Fibromyalgia is long-term and one of the most common conditions that affect the bones and muscles. It is a type of chronic condition that causes musculoskeletal pain. This condition is difficult to diagnose even for the healthcare professional. Many of its symptoms are way similar to other conditions. There are no particular or special tests that can diagnose fibromyalgia correctly. Due to this, most of the time fibromyalgia gets misdiagnosed. In the past, it was questionable whether the condition is even real or not. But today, the conditions are better and can be treated. This condition mainly appears in middle age but children can also get this condition.
Common symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia regions overlap with the tenderness areas known as trigger points. In fibromyalgia, the pain is consistent and feels like a dull ache. The condition is considered fibromyalgia if the person is experiencing musculoskeletal pain in four out of five regions. Today, diagnosis for fibromyalgia is done by focusing on the regions and severity of pain. Musculoskeletal pain is the main symptom of fibromyalgia. Some other symptoms of fibromyalgia are:
- Fatigue
- Nonrestorative sleep
- Unable to focus
- Troubles sleeping
- Rash
- Headaches
- Dry eyes
- Numbness or tingling sensation in legs, arms, and feet
- Sensitivity to cold, light, heat, and sound
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bladder issues
Dull pain in the lower abdomen, etc. The symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to bursitis and osteoarthritis.
Fibro fog
Fibro fog is a type of feeling or symptom that appears in fibromyalgia. Common signs of fibro fog are memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and trouble staying alert.
Common causes for fibromyalgia
Many pieces of research show that fibromyalgia occurs due to repeated nerve stimulation. Due to the nerve stimulation, the brain and spinal cord face some changes like abnormal increases in certain chemical levels in the brain that send the pain signal. In fibromyalgia, the pain receptors start acting strange and develop a memory of the pain. Due to this, the brain starts overreacting to pain signals. Some other factors that can cause fibromyalgia are:
Genetics
Fibromyalgia can also run in families. This condition occurs due to certain genetic mutations that make the body more susceptible to developing this pain disorder.
Infections
Certain types of illnesses or infections can trigger fibromyalgia syndrome.
Any physical or emotional event
In some cases, fibromyalgia can trigger due to any kind of physical event like a car accident or mental stress.
Risk factors for fibromyalgia
Gender: Gender plays a crucial role in fibromyalgia as women are more likely to get this disorder.
Genetics: If any of the parents or siblings have fibromyalgia, the other members can also develop the same condition.
Order conditions: If a person has conditions like osteoarthritis or arthritis then he can also develop fibromyalgia.
Treatment options for Fibromyalgia
Pain relievers
The pain in fibromyalgia can be consistent and can cause lots of discomforts. Due to this, the daily routine of the person often gets interrupted. To reduce pain, the doctor often suggests OTC pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, etc. With help of these medications, the pain and discomfort can get reduced. These medicines are very helpful in providing relief and better sleep. Some pain relievers are also helpful in reducing inflammation. But NSAIDs can also have some side effects.
Anti-seizure and antidepressants drugs
Pregabalin is an anti-seizure drug and an approved medicine for fibromyalgia. This drug blocks nerve cells from sending pain signals. Some the antidepressant drugs like milnacipran and duloxetine can be used to reduce fatigue and pain. These drugs can also help in managing neurotransmitters and improve sleep.
Dynamic medications
Certain dynamic medications are also available to reduce fibromyalgia pain. With homeopathic fibromyalgia relief, the pain reduces and the person can easily manage daily activities. Unlike allopathy, these medicines are safe and can provide better treatment. Dynamic medicines can be used for a long time as they don’t cause any kind of harmful side effects.
Natural remedies for fibromyalgia
Get proper sleep
In fibromyalgia, getting proper sleep is difficult. But you need to work on your sleep. With proper sleep, your body can combat fatigue. To get good sleep, avoid taking naps during the daytime. Go to bed at the same time every day and avoid watching TV or phone. Have your dinner about 2-3 hours before sleep time. Avoid drinking coffee or alcohol in the evening. When you get good sleep, you will feel less fatigue.
Regular exercise
Certain exercises are very helpful in reducing fibromyalgia pain. When you exercise daily, muscle strength increases and you will feel less pain and discomfort. Talk to your doctor and get a therapist who can tell you suitable exercises for fibromyalgia. Aerobic exercises like cycling, swimming, walking, etc can be very helpful in managing pain in fibromyalgia.
Get good rest
When you have fibromyalgia, you often get tired easily. To maintain your daily activities, you should get proper rest. When you start exercising, you may feel more pain. Get enough rest that can reduce the pain and help in managing your daily activities.
Eat a proper diet and supplements
Eat a balanced diet that can provide good energy to your body. Start eating fruits and green veggies. Cut alcohol, caffeine, and junk items from your diet. You can also take supplements for vitamin D, magnesium, creatine, soy, etc.
Manage your stress
Fibromyalgia pain can get triggered due to stress. You should work on your stress. To manage the stress, you can do Yoga, meditation, start working on your hobbies, or join support groups. Managing stress can be very helpful in reducing fibromyalgia symptoms.