Fibromyalgiais often thought of as a “women’s condition,” but men can have it as well.
Men with fibromyalgia are definitely outnumberedwomen make up about 90 percent of cases.
That doesn’t mean thediagnosisshouldn’t be considered in men, though.
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Often Overlooked
Because of gender disparity, we know a lot more about how fibromyalgia affects women.
A lot of people, and even some healthcare providers, erroneously think that men don’t get fibromyalgia.
Societal expectations and stereotypes of men pose their own problems as well.
Even in a two-income household, the man is often thought of as the primary breadwinner.
Men are supposed to be hard-working, tough, and oblivious to pain.
Everyone with fibromyalgia faces the misconception that they’re crazy, lazy, or both.
He may view himself this way as well.
(Women are not exempt from these issues, but men face them to a higher degree.)
Men with fibromyalgia report feeling like they’ve failed as a husband, father, and provider.
It’s important to remember that illness isnota weakness.
Instead, the ability to keep functioning at any level when you’re sick shows tremendous strength.
Also, remember that it’s not a weakness to need mental health counseling to deal with these issues.
It may help you overcome mental and emotional barriers to getting better.
Several websites now offer information and support specifically for men, includingMen With Fibro.
You may also be able to find male-focused groups or pages on social networking sites.
However, you do share experiencesnot to mention dozens of symptomswith the other 90 percent of people with fibromyalgia.
it’s possible for you to learn a lot from them and teach them a lot, too.
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Abstract accessed, article in Spanish.Fibromyalgia in men and women: Comparison of the main clinical symptoms.
