What Is Fibromyalgia And How Do I Cope With It?

Fibromyalgia, also known as non-articularcauses of this condition are unknown.
rheumatism, soft tissue rheumatism and fibrositis,Treatments And Prevention
is a condition that affects muscles, tendons andWhen your doctor believes you may have
ligaments. It gives a widespread pain in all jointsfibromyalgia, he or she may refer you to a
that connect the bones. Fibromyalgia causescertified rheumatologist because these doctors
people to have trouble of sleeping and regularspecialize in the diagnosis and treatments of
fatigue.conditions related to bones, muscles and joints.
Although fibromyalgia is a recent term, it is aUsually, a person with this condition experiences
very common disease, affecting over threewidespread pain for three months or more.
percent of all people. However, this disease isUnfortunately, there are no known cures for
more likely to develop in women rather than men.fibromyalgia. However, patients can perform a
The risk of having fibromyalgia also increases withfew things to manage their condition and lessen
age.the symptoms associated with it. Medications are
People with this condition usually experienceavailable to reduce pain. These include medications
stiffness and pain of muscles, joints or their entirethat increase serotonin levels, such as tetracyclic
body, especially in the morning. Some peopleand tricyclic antidepressant medications as well as
report numbness in joist and muscles, poornon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).
concentration and memory. Other warning signsRheumatologists often recommend patients with
of this condition include migraine, depression,this disease to follow regular exercise routines to
headaches and jaw pains.reduce overall pain and strengthen bones, joints
Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include painand muscles. Patients should start with mild
or swelling of joints and tissues. Because of this,exercises to prevent muscle straining and
patients may have trouble sleeping, become tiredpromote strengthening of muscles.
easily or feel weak every day. Some peopleThe symptoms of fibromyalgia also reduce when
experience dryness in their eyes, developheat is applied. It also helps in relaxing stressed
sensitivities to medications and certain foods ormuscles and reducing swelling or pain. Applying hot
become vulnerable to cold. Some patients reportcompress or taking a hot shower can give
pain in the abdomen and joint dysfunction.patients temporary relief from widespread pain.
Fibromyalgia may occur because of illness,While fibromyalgia can affect the lives of the
infections, accidents, injuries, stress, emotional andpatients significantly, some patients lead a healthy
physical trauma or surgery. However, the exactand normal life when treated early.