What are the primary symptoms of fibromyalgia. How does fibromyalgia affect daily life. What factors contribute to the development of fibromyalgia. Can fibromyalgia be effectively managed. What complications may arise from fibromyalgia.

Decoding Fibromyalgia: A Complex Chronic Pain Disorder

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory issues, and mood changes. This complex disorder affects millions of people worldwide, with women being more susceptible than men. While the exact mechanisms behind fibromyalgia remain elusive, researchers believe it involves alterations in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.

The Hallmark Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia manifests through a constellation of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The three primary symptoms include:

• Widespread pain: A constant dull ache lasting for at least three months, affecting both sides of the body and areas above and below the waist.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness despite seemingly adequate sleep, often exacerbated by sleep disturbances and pain.
• Cognitive difficulties: Commonly referred to as “fibro fog,” this symptom impairs focus, attention, and concentration on mental tasks.

Do these symptoms always occur simultaneously in fibromyalgia patients? While the severity and combination of symptoms may vary among individuals, most people with fibromyalgia experience all three to some degree. The interplay between these symptoms can create a challenging cycle that affects daily functioning and overall well-being.

Unraveling the Causes of Fibromyalgia

The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, but researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to its development. Understanding these potential triggers can help in developing more effective treatment strategies and prevention measures.

Neurological Changes and Pain Perception

One prevailing theory suggests that repeated nerve stimulation leads to changes in the brain and spinal cord of individuals with fibromyalgia. This neurological alteration results in an abnormal increase in pain-signaling chemicals and a heightened sensitivity of pain receptors. Consequently, the brain’s pain receptors may develop a “pain memory,” causing them to overreact to both painful and non-painful signals.

Can these neurological changes be reversed? While current research doesn’t suggest a complete reversal is possible, various treatments and management strategies can help modulate pain perception and improve quality of life for fibromyalgia patients.

Genetic Predisposition and Environmental Factors

Several factors may contribute to the development of fibromyalgia:

1. Genetics: Fibromyalgia tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Certain genetic mutations may increase susceptibility to the disorder.
2. Infections: Some illnesses appear to trigger or exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms.
3. Physical or emotional events: Trauma, such as a car accident, or prolonged psychological stress can sometimes trigger the onset of fibromyalgia.

Is fibromyalgia solely determined by genetics? While genetic factors play a role, they don’t guarantee the development of fibromyalgia. Environmental factors and life events interact with genetic predisposition, influencing the likelihood of developing the condition.

Identifying Risk Factors for Fibromyalgia

Understanding the risk factors associated with fibromyalgia can help individuals and healthcare providers take proactive measures in prevention and early intervention. The primary risk factors include:

• Gender: Women are diagnosed with fibromyalgia more frequently than men.
• Family history: Having a close relative with fibromyalgia increases the risk of developing the condition.
• Coexisting disorders: Individuals with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus may have a higher likelihood of developing fibromyalgia.

Does having these risk factors guarantee the development of fibromyalgia? No, possessing these risk factors doesn’t necessarily mean an individual will develop fibromyalgia. However, awareness of these factors can promote early detection and intervention if symptoms arise.

Navigating the Complexities of Fibromyalgia Complications

Fibromyalgia can lead to various complications that extend beyond its primary symptoms, affecting multiple aspects of an individual’s life. Understanding these potential complications is crucial for comprehensive management and improving overall quality of life.

Impact on Daily Functioning and Work Life

The chronic pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties associated with fibromyalgia can significantly interfere with an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks and maintain employment. Many patients report challenges in:

• Maintaining a consistent work schedule
• Completing household chores
• Engaging in social activities
• Pursuing hobbies and leisure activities

How can individuals with fibromyalgia maintain productivity despite these challenges? Implementing strategies such as pacing activities, using assistive devices, and working with employers to make reasonable accommodations can help manage symptoms and maintain functionality in various life domains.

Psychological and Emotional Complications

Living with a chronic, often misunderstood condition like fibromyalgia can take a significant toll on mental health. Common psychological complications include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Health-related anxiety
• Feelings of isolation and frustration

Are these psychological complications inevitable for fibromyalgia patients? While many individuals with fibromyalgia experience some degree of psychological distress, proactive mental health management, support groups, and therapy can significantly mitigate these complications and improve overall well-being.

