fibromylgia, fibromyalga, fibermyalgia, firbromialgia, fibramyalgia, fibremyalgia
What Is Fibromyalgia Syndrome?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by
widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points.
"Tender points" refers to tenderness that occurs in precise, localized
areas, particularly in the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips. People with
this syndrome may also experience sleep disturbances, morning stiffness,
irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and other symptoms.
How Many People Have Fibromyalgia Syndrome?
According to the American College of Rheumatology,
fibromyalgia affects 3 to 6 million Americans. It primarily occurs in
women of childbearing age, but children, the elderly, and men can also
be affected.
What Causes Fibromyalgia Syndrome?
Although the cause of fibromyalgia syndrome is unknown, researchers
have several theories about causes or triggers of the disorder. Some
scientists believe that the syndrome may be caused by an injury or
trauma. This injury may affect the central nervous system. Fibromyalgia
may be associated with changes in muscle metabolism, such as decreased
blood flow, causing fatigue and decreased strength. Others believe the
syndrome may be triggered by an infectious agent such as a virus in
susceptible people, but no such agent has been identified.
How Is Fibromyalgia Syndrome Diagnosed?
Fibromyalgia syndrome is difficult to diagnose because many of the
symptoms mimic those of other disorders. The physician reviews the
patient's medical history and makes a diagnosis of fibromyalgia based on
a history of chronic widespread pain that persists for more than 3
months. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed
criteria for fibromyalgia that physicians can use in diagnosing the
disorder. According to ACR criteria, a person is considered to have
fibromyalgia if he or she has widespread pain in combination with
tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific tender point sites.
Fibromyalgia Treatment
Fibromyalgia treatment requires a comprehensive
approach. The physician, physical therapist, and patient may all play an
active role in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that
aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, improves muscle fitness
and reduces muscle pain and tenderness. Heat and massage may also give
short-term relief. Antidepressant medications may help elevate mood,
improve quality of sleep, and relax muscles. Patients with fibromyalgia
may benefit from a combination of exercise, medication, physical
therapy, and relaxation.
What Research Is Being Conducted on FibromyalgiaSyndrome?
The NIAMS is sponsoring research that will increase
understanding of the specific abnormalities that cause and accompany
fibromyalgia with the hope of developing better ways to diagnose, treat,
and prevent this disorder.
Recent NIAMS studies show that abnormally low levels of
the hormone cortisol may be associated with fibromyalgia. At Brigham and
Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, and at the University of
Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor, researchers are studying
regulation of the function of the adrenal gland (which makes cortisol)
in fibromyalgia. People whose bodies make inadequate amounts of cortisol
experience many of the same symptoms as people with fibromyalgia. It is
hoped that these studies will increase understanding about fibromyalgia
and may suggest new ways to treat the disorder.
NIAMS research studies are looking at different aspects of
the disorder. At the University of Alabama in Birmingham, researchers
are concentrating on how specific brain structures are involved in the
painful symptoms of fibromyalgia. At George Washington University in
Washington, DC, scientists are investigating the causes of a post-Lyme
disease syndrome as a model for fibromyalgia. Some patients develop a
fibromyalgia-like condition following Lyme disease, an infectious
disorder associated with arthritis and other symptoms.
NIAMS-supported research on fibromyalgia also includes
several projects at the Institute's Multipurpose Arthritis and
Musculoskeletal Diseases Centers. Researchers at these centers are
studying individuals who do not seek medical care, but who meet the
criteria for fibromyalgia. (Potential subjects are located through
advertisements in local newspapers asking for volunteers with widespread
pain or aching.) Other studies at the Centers are attempting to uncover
better ways to manage the pain associated with the disorder through
behavioral interventions such as relaxation training.
In March 1998, NIAMS and several other NIH institutes and
offices issued a Request for Proposals to promote research studies of
fibromyalgia. As a result of this request, NIAMS and its partners
recently funded 15 new fibromyalgia projects totaling more than $3.6
million.
The NIAMS supports and encourages outstanding basic and
clinical research that increases the understanding of fibromyalgia.
However, much more research needs to be done before fibromyalgia can be
successfully treated or prevented.
The Federal Government, in collaboration with researchers,
physicians, and private voluntary health organizations, is committed to
research efforts that are directed at significantly improving the health
of all Americans afflicted with fibromyalgia.
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