15 Nov Fibromyalgia: Symptoms and Causes
Fibromyalgia is commonly characterized by its main symptoms, which are widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. It is a chronic and lasting condition that causes tenderness and pain throughout the body.
Researchers have yet to study why people with this disorder have heightened pain sensitivity.
Anyone can get the condition, but there are groups of people who are more likely to develop the condition if they have these disorders:
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (commonly called lupus).
- Ankylosing spondylitis.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Depression or anxiety.
- Chronic back pain.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
Some scientists believe that some genes are more susceptible to getting the condition. However, the disorder is also found in people with no family history of it.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
The main symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
- Fatigue: people with fibromyalgia often wake up feeling tired even though they have been reported to be sleeping for long periods of time. In addition, people with this condition have sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome.
- Pain all over the body: the pain is reported to be occurring on both sides of your body, above and below your waist. People describe the pain as either throbbing, aching, or burning.
- Cognitive Problems: this symptom is also referred to as “fibro fog,” wherein the person suffering from fibromyalgia experience difficulties in focusing, paying attention, and concentrating on mental tasks.
People suffering from this condition can also experience other symptoms such as:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Postural tachycardia syndrome
- Depression
- Painful bladder syndrome
- Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, odors, and temperature
Fibromyalgia Causes
The cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. However, there are factors that could play a role in the development of fibromyalgia.
These factors include:
- Genetics: there may be genetic mutations that could make a person susceptible to fibromyalgia.
- Infection and certain diseases: Getting some conditions can trigger the development of fibromyalgia.
- Physical or emotional events: it can be triggered by a physical event or prolonged psychological stress.
- Sex orientation: women are more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia than men.
Fibromyalgia can be treated with pain relievers, anti-depressants, and anti-seizure drugs. Your physician might also suggest physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counsel.
SOURCE:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354785