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Fibromyalgia :chronic Muscle Pain

When every muscle seems to be shouting out in pain, tender places painful when touched, you also feel tired as if lacking energy and do not get enough sleep; you may well be experiencing symptoms of Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is often a medical condition characterized by chronic pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons, and also fatigue and multiple tender points. Tender points are parts in your body where even little pressure may cause pain. They are found on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs that might hurt with pressure. More women than men are affected with fibromyalgia, and it shows up in people of every age group. It is known by other names such as Fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome Psychogenic rheumatism and tension Myalgias.

Signs and symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, symptoms will probably never disappear completely. However, it is reassuring to learn that fibromyalgia is not progressive or life-threatening. There are available treatments and self-care procedures which can improve the condition and one's overall health.

Signs and Symptoms

Many factors can impact symptoms of fibromyalgia for example the weather, stress, exercise as well as the time of day. Typical signs and symptoms consist of:

Widespread pain~ When pressure is applied in specific areas of your body including the back of your head, upper back and neck, upper chest, elbows, hips and knees, pain together with stiffness can often be felt and may even persist for many months.

Fatigue and sleep disturbances ~ People who suffer from this condition often awaken tired and unrefreshed regardless of getting enough sleep. Based on several scientific studies this kind of sleep issue is caused by a sleep disorder where deep sleep is often disrupted by bursts of brain activity much like wakefulness therefore, lacking the deep restorative healing stage of sleep. Muscle spasms in your hip and legs may also be associated with fibromyalgia.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) ~ Constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating associated with IBS is common in people with fibromyalgia.

Headaches and facial pain ~ Symptoms of headaches and facial pain could be related to the tenderness or stiffness within the neck and shoulders.

Heightened sensitivity ~ Individuals with fibromyalgia are usually sensitive to odors, noises, bright lights and to the touch.

Other typical signs and symptoms may include:

•Depression

•Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and feet (paresthesia)

•Difficulty concentrating

•Mood changes

•Chest pain

•Dry eyes, skin and mouth

•Painful menstrual periods

•Lightheadedness

•Anxiety

Possible Causes

There is no known cause of fibromyalgia. Recent findings focus around a theory called "central sensitization" which states that people with fibromyalgia have a lower threshold for pain due to increased sensitivity from the brain to pain signals. For this reason those with fibromyalgia appear to overreact each time slight pressure is applied to a certain part of the body which would not hurt if done to a person in normal condition. However, what initiates this process of central sensitization still baffle most research experts. Other theories regarding the cause of fibromyalgia include:

•Sleep disturbances – Some researchers suggest that disturbed sleep patterns may be a cause instead of merely a symptom of fibromyalgia.

•Injury – Accidents that create injuries or trauma, particularly in the upper spinal region, which affect the central nervous system may trigger the development of fibromyalgia.

•Infection - Some researchers believe a viral or bacterial infection may trigger fibromyalgia.

•Abnormalities of the autonomic (sympathetic) nervous system – When the sympathetic nervous system fails to function normally during nighttime, it leads to fatigue, stiffness, dizziness and other signs and symptoms linked to the condition. The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system which controls involuntary bodily functions for example heart rate, blood vessel contraction, sweating, salivary flow and intestinal movements.

•Changes in muscle metabolism – A decreased blood flow to muscles may contribute to decreased strength and fatigue. Such differences in metabolism and abnormalities in the hormonal substance which influences the activity of nerves are likely involved.

Psychological stress and hormonal changes can also be possible causes of fibromyalgia.

Seek Medical Advice

If you experience general aching or widespread pain that lasts several months and is associated with fatigue, you should see your doctor. Many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to other diseases for example low thyroid hormone production (hypothyroidism), polymyalgia rheumatica, neuropathies, lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Only your doctor can inform you if any of these other conditions may be causing such symptoms.

Fibromyalgia is not progressive and does not lead to other serious conditions or diseases. However, it can cause pain, depression and lack of sleep. These problems can hinder your ability to function at home or on the job, or maintain close family or personal relationships. Always seek Medical Advice.

By: Mecedes2

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