Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain in muscles and fibrous tissues, with tender points in specific areas of the body. This disease is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, and difficulty concentrating or mental fogginess. Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men.
Possible causes of fibromyalgia:
The causes of fibromyalgia are not fully understood, but it is believed to result from an interaction between several factors including:
Genetic factors: Having a family history of fibromyalgia increases your risk of developing it.
Stress and trauma: Being exposed to psychological stress or physical trauma, such as a car accident, can trigger the onset of fibromyalgia.
Infection: Some viral infections may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia.
Chronic diseasesDiseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may be associated with an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia symptoms vary from person to person and include:
Widespread pain: The pain can be acute or chronic and is often described as burning or cramping.
Fatigue and tiredness: Feeling tired even after getting enough sleep.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently during the night.
Mood and cognitive problems: Depression, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating and thinking clearly.
Other symptoms: Headaches, morning stiffness, and pain in the intestines or abdomen.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is largely based on clinical symptoms. The duration of pain (usually it should be continuous for at least 3 months) and the presence of specific tender points on physical examination are taken into account, and some tests may also be performed:
Laboratory tests: There are no specific tests to diagnose fibromyalgia, but tests can be done to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Complete medical history: The patient’s medical history is taken into account, including any physical or psychological traumas he may have experienced.
Treatment methods:
Treatment for fibromyalgia focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, and includes:
Pharmacological treatment: Using medications such as painkillers and muscle relaxants to relieve symptoms, in addition to antidepressants
Exercise: Developing an exercise program to reduce symptoms such as fatigue and depression and improve sleep quality.
Physiotherapy: Uses modern and effective techniques to manage symptoms such as deep tissue massage, heat and water treatments.
Psychosocial intervention: Providing psychological and social support to deal with any accompanying mood disorders.
Latest techniques for treating fibromyalgia:
Radiofrequency: Used to treat pain by stimulating nerves or disrupting pain signals transmitted through nerves.
PRP injections:Use of platelet-rich plasmato relieve pain and stimulate healing.
Laser therapy: Use of low-level laser to relieve pain and improve blood circulation in affected areas.
Ultrasound therapy: Used to relieve pain and improve movement by delivering energy waves to deep tissues.
Treating fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive approach that combines medications, modern non-surgical techniques, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, so it is always preferable to consult a doctor to get the appropriate treatment according to each patient’s condition. For more information, contact us.