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Approximately 3.7 million to 6 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia, a condition that causes widespread muscle pain, poor sleep, fatigue, and other associated symptoms (Arthritis Foundation, 2001; Wallace and Wallace, 1999). The term fibromyalgia is taken from three Latin and Greek words: fibra, which means fibrous tissue (i.e., tendons and ligaments); myos, which means muscles; and algos, which means pain. Fibromyalgia is considered a syndrome, or collection of symptoms, rather than a disease. Other common features of fibromyalgia include headaches; temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain (i.e., jaw pain); morning stiffness; a sensation of swelling, numbness and tingling; irritable bowel syndrome; irritable bladder symptoms; restless legs; memory and concentration difficulties; dizziness or sense of imbalance; and sensitivities. Like other chronic pain conditions and syndromes, some people also may have symptoms of depression and/or anxiety; however, neither depression nor anxiety is known to cause fibromyalgia.
Many individuals with fibromyalgia report feeling very frustrated because they generally look and act "OK" but rarely feel "OK." There are no blood tests or X-rays that can detect fibromyalgia. Doctors diagnose the condition by using criteria established by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), which includes widespread pain throughout the body and the presence of multiple tender points.
Since there are no lab tests or X-rays available to diagnose fibromyalgia, it may take years before you are accurately diagnosed. Fibromyalgia is approximately 10 times more common in women than men and occurs worldwide; however, it is seen most in the Caucasian population. The syndrome affects people of all ages, although it is most often diagnosed during the early to mid-adulthood years (20-50 years).
The cause of this syndrome is poorly understood, but there are many promising areas of research underway. Current theories include faulty regulation of the body's ability to process pain, recover from stress, and obtain refreshing sleep. Although there is not a known cure at this time, there are many things you can do to manage the symptoms and live a happy, productive life despite chronic pain.
Support Groups
An excellent resource for local support groups is the Arthritis Foundation, 1-800-283-7800 or arthritis.org.
1. The Arthritis Foundation's Guide to Good Living with Fibromyalgia, Arthritis Foundation, 2001.
2. The Fibromyalgia Help Book, Fransen, J., Russell, I.J., Smith House Press, 1996.
3. Making Sense of Fibromyalgia, Wallace, D. J., Wallace, J. B., Oxford University Press, 1999.
4. Mayo Clinic on Chronic Pain, 2nd edition, Rome, J. Kensington Publishing Corp., 2002.
5. Mayo Fibromyalgia Treatment Program Manual, 1999.