How can you recognize if you suffer from fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia (FM) It is a clinical syndrome of unknown origin in which The main symptom is chronic and generalized musculoskeletal pain, which affects both upper and lower limbs and the spine. , for at least 3 consecutive months.

Other symptoms may also occur, such as :

Intense fatigue
Sleep disorders
Anxiety
Depression
Morning stiffness
Headaches

Not to be confused with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a disorder characterized by a lack of strength, tiredness, or severe fatigue that persists over time and interferes with a person's daily activities . Fibromyalgia was recognized as a disease by the WHO in 1992.

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The estimated prevalence of FM in developed countries is between 2 and 6 percent. The onset of symptoms most often begins between the ages of 20 and 50, although it can appear in children. .

The causes of these diseases are unknown, although the triggers could be related to some physical or emotional trauma, infections by some virus, although they have not been identified, sleep disorders or also that certain areas in the brain that are responsible for pain, react very differently in these people . Currently, there are no known measures to prevent the onset of fibromyalgia. .

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The main symptom of fibromyalgia is pain, which can be mild or severe. The areas of pain are called tender points, which are located in the soft tissue of the back of the neck, shoulders, chest, lower back, hips, shins, elbows, and knees. The pain then radiates from these areas. The joints are not affected, although the pain may feel as if it's coming from them. The pain may worsen with activity, wet or cold weather, anxiety, and stress. All of this makes fatigue, depressed mood, and sleep problems common in patients with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Other associated symptoms may also include irritable bowel syndrome, memory and concentration problems, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, decreased exercise capacity, and tension headaches or migraines .

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The diagnosis is based on criteria related to the duration of the widespread pain , the number and location of the affected areas, and tests that rule out other pathologies. Diagnosis is usually a lengthy process involving various specialists who rule out other conditions. There are no imaging or laboratory tests that confirm this diagnosis. In this case, complementary tests only serve to rule out other diseases.

Current treatment is aimed at reducing and controlling symptoms and consists of pain-reducing medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical exercise, rehabilitation, and physical therapy. Aerobic exercise, educational programs, relaxation exercises, supportive therapies to encourage an active attitude in patients, and mutual support groups and social networks can also be part of the therapeutic process.

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Currently, there is growing interest in the scientific community, leading to an increase in research and published articles on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome . Some research on fibromyalgia examines the physical origin of the disease and the influence of other factors, such as psychological or social factors.