Coexisting Conditions: Understanding the Fibromyalgia Spectrum

Fibromyalgia often coexists with other health conditions, creating a complex web of symptoms and treatment needs. Some of the most common comorbidities include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Migraine and other types of headaches
• Interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome
• Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)
• Anxiety and depression
• Postural tachycardia syndrome

Why do these conditions frequently occur alongside fibromyalgia? The exact reasons are not fully understood, but researchers believe that shared underlying mechanisms, such as central sensitization or dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, may contribute to the development of multiple conditions in susceptible individuals.

The Challenge of Differential Diagnosis

The overlap of symptoms between fibromyalgia and its coexisting conditions can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare providers must carefully evaluate symptoms, medical history, and conduct appropriate tests to differentiate between fibromyalgia and other conditions with similar presentations.

How can patients ensure an accurate diagnosis? Keeping a detailed symptom journal, being open and honest with healthcare providers about all symptoms experienced, and seeking second opinions when necessary can help in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Innovative Approaches to Fibromyalgia Management

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, various treatment approaches can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach often yields the best results, combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.

Pharmacological Interventions

Several medications have shown efficacy in managing fibromyalgia symptoms:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter and prescription pain medications
• Antidepressants: Particularly those that affect serotonin and norepinephrine levels
• Anti-seizure drugs: Some medications used for epilepsy have shown benefits for fibromyalgia pain

Are these medications a long-term solution for fibromyalgia? While medications can provide significant symptom relief, they are often most effective when combined with non-pharmacological approaches and lifestyle modifications for comprehensive management.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches

Several non-drug therapies have demonstrated effectiveness in managing fibromyalgia symptoms:

• Exercise: Gentle, low-impact activities like yoga, swimming, or tai chi
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps in managing pain perception and coping strategies
• Mindfulness and meditation: Techniques to reduce stress and improve pain management
• Acupuncture: May help alleviate pain and improve overall well-being
• Massage therapy: Can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation

How can patients determine the most effective combination of treatments? Working closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan, regularly assessing progress, and being open to adjusting strategies as needed can help optimize symptom management and overall quality of life.

Empowering Patients: Self-Management Strategies for Fibromyalgia

While medical interventions play a crucial role in managing fibromyalgia, patient empowerment through self-management strategies is equally important. These approaches can significantly improve symptom control and overall well-being.

Lifestyle Modifications

Implementing certain lifestyle changes can have a profound impact on fibromyalgia symptoms:

• Sleep hygiene: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Stress management: Incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation
• Balanced nutrition: Focusing on a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding potential trigger foods
• Pacing activities: Learning to balance activity and rest to avoid symptom flares

Can lifestyle changes alone manage fibromyalgia symptoms? While lifestyle modifications can significantly improve symptoms for some individuals, most patients benefit from a combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and other therapeutic approaches for optimal management.

Building a Support Network

The importance of a strong support system cannot be overstated for individuals living with fibromyalgia. Key components of a robust support network include:

• Family and friends: Educating loved ones about fibromyalgia and its impact
• Support groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences
• Mental health professionals: Seeking help from therapists or counselors specializing in chronic pain management
• Multidisciplinary healthcare team: Collaborating with various specialists for comprehensive care

How can patients effectively communicate their needs to their support network? Open, honest communication about symptoms, limitations, and needs, combined with educating loved ones about fibromyalgia, can foster understanding and create a more supportive environment.

Navigating the Future: Research and Hope for Fibromyalgia

As our understanding of fibromyalgia continues to evolve, ongoing research offers hope for improved diagnosis, treatment, and potentially even prevention of this complex disorder.

Emerging Diagnostic Tools

Researchers are exploring various biomarkers and imaging techniques to develop more objective diagnostic tools for fibromyalgia. These may include:

• Blood tests to identify specific proteins or genetic markers associated with fibromyalgia
• Advanced neuroimaging techniques to visualize pain processing in the brain
• Quantitative sensory testing to assess pain sensitivity and thresholds

Will these new diagnostic tools replace current diagnostic criteria? While these emerging tools show promise, they are likely to complement rather than replace existing diagnostic approaches, potentially leading to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of fibromyalgia.

