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Fibromyalgia |
Details
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Fibromyalgia is thought to be a largely physical problem, which can be aggravated by stress or other emotional factors. This disease, involves stiff and painful muscles, ligaments, tendons, as well as sleep disturbances and fatigue. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. There are about 3-17 million Americans with this disease, of which about 80% occurs in women. Fibromyalgia is also known as fibromyositis, fibrositis, or chronic muscle pain. It is most likely to develop in middle aged people, over 50 being the mean age of onset. Symptoms of fibromyalgia include diffuse pains and aches, usually in the lower back, shoulders, neck, thighs and thorax. Individuals with fibromyalgia also have multiple “tender points”, the condition where tendons and muscles become painful when pressed. Common spots involve knees, shoulders or neck; right inside and below the elbow, and the hip joints. Symptoms of fibromyalgia do not disappear for years unless treated, and in some cases they may disappear for sometime and then reoccur again. Some people with fibromyalgia experience morning stiffness upon awakening and have difficulty sleeping. Many individuals also have headaches, numbness, anxiety, difficulty concentrating and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Others experience sense swelling in their feet and hands, which usually are usually not detected. Overworking, tension, inactivity, fatigue changes in the environment or weather may worsen these symptoms. To evaluate fibromyalgia a doctor should perform a physical examination including neurological tests. These tests are performed to exclude other medical conditions like lupus, polymyostitis, lyme disease or arthritis. The exact treatment for this disease is unknown. Such antidepressants like cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and Amitriptyline (Elavil) may ease this condition. Swimming, walking, massage, heat, relaxation therapy stress elimination may also help. Local support groups that consist of other people with fibromyalgia may provide emotional support and useful advice on this disorder.
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| Category |
Disease Conditions > F
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| Related Searches |
fibromyalgia symptoms, fibromyalgia treatment, fibromyalgia syndrome |
| Date Submitted |
01-Aug-2005
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