Fibromyalgia

Overview

Fibromyalgia is a common rheumatic disease that causes muscle pain and fatigue. In the past it has been known by various other names including soft tissue rheumatism fibrositis and non-articular rheumatism. It affects an estimated 900000 Canadians most of them over the age of 50. Women are at least four times more likely than men to develop fibromyalgia.

Causes

The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. While it can occur on its own it has been linked to:

  • Stressful or traumatic events such as car accidents
  • Repetitive injuries
  • Illness
  • Rheumatoid arthritis lupus spinal arthritis

Some scientists think fibromyalgia may be hereditary.

Symptoms

People with fibromyalgia have "tender points" on the body that is specific places on the neck shoulders back hips arms and legs that hurt when pressure is applied. Other symptoms may include:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Morning stiffness
  • Headaches
  • Painful menstrual periods
  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
  • Problems with thinking and memory
  • Dry eyes
  • Irritable bowel and bladder
  • Pain in the jaw
  • Depression

Treatment

There is no cure for fibromyalgia and it can be difficult to treat. The goal of treatment is to help in the management of pain and other symptoms.

Low dose tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressant medications are frequently prescribed. These drugs increase levels of serotonin a chemical that naturally occurs in the brain. Research has shown that low levels of serotonin are associated with depression and other symptoms of fibromyalgia including bowel problems migraine headaches and anxiety.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and corticosteroids are often used to treat many forms of arthritis. However neither has been shown to be useful in treating fibromyalgia.

If you have fibromyalgia exercise may be helpful. Experts often recommend walking low impact aerobic programs designed for people with arthritis water aerobics and use of exercise equipment such as a stationary bike treadmill or Stairmaster. Always consult a doctor before beginning an exercise program and ask him for help in finding the exercise that best meets your needs.

Applying heat may provide temporary relief of pain. Many people with fibromyalgia ease their discomfort by using a heating pad having a hot shower or a whirlpool bath. Heat helps to reduce pain and stiffness by relaxing aching muscles and increasing circulation to the area.

Additional Resources

Arthritis Society of Canada

Ontario Fibromyalgia Association