Chronic syndrome that can cause extensive body pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. A person may mistake the symptoms of fibromyalgia for those of arthritis or joint inflammation.
It frequently coexists with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus, but it is not an autoimmune disorder.
Fibromyalgia does not cause joint or muscle inflammation or injury, but it can exacerbate joint and muscle discomfort.
Among the fibromyalgia facts are the following:
Fibromyalgia is predominantly found in females. Symptoms include extensive pain, fatigue, and unrefreshing sleep, as well as somatic, cognitive, and psychiatric manifestations.
Although there is no diagnostic test for fibromyalgia, physicians may order laboratory tests and X-rays to rule out similar conditions.
Fibromyalgia has no singular known causeReliable Source. The condition may be caused by genetics, traumatic emotional or physical events, and sleep and mood disorders.
There is currently no cure for fibromyalgia. Nevertheless, medications, exercise, acupuncture, and behavioural therapy can alleviate symptoms and enhance sleep quality.
Overview
Chronic widespread musculoskeletal discomfort is commonly caused by fibromyalgia.
In the United States, fibromyalgia affects approximately 5 million individuals aged 18 or older. According to studies, natal females are more likely than natal males to have fibromyalgia.
Following a traumatic injury, a person may be at increased risk for fibromyalgia. RA, other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, and genetic factors may also increase the likelihood that an individual will develop the condition.
Symptoms
- These are frequent fibromyalgia symptoms:
- Headaches caused by extensive joint and muscle stiffness after a night’s sleep.
- Irregular slumber patterns
- Paralysis and sensation in the limbs and feet
- Restless calves syndrome
- Sensitivity to temperature or heat memory and concentration difficulties known as “fibro fog” fatigue irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Moreover, the following may occur:
- Difficulties with vision
- Nausea and urinary and pelvic concerns
- Rapid weight gain
- Dizziness
- Cold– or flu-like symptoms
- Skin concerns
- Thoracic discomfort
- Depression and nervousness
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Respiratory difficulties
- Symptoms can manifest at any point in a person’s existence, but are most prevalent between the ages of 30 and 50.
Treatment
Fibromyalgia can be difficult for a person to manage alone.
A rheumatologist or other specialist will devise a treatment plan to aid in managing the condition. Typically, this will consist of a combination of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments.
As fibromyalgia is a syndrome, each individual will experience a unique set of symptoms, necessitating an individualised treatment strategy.
The treatment may consist of any or all of the following:
- A programme of minimal impact exercises
- Acupuncture psychotherapy
- Chiropractic massage
- Physical therapy techniques for tension reduction
- Drugs, such as antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and nerve pain medication
- Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Medications
A physician may prescribe medication to treat specific symptoms. These may include nonprescription painkillers.
The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) advised against using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to treat fibromyalgia in its updated 2016 guidelines.
Antidepressants, such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and milnacipran (Savella), and anticonvulsants, such as pregabalin 50 mg capsule (Lyrica), may also be prescribed by physicians.
To avoid adverse effects and drug interactions, a patient should inform their doctor of all medications they are currently taking.
Alternative and Domestic treatments
In addition to medication, alternative and home remedies may aid in the management of fibromyalgia symptoms.
Causes
The precise aetiology of fibromyalgia remains unknown. However, current rheumatology theory suggests that fibromyalgia is caused by a problem with pain processing in the central nervous system (CNS).
A person’s risk of developing fibromyalgia may be increased by a number of factors, including:Credible Source:
A stressful, traumatic physical or emotional event, like a car accident, can cause repetitive injuries.
RA or other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, can cause CNS problems in the way genes control how a person processes excruciating stimuli.
Fibromyalgia could also be inherited. Females with a close relative who has fibromyalgia are more likely to develop the condition.
People with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or spinal arthritis, also known as ankylosing spondylitis, are more likely to develop fibromyalgia, as are individuals with certain other rheumatic conditions.
Frequent misunderstandings about fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a prevalent condition characterised by pervasive muscle and joint sensitivity and pain. For many individuals diagnosed with fibromyalgia, pain and tenderness are constant, but their intensity fluctuates intermittently.
Besides pain, fibromyalgia can cause a variety of other issues, including:
- Chronic exhaustion
- Depression
- Migraines and headaches
- Painful periods
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome
- Morning rigidity
Additional fibromyalgia therapies
Multiple interventions may produce the greatest results for fibromyalgia patients. It is essential to discuss with a doctor whether symptoms are resolving or worsening, as well as any new symptoms that have emerged.
The following treatment options may provide relief:
Fibromyalgia medications, such as pregabalin (Lyrica), can reduce nerve sensitivity. Antidepressants can alleviate both mental health symptoms and physical suffering for certain individuals. Additionally, physicians may prescribe analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Therapy can help individuals with fibromyalgia manage chronic pain. A therapist can also recommend methods for reducing or managing tension.
Stress management: For many individuals, stress and trauma are fibromyalgia triggers. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing may be helpful stress management techniques.
Some individuals with fibromyalgia discover that specific factors, such as certain diets or seasonal variations, exacerbate their symptoms. Identifying and averting or preparing for these triggers can help reduce symptoms.
Alternative and complementary treatments: Acupuncture, massage, special diets, and other alternative therapies provide alleviation for some individuals. However, it is essential to consult a physician before attempting alternative treatments. They may only recommend using complementary remedies in conjunction with conventional medication.