Fibromyalgia

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome characterized by widespread pain and other symptoms such as fatigue, muscle stiffness, and insomnia

Symptoms

The main symptom of fibromyalgia is widespread and chronic pain, affecting both the spine and the limbs. The pain is often difficult to pinpoint and generally involves muscles and tendons. In addition to pain, other symptoms are also very common:

• mood disorders
• poor sleep quality
• difficulty concentrating
• fatigue
• headaches

Causes

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, although recent scientific advances have shown the role of altered pain processing by the central nervous system (comprising the brain and spinal cord), as well as the importance of genetics and triggers that can initiate the condition, such as critical life events (stress)

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is clinical and should be based on the patient’s medical history. A physical examination and laboratory tests are also necessary to help rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms

Treatment

Fibromyalgia treatment is multidisciplinary and involves physicians, physical therapists, fitness professionals, psychologists, among others. Most importantly, it requires active participation from the patient. In addition to pharmacological treatment, which must be guided by a specialist, non-pharmacological measures are extremely important, such as regular physical exercise, psychological therapy, and patient education about the condition

Regular and well-guided physical activity is particularly important, offering multiple benefits including reduced fatigue, improved physical conditioning, increased muscle strength, and flexibility

Prevention

Fibromyalgia does not have a single identifiable cause that can be prevented, but healthy lifestyle habits are very helpful in both preventing symptoms and managing the condition. These include regular physical activity, relaxation techniques, and good sleep hygiene, all of which are essential for muscle and joint health

References

Fibromyalgia – São Paulo State Health Department
Fibromyalgia – Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (SBR)

By Einstein Editorial Board