Fibromyalgia

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by musculoskeletal pain. It’s not a single disease but a combination of painful and disruptive symptoms, including:

• Chronic pain
  
• Fatigue
  
• Sleep disturbances
  
• Memory impairment
  
• Mood swings
  
• Inability to pay attention
  

If you have fibromyalgia, you may also experience other conditions including:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
  
• Migraines and headaches
  
• Recurrent cystitis
  
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  
• Anxiety and depression
  

What causes fibromyalgia?

The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. However, medical researchers and doctors have found several contributing factors to the disease.

Many people begin to develop signs of fibromyalgia after some form of trauma such as serious illness, physical or emotional trauma, or surgery. Hormonal changes also become associated with fibromyalgia.

It’s also believed that chemical imbalances in your brain contribute to your condition. Your brain processes pain signals from elsewhere in your body, and if it miscommunicates messages or if minor discomfort is amplified, you may experience more severe or longer-lasting pain.

Fibromyalgia is also more commonly diagnosed in women than in men. If a member of your family has fibromyalgia or another chronic pain disorder, your risk increases. If you have an inflammatory condition like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus, you may also have a higher risk of developing the condition.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

Dr. Thomas diagnoses fibromyalgia with a comprehensive physical exam and blood work. She talks to you in detail about your symptoms, including where and when you experience pain. She also orders full blood work up to check:

• A complete blood count
  
• Rheumatoid factors
  
• Thyroid function
  
• Cyclic citrullinated peptides
  
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
  

In most cases, if you’ve been experiencing chronic pain and the other common symptoms of fibromyalgia for three months or longer, Dr. Thomas confirms your diagnosis and begins treatment right away.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

Treatment for fibromyalgia focuses on symptom management and improving your overall health. Dr. Thomas offers customized treatment designed to meet your need which may include specifically:

• Medications like pain relievers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs
  
• Therapy like counseling, physical therapy, and occupational therapy
  
• Lifestyle modifications
  

Some of the changes you can make to your daily habits to improve your wellness and manage your fibromyalgia symptoms include:

• Reducing stress
  
• Getting enough sleep
  
• Exercising daily
  
• Eating a nutritious diet
  

If you’re living with chronic pain, call or schedule an appointment online today.