Novel Treatment Approaches

Exciting areas of research in fibromyalgia treatment include:

• Targeted therapies: Medications that specifically address the underlying mechanisms of fibromyalgia
• Neuromodulation techniques: Non-invasive brain stimulation methods to alter pain processing
• Personalized medicine: Tailoring treatments based on individual genetic and biochemical profiles
• Gut microbiome interventions: Exploring the role of gut bacteria in fibromyalgia symptoms and potential probiotic treatments

When might these new treatments become available to patients? While many of these approaches are still in the research phase, some may become available in the coming years as clinical trials progress and evidence accumulates. Patients should stay informed about emerging treatments and discuss new options with their healthcare providers.

In conclusion, fibromyalgia presents a complex challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. However, with ongoing research, improved understanding, and a multifaceted approach to management, individuals with fibromyalgia can find ways to effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. By staying informed, actively participating in their care, and leveraging available resources and support systems, patients can navigate the challenges of fibromyalgia and work towards a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

Fibromyalgia – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.

Symptoms often begin after an event, such as physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event.

Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than are men. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, a variety of medications can help control symptoms. Exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures also may help.

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Symptoms

The primary symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread pain. The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist.
• Fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though they report sleeping for long periods of time. Sleep is often disrupted by pain, and many patients with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.
• Cognitive difficulties. A symptom commonly referred to as “fibro fog” impairs the ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks.

Fibromyalgia often co-exists with other conditions, such as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Migraine and other types of headaches
• Interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Postural tachycardia syndrome

Causes

Many researchers believe that repeated nerve stimulation causes the brain and spinal cord of people with fibromyalgia to change. This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain.

In addition, the brain’s pain receptors seem to develop a sort of memory of the pain and become sensitized, meaning they can overreact to painful and nonpainful signals.

There are likely many factors that lead to these changes, including:

• Genetics. Because fibromyalgia tends to run in families, there may be certain genetic mutations that may make you more susceptible to developing the disorder.
• Infections. Some illnesses appear to trigger or aggravate fibromyalgia.
• Physical or emotional events. Fibromyalgia can sometimes be triggered by a physical event, such as a car accident. Prolonged psychological stress may also trigger the condition.

Risk factors

Risk factors for fibromyalgia include:

• Your sex. Fibromyalgia is diagnosed more often in women than in men.
• Family history. You may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia if a parent or sibling also has the condition.
• Other disorders. If you have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia.

Complications

The pain, fatigue, and poor sleep quality associated with fibromyalgia can interfere with your ability to function at home or on the job. The frustration of dealing with an often-misunderstood condition also can result in depression and health-related anxiety.

More Information

Fibromyalgia – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.

Symptoms often begin after an event, such as physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event.

Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than are men. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, a variety of medications can help control symptoms. Exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures also may help.

Products & Services

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread pain. The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist.
• Fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though they report sleeping for long periods of time. Sleep is often disrupted by pain, and many patients with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.
• Cognitive difficulties. A symptom commonly referred to as “fibro fog” impairs the ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks.

Fibromyalgia often co-exists with other conditions, such as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Migraine and other types of headaches
• Interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Postural tachycardia syndrome

Causes

Many researchers believe that repeated nerve stimulation causes the brain and spinal cord of people with fibromyalgia to change. This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain.

In addition, the brain’s pain receptors seem to develop a sort of memory of the pain and become sensitized, meaning they can overreact to painful and nonpainful signals.

There are likely many factors that lead to these changes, including:

• Genetics. Because fibromyalgia tends to run in families, there may be certain genetic mutations that may make you more susceptible to developing the disorder.
• Infections. Some illnesses appear to trigger or aggravate fibromyalgia.
• Physical or emotional events. Fibromyalgia can sometimes be triggered by a physical event, such as a car accident. Prolonged psychological stress may also trigger the condition.

Risk factors

Risk factors for fibromyalgia include:

• Your sex. Fibromyalgia is diagnosed more often in women than in men.
• Family history. You may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia if a parent or sibling also has the condition.
• Other disorders. If you have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia.

Complications

The pain, fatigue, and poor sleep quality associated with fibromyalgia can interfere with your ability to function at home or on the job. The frustration of dealing with an often-misunderstood condition also can result in depression and health-related anxiety.

More Information

What is Fibromyalgia – How Can You Reduce FMS Pain

Fibromyalgia is a disease known for causing pain throughout the body. While there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, treatment, including exercise, stress management, and medication, can help relieve symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life.

