Fibromyalgia explained

When FS flares, your doctor may recommend a low-dose tricyclic antidepressant (such as amitriptyline), which may temporarily improve sleep and reduce pain. But the effects can wear off after a month, and these drugs have side effects, such as grogginess and dry mouth. They are not usually a long-term treatment for FS.

Common sleeping aids are not effective for FS because they do not induce deeper sleep, or eliminate pain and fatigue. Instead, it's important to develop a daily schedule and stick to it, avoiding caffeine and other stimulants that might interfere with sleeping. Exercise during the day can also pay off with better sleep at night. Other approaches to managing FS pain include physiotherapy, massage and relaxation.

Treatment of fibromyalgia centres on managing its symptoms, as there is currently no cure. Since symptoms vary, so will treatment. Treatment without medications - such as exercise and improved sleep habits - may be as effective as drug-based strategies. Responses to medications vary and may diminish over time.

Helpful organisations
Fibromyalgia Association UK
P.O. Box 206
Stourbridge
DY9 8YL
Tel: 01384 820052
www.ukfibromyalgia.com

The Arthritis Research Campaign
PO Box 177,
Chesterfield,
Derbyshire
S41 7TQ