According to the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA), fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain disorder that affects individuals physically and mentally. More than 5 million American adults suffer from this condition according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).
Causes
The exact cause for fibromyalgia remains unknown. Medical professionals believe genetics, infections and physical or emotional trauma are contributing factors.
Symptoms
According to the NFA, fibromyalgia presents the symptoms such as widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disorders, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and headaches or migraines.
Complications
Because of the chronic wide-spread pain, sleep disorders and severe fatigue, fibromyalgia can cause depression, according to the NFA.
Diagnosing
According to the American College of Rheumatology, pain has to last for at least three months and there must be at least 11 of 18 positive tender points on the body to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
Treatments
Because the exact cause remains unknown, there's no cure for fibromyalgia. Treatments are designed to relieve symptoms such as pain and depression through various medications.
