Widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by issues with sleep, memory, mood, fatigue, and depression could be part of a condition called fibromyalgia.  Symptoms can also include tension headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety, and tension headaches.  Women are more prone to developing fibromyalgia as well as patients with a family history of fibromyalgia.  Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or osteoarthritis are also felt to be contributors to the development of this complex condition.  

This condition has no cure, and the root cause is not known.  Medication and lifestyle changes are the only treatments available at this time.  Exercise, stress reduction, and relaxation techniques have been known to help in some cases.  

It is believed that fibromyalgia affects the brain in ways that amplify painful sensations in the body.  Symptoms can come on gradually without a triggering event, or the pain can begin after a surgery, infection, or physical or significant psychological trauma.  

Severe fibromyalgia pain and the lack of sleep associated with the other symptoms often make daily routines difficult at home and work.  Depression and anxiety also tend to develop when dealing with the incurable nature of this condition.  Fibromyalgia symptoms seem to flare up with stress, injury, and illness.  

If you feel that you are dealing with fibromyalgia, make an appointment with Mara Fiorentino, M.D., for an assessment.