What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is chronic, widespread pain that’s thought to be the result of overactive nerves in the body. It occurs mostly in women, but men can also develop fibromyalgia. Unlike other types of pain, fibromyalgia is chronic, can occur anywhere, causes "pain points" or areas of chronic tenderness, and fatigue. Fibromyalgia is often mis-diagnosed and, therefore, not properly treated, causing symptoms to worsen over time.
Other symptoms of fibromyalgia
- Exhaustion
- Sensitivity to pain
- Joint pain
- Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is closely associated with fibromyalgia
- Headaches
- Sensitivity to cold
- Inability to concentrate
- Worsened menstrual pain
No cure
There is no cure for fibromyalgia. In fact, it's not widely understood or recognized as a real medical condition. Researchers also do not know what causes fibromyalgia, although chronic ongoing stress is believed to be the cause of overactive nerves.
How to treat fibromyalgia
Most medical professionals treat fibromyalgia with prescription drugs for pain, a healthy diet, exercise, and enough sleep. Studies have also shown that regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help with fibromyalgia symptoms.
Read more about fibromyalgia by visiting my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4832-fibromyalgia
