Frequently Asked Questions about Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (also called fibromyalgia syndrome) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in muscles, tendons, joints and other soft tissues. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about this syndrome that causes inexplicable pain and fatigue.

How common is fibromyalgia?

According to the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association (NfmCPA), about 10 million people in the United States suffer from this condition. Although this painful condition affects both men and women, women account for almost 80-90 percent of all cases. It occurs in people of all ages, including children.

What are the symptoms?

There are many symptoms, with type and severity differing from one person to another. Symptom severity ranges from slight to severe and include –

• Widespread pain
• Sleep disturbances
• Muscle stiffness
• Multiple points of tenderness
• Itchy/burning skin
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Digestive disorders
• Cognitive difficulties
• Balance problems
• Memory problems
• Mood changes
• Bladder problems including frequent urination
• Insomnia or waking up feeling

What causes fibromyalgia?

The condition occurs due to a variety of other factors working together, such as

• Genetics
• Hormonal imbalances
• Severe physical and emotional trauma
• Chronic stress and posttraumatic stress disorders

Is fibromyalgia fatal?

No, it is not. Fibromyalgia is not a progressive disease and will not cause damage to the joints, muscles, or internal organs.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

Often, diagnosing fibromyalgia can prove to be difficult as many of its associated signs and symptoms are quite similar to those of other medical conditions. The condition is generally diagnosed through evaluation of patient history, reported symptoms, manual tender point examination and physical examination. Lab tests may be needed to rule out or diagnose co-existing conditions such as lupus, thyroid hormone resistance, and rheumatoid arthritis.

What is the treatment for fibromyalgia?

There is no established treatment for fibromyalgia, but a multi-disciplinary approach using various therapies has found to be successful. Multi-specialty healthcare centers provide a combination of treatment programs that patients better manage the symptoms of their fibromyalgia pain and improve their quality of life. A fibromyalgia pain management program may include physical therapy, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), chiropractic manipulation and injections for pain.

How can the impact of fibromyalgia be minimized?

Besides taking medications prescribed by your physician, there are several measures that you can take to minimize the impact of fibromyalgia. These include managing stress, getting proper sleep, exercising regularly (as recommended by the physician), and maintaining a healthy diet. Self-care is critical in the management of this condition.

As a leading multi-specialty healthcare center in Brooklyn, New York City, HealthQuest offers quality care and sophisticated services. Our unique approach to patient care ensures fast return to a pain-free lifestyle.