Fibromyalgia is a non joint rheumatic disease characterized by diffuse pain throughout the body, often accompanied by various non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disorders, and cognitive impairment. This condition has clear tender points in fixed parts of the patient's body and can occur at any age, but the peak incidence is concentrated between the ages of 20 and 65, with more female patients than male patients.
Classification of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can be divided into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary fibromyalgia is not accompanied by other specific diseases, while secondary fibromyalgia can be secondary to various diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, etc.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Diffuse pain throughout the body: Pain spreads throughout the body, including the neck, head, back, waist, and limbs.
Fatigue and weakness: Patients often feel tired and lack energy.
Sleep disorders: manifested as difficulty falling asleep, shallow sleep, easy awakening, and frequent dreaming.
Cognitive impairment: such as memory loss, lack of concentration, etc.
Other non-specific symptoms: such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, hair loss, wheals, dry eyes, eye irritation, dry mouth, frequent urination, urgency, etc.
The latest treatment methods for fibromyalgia
The treatment of fibromyalgia typically requires a combination of multiple measures to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. Here are some of the latest treatment methods:
medication:
Antidepressants: such as tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin reuptake inhibitors, etc., can improve sleep status and relieve pain.
Central nervous system drugs: including anticonvulsants, central analgesics, sedatives, etc., can help alleviate symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: can alleviate pain and inflammation, but attention should be paid to their potential side effects.
Non pharmacological treatment:
Massage: Relieve muscle tension and pain through professional massage techniques.
Hot compress and cold compress: Hot compress promotes blood circulation, while cold compress reduces inflammation and swelling.
Acupuncture and moxibustion: Stimulate acupoints, relax tendons and dredge collaterals, and relieve pain.
Ultrasonic therapy: Utilizing the physical properties of ultrasound to promote local blood circulation, alleviate inflammation and pain.
Cognitive behavioral therapy: helps patients adjust their mentality, learn to cope with stress, and alleviate anxiety and depression.
Relaxation training, such as deep breathing, meditation, etc., can help relax the body and mind, and reduce the feeling of pain.
Physical exercise: Moderate aerobic exercise such as walking, jogging, swimming, yoga, etc. can enhance muscle strength, improve blood circulation, promote metabolism, and alleviate symptoms. But it is important to avoid overexertion and vigorous exercise.
Other treatments:
Healthy diet: Eat more foods rich in vitamins and minerals to enhance the body's immunity.
Keep warm and moisture-proof: Pay attention to daily warmth and avoid stimulating muscles and joints in cold and humid environments.
matters needing attention
Treating fibromyalgia requires patience and sustained effort, as symptoms and reactions may vary among different patients. During the treatment process, close communication should be maintained with the doctor, and timely feedback on the treatment effect and any discomfort should be provided. If the condition is severe or the treatment effect is poor, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and seek the help and treatment of professional doctors.