Suffering from Fibromyalgia?
What is iFoG?
iFoG is an acronym for informed Fibromyalgics on Guaifenesin. This support group was started in 2001 by Annette Kam, a Registered Nurse at Kapiolani Medical Center who had suffered with fibromyalgia for over 15 years. iFoG's mission is to support fibromyalgia sufferers in Hawaii and create awareness of the guaifenesin protocol through physician, patient and community education. iFoG became a nonprofit organization in 2003.
Who is R. Paul St. Amand, M.D.?
Dr. St. Amand is an internist-endocrinologist, fibromyalgia specialist, an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at UCLA, and the author of "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia" and "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Pediatric Fibromyalgia". Both books can be found at local bookstores and Amazon.com. Dr. St. Amand's first book has been placed in public libraries compliments of iFoG. He has more than 40 years of experience treating this disease. He also suffered from fibromyalgia, but has been in remission for some time.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Dr. St. Amand's theory states that fibromyalgia is due to a genetic defect that does not allow the body to flush out excess phosphates. Instead, these excess phosphates build up in the muscles, ligaments and tendons of fibromyalgia sufferers, making them feel achy and tired. Symptoms can be triggered or aggravated by environmental conditions such as stress or accidents. Some patients have been able to trace signs of fibromyalgia in older family members with osteoarthritis and younger family members with growing pains.
What are the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?
How is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?
Fibromyalgia is commonly diagnosed from a patient's description of symptoms and detection of specific tender points on the body. Dr. St. Amand uses his own technique called "mapping" that detects swollen areas in muscles, tendons and ligaments.
Mapping Demonstration...
What is Guaifenesin?
Guaifenesin is a drug with few, if any, side effects that is commonly found in cough medicines. Fibromyalgia patients, however, take this drug in the pure pill form in an appropriate dosage, which varies from patient to patient. Guaifenesin is now available over the counter, but should only be taken after being diagnosed with fibromyalgia and in consultation with your physician.
What are Salicylates?
Salicylates are chemicals that interfere with guaifenesin's ability to rid the body of phosphates and must therefore be totally avoided. They are found in plants, some synthetic substances, and in many of our everyday skin products such as lotions and cosmetics. Salicylates can also be found in some medications and vitamin supplements. Mint, aloe and aspirin are only a few of the concentrated forms of salicylates.
Disclaimer
The information herein is by no means intended to take the place of a physician's protocol for his or her patients. Any patient beginning a new treatment should consult with and be under the care of a qualified. licensed medical professional.
Where Do I Begin?
1. Thoroughly read "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia" by R. Paul St. Amand, M.D. Learn about Dr. St. Amand's treatment to reverse fibromyalgia.
2. Consult with a knowledgeable physician about fibromyalgia and using guaifenesin.
3. Join the iFoG support group.
4. Get "mapped".
5. Get rid of products and medications containing salicylates.
6. Follow the guaifenesin protocol exactly as outlined in "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia"
Your Goal?
Commit to the guaifenesin protocol for at least one year.
Our Promise?
We'll commit to helping you reach your goal.
There are over 200 iFoG members in Hawaii suffering from fibromyalgia who follow the guaifenesin protocol.
When Do We Meet?
Call 808-677-8770 or email buckwun@aol.com for our next scheduled meeting date, location, and time. Come and join us at our Fibromyalgia Support Group meetings where we focus on getting well on the guaifenesin protocol in a fun and positive setting.