Unexplainable pain may be caused by fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a mysterious condition with no known cause. People with fibromyalgia experience pain throughout their body that can last all day long or flare up in the morning and evenings. The pain can get worse if the weather is cold or damp, if you experience stress or if you’re very active.
Usually pain starts in muscles and the places where muscles connect to bone. While pain may start in one area, such as the neck and shoulders, over time it may spread to the back, chest, hips, arms and legs. Fibromyalgia also causes specific points on your body to be tender and sensitive to touch.
Some people have mild pain, while others experience very severe pain. Everyone’s pain may feel different. You may feel that your pain is a burning sensation, while someone else with fibromyalgia has soreness and aching. Some people even describe pain as gnawing.
What are symptoms of fibromyalgia?
While the main symptom of fibromyalgia is unexplainable pain, it can also lead to other symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue
- Problems sleeping, including restless leg syndrome
- Problems exercising
- Depression or anxiety
- Headaches
- Digestive problems such as stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation
- Trouble concentrating
- Painful periods
How is fibromyalgia treated?
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for fibromyalgia. It is a chronic (long-lasting) condition. However, your doctor can help you find ways to manage symptoms and return to your daily activities.
You may see a few different health care professionals for help with fibromyalgia, including your primary doctor, a rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in autoimmune diseases), a pain medicine doctor or a physical therapist.
Most patients use a combination of treatments to find relief from fibromyalgia pain. You can take pain medicines as well as medicines that have been approved to treat fibromyalgia. Some people also benefit from taking antidepressants to reduce stress and anxiety.
You can also try other techniques, such as massage, physical therapy, hot and cold therapy and relaxation techniques to manage your fibromyalgia symptoms. You may have to try different techniques and medicines to find the right combination for you.
