What You Need to Know About Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is an extremely painful and frustrating condition. Symptoms can occur suddenly, due to an injury or an infection, or they can gradually worsen over the years without any sort of trigger. So why does this problem develop, and what can you do to reduce your discomfort?

Causes

The unfortunate truth about fibromyalgia is that no one really knows what causes it. There are, however, some contributing factors that could increase your risk of developing the problem. These include genetics, infections and trauma.

If a parent or older family member has fibromyalgia, there is a chance your risk might be increased. Serious infections have also been associated with the illness. Fibromyalgia can sometimes be triggered by an injury or even by an emotional trauma.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of fibromyalgia is pain that seems to envelop your entire body. It most often appears as a dull ache that can last for weeks. The pain will often occur above the waist at times and below the waist at other times.

Fatigue is another symptom many people with fibromyalgia experience. Even though you get enough sleep, fibromyalgia can make you feel tired all of the time. In some instances, people with this condition will have sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and other sleep-related issues.

Treatments

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, there are many ways a doctor can help you manage your symptoms. For example, pain medications and also antidepressants have sometimes been used to reduce discomfort. Physical and occupational therapy has also been shown to be effective.

Please don’t suffer from fibromyalgia in silence. The experts with Rheumatology Care of North Houston can provide the care you need to live as full a life as possible. Contact us online or call 832.532.9779 to schedule an appointment.