Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a neurologic long term (chronic) health condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. The current research suggests fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and non-painful signals (stimuli). In some cases, symptoms can occur with no triggering factors. Other times, stress, trauma, infection or surgery can trigger an event. The epidemiology of this condition suggests women are more likely to develop this condition than men. Fibromyalgia often co-exists with other conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders, anxiety, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome and depression. Currently, there is no cure for Fibromyalgia but can be effectively treated and managed.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

• Widespread pain: Pain and stiffness all over the body
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Cognitive Difficulties: may have issues focusing on a task “fibro fog”
• Depression and Anxiety
• Sleep issues
• Headaches

Causes of Fibromyalgia?

• The cause of Fibromyalgia is not known but it can affectively be managed and treated.
• The known risk factors include:
  • Age: Mostly affects middle age individuals and the elderly population
  • Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis: if you have either one of the conditions, you have a higher likelihood of developing Fibromyalgia.
  • Women>Men

Fibromyalgia Treatment Options?

• Aerobic exercise and muscle strengthening exercise
• Patient education
• Stress management techniques
• Sleep therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Medications