Fibromyalgia is not a disease or condition, but a syndrome of chronic pain manifested in the muscles and soft tissues. Discovered in 1980, fibromyalgia is not inflammatory or rheumatic in nature, although in the beginning it was considered a rheumatic condition based on untreated mental problems, and is characterized more precisely by sensitive and painful points on pressure.
Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by musculoskeletal pain spread throughout the body, accompanied by fatigue, sleep disorders, memory and mood. Researchers believe that in the case of those suffering from fibromyalgia, painful sensations are amplified in the brain and spinal cord.
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What are the causes?
Although there are several hypotheses so far, the causes of fibromyalgia are not known exactly. It is believed that one cause is increased sensitivity and low level of pain tolerance of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain due to possible chemical changes. On the other hand, it is believed that fibromyalgia can be caused by the imbalance of some hormones, such as cortisol, growth hormone, because their insufficiency causes exhaustion, but also low tolerance to pain.
The definite causes of fibromyalgia are not fully known, but most doctors believe that repeated nerve stimulation causes a change in the way the brain perceives pain. This irreversible change causes an abnormal increase in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain and in the spinal cord, which generates the sensation of pain. In addition, pain receptors, which are found everywhere in the organs, skin, muscles and joints, appear to develop what doctors call a “pain memory”, becoming extremely sensitive and overreacting to painful and painless signals.
What are the symptoms?
The most important symptom is certainly the pain felt in muscles, tendons, ligaments. But, in addition, a combination of other signs indicates the presence of fibromyalgia. Headaches, exhaustion, caused by either insomnia or poor sleep quality, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, lack of concentration and memory disorders may be other symptoms that indicate fibromyalgia. The manifestations are different from one person to another. In rarer cases, fibromyalgia may be accompanied by Raynaud’s syndrome, tingling and numbness in different parts of the body, flu-like conditions, or itching and bowel problems. Also, the morning stiffness of the joints that does not last more than an hour is a characteristic sign of this syndrome.
Another common symptom of fibromyalgia is the presence of sensitive spots in certain locations on the body. When they are pressed on people who are holy, the sensation felt will be only one of pressure. In the case of those suffering from fibromyalgia, they will feel pain.
What is the treatment?
Fibromyalgia is difficult to treat, but medications, therapy, and lifestyle adjustment can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Treatment focuses on minimizing symptoms and improving overall health. No treatment works for all symptoms, and the treatment schedule is customized for each patient.
Usual analgesics are used, which can be given without a prescription. Those in the upper classes are not recommended, because they can generate severe side effects and cause addiction. It is proven that they aggravate the pain over time. Antidepressants are helpful and can help relieve the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. In addition, they relax and have benefits in regulating sleep. There are also medications used to treat epilepsy, which are often helpful in reducing certain painful manifestations associated with fibromyalgia.
Unfortunately, many people with fibromyalgia will also suffer from major depression when they are diagnosed and begin to experience chronic pain and fatigue. It also investigates the presence of abnormalities in brain chemistry, which can lead to depression or increased sensitivity to pain.
Positive thinking combined with meditation and prayer have a healing effect, with studies by Dr. Andrew Newberg showing that prayer can regulate both the processes in the body and the affected structure of consciousness. In case of pain, painkillers and antidepressants can be used for fatigue.