Fibromyalgia - Cause, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Fibromyalgia, or FM, is a persistent pain syndrome distinguished by extensive musculoskeletal stiffness, aches and pain, universal tiredness, sleep problems, and soft tissue sensitivity. While any portion of the body might be involved, the most frequent locations of pain consist of the shoulders, hands, back, neck, and pelvic girdle. Fibromyalgia patients undergo a variety of symptoms that come and go over time and are of differing intensities (National Fibromyalgia Association, 2008).

The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. Stimuli given to fibromyalgia patients suffer pain in reaction to it that is generally not supposed to be painful. Researchers have discovered in fibromyalgia patients a nerve growth factor and high levels of a nerve chemical signal, called substance P in the spinal fluid. Additionally, fibromyalgia patients have a comparatively low level of the brain nerve chemical serotonin. The central nervous system (brain) might be in some way overly sensitive according to studies of pain in fibromyalgia. In patients with fibromyalgia, there appears to be a scattered pain disturbance awareness observed by scientists (Levesque MD, 2007).

In addition, fibromyalgia patients have damaged non-Rapid-Eye-Movement, or non-REM, sleep stage. This probably clarifies the familiar element of waking up worn out and tired in these patients. The inception of fibromyalgia is linked to shock, disease and psychological suffering (Levesque MD, 2007).

The indications and signs of fibromyalgia can change, depending on stress, the climate, activities or even what time of the day it is. The most common signs and symptoms consist of extensive and constant pain, problems with obtaining a good night's rest, and fatigue that is really more like exhaustion. Further indications might include migraines and headaches, skin sensitivities and rashes, depression, vision problems, neurological symptoms, IBS, restless leg syndrome, damaged concentration and memory, dry mouth and eyes, ears ringing, and coordination might be impaired (National Fibromyalgia Association, 2008).

Fibromyalgia is very complicated to diagnose because there is not a precise diagnostic laboratory test to utilize. Actually, a person would probably undergo many medical analyses such as x-rays and blood test and have these tests come back normal. These tests are needed in order to disqualify other illnesses such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2007).

The American College of Rheumatology has created universal classification principles for fibromyalgia, to assist in the evaluation and analysis of the syndrome. In order to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, in regards to these principles, a person needs to have a minimum of eleven sites on the body that are unusually tender under fairly gentle, solid force and suffered prevalent hurting pain for at a minimum of three months. A physician testing for fibromyalgia will depress solidly on precise spots on the patient's upper body, particular joints and head so that they can verify which spots initiate pain as well as obtaining the patient's medical records (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2007).

Since there is really no cure for fibromyalgia, one of the most vital features needed in order to improve the symptoms of FM is lifestyle alterations. Not a lot of people like to change their lifestyle because most of the time it means exertion, distress and change. On the other hand, lifestyle alterations can actually improve purpose and value of life. People with fibromyalgia need to get educated on the syndrome in order to improve their life. A compassionate doctor who is well-informed in regards to the treatment and diagnosis of fibromyalgia is a significant factor of management of FM (National Fibromyalgia Association, 2008).

In regards to pain management, over the counter pain medicine may be useful in easing pain. The doctor may choose to prescribe one of the newer non-narcotic pain medicines or a low dose antidepressant. Antidepressants raise serotonin levels and are utilized to help with sleeping and easing pain. Injections of Lidocaine may be put into the patient's tender areas also. Gentle exercise and stretching also aid in preserving muscle tone and decreasing stiffness and pain (National Fibromyalgia Association, 2008).

Sleep medications can be prescribed for problems with sleeping. Emotional and psychological support will help the patient in dealing with this chronic illness. Corresponding therapies can also be very valuable. Treatments such as massage, water therapy, physical therapy, relaxation exercises, aromatherapy, light aerobics, nutritional supplements and chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation could all be helpful for the patient (National Fibromyalgia Association, 2008).

The prognosis for fibromyalgia patients is better than ever. There are better ways to diagnose and treat FM and even more are forecasted for the future. A large number of patients improve over time. If patients look for new information, converse with others who have this disease, negotiate daily activities, make lifestyle alterations and have a positive attitude, fibromyalgia patients will feel better faster.

Sources:

Levesque MD, M. C. (2007, March 1). Fibromyalgia Causes. Retrieved October 23, 2008, from Webmd.com: http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/fibromyalgia-causes

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2007, June 25). Fibromyalgia. Retrieved October 23, 2008, from MayoClinic.com: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia/DS00079/DSECTION=tests-and-diagnosis

National Fibromyalgia Association. (2008). What is Fibromyalgia? Retrieved October 23, 2008, from National Fibromyalgia Association: http://www.fmaware.org/site/PageServer?pagename=fibromyalgia