Fibromyalgia is a condition known for causing pain throughout a person’s body. Although there are no known cures for fibromyalgia, treatments, including various forms of exercise, stress management, and medications, can help relieve symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life.
Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body and other symptoms, including fatigue, decreased mood, and problems with sleep. Although the cause of fibromyalgia is not fully known, it is linked to the nervous system and increased sensitivity to pain.
The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are widespread chronic pain and tenderness, especially in the body's muscles. Body fatigue and stiffness are also symptoms of fibromyalgia. The pain can come and go and move to different areas of the body. People with fibromyalgia often also have tender points. These points are specific areas of the body that are more sensitive to touch. These points are usually around the joints of the body, such as near the shoulders, elbows, knees, and hip bones.
Fibromyalgia is also associated with other symptoms, including emotional stress and sleep disorders. People with fibromyalgia may also experience fatigue and difficulties with memory and concentration, commonly referred to as “fibro fog.” Digestive problems such as abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome are related to fibromyalgia. Symptoms often are worsened when there are higher levels of stress, when a person has another illness, when there is overstretching or overuse of the muscles and in hot weather.
Some other risk factors include:
At-home treatments and lifestyle changes can help reduce pain and decrease other symptoms, such as sleep problems and emotional symptoms. Stress management techniques are also used at home to help treat fibromyalgia. These relaxation strategies can include meditation and mindfulness exercises. Regular physical exercise is another treatment for fibromyalgia. Physical exercise programs can consist of a combination of aerobic exercise, stretching, and posture training. Yoga classes or other home exercise programs are also suitable for people with fibromyalgia.
Another form of treatment for fibromyalgia includes different forms of therapy. A physical therapist can help with strengthing the muscles and flexibility. An occupational therapist may work with a client with fibromyalgia so that they can continue to engage in daily life activities. Counseling or talk therapy can help with fibromyalgia's emotional and psychological effects. Massage therapy can decrease muscle pain and stiffness.
Medical treatment of fibromyalgia can be through prescribed medications to help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These medications include pain-relieving pills, muscle relaxers, anti-depressants, and anti-seizure drugs.
Early signs of fibromyalgia are pain and stiffness over the body, morning fatigue and tiredness, and trouble sleeping. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating can also be early signs.
Fibromyalgia patients are most often diagnosed based on relevant symptoms. The main diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia is widespread chronic pain for over three months. Sometimes x rays, blood tests, or other tests will be used to rule out other diagnoses.
Although there is no cure for fibromyalgia, medications and treatments can help decrease and control the symptoms.
Widespread pain and muscle pain are the main symptoms of fibromyalgia. People with fibromyalgia often describe their muscle pain as aching or burning. The other common symptoms are fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties.
There is a strong connection between fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome as they often coexist in a patient. Studies show that up to 70% of patients with fibromyalgia are also diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. In addition, 65% of patients with irritable bowel syndrome are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. They also share other characteristics, including being more prevalent in women and being related to stress. Both conditions may be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and some of the same medications.
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