Fibromyalgia
(FM; Fibromyalgia Syndrome; FMS)
Pronounced: FI-bro-my-OWL-jah
Definition
Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting problem that causes a person to have muscle pain and feel weak.
Fibromyalgia Trigger PointsCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. |
Risk Factors TOP
This problem is more common in women who are middle aged. Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Having other family members who have it
- Infections
- Stress
- Trauma or injury
- Sleep problems
Symptoms TOP
Fibromyalgia can cause muscle pain and weakness. Others problems are:
- Problems sleeping
- Feelings of hopelessness; worrying a lot
- Being sensitive to touch
- Problems with focus, thought, or memory
- Stiff muscles
- Being sensitive to noises, light, or odors
Diagnosis TOP
The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. An exam will be done. There are no specific tests for fibromyalgia. The doctor may need to rule out other causes of pain before a diagnosis can be made.
Treatment TOP
The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms. It often includes a combination of steps. Things that may be helpful include:
Exercise
Exercise at least four times a week for 30 minutes each time. Strength training exercises and aerobic exercises like swimming are best.
Therapy
Therapy can help to develop coping skills. It may ease stress and pain levels. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one method that teaches how thought patterns influence pain.
Medicine TOP
Medicines that may help include
- Antidepressants to ease pain
- Pain relievers
- Anti-seizure medicine to ease pain and help with sleep problems
- Cannabinoids to help with sleep problems
RESOURCES:
American College of Rheumatology
http://www.rheumatology.org
American Fibromyalgia Syndrome Association
http://www.afsafund.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca
Fibromyalgia Information and Local Support
http://fibromyalgia.ncf.ca
REFERENCES:
About fibromyalgia. National Fibromyalgia Association website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 31, 2020.
Fibromyalgia. American College of Rheumatology website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 31, 2020.
Fibromyalgia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/fibromyalgia. Accessed October 31, 2020.
Fibromyalgia. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia. Accessed October 31, 2020.
Macfarlane GJ, Kronisch C, et al. EULAR revised recommendations for the management of fibromyalgia. Ann Rheum Dis. 2017 Feb;76(2):318-328 full-text, commentary can be found in Nat Rev Rheumatol 2016 Oct;12(10);568.
Last reviewed September 2019 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated: 07/28/2020