Overview

FIBROMYALGIA is a chronic condition that is characterized by widespread body pain (chronic generalized musculoskeletal pain), fatigue, tenderness among other symptoms. Individuals with fibromyalgia exhibit increased sensitivity to pain (hyperalgesia). Despite not being an auto-immune condition, it can co-exist with disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis which is an auto-immune condition.

 

Facts & Figures

What are the key facts and statistics about fibromyalgia?

• Fibromyalgia is a chronic rheumatic condition that is characterized by muscular or musculoskeletal pain with stiffness and localized tenderness at specific points of the body.
• Almost 4 million persons in the United States of America live with this condition.
• It mostly affects women and individuals aged 40 years and above. About 80%-90% of individuals diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women. However, men and children too can be affected.
• Smoking worsens fibromyalgia symptoms.
• The exact cause(s) of fibromyalgia are not yet known.
• Fibromyalgia does not have a definitive cure. Regular strength-training and physical exercise can reduce pain.
• Increasing intake of vitamin D may help reduce symptoms.
• It is estimated that approximately 70% of persons with fibromyalgia also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive problems.

 

 Risk Factors

What are the risk factors for fibromyalgia?

There are several risk elements for development of fibromyalgia. These are:

• Age. Even though fibromyalgia can affect persons from any age group, it is likely to affect those aged 40 years and above.
• Stress. It has been implicated as a risk element for fibromyalgia.
• Sex. Persons assigned female at birth are two times much more likely to suffer from fibromyalgia as compared to those assigned male at birth.
• Traumatic experiences. Apart from PTSD, serious physical injuries can lead to development of fibromyalgia.
• Chronic diseases. Some conditions are associated with increased likelihood for development of fibromyalgia, and these are;

1.  Osteoarthritis.
2.  Irritable bowel syndrome.
3.  Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
4.  Ankylosing spondylitis.
5.  Rheumatoid arthritis.

 Causes

What are the causes of fibromyalgia?

The exact causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. It is believed that several factors play roles in contributing to the development of this chronic pain condition. Among them are your genes, a traumatic experience or an injury.

 

Flare-up Triggers

Fibromyalgia can be triggered by certain circumstances or alterations in a person’s life.

Anything that increases stress can trigger a fibromyalgia flare-up. These include:

• Alterations in daily routine, especially when the individual was really used to it.
• Illnesses.
• Dietary changes.
• Hormonal changes.
• Devotional stress due to jobs and finances.

 

 Signs & Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread pain that feels like burning sensation or sharp pain.
• Extreme sensitivity to pain (hyperalgesia).
• Severe tiredness (fatigue).
• Stiffness.
• Muscle aches.
• Headache and migraine.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is a digestive condition that is characterized by stomach pain and bloating.
• Mental and emotional signs and symptoms include:

1.  Anxiety.
2.  Insomnia.
3.  Depression.

 

NOTE:

A classic fibromyalgia symptom- The human body has 18 tender points located on parts such as the neck, back, knees and chest. Patients suffering from fibromyalgia experience pain in at least 11 of the 18 tender points.

 

 Diagnostic Procedures & Tests

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

There is no single test that can pinpoint fibromyalgia. However, there are procedures that are conducted in diagnosing fibromyalgia.

They include:

• Patient history-taking.
• Clinical examination.
• Blood tests to rule out other conditions.

It should be noted that diagnosis of fibromyalgia is usually part of a differential diagnosis.

 

 Treatment and Management

Does fibromyalgia have a cure?

Unfortunately, fibromyalgia does not have a cure.

 

How is fibromyalgia treated?

There are four stages in treatment of fibromyalgia. They include:

1. Non-pharmacologic interventions such as physical exercises.
2. Psychological treatments.
3. Pharmacological intervention which includes drugs.
4. Daily performance. An occupational therapist helps the patient in navigating his/her daily routine.

Treatment options include:

1. Pain relievers. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
2. Physical exercises such as stretching.
3. Anti-depressants.
4. Stress management therapy.
5. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

 

Currently, there are three medications that are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use to treat fibromyalgia symptoms. They are:

1. Pregabalin.
2. Milnacipran.
3. Duloxetine.

Again, it is crucial to look into stress-free treatment options such as aquatics therapy.

 

Prevention

How do we prevent fibromyalgia?

• There are no known sure ways of preventing fibromyalgia.
• For reduction of the severity of symptoms, it is recommended that you keep your health in a fit state. This can be achieved by:

1.  Early management of stress.
2.  Receiving adequate sleep.
3.  Embrace physical exercises.
4.  Consume healthy diets.