Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder associated with overall body pain and discomfort. Although the condition is not a variety of other neurological disorders or even arthritis, it possesses some of the same symptoms. There are an estimated 10 million Americans suffering with fibromyalgia, and estimates suggest that three to six percent of the world's population have symptoms of fibromyalgia. The medical costs of treatment coupled with lost productivity have been estimated in the billions of dollars. The good news is that fibromyalgia is not progressive and is not fatal. Many sufferers report that the symptoms can improve with treatment and time. This accessible introduction to the disorder helps educate both sufferers and caregivers alike to the symptoms, potential causes, treatments, and outcomes of fibromyalgia. Addressing both traditional and alternative approaches, Naheed Ali offers hope and guidance for those seeking both understanding and possible paths to recovery. He focuses not just on the science and medicine behind fibromyalgia, but also on living well with it after diagnosis. Offering tips for lifestyle modifications as well as advice for caregivers, family, and friends, he ultimately provides a responsive and hopeful guide to this often misunderstood condition.

PrefacePart I: Lead-In1 History of Fibromyalgia2 Links to Chronic Fatigue SyndromePart II: Clinical Picture3 How Body Systems are Affected4 Brain Fog: Myth or Reality5 Causes of Fibromyalgia?6 Outpatient vs. Inpatient7 Roles of Family Physicians, Internists and NeurologistsPart III: Common Ways of Coping8 Prevention is the Key9 Alternative Therapies10 Conventional Treatments for Fibromyalgia11 Fibromyalgia and Diet12 Importance of ExercisePart IV: Iron Will to Face Fibromyalgia13 Lending a Helping Hand 14 Approaching the Mental Aspects 15 Parenting with Fibromyalgia16 Occupational Constraints17 ConclusionAppendicesAppendix A: GlossaryAppendix B: For Further ReadingAppendix C: About the AuthorAppendix D: Endnotes