Fibromyalgia syndrome; It is a type of soft tissue rheumatism that can be long-lasting in the musculoskeletal system and causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. It is sometimes called soft tissue rheumatism or muscle rheumatism.
The severity of fibromyalgia symptoms and related problems may vary from person to person or may decrease and disappear over time. Stress usually worsens the symptoms.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
It is seen in 2-4 percent of the population and more frequently in women. Patients experience widespread soft tissue pain accompanied by insomnia and constipation. Complaints such as teeth grinding, jaw locking, waking up tired in the morning, memory problems, concentration problems, tension headaches, numbness, tingling, depression or anxiety, pelvic pain, facial or jaw pain, pain in the jaw due to teeth clenching and ringing in the ears. It may accompany.
Who Gets Fibromyalgia?
Although fibromyalgia is more common in women, it can also be seen in men. It is 10 times more common in women than in men. It is more common in the middle age group, but it can also occur in adolescence or old age. The likelihood of developing fibromyalgia increases in those who have a rheumatic disease such as osteoarthritis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
How to Diagnose Fibromyalgia
What causes Fibromyalgia syndrome? Its development is not fully known. Some theories have been put forward in research. These theories can be listed as sleep disorder, pain perception disorder, imbalance of substances called neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, nervous system and hormonal system disorder, muscle and muscular dysfunction, overactivity of the sympathetic system (imbalance related to the autonomic nervous system).
Fibromyalgia may be suspected based on your complaints. During the examination, there is tenderness to touch or pain when pressing on some body points.
Some diagnostic tests may be required to rule out other diseases that may cause pain (such as Sjögren's syndrome, polymyalgia rheumatica).
Inflammation in fibromyalgia. (inflammation) symptoms are not observed.
The character of the pain in fibromyalgia is different and laboratory tests are normal, causing muscle and joint pain. It can help distinguish it from other diseases.
How to Treat Fibromyalgia
Informing and educating the patient is very important. The patient should be told that, contrary to popular belief, his illness is "real" but not a disabling illness. Treatment may take a long time and regular follow-up by the physician may be required until there is a significant improvement in the symptoms. The patient should first be told that this disease is a long-term disease and that although the pain is constant, it does not harm the body.
Exercise is the most important treatment and prevention method in the disease. Especially relaxation and stretching exercises, walking, swimming and cycling are very effective. Exercise type and intensity should be adjusted according to the patient. Massage, relaxation and pressure techniques provide positive effects in reducing muscle tension. Patients are also advised to spend more time on their hobbies and take frequent breaks during intense work.
A healthy diet, regular exercise, drinking enough water, staying away from animal foods that acidify the body, and adequate rest are effective in prevention.
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