Last Updated on December 18, 2024 by Analgesia team
Fibromyalgia
Overview
Fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition that is characterized by widespread pain and hypersensitivity to pressure. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
The term Fibromyalgia comes from:
- “Fibro” meaning fibrous tissues (like tendons and ligaments),
- “myo” meaning muscle and
- algia” meaning pain.
The condition was first described in the 19th century, but it wasn’t renamed fibromyalgia until 1976.
It can take some time to confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia because the symptoms resemble those of other conditions. Some of these conditions include
- Lupus
- Non Celiac gluten sensitivity
- Polymyalgia rheumatica
- Hypothyroidism
- Nerve compression syndromes
While there’s no cure, there are several treatment options that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life
Living with fibromyalgia can be challenging, and managing the condition often requires a multidisciplinary approach including medication, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and psychological support.
Here are some key statistics about fibromyalgia:
- Prevalence: Approximately 2% of the global population is affected by fibromyalgia, which translates to around 160 million people worldwide.
- Gender Disparity: Women are 7 times more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia compared to men.
- Age of Onset: Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 60, but it can occur at any age, including in children.
- Diagnosis Time: On average, it takes about 5 years for someone to receive a diagnosis after the onset of symptoms.
- Symptoms: Common symptoms include widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties (often referred to as “fibro fog”)