Fibromyositis

Fibromyositis is local inflammation of muscle and connective tissue. It is a chronic illness characterized by aches, pains, stiffness in widespread musculoskeletal areas and soft tissue tenderness. Fibromyositis is neither crippling nor life-threatening. Fibromyositis can occur in any part of the body, but the most common sites of chronic pain are the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic region and hands. Fibromyositis can occur at any age but it is observed that most cases are diagnosed between ages 20-30 years. Women are prone seven times more than men to develop this disease.

The exact causes of fibromyositis is not known. Some researchers opine that injury causes fibromyositis. Others think that a virus may cause this disease. It is common if other members of the family have it. Immune system problems, sleep disturbances, emotional distress and physically unfit muscles are other reasons for fibromyositis. Symptoms of fibromyositis include headaches, migraine, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, irritable bowel and bladder, sleep problems, anxiety, impaired memory and depression. Heightened sensitivity to noises, odors, lights, food and medicines and painful menstrual periods in women are certain other symptoms.

Certain indicators determine if an individual has high risk for developing fibromyositis. They are factors of age, gender, genetics and sleep disorders. There are no laboratory tests to diagnose and confirm fibromyositis currently. A medical practitioner diagnoses the disease based on careful history of the patient and locating tender areas in specific regions of the muscle. If there has been pain for a minimum period of three months and if tenderness is observed in at least eleven to eighteen specific points above and below the waist on both sides of the body when pressure is applied, it could be fibromyositis.

Treatment of fibromyositis includes exercise, medication, physical therapy and relaxation techniques. Exercise is construed as an important part of the regimen. Walking, cycling and swimming are recommended activities for fibromyositis patients. Heat and massage also help in general. Sometimes antidepressant medicines in low doses are prescribed to help relax the muscle and sleep well. Certain lifestyle changes like avoiding caffeine and smoking, having a healthy diet and regular sleep routine help in alleviating fibromyositis.