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a.k.a. Fibromyositis, fibrositis, periarticular fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, muscular rheumatism, myofascial pain syndrome

Explanation and Causes:

Fibromyalgia is a disease topic where many healthcare professionals don’t agree on its symptoms or sometimes its existence. Fibromyalgia is predominantly more common in women than in men and is also present in children. This chronic condition has characteristics of pain in joints, muscles such as the shoulders, the thighs, the rib cage, the hips, and other soft tissue areas of the body. This disease is typically symmetrical throughout the body meaning if it is in one shoulder it will most likely be in the other shoulder as well.

Fibromyalgia is not a life threatening disease. Rarely will it get worse with time. Many patients with fibromyalgia state that changes in the weather can be responsible for changes in their current fibromyalgia conditions. Fatigue, drowsiness, depression, anxiety, and morning stiffness have all been linked to fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is common in lupus and rheumatoid arthritis patients. Researchers and medical professionals cannot agree on a cause of fibromyalgia. One possible cause is physical or emotional trauma that might trigger the illness by releasing certain endorphins and pain involved hormones. There are several other theories as to the cause, but no one theory has been given more credit than another. Cause is basically still unknown.

Symptoms:

Within the soft tissues it presents aching, shooting, or radiating pain that occurs upon minimal pressure or movement. These symptoms are not always constant and may come and go. Sleeping problems such as sleep apnea and insomnia are common in patients with fibromyalgia.

Other symptoms might include:

• Pain in the jaw
• Sensitivity to bright lights and odors
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Heartburn
• Gas
• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Depression
• Anxiety

Diagnosis and Tests:

The American College of Rheumatology specifies 18 points known as tender points in which the patient should have pain in at least 11 of them for a period of three months or more to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia. These points include the neck, shoulders, lower back, chest, rib cage, knees, thighs, buttocks and arms. A physician will press firmly in these spots to detect pain and if pain is in at least 11 of the 18 spots, then fibromyalgia would be the diagnosis. Other tests should be done to rule out similar diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Many physicians feel guidelines set forth expect to much for a diagnosis and will diagnoses based on their own expertise.

Treatment:

Much of the treatment for fibromyalgia can be overseen by the patient. For example, aerobic exercise on a regular, low-impact basis is one of the primary recommendations by physicians today. Other things that the patient can do, is to plan and maintain a healthy well balanced diet which help in reducing the severity of the condition. Also, starting exercise schedule start slowly with swimming for small amounts of time each day. Then work up to more involved activities like tennis or jogging for 30 to 40 minutes at least 3 times a week.

Anti-depressant medications have been found to be affective as these medications reduce the influences of stress, aid in getting a full night’s sleep, and reduce anxiety and tension in relationships that can cause stress. Physician might also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers.

In all, fibromyalgia is a manageable disease that might require lifestyle changes and changes in thinking. These changes can be recognized through helpful counselors and understanding healthcare professionals.

Prevention:

Additional information:

Link to website of American College of Rheumatology