By Dr Akhlaq Ahmed , Orthopaedics
The word ‘Fibromyalgia’ has been taken from the new Latin word fibro meaning ‘fibrous tissues’ and Greek words myos meaning ‘Muscle’ and algos meaning ‘Pain’. It’s an unremitting disorder wherein the patient suffers from aches in fibrous tissues such as tendons, muscles and ligaments. Besides this, other general symptoms linked to the disorder are mood swings, reduced memory, troubled sleep and mental haziness. It can destabilize the patient’s ability to perform his/her daily activities. Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is found in people of all sexes and ages, but is usually seen in middle-aged women. Though, it is sometimes referred to as a condition related to arthritis, however, it does not cause inflammation or damage to the joints as in case of arthritis.
Other Related Symptoms
- Persistent headache
- Agonizing pain during menstrual cycle
- Morning slothfulness
- Disturbed sleep pattern
- ‘Fibro fog’ or troubled thinking
- Itchiness in feet and hands
Causes-
There can be various factors related to the disorder. Some of them include:
- Constant illnesses
- Re-occurring injuries
- Traumatic events
Some findings have revealed that fibromyalgia may occur due to the presence of some genes which may not do any harm to a person but can react strongly and induce pain to other person.
Treatment-
Rheumatologists are the right person to get help from, if you are suffering from the symptoms of the disorder, as they specialize in conditions that affect joints or soft tissues and arthritis.
Medications-
- Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), acetaminophen can help in relieving the pain.
- Pregabalin reduces the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
- An injection, Lidocaine, helps in dealing with severe persistent pain focused at one point.
- Other general methods to treat fibromyalgia
- Regular sleep
- Regular aerobic exercise and stretching
- Mild massage
- Psychological therapy and counseling
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
