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Writer's pictureSally O'Gwin Gentry

On the Flip Side



Fybromyalgia and other related auto immune disorders might be overlooked in men for a variety of reasons, according to Elaine I. Howley, U.S.News & World Report.

First off, the male population has not been studied nearly as extensively as the female population, Dr. Kevin Hackshaw says. That sure makes sense.


Dr. Hackshaw secondly points out that in 2010, newer criteria put forth reduced the number of symmetric tender points, and reduced their importance so that other points could be evaluated. "These guidelines introduced "something called the symptom severity score, which means beyond the usual aches and pains, these factors, i.e. nonrestorative sleep, fatigue, Irritable bowel syndrome, and migraines were considered."


Dr. Hacksaw then notes that "when these new criteria are applied, the ratio went from 9:1 down to 3:1, women diagnosis vs. men diagnosis.

In fact, some new research posits that as many as 15 million men could now be dealing with fibromyalgia! But of course the research widely varies.


Men have now started getting more accurate diagnoses than in the past, in order for the doctors to more effectively treat them.


Of course there are other key factors that also need to be considered in looking at fibromyalgia in men. Some men are reluctant to visit the doctor, especially just for what they consider aches and pains. We cannot forget about the good ole societal expectations on men to "just hang in there & get back out there; don't be a wimp!" Doctors may even experience a kind of generational bias toward diagnosing men.

The longer a man postpones going to the doctor for these types of chronic symptoms, the worse that he can get.. Some men tend to be diagnosed with Lyme disease, Irritable bowel syndrome, restless less syndrome, migraines ; however, we all know that all of the factors involved can be totally overwhelming for anyone dealing with them, patient or doctor!!

This site also notes a term called hyperalgesia which is amplified pain. Oh my gosh! I did not think that was possible! It sites that men may report this in their necks more than women. This may be the one symptom that sends them to the doctor.

Symptoms may appear, only to disappear completely for weeks or months at a time! That is weird! One other term that I thought was very interesting is allodynia. It is pain sensation triggered even by touch or handshake! You can sure see how depression could play a big part in this vicious cycle.

We live in a crazy, stressed world, and so much of it we bring upon ourselves, sadly. Men may be accused of not taking care of their family, even in a dual income home. The implications may be that they are shirking your responsibilities, thus delaying men from seeking treatment. Unfortunately, a lot of the stress we bring upon ourselves!


Fortunately and unfortunately, we are all in this together!




Praying for you!

From Me to U!!!













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