What is Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, also called Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS), is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body and other symptoms, including fatigue, low mood, and trouble sleeping. Although the cause of fibromyalgia is not fully known, it has been linked to the nervous system and increased sensitivity to pain.

Symptoms and complications of fibromyalgia

The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are widespread chronic pain and tenderness, especially in the muscles of the body. Fatigue and stiffness of the body are also symptoms of fibromyalgia. Pain can come and go and move to different parts of the body. People with fibromyalgia often also have tender points. These points are special areas of the body that are more sensitive to touch. These points are usually found 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 disturbances. People with fibromyalgia may also experience fatigue and difficulty with memory and concentration, commonly referred to as “fibrous fog”. Digestive problems such as abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome are associated with fibromyalgia. Symptoms are often exacerbated by increased levels of stress, the presence of another disease, overexertion or excessive strain on the muscles, and in hot weather.

Causes and risk factors for fibromyalgia

Research shows that the pain associated with fibromyalgia is due to an abnormal perception of pain. This abnormal processing may be caused by repetitive nerve stimulation, which causes the brain to become more sensitive and overactive to pain signals. Other factors increase the risk of developing fibromyalgia, including negative childhood experiences or emotional trauma (such as post-traumatic stress disorder), viral infections, diet, and environmental factors.

Some other risk factors include:

• Older age
• presence of lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Repetitive injury or physical injury
• Family history of fibromyalgia
• Obesity

Fibromyalgia Treatment

Fibromyalgia treatment may include home and medical treatments, medications, or a combination of both. While a single treatment may not help reduce all fibromyalgia symptoms, a combination of some treatments can reduce fibromyalgia pain, improve sleep, and improve overall quality of life. People with fibromyalgia need to be informed about their condition so that strategies can be applied correctly at home to reduce symptoms.

Home treatments and lifestyle changes can help reduce pain and other symptoms such as sleep problems and emotional symptoms. Stress management techniques are also used to treat fibromyalgia at home. These relaxation strategies may include meditation and mindfulness exercises. Regular exercise is another treatment for fibromyalgia. Exercise programs may 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 various therapies. A physical therapist can help with muscle strengthening and flexibility. An occupational therapist may work with a client with fibromyalgia to enable them to continue their daily activities. Counseling or talking therapy can help manage the emotional and psychological effects of fibromyalgia. Massage therapy can reduce muscle pain and stiffness.

Fibromyalgia can be treated with drugs to help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These medications include pain pills, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants.

Fibromyalgia FAQ

What are the early signs of fibromyalgia?

• Early signs of fibromyalgia are pain and stiffness throughout the body, morning tiredness and fatigue, and trouble sleeping. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating can also be early signs.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

• Most patients are diagnosed with fibromyalgia based on their symptoms. The main diagnostic criterion for fibromyalgia is widespread pain for more than three months. Sometimes x-rays, blood tests, or other tests are used to rule out other diagnoses.

Can fibromyalgia be cured?

Is widespread pain the main symptom of fibromyalgia?

What is the relationship between fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome?

• There is a strong association between fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome as they often coexist in patients. Studies show that up to 70% of patients with fibromyalgia also have a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome. In addition, 65% of patients with irritable bowel syndrome are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. These diseases have other common features, including that they are more common in women and are associated with stress. Both conditions can be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and some of the same medications.

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resources

https http://www. cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/fibromyalgia.htm# :~:text=Fibromyalgia%20

https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Fibromyalgia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions /fibromyalgia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354780

https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354785

https:// fibromyalgianewstoday.com/2017/09/01/occupational-therapy-improves-fibromyalgia-patients-lives/

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Fibromyalgia

https://www.med.unc.edu /ibs/wp-content/uploads/sites/450/2017/10/Fibromyalgia-and-IBS.pdf

Further links between Fibromyalgia and IBS

Fibromyalgia – symptoms and treatment, causes of fibromyalgia syndrome in adults

Articles

Reading time 10 min in different parts of the body for at least 3 months. The pain appears without signs of inflammation or other apparent causes and lasts for many months with variable intensity. It is difficult to completely recover from fibromyalgia, but you can significantly alleviate the condition and lead an active lifestyle. In this article, we will discuss the mechanisms of development of fibromyalgia, symptoms and treatment of pathology.

