What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and joints throughout the body, which can also make an individual feel constantly fatigued. It can lead to mental symptoms, such as memory problems. It is unclear what causes fibromyalgia, but studies suggest it may be genetic. There is no known cure for the condition, but healthcare providers often recommend ways to manage the symptoms.
 

About Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a health condition that causes tenderness and pain throughout the body. The symptoms come and go periodically. Most patients experience fatigue, and it can be challenging and exhausting to live with the condition. Individuals can go from feeling good to a flare-up of symptoms in minutes.
 

The first sign of fibromyalgia is usually new pain in the body with no apparent cause. Stress, various health conditions, and other life changes can trigger fibromyalgia. Individuals with a parent with the condition are more likely to develop fibromyalgia themselves.
 

Who Can Get Fibromyalgia?

Experts are not sure what causes fibromyalgia, but certain genes may be responsible. Studies show a link between parents and children with fibromyalgia, indicating that the condition may be passed down genetically in families.

Any individual can develop fibromyalgia, regardless of age. Over four million people in the country are living with the condition. Women and individuals over 40 are more likely to develop fibromyalgia. The condition can cause mental, physical, and emotional symptoms.
 

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Pain and fatigue are the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia. Individuals often experience physical, mental, and emotional symptoms, including:
 

• Chronic fatigue.
• Muscle tenderness or pain.
• Headaches and migraines.
• Face and jaw pain (TMJ disorder).
• Digestive issues, including constipation and diarrhea.
• Bladder control problems.
• Anxiety or depression.
• Memory problems.
• Sleep disorders such as insomnia.

Certain factors can trigger symptoms of fibromyalgia. They include hormonal changes, illness, and emotional stress. Others include changes in routine, fluctuations in the weather, poor nutrition, and lack of sleep.
 

Risk Factors for Fibromyalgia

The cause may be unclear. However, experts believe there are risk factors for developing fibromyalgia. The risk factors include:
 

• The individual’s age: While fibromyalgia can affect anyone, those over 40 are more likely to develop the condition.
• Gender: Women are more likely to experience fibromyalgia.
• Infections: Experiencing severe symptoms after an infection can lead to fibromyalgia.
• Chronic illnesses: People with anxiety, depression, and osteoarthritis may also suffer from fibromyalgia, as well as those with chronic back pain and IBS.
• Trauma: Individuals who experience emotional or physical trauma have an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia.

Extreme stress can affect an individual’s overall health and increase the risk of developing fibromyalgia. It is vital to visit a healthcare provider if you experience new symptoms.
 

Fibromyalgia Management and Treatment

There is no single fibromyalgia treatment. However, healthcare providers can recommend ways to relieve the symptoms. Treatment options differ for each patient. They include OTC or prescription medications, exercises, and sleep therapy. They also include antidepressants, stress management therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. There are different stages of fibromyalgia.
 

Healthcare providers recommend management based on the stage and severity of the symptoms. Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition, but maintaining good overall health can help to reduce the severity of symptoms. Most people experience fewer flare-ups when they find a treatment that works for them.
 

For more on fibromyalgia, visit Back and Neck Pain Centers. Our offices are in Seattle, Bellevue, or Tukwila, Washington. Call (206) 233-0818, (206) 772-0088, (425) 649-9335 or (425) 243-1200 to book an appointment today.