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Fibromyalgia – Causes, Symptoms, and Management Options

Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder that causes pain and tenderness in the muscles and joints. It can accompany autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, however, it is not an autoimmune disease. It is believed to be caused due to brain cells’ excessive sensitivity to pain, and infection, trauma, or stress could be possible triggers. While there is no permanent cure for the condition, its symptoms can be managed by treatment options and lifestyle changes.

Causes

Multiple factors could contribute to the development of fibromyalgia, however, the illness is often genetic. A history of the condition on the maternal side can be the leading cause. Additionally, traumatic events and accidents can also trigger the condition in some people. It can also be present as a psychosomatic disease that can be triggered by severe stressful conditions or depression. This condition also presents as a symptom in anxiety and schizophrenic patients. Infections in the body can also be the triggering factor for this disorder. Autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and myasthenia gravis are often associated with the condition.

Risk factors

The condition can affect people of all ages, but it is more common among older adults. Additionally, women are more likely to develop the illness than men because of the elevated levels of acetylcholine in women compared to men. Acetylcholine is a chemical substance that transmits pain sensation to the brain. Further, people with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Long-standing infections and diseases also increase the risk of fibromyalgia in the patients. Diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis also increase the incidence.

Symptoms
People with this disorder can experience symptoms like tenderness in bones and muscles, and the pain could be more severe in some tender points. They can also experience nausea, vomiting, and psychological changes due to the pain, tingling sensation, and numbness of the legs and hands. Symptoms like fatigue, problems with sleep, and headaches can affect the normal day-to-day activities of patients. People with this illness may also be affected by conditions like restless leg syndrome, wherein they may feel an uncontrollable urge to move their legs.

Diagnosis

Fibromyalgia is a condition rather than a disease, and it causes certain symptoms that can resemble those associated with other diseases like arthritis, osteoporosis, and myasthenia. This makes the diagnosis and treatment process trickier compared with other disorders. Further, it can often be misdiagnosed, or patients can receive a delayed diagnosis. However, there are certain factors based on which doctors can confirm the presence of the disease. Persistent pain in the joints and tender points like the neck, chest, and the back of the head for more than three months is the first criterion for diagnosis. The absence of other conditions that can explain these symptoms is another sign that the person could have the illness.

Ways to manage the symptoms

Doctors can opt for a multifaceted approach to offer effective fibromyalgia treatment. They may also opt for symptomatic treatment using a combination of psychological and behavioral therapy. Exercises and lifestyle changes are also important elements of a comprehensive treatment plan. They can increase the ability of the muscles to cope with the changes in the body. A fibromyalgia specialist can help the patient understand the severity of their symptoms and can prescribe the proper course of treatment and remedies for this disease. This process can call for the assistance of a physiotherapist as well as a chiropractor. The plan could also include massages and stress reduction techniques. Here are the different ways to manage the condition:

Pain relievers: These can be prescribed based on the patient’s needs. Those who suffer from severe pain can be asked to use anti-inflammatory treatment options.
Exercises: Aerobic exercises and resistance training are some of the prescribed exercises for fibromyalgia. These activities can increase the resistance of the muscles and reduce pain perception. Yoga, tai chi, and meditation may also be recommended as they can also reduce muscle tenderness, sleep disturbance, and strengthen the muscles and joints.

Psychotherapy: This condition can also be treated psychologically using stress reduction techniques and counseling. Treatment options are also prescribed to certain patients. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be used to encourage coping skills and reduce pain-increasing behaviors.

Alternative treatment: Acupuncture is an effective fibromyalgia treatment option to alleviate pain.

Food choices: Changes in meal plans can also help manage the symptoms. Opting for less sugar and gluten can also help reduce the pain associated with the disorder. Aspartame and other additives may also help relieve symptoms. Additionally, choosing high-energy foods like almonds and beans can help relieve fatigue and tiredness.

It is important to communicate persistent symptoms with a healthcare professional to get an early diagnosis. Discussing concerns with a fibromyalgia specialist can help one receive a customized treatment plan to deal with symptoms.

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