Fibromyalgia is a very common chronic pain condition that affects an estimated 10 million people in the United States alone. This condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain that is often accompanied by fatigue, memory loss, and mood issues. Those who have been diagnosed with this condition may experience bursts of pain seemingly out of nowhere. It is thought that fibromyalgia amplifies these painful sensations by changing the way the brain interprets and processes pain signals.
One of the leading causes of fibromyalgia is stress, which is why it is so important to adopt a healthy lifestyle and learn appropriate coping mechanisms. While anyone can develop fibromyalgia, it is most common in women over the age of 20. For many people, symptoms of fibromyalgia start after surgery, physical trauma, infection, or extreme psychological stress. Many patients who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia also suffer from tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, anxiety, depression, and digestive problems.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for fibromyalgia. That being said, there are numerous medications and therapies that can provide patients with adequate relief. Because it is thought that fibromyalgia is tied to stress, it is important to relax and take steps to reduce stress in your everyday life. Here is a look at some of the most common symptoms associated with fibromyalgia:
These symptoms may be present when the brain and nerves misinterpret normal pain signals. Another potential cause of fibromyalgia is a chemical imbalance in the brain. Please keep in mind that a proper diagnosis is important. If you have the above symptoms, please contact one of the specialists at Texas Partners Healthcare Group and schedule an appointment. Many people who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia are able to live a happy, pain-free life, thanks to the expertise of our medical professionals.
Individuals with fibromyalgia will likely have pain and tenderness in a minimum 11 of the 18 known trigger points. Some of the most common trigger points include:
One of the most effective treatments for this painful disease is relaxation. It is important to free yourself from stress in order to live a pain-free life. At Texas Partners Healthcare Group, we understand this is easier said than done. We encourage you to make an appointment with one of our specialists to discuss your symptoms and how to treat fibromyalgia. Learning how to deal with stressful situations and express your emotions outwardly will help lessen the symptoms associated with these musculoskeletal condition. To learn more about treating fibromyalgia, please do not hesitate to contact one of our locations in Allen, Anna, Dallas, Frisco, or McKinney.