What is Fibromyalgia?

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Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain and tenderness (sensitivity to touch). The pain and tenderness tend to come and go and move about the body. Other symptoms include fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues.

 

Fibromyalgia is not a form of arthritis (joint disease). It does not cause inflammation or damage to joints, muscles or other tissues. It is not an autoimmune or inflammation-based illness, although symptoms can mimic inflammatory conditions, but it may have to do with brain sensing pain at an abnormally low threshold.

 

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What are the symptoms?

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Doctors diagnose fibromyalgia based on all the patient’s relevant symptoms (what you feel), no longer just on the number of tender places during an examination.

 

There is no test to detect this disease, but you may need lab tests or X-rays to rule out other health problems.

 

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How is it treated?

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Though there is no cure, medications can reduce symptoms in some patients.

Patients also may feel better with proper self-care, such as stretching exercise, getting enough sleep, managing stress, practicing mindfulness meditation and yoga and managing mood related conditions such as depression or anxiety.