Living with Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by pain in the muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Other symptoms include fatigue, sleep problems, allergies, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, morning stiffness and problems with short term memory and concentration. Increasing recognition of fibromyalgia means that diagnosis and treatment are increasingly likely, but self-help is still key. As well as tried and tested advice on how to reduce pain, boost energy levels and help with regular sleep, this new edition includes the latest in treatments, such as the popular therapy guaifenesin (sic). It also looks at how pain is experienced, explores the possibility that fibromylagia may be due to a rogue gene, and clarifies the difference between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Other topics include: fibromyalgia and immune dysfunction; links with hypothyroidism; psychotherapy; the vital importance of low-impact aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming diet; illustrated posture and exercise advice; pain and stress management; complementary therapies 'Having managed her own fibromyalgia, Christine now passes her experience and knowledge on to others so that they do not have to spend their precious time researching what she has already done. Progress has been made over the last few years and more medical professionals are recognising the symptoms, but there are still many who lack the knowledge to diagnose and treat fibromyalgia effectively. At present there are no national guidelines for treatment. This is one reason this book is so vital to those with fibromyalgia their families, friends and employers' Pam Stewart MBE, Fibromyalgia Association UK chair
About the Author: I was born in Bradford, West Yorkshire (at Station House on Laisterdyke railway station) and have a younger brother, called Glenn. After marrying, I moved to Baildon, Shipley, and had my three sons Mark, James and Matthew. I took nine happy years off work with my little ones, after which I found employment as a Revenue Officer at the Accounts Office in Shipley. Unfortunately, in 1991, I became very ill with fibromyalgia and spent most of my time either in bed or attempting to research the condition. After joining my local fibromyalgia support group, I started writing the monthly newsletter. It dawned on me then that my articles could be put into a book, so I began the arduous but very enjoyable task of writing 'Living with Fibromyalgia', which took four long years. I have written 17 further books and greatly enjoyed being so productive. In 2007, however, I decided that I needed to move to a warmer climate to help my condition. My boys were grown up by then and living their own lives, so my husband and I moved to Tenerife where I began walking along the prom every day - very pleasant indeed. I write articles for the Canarian Weekly newspaper, and am the agony aunt for that same publication. I also write for FaMily, the UKfibromyalgia.com monthly newsletter. My latest book is 'Natural Treatments for Arthritis', which is due out in March 2011.

I enjoy writing greatly, and thank all the people who have read my books.

Christine