Sun, Oct 13, 2024 | Rabi al-Thani 10, 1446 | DXB ktweather icon°C

Shedding light on the invisible disease: Fibromyalgia

Dr Mouzayan Ginzarly, Family Medicine Consultant at Aviv Clinics Dubai by DP World, shares critical insight on the chronic disease

Published: Tue 28 Nov 2023, 2:10 PM

Updated: Tue 28 Nov 2023, 2:10 PM

  • By
  • Mouzayan Ginzarly

Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, has been silently tormenting millions around the globe. Despite its prevalence, it remains enshrouded in mystery, often underdiagnosed and misunderstood.

The overlooked challenge


Fibromyalgia is a health crisis of staggering proportions, yet it remains underappreciated and often ignored. Lacking definitive diagnostic tests or a cure, the condition traps its victims in a relentless cycle of pain and misunderstanding. Its symptoms are manifold and merciless: unyielding physical pain, debilitating fatigue, and cognitive difficulties commonly known as "fibro fog." These symptoms conspire not just to disrupt but dismantle the lives of those affected, often leading to profound emotional distress compounded by the indifference or skepticism of those around them.

The human aspect: A unique battle with pain


What sets Fibromyalgia apart is the nature of its pain. This is not the pain of an injury or a straightforward illness. It is a deep, persistent ache, a burning, throbbing presence that refuses to relent. It's a pain often invisible to others, leading to a tragic and damaging dismissal of its severity. Sufferers are in a relentless battle for recognition, fighting to validate their experience in a world that frequently overlooks the unseen.

This relentless pain initiates a destructive cycle. Debilitating discomfort leads to decreased mobility and activity, often spiralling into weight gain. This physical change adds another layer of complexity to the condition, exacerbating the physical burden and deepening the misunderstanding and misperceptions surrounding it, which results in a physical battle, an emotional and psychological struggle, and a relentless test of endurance and resilience.

The voices of Fibromyalgia: A cry for understanding

At the core of the Fibromyalgia experience is a deep-seated desire for recognition and understanding. Sufferers are not seeking sympathy but empathy. They long for their pain to be acknowledged as real and significant. This longing extends beyond personal validation; it calls for broader societal and medical recognition. The support and understanding of friends, family, and especially healthcare providers can have a transformative effect on the lives of those with Fibromyalgia.

Emerging hope: New frontiers in treatment

In the face of overwhelming challenges, there emerges a glimmer of hope. Recent advancements in treatments, particularly in the realm of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, suggest new possibilities for managing Fibromyalgia symptoms; these therapies represent a beacon of hope, hinting at a future where this condition can be tackled more effectively, offering a much-needed respite to those who have long suffered in silence.

A call to action: Why this story matters

Fibromyalgia is more than a medical condition; it's a societal issue that demands attention. By spotlighting this disease, we aim to do more than raise awareness. Our goal is to foster a culture of empathy and understanding, encourage research and dialogue, and ultimately improve the quality of life for those afflicted. Understanding Fibromyalgia is crucial for medical advancement and nurturing a compassionate society.

A vision for the future

Fibromyalgia, often termed an invisible disease, deserves a prominent place in our collective consciousness. It's a condition crying out for recognition, demanding medical intervention and a societal response. By bringing this condition into the light, we advocate for a future where Fibromyalgia is not just recognized but effectively treated; a future where those who suffer are met not with scepticism but with understanding and support.


Next Story