Fibromyalgia: what it is and how to treat it, symptoms and diagnosis

Fibromyalgia is an insidious disease that is often difficult to recognize. Health experts indicate some guidelines for living with the disease.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain throughout the body, fatigue, sleep disturbances, problems with memory, concentration and a number of related symptoms. Its exact cause, unfortunately, is not fully understood, but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic, neurochemical and environmental factors.

The main symptoms of fibromyalgia, as we said, include first of all a ddiffuse pain present in many parts of the body, such as muscles, tendons and joints, described as a burning, stinging or dull aching sensation. Even accompanied by a feeling of fatigue chronic, this disease can even make sleep disturbed with frequent awakenings at night or a feeling of restlessness in the morning.

They often experiment difficulty concentrating, memory problems and mental fog. These symptoms can be termed “fibrofog”. Finally, theFibromyalgia can be accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, digestive problemssensitivity to loud noises, light or smells, muscle stiffness and depression.

How to diagnose and live with fibromyalgia: expert advice

Diagnosing fibromyalgia is complex because there are no diagnostic tests specific. The doctor will perform a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms and physical signs. Usually, the diagnostic criterion of is used American College of Rheumatology (ACR) which requires the presence of widespread pain in at least 11 of 18 specific “trigger points” when light pressure is applied.

There is no definitive cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment focuses on symptom management and on improving the quality of life. Your treatment plan may include a combination of approaches, including:

1. MedicinesAnalgesics, pain relievers, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants may be prescribed to help reduce pain, improve sleep, and relieve associated symptoms.
2. Physical therapy: stretching exercises, physical therapy, and physiotherapy can help improve muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
3. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This therapy aims to improve stress management, change negative thought patterns, and address psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
4. Complementary therapies: some people find symptom relief using complementary approaches such as acupuncture, heat therapy, and meditation. However, the effectiveness of these therapies can vary from individual to individual.
5. Healthy lifestyle: adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet and exercise, is certainly of great help in managing the symptoms of the disease.

In the light of these considerations it is clear that fibromyalgia is an insidious and often disabling pathology. However, with the right approach and following the advice of the experts, cohabit with the disease it seems possible. Many famous people have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia: Lady Gaga, Morgan Freeman and Sinead O’Connor are just a few. Yet, with the right help, all three manage to live their lives as global stars.