Prevalence
The Mayo Clinic estimates that 2 percent of the U.S. population suffers from fibromyalgia, although the National Fibromyalgia Association offers a higher figure of 10 million people in the U.S., and 3 percent to 6 percent of the world's population. Women make up about 80 percent of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include ongoing, bodywide pain with fluctuating intensity and varying sensations (from dull aches to sharp stabbing pains); areas of soreness; chronic exhaustion; difficulty falling or staying asleep; and headaches. Fibromyalgia symptoms tend to present most frequently and severely in the morning.
Causes
The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. However, it may stem from faulty sensory processing in the central nervous system. There seems to be a genetic factor involved, and severe illnesses and traumas may contribute to the development of some cases of fibromyalgia.
Diagnosis
There is no test to diagnose fibromyalgia. Instead, a doctor relies on his patient's account and a physical exam to determine the diagnosis. The American College of Rheumatology has two criteria for a fibromyalgia diagnosis: chronic pain in all four quadrants of the body for at least three months, and confirmation of pain or soreness on a minimum of 11 of 18 selected "tender points."
Treatment
Treatment for fibromyalgia targets three aspects of the syndrome. Doctors may address pain with painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy. For sleep disturbances, they may work out a sleep regimen (schedule, creating an atmosphere conducive to sleep, avoiding stimulants at night, etc.), and possibly will prescribe antidepressants. Psychological support also is common, usually in the form of counseling and support groups.
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