Fibromyalgia, a condition which causes exhaustion, sleep disturbances and widespread muscle pain, is still something of a mystery to physicians and to the patients who suffer from it. The condition may affect as much as 3-6 percent of the U.S. population and is more common in women than in men.

Although the cause of fibromylagia is not known, some researchers believe the symptoms result from “central sensitivization,” which means sufferers have a heightened sensitivity to pain. As time goes on, the brain’s pain receptors become conditioned to remember pain and potentially overact to the signals. In other words, people with fibromyalgia may experience pain in stronger ways than others who don’t have the condition. There is not laboratory test available to diagnose fibromyalgia. Doctors must rely on patient histories, self-reported symptoms, a physical examination and a “tender point’ examination.

Because the causes of fibromyalgia are not clear and no cure exists, the goal of treating fibromylagia is to control symptoms and minimize discomfort. Common medications for treating fibromyalgia include analgesics, muscle relaxants and anti-seizure drugs. Medications to ease the sleep disturbances associated with the condition include anti-depressants and short term use of sleeping pills. Some doctors recommend combining medication with therapy to help patients learn techniques to cope with stress, which can exacerbate or trigger pain symptoms. Some patients find relieve in alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and massage.

May 12 is Fibromyalgia Awareness Day, a national health observance to raise awareness about the condition.

Source: Society for Women’s Health Research