FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia is chronic illness characterized by generalized fatigue, musculoskeletal aches, pain and stiffness, tenderness of the soft tissues, sleep disturbances and other symptoms.

This disease is more common in women, however, it can affect men as well. Neither age nor race is a factor.

Cause

Although the cause of fibromyalgia is currently unknown, many researchers believe that it may be caused by a disorder of central processing with neuroendocrine/ neurotransmitter dysregulation.

People with this disease experience increased pain due to abnormal sensory processing in the central nervous system.

Many scientific studies show multiple physiological irregularities, including increased levels of substance P in the spinal cord, low levels of blood flow to the thalamus region of the brain, HPA axis hypofunction, low levels of serotonin and tryptophan and abnormalities in cytokine function.

Recent studies indicate that genetic factors may predispose individuals to a genetic susceptibility to this disease.

In some instances, the onset of fibromyalgia is slow; however, in a large percentage of patients the onset is triggered by an illness or injury that causes bodily trauma. This may act to spur an already present but undetected physiological problem.

Symptoms

People with fibroyalgia suffer from a myriad of symptoms, which can vary from location to location. Some people only experience moderate discomfort while others experience debilitating symptoms, which can include:

• Fatigue. Severe exhaustion, both physical and mental, that interferes with day-to-day functions
• Body stiffness
• Soft tissue tenderness
• Muscle spasms
• Burning sensations throughout the body
• Headaches and/or facial pain
• Sleep disturbances
• Restless leg syndrome
• Difficulty with concentration and/or memory
• Digestive disturbances such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation
• Difficulty swallowing
• Increased urgency of urination
• Increased pain during menstrual periods
• Numbness and tingling sensations, especially in the hands and feet
• Lightheadedness and difficulty with balance
• Ringing in the ears
• Vision problems
• Hypersensitivity to light, sound, touch, and odors
• Dryness in the eyes and mouth
• Dry, itchy skin and/or rash
• Feeling excessively hot or cold

In addition, because of all the different symptoms associated with this disease, many people with fibromyalgia frequently suffer from anxiety and depression.

Prognosis

Most patients with fibromyalgia do improve over time. By making changes to their lifestyle, keeping informed about their disease, talking with others who also have fibromyalgia, and keeping a positive attitude, the prognosis for people affected by this disease is good.

Summary

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating disease. At present, it cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Every patient with this disease is different, so patients need to have a treatment program designed specifically to meet there individual needs.