Causes of Fibromyalgia

Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known, it has been observed in the members of the same family suggesting that it may be a hereditary condition. Other general factors that may have a role in the occurrence of this condition include environmental factors, divorce and small income. Individuals who suffer from depression or who have a family history of depression, anxiety or other psychiatric disorder are more prone to develop fibromyalgia. These factors may affect the normal functioning of the nerves that carry pain sensation to the brain and result in the symptoms.^{3, 4}

Risk Factors for Fibromyalgia

Family history of fibromyalgia or depression, a personal history of psychiatric disorders, female gender, low level of education, being divorced, loss of parents, history of child abuse and earning small incomes are some of the factors that may interplay in susceptible individuals.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is often characterized by vague muscle pain at different areas of the body that may be associated with general tiredness and lack of sleep. Lower back region is the site often affected and the pain may also be felt in the

Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

The diagnosis is generally based on the clinical evaluation of the signs and symptoms noticed. The doctor usually enquires about the family and personal history for the identification of the risk factors to arrive at a conclusion. The doctor also performs physical examination to verify the presence of tenderness at certain areas recognized by the American College of Rheumatology as diagnostic for fibromyalgia. Evaluation of the blood cells and thyroid hormone levels may also be advised to rule out the presence of other underlying conditions. A psychiatric evaluation and other specific tests may be advised if the diagnosis is not confirmed.^{1, 5}

Treatment of Fibromyalgia

Various drugs that belong to the group of antidepressant medications and narcotic analgesics have been found to be effective in relieving the pain in individuals suffering from fibromyalgia. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are also advised in certain instances. Certain anticonvulsant medications are being tried that have demonstrated reasonable amount of relief from pain.¹

Alternative Therapies of Fibromyalgia

Moderate exercises such as aerobics, counselling, educating the affected individuals about the condition have been proven to be useful in relieving the symptoms when associated with the administration of medications. Acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy and magnetic therapy are also suggested to be useful though not proven by a sufficient number of studies.^{6, 7}

Prevention of Fibromyalgia

There are no methods of prevention of fibromyalgia listed in the scientific literature available. Nevertheless, exercise, acupuncture, yoga, magnetic therapy and various other alternative therapies have certain adjuvant effect in relieving the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia that would prevent disability due to the pain.⁸

Complications of Fibromyalgia

Untreated individuals may suffer from severe depression due to the features such as constant nagging pain, headaches, anxiety and sleeplessness associated with fibromyalgia.

Living with Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition with periods of complete relief and worsening of symptoms. However, with the advent of new therapies the symptoms can be managed in a much better way than earlier. Proper compliance with the treatment protocols is often helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms.


Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 19, 2011