What are the symptoms related to fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a condition that is characterized by severe muscle pain, which is primarily present on both sides of the body, in parts both above and below the waist, such as the shoulders, the arms or legs, the jaw, the neck, the back, the chest or even the abdomen. This pain usually persists for more than three months.
Other symptoms related to fibromyalgia are fatigue, although one may sleep a good amount of hours a day. On the other hand, sleep may be interrupted by periods of pain, at night. Some patients with fibromyalgia may also experience other sleep-related conditions, such as ‘restless leg syndrome’, or ‘sleep apnea’.
Last but not least, people with fibromyalgia generally also report frequent mood swings, or even a lack of concentration or memory; which is also referred to as the ‘brain / fibro fog’.
Several researchers think that this condition may develop due to genetic traits, albeit some symptoms can also start after a particular event in a person’s life, such as trauma, operations, infections or
severe stress. In some other cases, these symptoms, which often drastically limit human function in daily life, can accumulate over time, although there are no triggers.
What kind of people are most affected by this condition?
Fibromyalgia is classified as an exclusion disorder, meaning that doctors come to diagnose this condition, after several blood tests have been performed to rule out other conditions that may give similar symptoms to fibromyalgia.
It is known that fibromyalgia, affects more women than men. Also, fibromyalgia tends to affect more people who suffer from tension headaches, mouth disorders, those with Irritable Bowel Sydrome, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and as well as those suffering from anxiety or depression.
What are the remedies?
Unfortunately, no specific treatment for fibromyalgia exists. However, there are some remedies that can alleviate some of the disabling symptoms of this condition, such as pain, mood swings or insomnia.
Light exercises that increase flexibility and stamina, such as yoga, walking or swimming, counseling, meditation, and the use of physiotherapy or aromatherapy can also help to alleviate persons from the daily stressors that this condition can cause. Moreover, it is recommended to reduce smoking, caffeinated products, and also eat a balanced diet.
Medical information notice: This article provides general health information and does not replace an individual medical consultation, diagnosis or treatment.