Fibromyalgia is a chronic, musculoskeletal disorder characterized by widespread pain and stiffness. It is also associated with fatigue or tiredness, muscle tenderness, sleep disturbances, hypersensitivity, and mood swings.
It is a condition that is closely interlinked with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, and can develop over time if not diagnosed early. Although it is not known to have a cure, it can be treated. Studies have shown that over 1.71 billion people suffer from fibromyalgia worldwide and it is more likely to occur in women than men.
Now, we’ll take an extensive look into fibromyalgia, its causes, symptoms, and possible treatments.
Symptoms
Most cases of fibromyalgia are usually associated with “widespread pain” and a higher sensitivity in the affected areas. However, there are other symptoms associated with the disorder, which include:
- Widespread pain accompanied by hypersensitivity
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Sleep disturbances or trouble sleeping
- Tenderness and tingling sensations can be felt in the affected areas
- Difficulty concentrating or memory loss
- Gastrointestinal problems like constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Anxiety, depression, or mood swings
- Temporomandibular jaw (TMJ) disorder that affects the jaw
- Pelvic and urinary issues
Causes
Fibromyalgia is linked to varying factors and is not conclusively tied to a single cause. However, factors that can contribute to its occurrence vary from alteration and changes in the brain and the nervous system.
It can also be caused by other factors such as:
- Hereditary and genetic factors. This means that it’s likely to be passed from parent to offspring, especially to females
- Traumatic events can either have physical or emotional impacts. Such cases include accidents, surgery, childbirth, emotional distress, etc.
- Recurring injuries
- Autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Infection
- Age: This means that fibromyalgia can affect anyone as cases of fibromyalgia are often associated with persons of ages 30-50
- Sex
- Family history
- Obesity
Diagnosis
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that can be quite challenging to diagnose. This is because patients with fibromyalgia can often exhibit symptoms of other diseases like hypothyroidism or other autoimmune diseases.
However, physical examinations and X-rays can be used to detect the disorder. Still, cross-examination must be carried out to efficiently detect fibromyalgia.
How Can Fibromyalgia Be Treated?
There are some very effective methods of treatment for dealing with fibromyalgia. Although there is no present cure, with the right treatment, it can be managed. Certain treatment methods will likely include a combination of medical and self-care plans.
Most patients would also consider using the services of a rheumatologist or an orthopedist to help with diagnosis and treatment.
Fibromyalgia can also be treated with ketamine infusion therapy. Below are some of the ways can also be treated and managed:
- Medication: This includes the option of antidepressants, analgesics, and anti-seizure medications. These treatments must be followed by the patient diligently. They help relieve pain, promote sleep, and reduce depression.
- Natural therapeutic remedies: Some of these include massage therapy, hydrotherapy, counseling, physical therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Stress management methods: Reducing stress can ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Activities include activities like yoga and meditation.
- Help and treatment from orthopedics and primary health care providers.
- Improved diet and sleeping habits.
- Muscle strengthening exercises.
- Relaxation programs.
- Support groups and therapy.
Is It Possible To Live With Fibromyalgia?
It is possible to live with fibromyalgia if managed properly and with consistent treatment. To improve your quality of life, you can adopt certain methods that can help lessen the impact of the pain and stress that comes with fibromyalgia.
These methods include:
- Exercising: Participating in sporting activities or exercise programs can help reduce pain by keeping your body active. Although it might pose a little challenge at the beginning, it’ll get easier over time. It is advisable to start with simple aerobic exercises and activities like swimming, cycling, or walking.
- Consider Joining Support Groups: By taking time to learn more about fibromyalgia and connecting with people who share the same plight, it creates a sense of calm and peace which reduces stress and anxiety. This in turn can positively impact your response to treatment.
Conclusion
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that can cause discomfort but can be effectively treated and managed properly. Quality of life can be improved with consistency in adopting good habits and a healthier lifestyle.
Moreso, fibromyalgia can be effectively treated with ketamine infusion therapy. Which is why we believe that at Ignite Orthopaedic And Wellness Clinic and with our team of professionals, we can help you attain maximum wellness and recovery with the aid of ketamine infusion treatment.