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Fibromyalgia: Symptoms & Best Treatment

Fibromyalgia
Contents

Overview

Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting (chronic) disorder that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, along with fatigue and trouble sleeping. It is one of the most common chronic pain conditions, yet it is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.

Its classic symptoms are widespread muscle and joint pain and fatigue. There is no cure, but a mix of exercise, therapy, medication, stress management and healthy habits can ease symptoms enough for many people to live a full, active life.

Some people have two or more chronic pain conditions at the same time, such as:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome. • Endometriosis. • Irritable bowel syndrome. • Interstitial cystitis. • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). • Vulvodynia.

Fast facts on fibromyalgia

Here are some key points about fibromyalgia.

    • Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep problems, stiffness and trouble with memory and focus (often called "fibro fog").
    • Symptoms can resemble those of arthritis, but fibromyalgia does not damage or inflame the joints.
    • The exact cause is unknown. Brain imaging suggests the body processes pain signals differently, making people more sensitive to pain.
    • Risk factors include other rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, depression or anxiety, family history, and older age; it is more common in women.
    • There is no cure, but exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy and certain medications can help relieve symptoms and improve sleep.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will examine you and ask about your symptoms, past medical issues and family history. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, there is no specific lab or imaging test for fibromyalgia.

Because the symptoms overlap with other conditions, your doctor will want to rule out illnesses like an underactive thyroid, different types of arthritis, and lupus. You may need blood tests to check hormone levels and signs of inflammation.

Doctors often use a two-part scoring system that measures how widespread your pain is and how severe your other symptoms are. Using those results, you and your doctor can make a plan to manage the condition.

Symptoms in women

More women than men are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and women often report more widespread pain, IBS symptoms and morning fatigue. Painful periods are also common.

Newer diagnostic criteria, revised in 2016, may narrow the gap in diagnosis between men and women. The transition to menopause can make fibromyalgia worse, and some symptoms of menopause and fibromyalgia look almost identical.

Symptoms in men

Men also get fibromyalgia. Yet they may go undiagnosed because it is often seen as a woman's disease.

Men can have severe pain and emotional symptoms from fibromyalgia, and the condition can affect their work and relationships. Part of the difficulty in getting diagnosed stems from the expectation that men who are in pain should "tough it out."

Treatment and diet recommendations

Fibromyalgia can be hard to manage alone, so work with a doctor. Each person has a different mix of symptoms, so treatment plans are individual.

Regular exercise is one of the most helpful treatments. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, water exercise, yoga and tai chi are good choices; start slowly and build up.

Stress-reduction techniques and support can help you feel better, both mentally and physically. This might involve seeing a therapist or joining a support group.

Treatment may include:

  • An active, gradual exercise program
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy, a form of Psychotherapy
  • Behavior modification therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Medicines prescribed by your doctor, such as certain antidepressants (even if you are not depressed), anti-seizure medicines that can reduce pain and improve sleep, or other pain relievers
  • Acupuncture or massage, which some people find helpful, although they have not been well tested in fibromyalgia

Standard anti-inflammatory painkillers usually do not help fibromyalgia pain much. Ask your doctor before starting any new medicine or therapy.

Some people report that they feel better when they follow a certain diet or avoid certain foods. But research hasn't proven that any specific diet improves fibromyalgia symptoms.

If you've been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, aim for a healthy diet overall. Good nutrition helps keep your body healthy and gives you a steady supply of energy.

Dietary strategies to keep in mind:

Eat fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein.

  • Drink a lot of water.
  • Eat more plants than meat.
  • Reduce the amount of sugar in your diet.
  • Stay active as often as you can.
  • Work toward achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

HP Thoughts: Sports bring out the best in us, but they can also bring aches and pains. Golf may look gentle, yet the repeated swinging of the club can strain muscles and joints. We listed our top golf injuries for you to look at: Golf Injuries.

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