Fibromyalgia is a
rheumatologic disorder or syndrome (a constellation
of symptoms) characterized primarily by persistent
fatigue and widespread, long-standing
musculoskeletal pain lasting 3 months or longer that
originates from tendons, ligaments, bursae and
muscle tissue, but without inflammation. Most people
with fibromyalgia also experience disruptive sleep
patterns as well as generalized stiffness
(particularly in the morning).
It has
been estimated that fibromyalgia affects about 2% to
3% of the general population in the United States or
about 6 to 9 million people. Fibromyalgia occurs
most commonly in women (80% to 90% of cases) between
the ages of 35 to 60, however, it can also affect
men, children, and the elderly.
The
chronic, widespread pain that is characteristic of
fibromyalgia is usually localized to areas of the
body known as tender points. This is important
because these tender points serve as a basis for
diagnosing fibromyalgia.
Despite extensive
research conducted in recent years, the cause of
fibromyalgia is not yet known. Researchers are
investigating the possibility that physical injury
or trauma may affect the central nervous system and
subsequently lead to the syndrome. Also being
studied is the role of stress, and changes in the
metabolism in the head and face as well as skeletal
muscles. Infectious organisms such as viruses or
bacteria have also been suspected, although no
specific infectious agent has yet been identified.
Several studies have also suggested that heredity
also plays a role.
Because currently there
is no known cure for fibromyalgia, treatment is
aimed at managing its symptoms. The primary goals of
treatment include:
Controlling symptoms of the syndrome
Improving the quality of sleep
Establishing a regular exercise regimen
Educating patients about fibromyalgia so that
they can take an active role in the management
of the syndrome
In general, the treatment options for people
with fibromyalgia include:
Drug therapy
Exercise and physical therapy
Complementary and alternative treatments
Education and support
Hospitals Listing
Batra Hospital
New Delhi
{India}
The
Batra Hospital and Medical
Prince Court, Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur
{Malaysia}
Prince Court, Kuala Lumpur
Raffles Hospital
{Singapore}
Raffles Hospital is a 380-bed, tertiary care hospital and the
flagship hospital of the Raffles
Apollo Hospitals
New Delhi
{India}
The Apollo Hospitals Group pioneered corporate healthcare in India and among the largest int
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