According to statistics, 1 to 5% of the adult population suffers from fibromyalgia, but the actual number may be higher, since not every case is able to identify the problem. The disease occurs predominantly in women. The incidence increases with age, reaching 8% in patients aged 55-64 years. Many endure pain and do not see a doctor for years, because fibromyalgia does not cause life-threatening complications, although it significantly worsens the quality of life.

Scientists have long argued about whether there is a disease fibromyalgia, what kind of disease it is and whether it is a manifestation of other disorders. There is no test that would allow a definite diagnosis of fibromyalgia, and its clinical manifestations resemble those of a number of rheumatological, endocrine and neurological conditions. But in the body of patients, specific changes were found, which allows us to talk about fibromyalgia as an independent disease.

This article is a recommendation. Treatment is prescribed by a specialist after consultation.

Fibromyalgia: Causes

The peculiarity of fibromyalgia is that the pain associated with it is not associated with inflammation or tissue damage, but with the functioning of the nervous system. The exact mechanisms of fibromyalgia have not been elucidated, but it is known that the disease affects the normal perception of pain.

Risk factors for developing fibromyalgia include:

• 1

  genetic predisposition

• 2

  severe psycho-emotional stress

• 3

  mental disorders

• 4

  hormonal changes

• 5

  injuries

• 6

  past severe illnesses

Fibromyalgia is characterized by:

• Imbalance of neurotransmitters – chemical substances that transmit signals in the brain. The content of hormones that normally suppress excessive pain sensitivity decreases

• Features of signal processing and blood flow in those areas of the brain that are responsible for the perception of pain more active, and the descending pathways, which should normally limit sensation, are less active

• A special condition of the autonomic nervous system and the immune system, similar to that of stress

• Increased activity of pain receptors – nerve endings that perceive pain

• Increased sensitivity to sounds th, visual, olfactory stimuli – due to this, the pain threshold in general, it is easier for a person with fibromyalgia to feel pain than a healthy person

In addition to fibromyalgia, central sensitization syndrome includes other diagnoses. Because the mechanisms of development are similar, a person with fibromyalgia often has a comorbid condition within the same syndrome:

Symptoms

The main symptom of fibromyalgia is pain in various parts of the body lasting 3 months or more. It appears on both the right and left sides, usually involving the muscles of the back: the area of ​​the shoulder blades and along the entire spine. Headaches, pain in the face and in the abdomen, and increased pain sensitivity in general may be disturbing. It is very difficult for the patient to endure pain that others would find tolerable, such as minor injuries or pain during menstruation. In addition, heaviness in the body can be a manifestation of fibromyalgia, as well as a number of other common symptoms:

• 1

  decreased mood

• 2

  sleep disorders

• 3

  9000 2 problems with concentration and memory

• 4

  general weakness

• 5

  anxiety

• 6

  constipation

• 7

  Bloating

• 8

  Skeletal muscle voltage

Fibromyalgia often appears after severe physical or emotional stress, trauma, or severe infection. Symptoms may get worse or worse over time, but do not disappear completely.

Diagnosis

Fibromyalgia syndrome in adults is a diagnosis that requires the exclusion of other diseases with similar manifestations. First, the doctor must document the patient’s complaints, his chronic illnesses, injuries, and infections. Often, patients fill out special questionnaires for this. Then the doctor conducts an examination, palpation of the muscles of the back and the whole body to determine painful points, and also assesses the neurological status. In fibromyalgia, the neurological status is usually normal, or memory impairment and increased levels of anxiety may be detected. Almost always, patients need additional examinations as part of the differential diagnosis. The specific list of examinations depends on the symptoms. Most often, it is necessary to exclude rheumatic diseases, problems with the thyroid gland, anemia, impaired liver and kidney function, and diabetes mellitus. To do this, they can appoint:

• Instrumental examinations: ultrasound of the abdominal organs, radiography of the joints and spine, MRI, electroneuromyography to assess the conduction of impulses through the nerves D, B12, iron, inflammation scores 一C-reactive protein and ESR

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed according to the international criteria of the American Society for the Study of Pain 2019Year:

• Musculoskeletal pain in six or more of nine areas of the body, which include: head, left arm, right arm, chest, abdomen, upper back, lower back and buttocks, left leg, right leg
• Moderate or severe sleep disturbances and general weakness
• Both of the above criteria are present for three or more months

1 Distribution of pain zones

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is complex and requires careful attention to detail on the part of the physician. Temed Clinic specialists successfully consult patients with musculoskeletal pain, which can signal various pathologies, including fibromyalgia, intervertebral protrusions and hernias. Contact the Clinic to understand the causes of pain and receive recommendations for treatment.

