FIBROMYALGIA

(Fibrositis)

 Basic information

description

Fibromyalgia is a painful condition that involves muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It may affect the muscle areas of the low back, neck, shoulder, chest, arms, hips, and thighs. It is a chronic problem that can come and go for years. It is a common condition that occurs in both men and women in all age groups, including children. It most often affects women ages 20 to 50.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Pain and aches in the muscles, often described as "hurting all over all the time.".
• Fatigue and sleep problems.
• Certain areas of the body are tender to the touch (tender points). Common tender points are in the knees, thighs, elbows, chest, hip joints, and around the neck.
• Feeling stiffness in mornings; having swollen joints, and the hands and feet may be numb and tingly.
• Headache, anxiety, and depression.
• Other symptoms may also occur, such as digestion, bowel, and urinary problems; vision changes; emotional or mental changes; allergies; dry eyes and mouth; and painful menstrual periods.
• Symptoms may be brought on by a change in the weather, being in cold or damp places, stress, hormone changes, or in response to activity.

causes

The cause is unknown and there are many theories. Research is ongoing into finding possible causes.

risk increases with

• Females ages 20 to 50.
• Having a relative with the condition. It appears to run in families.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

There are no steps that will prevent fibromyalgia.

expected outcomes

The symptoms vary and may improve on their own or can be helped with treatment. The condition does not lead to more serious illness, nor is it life-threatening.

possible complications

• Limits to activities of daily living.
• Disability in a few cases.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• There is no special test to diagnose fibromyalgia. Your health care provider will do a physical exam, check the tender points in your body, and ask about all the symptoms you have. Similar symptoms occur in other health problems and these need to be ruled out. Medical tests such as blood studies and x-rays may be done.
• There is no cure for fibromyalgia. Taking steps to reduce the symptoms is the main goal.
• Treatment steps vary. They may include prescribed drugs and injections, exercise, physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy. Counseling can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote well-being.
• Make changes in your life that may be needed to help you cope day-to-day. Maintain your social life and contact with friends.
• Join a local support group so you can talk with others about self-help ideas that work.
• Keep your activity levels about the same each day.
• Get as much sleep as you need.
• Don't smoke. Find a way to quit that works for you.
• To learn more: National Fibromyalgia Assn., 2121 S. Towne Centre Pl., Suite 300, Orange, CA 92806; (714) 921-0150 (not toll-free); website: www.fmaware.org.

medications

• For minor pain, use nonprescription drugs such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Oral drugs may be prescribed for symptoms of pain, depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. They will take a few weeks to work.
• Injections into tender points may be prescribed.

activity

• To help maintain muscle tone and reduce pain and stiffness, begin a daily, low-impact exercise program (e.g., water aerobics). Start slowly; increase gradually.
• Physical therapy may be recommended.

diet

• Limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat a healthy diet. Your health care provider or a dietitian can help you plan a diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
• Symptoms continue or worsen despite treatment or new symptoms develop (e.g., from drug side effects).

Special Notes: