Fibromyalgia Syndrome - Symptoms & Treatment

Fibromyalgia means pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons the soft fibrous tissues in the body. Some other problems commonly linked to fibromyalgia include fatigue, morning stiffness, sleep problems, headaches, numbness in hands and feet, depression, and anxiety. Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men. Previously, the condition was known by other names such as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias. Fibromyalgia can develop on its own, or secondary to other musculoskeletal conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, or systemic lupus. Women between 20 and 60 years of age are most at risk. The cause of FMS is unknown, but factors that may contribute to its development include sleep disturbances, psychological stress, changes in muscle metabolism and abnormalities in a person's immune, endocrine, or nervous systems. However, the significant swelling, destruction, and deformity of joints seen in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis does not occur with fibromyalgia syndrome alone. Fibromyalgia sufferers tend to wake up with body aches and stiffness. Although the intensity of your symptoms may vary, they'll probably never disappear completely. It may be reassuring to know, however, that fibromyalgia isn't progressive, crippling or life-threatening. Treatments and self-care steps can improve symptoms and your general health.

Causes of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

The common Causes of factors Fibromyalgia Syndrome :

Some researchers theorize that disturbed sleep patterns may be a cause rather than just a symptom of fibromyalgia.
An injury or trauma, particularly in the upper spinal region, may trigger the development of fibromyalgia in some people. An injury may affect your central nervous system, which may trigger fibromyalgia.
Some researchers believe that a viral or bacterial infection may trigger fibromyalgia.
For example, deconditioning and decreased blood flow may contribute to decreased strength and fatigue. Differences in metabolism and abnormalities in the hormonal substance that influences the activity of nerves (neuroendocrine) may play a role.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Some Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Syndrome :

Depression
Chronic facial muscle pain or aching
Fatigue
Dizziness
Chest pain
Sleep disturbances
Dry eyes, skin and mouth
Anxiety
Difficulty concentrating
Body aches

Treatment of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Drugs (such as low doses of anti-depressant drugs) taken before bed to improve sleep. Other kinds of sleeping pills have not proven effective for people with FMS. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin and ibuprofen) may help decrease pain.
Aerobic exercise for half an hour three times a week helps increase heart and lung function while stretching tight, sore muscles
Lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction and using relaxation techniques. In particular, anxiety and depression need to be treated to reduce stress.
Exercise, including brisk walking, biking, swimming and water aerobics
Improving sleep quality by analysis of sleep, treating sleep disturbances (e.g., sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome), improving sleep hygiene, and with medications ( zolpidem tartrate ).
Cognitive-behavioral therapy to help you learn to manage your pain.