Which doctor to contact

For an initial consultation with symptoms of fibromyalgia, you can contact a general practitioner, therapist. He will prescribe tests for additional examination and refer you to a narrow specialist, most often a rheumatologist or neurologist. If the patient has a reduced emotional background, anxious thoughts, a psychiatric consultation may be required to rule out depression.

Book a consultation with a neurologist

Appointment lasts 60 minutes, includes diagnostics, analysis of your MRI and preparation of a treatment plan, takes place both in person and online.

Treatment

Fibromyalgia should be treated in a complex manner. It is not correct to put the question this way: is it possible to cure fibromyalgia of the lumbar spine or other areas of the body, since this generalized condition is associated with abnormalities in the functioning of the nervous system. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that requires regular health care. The greatest effect can be achieved if:

• Combine different methods: some types of treatment on a permanent basis, others – courses on demand

• Make a personal program: patients need to take into account symptoms, concomitant diseases, subjective preferences when choosing a combination of methods

• 900 02 Engage the team specialists: not only a neurologist takes part in effective rehabilitation, but also a specialist in physiotherapy exercises, a physiotherapist, a psychologist, a chiropractor, a massage therapist

To fulfill all these conditions, it is better to contact a clinic specialized in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain – Temed Clinic. Temed has all the specialists involved in the treatment of fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia treatments are divided into drug and non-drug treatments.

• The following drugs can be used:

  • Antidepressants from the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, norepinephrine, tricyclic antidepressants. Both groups of drugs are actively used in the treatment of chronic pain, including fibromyalgia
  • Muscle relaxants for muscle relaxation
  • Painkillers for severe pain

  All drugs are taken strictly according to the doctor’s prescription after an accurate diagnosis is established, as well as taking into account comorbidities.

• Non-pharmacological methods include:

  • Aerobic exercise – moderate-intensity exercise for all muscle groups. Exercises are selected individually by a specialist
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – a psychotherapy technique that has been successfully used to treat anxiety and depression, including fibromyalgia
  • Yoga – helps to cope with soreness by stretching and strengthening muscles in combination with breathing techniques 9002 8
  • Coping with sleep disorders – may include teaching the patient about sleep hygiene, keeping a diary, consulting a sleep specialist
  • Low-intensity laser therapy reduces pain and improves tissue repair

All of the above methods normalize the perception of pain, relieve muscle spasms and increase the effectiveness of drug therapy.

Consequences

The constant pain and lack of sleep associated with fibromyalgia significantly reduce the quality of life. In addition, patients with this pathology tolerate other diseases worse and require hospitalization more often. Without treatment, chronic pain and reduced emotional background contribute to the development of depression and suicidal thoughts.

Prevention

Since the causes of fibromyalgia are poorly understood, it is impossible to completely prevent its occurrence. Prevention comes down to general recommendations:

• Compliance with the sleep pattern 一 go to bed and get up at the same time, fall asleep in silence, in a dark ventilated room with a comfortable temperature, refrain from watching TV and gadgets 2 hours before falling asleep, work out evening routine and keep it

• Exercise regularly 一 aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening workouts are best

• Eat right 一 eat a Mediterranean diet, limiting fatty, fried and salty foods, diversifying the diet with fruits and vegetables

• 9000 2 Maintain occupational health 一avoid work seven days a week, eliminate unnecessary stress that can provoke symptoms0003

Summary

• 1

  Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease caused by increased sensitivity to pain and other stimuli. The anatomical structure of the nervous system is not disturbed

• 2

  The main symptom of fibromyalgia is pain in different parts of the body, which bothers for three or more months. Other symptoms include sleep, memory, anxiety, depression

• 3

  There is no specific test to confirm the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Physician prescribes follow-up examinations to rule out all other possible causes of pain

• 4

  Drug and non-drug methods can significantly alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms and improve quality of life

List of sources :

1. Borovaya T.V., Zakharenko A.G., Silivonchik N.N. and others. Fibromyalgia. Issues of diagnosis and treatment. Issues of organization and informatization of healthcare. 2016;(Suppl.):64–7
2. Gerwin R.D. Diagnosing fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome: a guide. J Fam Pract.