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Fibromyalgia is one specific condition characterized by a chronic pain which is increasing with time! The most common localizations of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle and hands, but any body part can be involved.
The specific cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. However, doctors believe a number of factors may contribute. These factors may include:
- Complex chemical changes in the brain.
Several studies have proven that people with fibromyalgia have some specific alterations in the regulation of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. This may be particularly due to:
- serotonin — which is linked to depression, migraines and gastrointestinal distress
- substance P – specific brain chemical associated with pain, stress and anxiety, as well as depression
- Sleep disturbances
Some researchers suggest that disturbed sleep patterns may be a cause rather than just a symptom of fibromyalgia. There are no real proofs for these claims!
- Injury.
Fibromyalgia can start as a result of some trauma (such as a traffic accident) or illness, but there is no strong correlation between any specific type of trigger and the subsequent initiation of fibromyalgia.
- Infection.
Some researchers believe that a viral or bacterial infection may trigger fibromyalgia.
- Abnormalities of the autonomic nervous system.
Some experts claim that all the symptoms characteristic for fibromyalgia could be linked to some abnormality of autonomic nervous system. This part of nervous system controls bodily functions that you don't consciously control, such as heart rate, blood vessel contraction, sweating, salivary flow and intestinal movements.
- Changes in muscle metabolism.
It is proven that decreased blood flow may contribute to decreased strength and fatigue. Differences in metabolism and abnormalities in the hormonal substance that influences the activity of nerves may play a role.
Risk factors for developing fibromyalgia
Several studies done in the past have proven that there are several risk factors which could be linked with fibromyalgia. Some of the most common are:
- Sex
Statistic data tells that fibromyalgia occurs more often in women than in men.
- Age
Fibromyalgia tends to develop in people during early and middle adulthood, but there is no rules because it can also occur in children.
- Disturbed sleep patterns
It is proven that people with sleep disorders, such as nighttime muscle spasms in the legs, restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea, are in higher risk to develop fibromyalgia.
- Family history
The part of this disease is definitely inherited because it tends to run in families!
- Rheumatic disease
People with rheumatic diseases may be more likely to have fibromyalgia.
Diagnosis of fibromyalgia
Unfortunately, currently there are no laboratory tests available for diagnosing fibromyalgia, which means that doctors must rely on:
- patient histories,
- self-reported symptoms,
- a physical examination and
- an accurate manual tender point examination
Good thing is that, via several tests such as blood tests and X-rays, some other condition could be ruled out such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis.
Fibromyalgia is not a diagnosis of exclusion and must be diagnosed by its own characteristic features.
To receive a diagnosis of FM, the patient must meet the following diagnostic criteria:
- Widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months
- Tenderness or pain in at least 11 of the 18 specified tender points when pressure is applied
Complications if left untreated
Although the fact is that fibromyalgia isn't progressive and generally doesn't lead to other conditions or diseases- it is proven that it can cause pain, depression and lack of sleep. These problems can then interfere with your ability to work at home or on the job, or maintain close family or personal relationships.
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