Fibromyalgia (fibromyalgic muscle pain) symptoms and treatment

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia, or fibromyalgic muscle pain, is a chronic condition that affects the bones and muscles, causing fatigue and pain that may involve the entire body.

Fibromyalgia symptoms usually appear in the form of pain flare-ups followed by periods of relief. It may also be accompanied by psychological problems and memory issues.

Fibromyalgia can affect any age group, especially women and people over the age of 40. The exact cause is often unknown, and in most cases, patients need to learn how to live with the symptoms and follow certain recommendations to manage flare-ups, as there is no permanent cure.

What is the difference between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome?

The symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are very similar, as both cause bone and muscle pain along with fatigue.

However, chronic fatigue syndrome (also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis) differs slightly, as the pain is often more severe and may significantly interfere with daily activities. It does not improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental exertion.

In addition, chronic fatigue symptoms must persist for at least six months, and patients may experience severe dizziness, especially when changing position from lying or sitting to standing.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia symptoms often include widespread muscle and bone pain and fatigue that limits daily activities. Other symptoms include:

1. Migraine or general headaches
2. Jaw and facial pain (temporomandibular joint disorder)
3. Digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, or irritable bowel symptoms
4. Severe fatigue and exhaustion
5. Depression and anxiety
6. Sleep disturbances and insomnia
7. “Fibro fog” (difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and forgetfulness)
8. Bladder disorders
9. Numbness or tingling in the limbs

Fibromyalgia and weight gain

People with fibromyalgia often experience reduced mobility due to pain, along with depression and low activity levels, which may lead to weight gain of up to 14 kg or more.

Weight gain may also be linked to medications used for treatment, as well as dysfunction in the leptin hormone, which increases appetite and sends false hunger signals to the brain.

Additionally, a reduced metabolic rate is common in fibromyalgia patients, dropping by about 25%, making it harder to burn excess calories.

Fibromyalgia and the heart

Fibromyalgia is more common in patients with chronic heart failure. A 2017 study of 57 heart failure patients found that 13 of them had fibromyalgia.

It can also cause chest pain similar to angina, which may lead to severe anxiety and fear.

What causes fibromyalgia?

The exact cause is still unknown, but some doctors believe it may be related to genetic mutations affecting neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for pain signaling.

Risk factors include:

1. Diseases: such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (autoimmune disorders)
2. Age: more common in older adults
3. Gender: more common in women
4. Family history: genetic predisposition
5. Obesity and weight gain
6. Stress and psychological pressure
7. Physical injury or repeated strain (e.g., accidents or joint overuse)
8. Infections
9. Other factors such as depression and osteoporosis

Fibromyalgia diagnosis tests

Fibromyalgia is not usually diagnosed through lab tests. Tests are mainly used to rule out other conditions such as lupus or arthritis.

Doctors diagnose it based on symptoms, especially widespread pain on both sides of the body (upper and lower) lasting at least three months. These are often referred to as fibromyalgia tender points.

Treatment of fibromyalgia

There is no permanent cure, but combining multiple treatments helps manage symptoms:

Medications:

1. Antidepressants: such as Duloxetine and Milnacipran
2. Pain relievers: Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen (opioids are generally not recommended)
3. Anticonvulsants: such as Gabapentin and Pregabalin

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and supportive therapies:

1. Occupational therapy: improving work environment for easier task performance
2. Physical therapy: strengthening and improving physical endurance
3. Counseling: improving emotional coping and outlook

Duration of treatment

There is no fixed treatment duration, as most therapies focus on symptom management rather than cure.

Lifestyle changes play a major role in controlling symptoms, including:

1. Regular exercise (initially may cause discomfort but improves symptoms over time)
2. Healthy diet (vegetables, fruits, protein; avoiding alcohol, sugar, and smoking)
3. Stress management and relaxation
4. Adequate sleep and consistent sleep schedule
5. Proper hydration

Conclusion

Fibromyalgia symptoms vary from person to person, and their severity depends greatly on lifestyle and adherence to healthy habits. Proper management and treatment can significantly improve quality of life and reduce flare-ups.

If medical advice is still needed, you can book an appointment with a doctor easily through Vezeeta.