ABSTRACT – Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal pain which affects the soft tissues of the body. In this condition, pain...
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal pain which affects the soft tissues of the body. In this condition, pain is accompanied with fatigue, sleep, mood and memory issues. Research shows that it also affects the way brain process, increase the levels of certain chemicals which signals pain due to which pain receptors become more sensitive towards it. It may begin after physical trauma, surgery, infection or stress. These patients also go through tension, headaches, Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.
CAUSES –
Genetic factors
Body infections
Physical or emotional trauma
Repetitive injuries
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Central Nervous System(CNS) problems
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
Widespread pain which remains for at least 3 months
Pain and tiredness in muscles
Fatigue and dizziness
Sleeping disorders
Fibro-fog refers to difficulty in focusing, concentrating and memorizing
Stiff joints
Irritable bowel syndrome
Sensitivity to heat or cold conditions
DIAGNOSIS –
Diagnosis is done on the basis of symptom i.e. widespread pain for more than 3 months with no underlying medical cause.
Specific points of body reflecting pain are also considered.
Level of fatigue, difficulty in sleeping and cognitive difficulties
Blood test
TREATMENT –
Medications – Pain relievers and antidepressants
Acupuncture
Physiotherapy or massage
Psychotherapy or counseling
Exercise
Chiropractic therapy
RISK FACTORS –
Family history
Other existing health issues like Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
Fibromyalgia affects 1 in 20 people globally in year.
More prevalent in females than males.
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