Fibromyalgia Research

Since fibromyalgia has a variety of symptoms, such as musculoskeletal pain and tenderness, the diagnosis may be confused with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. It is rarely secondary to another disease.

Fibromyalgia research has shown that about two percent of adults have the condition. It has also been discovered that more women than men have the primary symptoms, but it affects all age groups. However, most patients are between the ages of 20 and 50.

The majority of patients have widespread symptoms such as musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and sleep disruption. Other indications of fibromyalgia are leg cramps, impaired memory, headaches and depression.

There is no blood test or x-ray to establish an exact diagnosis for fibromyalgia. Originally, it was believed that fibromyalgia was all in the patient's head. Research has discovered that fibromyalgia has a physiological basis. A patient who has received an MRI has shown that the brain of a fibromyalgia sufferer reacts differently to stimuli than those who do not have the disease.

Since there is no specific cure for fibromyalgia, a patient should realize that this is a lifelong problem and can only be managed by trying a series of treatment options. Some may help and some may not. The important thing is to try and function normally.

It has been determined that the best treatment program is to become educated and accept a variety of components to your regimen. Also, a regular routine of exercise, sleep, medication and a good diet can mean relief from many of the symptoms.