Fibromyalgia

Abstract

Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome, is a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body. The name fibromyalgia comes from three Latin words, 'fibro' meaning fibrous tissues, such as tendons (tissue that connects muscles to bones) and ligaments (tissue that connects bones to bones) 'my' meaning muscles 'algia' meaning pain. However, the pain of fibromyalgia does not just affect the muscles, ligaments and tendons, but is felt all over the body. It results in widespread pain and extreme tiredness. People with fibromyalgia may also have: (1) difficulty sleeping, (2) headaches, (3) irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), (4) muscle stiffness. It is estimated that fibromyalgia affects nearly 1 in 20 people across the globe. Anyone can develop fibromyalgia, although the condition affects more women than men. In most cases, fibromyalgia occurs between 30 and 60 years of age, but it can develop in people of any age, including children and the elderly. There is currently no cure for fibromyalgia, because the cause is unknown. However, there are a number of treatments that may ease symptoms. Treatment tends to be a combination of medicines, such as antidepressants and painkillers, talking therapies, such as counseling, lifestyle changes, such as better sleeping habits and relaxation.