Fibromyalgia

Posted By: Cean Psiquiatras

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoeskeletal 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 more likely to develop fibromyagia than men. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temperomandibular joint disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, a variety of medications can help control symptoms. Exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures also may help.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

. Widespread pain: The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months.

. Fatigue: People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though they report sleeping for long periods of time. Sleep is often disrupted by pain, and many patients with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.

. Cognitive difficulties: A symptom commonly referred to as "fibro fog" impairs the ability to focus, pay attention, and concentrate on mental tasks.

The pain and lack of sleep associated with fybromialgia can interfere with your ability to function at home or on the job. The frustration of dealing with an often-misunderstood condition also can result in depression and health-related anxiety.

In general, treatments for fybromyalgia include both medications and self-care. The emphasis is on minimizing the symptoms and improving general health. No one treatment works for all symptoms.

Antidepressants such as Duloxetine may help ease the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Anti-seizure drugs such as Pregabalin are often useful in reducing certain types of pain.

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