What is Fibromyalgia and How to Treat It

Until recently, there was a debate in the medical community about whether there exists such a diagnosis as fibromyalgia. This uncertainty arose due to the fact that the symptoms of fibromyalgia are disguised as other disorders, there are no tests that would indicate this ailment with absolute probability, and as a result, diagnosis is complicated. Moreover, there is no cure, and the illness significantly worsens the patient's daily life.

Despite the lack of information about this illness, the number of patients increases every year. So, about 2% of all Americans suffer from this disorder. In most cases, the sickness is fixed among middle-aged women. However, men are also susceptible.

In this article, we will talk about the main symptoms of fibromyalgia, the causes of this sickness, and possible healing strategies.

The Main Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

The major symptom of this disorder is constant harsh pain in the connective tissue. Since fibromyalgia is a sickness of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, pain can occur in any part of the body. Most often, patients complain of dull and persistent pain in the neck, ribs, shoulders, and buttocks.

With the elaboration of the disorder, the pain increases, and the following symptoms appear:

• Chronic fatigue, which 9 out of 10 patients complain about.
• Insomnia, as the ache does not allow you to sleep.
• Headache.
• Problems with urination.
• Discomfort in the bowel area.
• Skin itchy rashes.
• Mental problems such as depression and anxiety.

In the case of fibromyalgia, doctors also distinguish such a symptom as "fibro fog." This is a condition that is characterized by cognitive impairment. Patients with "fibro fog" note difficulties with concentration, constant memory lapses, and an inability to remain vigilant.

Causes of the Disease

The unambiguous causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. However, there are several theories. Firstly, fibromyalgia can be transmitted from parents to children; that is, it has a genetic character. Secondly, influenza or pneumonia can become a trigger for the development of the illness. Thirdly, fibromyalgia can develop against the background of harsh trauma. Fourth, the disorder can be a consequence of stress or emotional shock.  

Treatment Options  

As we noted earlier, there is no cure for this illness, so the main goal of healing is to improve the quality of life and reduce the total number of symptoms.

At the moment, doctors use the following treatment tactics:

1. Painkillers

The main symptom of fibromyalgia is constant pain, so the first thing doctors do is prescribe a course of painkillers so that the discomfort stops haunting the patient, and the patient can sleep, work and just live.  

2. Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Sometimes the source of fibromyalgia is inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be applied for healing. However, it should be taken into account that they have many contraindications and may cause fast addiction.  

3. Anti-seizure Medications

Since fibromyalgia is a muscle illness, it is common for patients to suffer from involuntary seizures, which knock them out of the rut of life and bring a lot of problems. In this regard, the doctor will prescribe appropriate medications that will prevent seizures.

4. Antidepressants

These medications help a person feel less depressed, improve sleep, and relieve increased fatigue and pain. In addition, doctors recommend visiting support groups to set the patient up in a positive way.

5. Alternative Methods

Folk and natural remedies can be part of therapy for the healing of fibromyalgia. Often these techniques significantly improve the patient's life, help to feel more cheerful, and forget about the pain. The most wide-used practices include active sports, acupuncture, massage, physical education, yoga, and a special food regime. These techniques will help to cope with mental problems and reduce the level of stress and anxiety.