions... Living with this felt so unfair.
Causes and treatment
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة April 2024 من Club.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة April 2024 من Club.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
More Jolly, LESS FOLLY
We look at the do's and don'ts for celebrating the festive season in the workplace
8 STEPS TO AN Affordable Holiday
From quality time with family to me-time on the beach, a vacation is always good for the soul - but it shouldn't break the bank
Summertime SADNESS
For most, the promise of warm weather, longer days and outdoor adventures lifts one's spirits. For others, it can bring an unexpected visitor: summer depression
hold your HORSES
We all overindulge sometimes, whether it's eating that oversized burger or having another drink when we know we shouldn't. But when and how should we draw the line in the interests of our health?
love YOUR LIVER
One of the most hardworking organs in your body plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health. Here's how to support its work
Singing her own TUNE
Award-winning singer and actor Busisiwe Thwala - aka Cici - is living proof of the power of 'dancing through the pain'. And she's only just starting to spread her wings...
LAUGH OUT LOUD
This festive season, we turn our spotlight on Goliath and Goliath (G&G) - South Africa's comedic powerhouse. They may not all be blood-related but, together, these guys are changing the comedy landscape with their unique blend of humour, heart and hustle
Holiday magic
Escape to Europe with our take on a snowy, white Christmas - with some added SA flair, of course!
location, location, location!
You can eat with your eyes, so why not travel that way, too? Captivating, unexpected and inspiring, these destinations should be on every décor-lover's bucket list...
Pre-PARTY PREP
Special events call for special preparation - even a little extra effort can go a long way in leaving a lasting impression
