Fibromyalgia, Children and You People…

Fibromyalgia does not just affect adults it can also affect children and young people. However, parents and other care-givers can assist young people to manage their social life and continue with their education. Chronic fatigue which is a big part of Fibromyalgia, could be looked at as a child being lazy or faking illness to get attention. It is therefore essential that you get a correct diagnosis if you think your child is suffering from Fibromyalgia. A very young child is unlikely to be able to explain how they feel and a doctor may have to ask questions developed especially for the young. But, as a parent you can spot the many symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia. Pain, fatigue and muscle stiffness are the main symptoms, however, at different times other associated symptoms may occur such as, Non-restorative sleep More tired on waking than when they went to bed Irritable bowel syndrome Headaches Cognitive disturbances including lack of concentration Word mix-up Clumsiness and dizziness Sensitivity to changes in the weather, noise, and bring lights Allergies A diagnosis of Fibromyalgia does not mean life has to stop, it just needs rearranging. The symptoms will come and go and sometimes it may be hard for a child to take part in activities that were once easy and fun. But you can still encourage your child to carry on with as normal a life as possible. The worst thing you can do is over protect them. Your role as a parent is to teach the child to live successfully with this condition and to look after themselves. Many adult support groups exist around the country for help if you need it.