Ask the Doctor :: Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Ask the Doctor:

Question: I am in pain all the time – could I have fibromyalgia?

Fibromaylgia is tough: tough to live with and tough to treat. And many doctors have no idea how to diagnosis or treat which makes getting better, a whole new challenge. The best suggestion I have is to find a doctor that you feel comfortable with and trust: Someone who will listen to you and be open to spending the appropriate amount of time with you to get you better. If you have any symptoms below, find that doctor as soon as you can because early treatment will result in a fast recovery.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia consists of whole body musculoskeletal pain. It often is accompanied by fatigue and mood swings. There is not much research on to why people have fibromyalgia, but some research indicates believe that the painful sensations from fibromyalgia are due to the way the brain is processing pain signals.

Fibromyalgia Symptoms

In general, symptoms begin shortly after a physical trauma: surgery, infection or an emotional stress. The pain is usually constant and dull that is on both sides of the body. There are specific “*tender points” that when firm pressure is applied, pain will arise.

tension headaches
chronic muscle pain
muscle spasms
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

Co existing Conditions include:

irritable bowel syndrome
anxiety
depression
tension headaches
insomnia
fatigue

* tender points: back of the head, between the shoulder blades, outer elbows, upper chest, inner knees, sides of hips

Best Ways to Control Symptoms

Find a doctor you trust.
Make a healthy diet of fresh whole (non-processed) foods a priority.
Start exercising: swimming, yoga.
Find ways to reduce stress and ways to help you react to stress optimally.

Lifestyle habits will make a profound difference in treating and controlling and may in fact be all it takes to feel better. Nourishing your body with healthy foods and increasing circulation with exercise will support your body in the way it needs to be healthy.

Let us know if you have anything to add or questions in the comments. We love to hear from you!

Be well,

dr.heather

Photo courtesy of Flickr: https://www.sheknows.com/health-and-wellness/articles/979003/5-ways-to-boost-your-energy-and-keep-it-up

Photo courtesy of: https://media.photobucket.com/user/jmcmahon78/media/FIBROMYALGIA/Fibro.jpg.html?filters[term]=fibromyalgia&filters[primary]=images&filters[secondary]=videos&sort=1&o=13