Fibromyalgia is an arthritic condition that affects the entire body. Approximately four million adults throughout the United States have this disease, and it affects women more frequently than men. Unlike other forms of arthritis, fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune or inflammatory disease; its actual causes are unknown.
Aside from gender, several factors may increase your risk of developing fibromyalgia. It’s diagnosed most commonly in people who are middle-aged. Additionally, chronic comorbidities, particularly lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, may make you more susceptible to this condition. Other potential risk factors include post-traumatic stress, repetitive injuries, viral illnesses, genetics, and obesity.
Given that there is no cure for fibromyalgia, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing their impact on your life as much as possible. This typically includes a combination of medication and therapy.
The drugs most commonly used to combat fibromyalgia symptoms include over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium, as well as antidepressants such as duloxetine and milnacipran. Antiseizure drugs such as gabapentin and pregabalin may also help.
Therapeutic treatment approaches for fibromyalgia focus on coping with symptoms while performing daily activities and include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and mental health counseling.
Don’t let Fibromyalgia stop you from staying physically active and living your life. Schedule an appointment with one of our Queens fibromyalgia doctors now.