Suffering, Science and Sabotage

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this paper is to discuss suffering in general, the criticism against fibromyalgia and other central sensitivity syndromes [CSS], the deleterious effects of disease-illness dualism, a new unifying paradigm for this duality, and then to suggest a remedial model for better patient care.

Methods: A review of the literature using Medline and other sources, and an amalgamation of known knowledge with author's own ideas and inquiry.

Results: Bias against CSS are harbored by many physicians, thwarting the progress for a better understanding and treatment of these syndromes. Most physicians believe in disease-illness dichotomy and pay more attention to the structural than the functional pathology, e.g., neurochemical endocrine [NCE] abnormalities. Both types of pathology are likely based on biology. Even psychosocial distress is mediated by neurochemistry. A model is suggested for proper care where patients and physicians work together with a common satisfying goal, each fulfilling their individual responsibilities.

Conclusion: Most physicians treat CSS with a negative attitude. The outdated model of diseaseillness dualism should be abandoned in favor of a fresh approach to medical education that fosters compassionate care irrespective of the disease label.

KEYWORDS:

• Suffering
• disease-illness dualism
• phenomenology
• biology
• compassionate care