Causes, Symptoms, and Signs of Fibromyalgia
article syndicated from MedlinePlus
Causes,
Incidence, and Risk Factors
The cause of this disorder is unknown.
Physical or emotional trauma may play a role in development of the syndrome. A
number of lines of evidence suggest that fibromyalgia
patients have abnormal pain transmission responses.
It has been suggested that sleep
disturbances, which are common in fibromyalgia
patients, may actually cause the condition. Another hypothesis suggests that
the disorder may be associated with changes in skeletal muscle metabolism,
possibly caused by decreased blood flow, which could cause chronic fatigue and
weakness.
Others have suggested that an infectious
microbe, such as a virus, triggers the illness. At this point, no such virus or
microbe has been identified.
Pilot studies have shown a possible inherited
tendency toward the disease, though evidence is very preliminary.
The disorder has an increased frequency among
women 20 to 50 years old. The prevalence of the disease has been estimated
between 0.7% and 13% for women, and between 0.2% and
3.9% for men.
Symptoms
Signs and Tests
A number of tests may be done to rule out
other disorders. An examination reveals multiple tender areas on the back of
the neck, shoulders, sternum, lower back, hip, shin, elbows, or knees.
Sometimes, laboratory and X-ray tests are
done to help confirm the diagnosis. The tests will also rule out other
conditions that may have similar symptoms.
Other underlying ailments, such as chronic
fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis, can also
be present. New patients should be checked for these underlying conditions as
well as fibromyalgia.
Treatment
and Expectations of Fibromyalgia
article
syndicated from MedlinePlus
Treatment
In mild cases, symptoms may go away when stress is decreased or lifestyle changes are implemented. A combination of treatments including medications, patient education, physical therapy, and counseling are usually recommended. Many fibromyalgia sufferers have found support groups helpful.
Certain classes of antidepressant medications are sometimes prescribed for the disorder. Studies show that antidepressants in low doses can decrease depression, relax craniofacial and skeletal muscles, improve sleep quality, and release pain-killing endorphins. Other medications that are used include anti-inflammatory pain medications and medications that work on pain transmission pathways, such as Gabapentin.
Eating a well-balanced diet, and avoiding caffeine may help with problems sleeping, and may help reduce the severity of the symptoms. Lifestyle measures to improve the quality of sleep can be effective for fibromyalgia.
Some reports indicate that fish oil, magnesium/malic acid combinations, or vitamins may be effective. Reducing stress and improving coping skills may also help reduce painful symptoms.
Improved fitness through exercise is recommended. Studies have shown that fibromyalgia symptoms can be relieved by aerobic exercise. The best way to begin a fitness program is to start with low impact exercises, like walking and swimming.
Starting slowly helps stretch and mobilize tight, sore muscles. High-impact aerobics and weight lifting could cause increased discomfort. Gentle stretching and light massage may help relieve symptoms, as well as acupressure, acupuncture, and relaxation techniques.
Severe cases of fibromyalgia may require a referral to a pain clinic.
Expectations (prognosis)
Fibromyalgia is a common and chronic problem. The symptoms sometimes improve. At other times, the symptoms may worsen and continue for months or years. The key is seeking professional help which includes a multi-faceted approach to the management and treatment of the disease. There is no proof that fibromyalgia syndrome results in an increased death rate.
Conditions reported as associated with fibromyalgia or that mimic its symptoms include: rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, cervical and low-back degenerative disease, Lyme disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disorders, depression, cancer, and HIV infection.
Call your health-care provider if symptoms of fibromyalgia develop.
Prevention
There is no
proven prevention for this disorder. However, over the years, the treatment and
management of the disease has improved.
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