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Health & Nutrition
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia (fye-bro-my-AL-gee-ah) is a common form of generalized muscular
pain and fatigue that affects 3 to 6 million Americans. It primarily occurs in
women of childbearing age, but children, the elderly, and men can also be
affected. The name "fibromyalgia" means pain in the muscles and
fibrous connective tissues (ligaments and tendons). This condition is referred
to as a "syndrome" because it's a set of signs and symptoms that occur
together.
Although the cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, researchers have several
theories about causes or triggers of the disorder. Some scientists believe that
the syndrome may be caused by an injury or trauma. This injury may affect the
central nervous system. Fibromyalgia may be associated with changes in muscle
metabolism, such as decreased blood flow, causing fatigue and decreased
strength. Others believe the syndrome may be triggered by an infectious agent
such as a virus in susceptible people, but no such agent has been identified.
Other suggested possible causes include emotional trauma, hormonal changes and
changes in neurotransmitters.
Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms mimic
those of other disorders. The physician reviews the patient's medical history
and makes a diagnosis of fibromyalgia based on a history of chronic widespread
pain that persists for more than 3 months. The American College of Rheumatology
(ACR) has developed criteria for fibromyalgia that physicians can use in
diagnosing the disorder. According to ACR criteria, a person is considered to
have fibromyalgia if he or she has widespread pain in combination with
tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific "tender point" sites.
Pain is the most prominent symptom. It usually involves "tender
points" on the body where pain seems the greatest. Fatigue and sleep
disturbances occur in about 90% of people who have fibromyalgia. Nervous system
symptoms include changes in mood and thinking that may include depression,
anxiety, difficulty in concentration. It also involves feelings of numbness and
tingling in hands, arms, feet, and face. Migraine headaches, abdominal pain,
bloating or alternating constipation and diarrhea are common.
Treatment of fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive approach. The physician,
physical therapist, and patient may all play an active role in the management of
fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise, such as swimming and
walking, improves muscle fitness and reduces muscle pain and tenderness. Heat
and massage may also give short-term relief. Antidepressant medications may help
elevate mood, improve quality of sleep, and relax muscles. Patients with
fibromyalgia may benefit from a combination of exercise, medication, physical
therapy, and relaxation.
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