Fibromyalgia is a chronic neurosensory disorder characterised by a combination of chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness, accompanied by varying degrees of other symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction and high levels of distress.
Overview
What is Fibromyalgia?
Symptoms
What are the signs of Fibromyalgia?
The common symptoms associated with fibromyalgia include:
Widespread chronic pain - tingling, crawling, burning, throbbing
Chronic fatigue
Low-grade fever and chills
Sore throat
Sleep disturbances
Mood disturbances - anxiety or depression
Migraine and tension headaches
Decreased ability to concentrate or remember
Allergies
General muscle weakness
Cognitive difficulties - trouble concentrating or remembering
Irritable bowelrinary
Urinary problems
Weight fluctuations
Sexual dysfunction
Causes
What are the causes of Fibromyalgia?
The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown However, it has been linked with disorders of inflammation and possibly mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as hormonal and neurotransmitter imbalance.
Diagnosis
How do I know if I have Fibromyalgia?
Most practitioners diagnose fibromyalgia on the basis of widespread pain lasting three months or more that is not attributable to any other medical condition. Your practitioner is likely to ask you about your medical and family history and perform a physical exam. Additional tests that may assist the process include:
HLA DQ/DR Genetic Studies