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By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com Guides to Arthritis since 1997

Fibromyalgia Symptoms Associated With Hippocampus Dysfunction

Saturday August 30, 2008
Fibromyalgia symptoms can mimic or overlap symptoms associated with other rheumatic diseases. Muscular pain, fatigue, headaches, sleep problems, memory problems, noise sensitivity, and depression are just some of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. According to a study published in the July 2008 issue of the Journal of Rheumatology researchers have suggested that hippocampus dysfunction may explain some fibromyalgia symptoms.

The study assessed 15 female patients, who met criteria for classification of fibromyalgia, and compared them to 10 healthy females for N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline, creatine, and their ratios from both hippocampi. Results showed that the hippocampus was dysfunctional in fibromyalgia patients -- primarily demonstrated by lower NAA levels compared to the healthy women. The hippocampus is a part of the brain and functions in the maintenance of cognitive functions, sleep regulation, and pain perception. The findings are considered another piece to what's considered a puzzling medical condition.

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October 14, 2009 at 4:43 pm
(1) E A Richardson says:

I absolutely believe the article is correct. I have been diagnosed as having fibromyalgia and myofascial pain. My life had become hell with the constant pain and fatigue. 15-20 minutes after taking half a serving of pure creatine monohydrate my “fibro fog” lifted, my pain was greatly lessened and my range of motion also greatly improved. I also have only had one episode of chronic fatigue, however, it was short-lived, since I began taking the creatine. I still experienced the burning “pins & needles” pain in my feet and then I began taking Guaifenesin and that pain has all but disappeared. I have lumps that can be felt under my skin around my joints. Some areas are quite large and can be seen with the naked eye. I believe the Guaifenison is flushing the phosphates from my body as I can tell from the buildup of film inside my mouth. My health has improved 80% compared to where I was at. I have discontinued taking Lyrica and Cymbalta because I feel I do not need them.

There is hope.

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