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What is Fibromyalgia? What are its Types?

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What is Fibromyalgia? What are its Types?

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia (FMS), also known as fibromyalgia syndrome, is a condition characterized by pain and fatigue in sensitive areas of the body, cognitive disturbances, and sleep problems. Fibromyalgia is chronic, meaning it is a long-lasting condition. Diagnosing it is challenging because it shares symptoms with many other diseases, and there is no definitive test, leading to frequent misdiagnoses.

Fibromyalgia Treatment

The treatment for fibromyalgia is also difficult and complex. It may require significant lifestyle changes, medication, and therapy. Although it is challenging, treatment is not impossible with effort. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but genetic predisposition, inflammation, trauma, and stress are thought to be triggers.

Fibromyalgia Theories

Brain Theory: According to some experts, the brain may lower the pain threshold without any apparent reason, making normally non-painful situations painful over time.

Nerve Response Theory: Another theory suggests that the nerves in the brain may overreact to or misinterpret pain signals. This may be due to abnormalities in the brain or chemical imbalances.

Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Fibromyalgia symptoms are almost identical to those of autoimmune disorders, which has led experts to question whether fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder. Fibromyalgia typically appears in middle age and its likelihood increases with age. However, it can also appear in children in some cases. It is considered a hereditary condition, with genetic transmission within families.

Fibromyalgia Trigger Factors

  • Shigella and Salmonella Bacteria
  • Pneumonia and Flu
  • Physical or Emotional Trauma
  • Long-Term Stress

Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Fibromyalgia symptoms are generally characterized by pain in sensitive areas of the body. Historically, eight trigger points were considered, including the arms, legs, chest, outer elbows, knees, hips, upper chest, shoulders, back of the head, and neck. However, fibromyalgia can affect areas beyond these classical trigger points.

What is Felt in Fibromyalgia

  • Pain: A deep, throbbing, and burning type of pain.
  • Numbness and Sensitivity
  • Tingling
  • Persistent Fatigue: Regardless of how much the person sleeps, they often wake up feeling unrested due to pain in fibromyalgia-affected areas.