About Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (pronounced fie-bro-my-AL-juh) is one of the most common chronic widespread pain conditions. The condition affects millions of people in the U.S.

The causes of fibromyalgia are still not fully known, but recent data suggest that changes in the central nervous system may contribute to the chronic pain of this condition.

Test your knowledge about fibromyalgia

True or False:

1.
Fibromyalgia is a real pain condition. Answer

True. Studies have shown that fibromyalgia patients have a heightened sensitivity to pain.

2.
Very little progress is being made in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Answer

False. The outlook for people with fibromyalgia has never been better. The value of exercise, diet, and rest are being recognized as ways to help manage this condition, as is a special type of counseling called cognitive behaviorial therapy. And recent advances in drug therapy may offer an additional option.

3.
The muscle pain of fibromyalgia is widespread and chronic. Answer

True. There is often muscle tenderness, as well as soreness and tiredness. Sometimes, patients also have stiffness in their muscles or flu-like aching. They feel pain above and below the waist as well as on both sides of the body.

4.
Taking long naps may help manage your fibromyalgia condition. Answer

False. Studies suggest that even though you may need more rest, you should limit your nap to one hour, then get up and move around. Two more tips: keep regular sleep habits and avoid caffeine and alcohol in the later afternoon and evening.

5.
Fibromyalgia has the same symptoms as arthritis. Answer

False. Both fibromyalgia and arthritis can cause severe pain and fatigue. However, people with arthritis suffer from inflammation, while fibromyalgia sufferers experience flu-like aching and muscle tenderness. That is why it is important to have a treatment plan especially focused on the management of fibromyalgia.

6.
Fibromyalgia only impacts the person who has it. Answer

False. Fibromyalgia can impact the people in your life, like family, friends, and even caregivers. It can also place large financial costs on patients, as it may cause lost workdays and lost income.

7.
Traumatic events, like injury from car accidents are among the many things thought to trigger fibromyalgia. Answer

True. For people who are susceptible to the condition, fibromyalgia has been thought to be triggered by stressful or traumatic events, such as car accidents, as well as repetitive injuries, illness, and certain diseases.

8.
You should do as much as you can on good days to make up for what you couldn’t get done on bad days. Answer

False. For some people with fibromyalgia, doing too much on good days can bring on more bad days. If this has happened to you before, be sure to pace yourself and take breaks—even on the good days.

9.
Acupuncture may sometimes be used as a supportive measure in treating the pain of fibromyalgia. Answer

True. This ancient Chinese form of therapy is still not fully understood. Many studies indicate that acupuncture may offer symptomatic relief in some patients for a variety of diseases. Please consult your doctor before considering any new treatment.

10.
Pain and fatigue from fibromyalgia are consistent and predictable. Answer

False. Fibromyalgia symptoms can be unpredictable. Pain and fatigue may increase or decrease without notice, so it may be hard to plan your daily activities.

11. Fibromyalgia is quickly diagnosed when symptoms begin. Answer

False. Even when symptoms begin, fibromyalgia may not be easy to diagnose. There is no blood test or X-ray to identify it, and some fibromyalgia symptoms are similar to other conditions. That’s why patients may end up seeing more than one doctor before being diagnosed. So it’s important to ask the right questions to have better conversations during your appointments.