What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia, also called fibrositis,is a chronic,widespread pain in muscles and soft tissues surrounding the joins through out the body,accompained by fatigue. The disease is fairly common,affecting mostly females. Although its symptoms are similar to other joint diseases,such as arthritis fibromyalgia is actually a form of soft tissue or muscular rheumatism that causes pain in the muscles and soft tissues. Fibromyalgia is more prevalent In women of child bearing age. Fibromyalgia is one of several pain syndromes included in the classification Of musculoskeletal pain syndrome (MSPS),or pain amplification syndrome.
What causes or triggers fibromyalgia?
Although the causes of fibromyalgia is unknown, researches believe there may Be a linkwith sleep disturbance. Psychological stress, or immune, endocrine,or biochemical abnormalities. Fibromyalgia mainly affects the muscles attach to the bone( at the ligaments and tendons)
What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
Pain is the most common and chronic symptoms of fibromyalgia. Pain may begin in one area of the body, such as the neck and shoulders, but eventually the entire body may become affected. The pain ranges from mild to serve and May be described as burning,soreness,stiffness,aching, or gnawing pain. Fibromyalgia usually is associated with characteristic tender spots of pain in the muscles. The following are other common symptoms of fibromyalgia. However
Each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- Moderate to serve fatigue.
- Decreased exercise endurance.
- Sleep problems at night.
- Depressed mood.
- Anxiety.
- Headaches
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Diarrhea, alternated with constipation.
- Urinary urgency.
The symptoms of fibromyalgia may resemble other medical conditions or problems.
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
There are no laboratory tests that can confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Instead, diagnosis is usually based on reported symptoms.
What is the treatment of fibromyalgia?
Although there’s no cure for fibromyalgia, the disease can often be successfully managed with proper treatment, as fibromyalgia doesn’t cause damage to tissues. Treatment may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (to relieve pain and improve sleep)
- Duloxetine ,pregabalin,and milnacipran,which are medications that are approved specifically for treating fibromyalgia.
- Exercise and physical therapy ( to stretch muscles and improve cardiovascular fitness)
- Relaxation techniques.
- Heat treatments.
- Occasional cold applications.
Tags: Fibromyalgia