Friday, 27 August 2010

Brain Abnormalities and Fibromyalgia

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While there is still no definitive cause for the chronic condition known as FMS or fibromyalgia syndrome, a recent scientific study has found certain brain abnormalities that were common among those suffering from this illness who participated in this study. These findings were contrary to previous beliefs by some medical experts that the symptoms of fibromyalgia developed in some individuals due to depression and anxiety.

The studies showed that there were "blood perfusions" or abnormalities in the blood flow of the brain as well as blood flow that seemed to be increased in the area of the brain that is responsible for discerning pain intensity. In another study conducted the findings showed that the "gray matter" of the brain was reduced significantly in patients with fibromyalgia compared to that of healthy individuals.

Low Levels of Dopamine may cause the Loss of Gray Matter

Scientists believe that insufficient levels of dopamine may be the potential cause for the loss of gray matter in the brain. Dopamine is one of the neurotransmitters or brain chemicals found in certain areas of the brain and has an affect on several functions of the brain and body including movement and cognitive skills.

Scientific studies have discovered that patients with fibromyalgia as well as patients who have chronic fatigue syndrome had low levels of dopamine in an area of the brain that is responsible for regulating neurological activity that includes that of the spinal cord, brain, and nerves. Therefore, although it has not been scientifically proven, some experts believe that taking supplements that contain dopamine may help to stop or slow the loss of gray matter in the brain.

Effects of Low Serotonin Levels on the Brain

Studies have also shown that individuals with fibromyalgia tend to have low levels of the brain neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is also responsible for multiple bodily functions including the sleep cycle. These low levels of serotonin cause many symptoms that are associated with fibromyalgia that include fatigue, headaches, hot flushes, changes in body temperature, and difficulty sleeping including insomnia, falling asleep, or staying asleep.

Low levels of serotonin also have psychological effects that include depression, mood swings, irritability, and changes in sex drive. When the level of serotonin falls extremely low, more severe symptoms can develop that include loss of control of the bladder and bowels, muscle cramps, rapid thoughts, emotional behavioral problems, and thought of harming others or suicide.

Norepinephrine-Evoked Pain

Individuals that have fibromyalgia have a high level of pain on a consistent basis. It has been established that a lot of this pain is a result of imbalances with the neurotransmitter known as norepinephrine. Individuals that were subjected to various types of stress were shown to suffer from hypersensitivity more so than those that were not exposed to the same stress.

Stress could include limits to sleep, improper nutrition, and day to day situations. In conclusion, there are many brain abnormalities with the fibromyalgia patient. If you have this condition, it is important to ensure that you talk to your doctor about these abnormalities.

About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

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