Fibromyalgia is a clinical syndrome that presents as widespread body pain, and if left untreated, can become debilitating. Middle-aged women are especially vulnerable to fibromyalgia, but it affects both men and women.
In the past, doctors would check 18 specific pain points on the body to diagnose fibromyalgia. However, newer guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology consider fibromyalgia to be present when a person experiences widespread pain throughout the body for at least three months.
Early treatment is important for those with fibromyalgia. Since symptoms tend to wax and wane, Johns Hopkins Medicine says treatment strategies need to evolve that are tailored specifically to each patient’s needs. Treatment strategies fall into four broad categories: education; symptom management; cognitive behavior therapy; and complementary approaches.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, and symptom management tends to include a variety of medications. Mayo Clinic physicians recommend using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium to alleviate pain. Opioid pain relievers are not usually recommended because of their side effects and risk for dependence. According to Johns Hopkins, antidepressants are the most frequently used and best studied drugs for treating fibromyalgia. They effectively treat pain, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and depression. Anti-seizure drugs are also useful in reducing certain types of pain.
In addition to medications, complementary approaches include physical therapy, acupressure, massage, acupuncture, hypnosis, osteopathic manipulation, and other techniques. Cognitive behavior therapy also may help those with fibromyalgia manage their condition by applying relaxation therapy and cognitive pain management, among other techniques. Speaking with a mental health counselor also can give individuals additional tools for dealing with painful and stressful situations that arise due to fibromyalgia.
