FIBROMYALGIA

FIBROMYALGIA - Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals. Women are much more likely to develop fibromyalgia than are men. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression. Other symptoms include feelind tired to a degree that normal activities are affected, sleep problems, and troubles with memory. Some people also report restless legs syndrome, bowel or bladder problems, numbness and tingling, and sensitivity to noise, lights or temperature. Fibromyalgia is frequently associated with depression and anxiety. Other types of chronic pain are also frequently present.

The treatment of fibromyalgia can be difficult. Recommendations often include getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating ahealthy diet. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be helpful. Use of opioid pain medication is controversial with some stating they are poorly supported and others saying that weak opioids may be reasonable if other medications are not effective.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Chronic muscle pain, muscle spasms, or tightness
• Moderate or severe fatigue and decreased energy
• Insomnia or waking up feeling just as tired as when you went to sleep
• Stiffness upon waking or after staying in one position for too long
• Difficulty remembering, concentrating, and performing simple mental task.
• Abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and constipation alternating with diarrhea
• Tension or migraine headaches
• Jaw and facial tenderness
• Sensitivity to one or more of the following: odors, noise, bright lights, medications, certain foods, and cold
• Feeling anxious or depressed
• Numbness or tingling in the face, arms, hands, legs, or feet
• Increase in urinary urgency or frequency.
• Reduced tolerance for exercise and muscle pain after exercise
• A feeling of swelling in the hands and feet