What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disease that causes muscle pain, fatigue, sleep issues, and mood issues. It is believed that the pain associated with fibromyalgia occurs as a result of the brain and spinal cord processing pain differently. Symptom onset may occur suddenly or as a slow progression. Fibromyalgia sometimes occurs due to an event such as trauma, surgery, or infection.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
The most common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

Musculoskeletal pain
Cognitive issues such as mood and memory dysfunction
Fatigue

What causes fibromyalgia?
The cause of fibromyalgia is likely caused by repeated nerve stimulation and abnormal levels of certain chemicals in the brain. This causes the spinal cord and brain to change. Receptors in the brain that respond to pain can become sensitized, causing them to overreact to painful and non-painful signals. Many factors may lead to these changes, including genetics, infections, and physical events. Fibromyalgia tends to run in families, so having an immediate family member who has it makes individuals more likely to be diagnosed. Some illnesses and infections can trigger fibromyalgia. Prolonged psychological stress or physical trauma can trigger fibromyalgia as well.

How do you treat fibromyalgia?
The goal of treatment for fibromyalgia is to help manage symptoms and improve overall health. A combination of medications and self-care strategies is typically used. Common medications for fibromyalgia include pain relievers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling are also effective methods that can help individuals manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Physical therapy helps to improve strength and flexibility, while occupational therapy helps patients find ways to complete work-related tasks. Most people find that a combination of medications and therapies works well to manage their symptoms, but the ideal treatment regimens will vary for each unique case.

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