While the symptoms of fibromyalgia can be debilitating, they are not life threatening. Symptoms vary, depending on stress level, physical activity, time of day, and the weather. Pain is the primary symptom, found in virtually 100% of cases—specifically, pain and tenderness in certain areas of the body when pressure is applied to them. These areas include: Back of the head , Elbows ,Hips , Knees , Neck, Upper back , Upper chest .
Pain may be aching, burning, throbbing, or move around the body (migratory). Many patients also experience muscle tightness, soreness, and spasms. The patient may be unable to carry out normal daily activities, even though muscle strength is not affected. The pain is often worse in the morning, improves throughout the day, and worsens at night.
Other common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
Sleep disorders (e.g., restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea) .
Gastrointestinal (e.g., abdominal pain, bloating, gas, cramps, alternating diarrhea and constipation) . Numbness or tingling sensations . Chronic headaches (may include facial and jaw pain) . Heightened sensitivity to odors, loud noises, bright lights, various foods, medicines, and changes in weather . Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) and painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) . Frequent urination, strong urge to urinate, and painful urination (dysuria) . Rapid or irregular heart rate, and shortness of breath . Sensation of swelling (edema) in the hands and feet, even though swelling is not present
Each fibromyalgia patient is different and may require individualized treatment. An active exercise program, low-dose anti-depressants, acupuncture, psychotherapy, behavior modification therapy, chiropractic care, massage and physical therapy, used alone or in conjunction with one another, may provide some relief of symptoms.
December 14th, 2008 at 1:04 am
No there is no cure, and it is VERY hard to get your doctor to believe that you have it. It's not something they can just do test for, it's really a combonation of symptoms.
References :
December 14th, 2008 at 1:15 am
While the symptoms of fibromyalgia can be debilitating, they are not life threatening. Symptoms vary, depending on stress level, physical activity, time of day, and the weather. Pain is the primary symptom, found in virtually 100% of cases—specifically, pain and tenderness in certain areas of the body when pressure is applied to them. These areas include: Back of the head , Elbows ,Hips , Knees , Neck, Upper back , Upper chest .
Pain may be aching, burning, throbbing, or move around the body (migratory). Many patients also experience muscle tightness, soreness, and spasms. The patient may be unable to carry out normal daily activities, even though muscle strength is not affected. The pain is often worse in the morning, improves throughout the day, and worsens at night.
Other common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
Sleep disorders (e.g., restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea) .
Gastrointestinal (e.g., abdominal pain, bloating, gas, cramps, alternating diarrhea and constipation) . Numbness or tingling sensations . Chronic headaches (may include facial and jaw pain) . Heightened sensitivity to odors, loud noises, bright lights, various foods, medicines, and changes in weather . Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) and painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) . Frequent urination, strong urge to urinate, and painful urination (dysuria) . Rapid or irregular heart rate, and shortness of breath . Sensation of swelling (edema) in the hands and feet, even though swelling is not present
Each fibromyalgia patient is different and may require individualized treatment. An active exercise program, low-dose anti-depressants, acupuncture, psychotherapy, behavior modification therapy, chiropractic care, massage and physical therapy, used alone or in conjunction with one another, may provide some relief of symptoms.
References :
December 14th, 2008 at 1:38 am
Symptoms of fibromyalgia:
Pain in the muscles, soft tissues, back or neck
Sleep problems
Many people get so tired (fatigued) that they become weak
presence of up to 18 specific tender points on the body. These are painful only when you press directly on them.
Headaches, morning stiffness, trouble concentrating, and irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
Treatment of fibromyalgia:
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but doctors can treat and control the symptoms. Treatment may be different for each person. It can include:
Getting regular exercise to help with muscle aches and stiffness.
Changing routine, schedule, and surroundings to improve sleep habits and reduce stress.
Taking medicine to help in sleeping better and to relieve pain.
Getting counseling to help to manage long-term (chronic) pain and find better ways to handle stress.
Some people with fibromyalgia also find complementary therapies helpful. These include acupuncture, massage, behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques.
References :