Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes extra sensitivity to pain in the body. Patients also have fatigue, sleep deprivation, and emotional distress. While the cause of this condition remains largely unknown, Fibromyalgia Houston diagnosis and treatment allow you to manage the symptoms associated with the disease.
Fibromyalgia signs and symptoms
Fibromyalgia does not have wild symptoms, especially when it starts. The symptoms gradually set in and worsen over time. Common signs of fibromyalgia are:
- Bladder problems
- Depression and anxiety
- Digestive issues such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and abdominal pain
- Disorders of the jaw called temporomandibular joint syndrome (also known as TMJ)
- Dry eyes
- Feeling tired and stiff despite resting
- Feeling pain and stiffness all over the body
- Headaches and migraines
- Problems with focus, memory, and concentration
- Rash and itching
- Tingling in the hands and feet
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping well, hence frequent fatigue
Fibromyalgia diagnosis
If you have fibromyalgia, your doctor has first to rule out all other conditions, including:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Your doctor may take urine and blood tests to confirm these conditions. To establish a diagnosis, the doctor will check for the following:
- Severe pain in up to 6 different areas or mid pain in 7 or more areas. The physician may apply pressure on your tender points to
- Consistent symptoms for at least three months
- All other reasons are ruled out.
Your physician will also check for other conditions that occur alongside fibromyalgia, like:
- Ankylosing spondylitis.
- Chronic back pain
- Depression or anxiety.
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Osteoarthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (commonly called lupus)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Fibromyalgia treatment
Fibromyalgia has no cure, but at the moment, there are treatments to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. In addition to the medication, patients also need support from a therapist or a group.
- Medications such as over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription drugs, and opioids
- Regular exercise and muscle-strengthening exercise
- Yoga, meditation, massages, and other therapies for stress management
- Better and consistent sleeping habits
- Lifestyle changes such as removing smoking, drinking, and other practices that deteriorate your health
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy or group therapy to treat underlying mental health concerns
- Antidepressants
Complications of fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia causes consequences such as:
- Increased hospitalizations to tackle symptoms or diagnose the illness
- Lower quality of life for the patient due to pain and discomfort. The lower quality of life may also spill into the dependents, family, and social circles.
- High rates of anxiety, depression, and emotional distress are confounded by pain, loss of comfort, poor sleep, and lower quality of life. Regular screening for patients with depression is crucial.
- Higher rates of other types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other rheumatic conditions such as lupus and ankylosing spondylitis
Fibromyalgia causes prolonged pain or increased sensitivity to pain, uneasiness resting, feelings of depression and anxiety, or problems with your memory. Rest, quality sleep, exercise, and painkillers can help you enjoy a better life. Talk to Houston Pain Specialists or book your consultation online to learn about fibromyalgia.
