According to doctors at the Mayo Clinic, nearly two percent of the American population suffers from fibromyalgia. The condition is chronic and is characterized by persistent pain in the joints and ligaments and heightened sensitivity to pain at various points. Fatigue and widespread muscle pain also are symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Risks
Women tend to develop fibromyalgia more often than men. While the symptoms often occur after an emotional or physical trauma, there is no known trigger that sets them off.
Symptoms
In addition to fatigue and joint pain, sufferers also may experience sleep disturbances or sleep apnea that keeps them awake and adds to the chronic fatigue.
Co-occurring disorders
Common among those with fibromyalgia are other disorders such as persistent headaches, depression, osteoarthritis, irritable bowel syndrome or anxiety.
Drug treatment
Drug treatment can include analgesics for pain and antidepressants for the emotional side effects of constant pain. Anti-seizure medications sometimes are used to treat fibromyalgia.
Therapy
Both physical therapy and counseling are recommended for patients to learn new ways of coping with their disorder, report Mayo Clinic doctors.
Diagnosis
Researchers at the National Fibromyalgia Association report that there are no blood tests or x-rays to diagnose the condition. Instead doctors rely on patient history and the patients' own explanation of the pain, as well as a physical exam that considers various touch points and if they cause pain.
