Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, mostly commonly seen among women ranging anywhere from 20-60 years old. Although the underlying cause of fibromyalgia is not certain, it is believed that the cause may be related to the way the body processes pain signals. Fibromyalgia is also commonly associated with other medical conditions, including anxiety, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although it is a common misconception that fibromyalgia is not a real condition, it is in fact real and treatable.

Causes

As mentioned above, the cause of fibromyalgia is not certain, but there are multiple factors that can contribute to the condition. Fibromyalgia may be related to genetics, but can also be caused by certain diseases and by mental health conditions (anxiety and depression) as well.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of fibromyalgia is widespread musculoskeletal pain that has been present for greater than three months. Other symptoms can include fatigue, sleep disturbances, and memory difficulty as well. These symptoms can be associated with a wide variety of other medical conditions, so it is important to rule out other conditions as the cause of the symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing fibromyalgia is usually a diagnosis of exclusion, as there are no individual tests for it. It involves taking a detailed history and performing a physical exam, which usually includes diffused and widespread tenderness. Diagnosis takes into account having chronic pain for more than three months, presence of other symptoms such as fatigue and memory issues, and ruling out other conditions like autoimmune disorders.

Treatment

Treatment of fibromyalgia involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and physical activity. Medication options include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and analgesics, all of which can be beneficial for both pain and sleep. It is also important to note that opioid medication is not recommended for managing pain from fibromyalgia. CBT is also helpful in aiding in the management of the psychological aspects that can contribute to pain, and can help with coping with the pain. Lifestyle changes are also very important, especially physical activity and exercise. Physical therapy can be effective for fibromyalgia pain, and there are physical therapists who specialize in this type of treatment. The combination of multiple approaches can make fibromyalgia a manageable condition.