Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that affects your bones and muscles. Some of the classic symptoms of fibromyalgia include muscle pain, joint pain, and fatigue. It is also misdiagnosed often as symptoms of fibromyalgia are very similar to those of conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, hypothyroidism, and polymyalgia rheumatica.

Fibromyalgia is one of the many conditions of which the causes cannot be identified. The problem can be linked to how your brain and spinal cord process pain signals from nerve impulses. Other causes or likely triggers of fibromyalgia include the following:

• A family history of people suffering from fibromyalgia can also be one of the triggers
• Mood disorders like anxiety or depression can lead to developing symptoms
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can also result in fibromyalgia
• Lack of exercise and physical activity can cause muscle and joint problems

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia
Symptoms of fibromyalgia can often be confused with those of osteoarthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis, all of which lead to joint and muscle problems. Here are a few visible signs you should look out for in fibromyalgia.

• Nervousness, anxiety, or depression
• Having trouble concentrating, a symptom that is also referred to as “fibro fog”
• Reduced pain threshold
• Fatigue
• Muscle problems such as severe pain, twitching, and a burning sensation
• Insomnia

Diagnosis of fibromyalgia

• The most effective mode of diagnosing a fibromyalgia condition is to eliminate the possibility of other medical conditions with similar signs and symptoms. Common eliminations include thyroid problems, various types of arthritis, and lupus
• Common diagnosis methods previously included a complete analysis of pain lasting for more than three months and tender point testing. Pain history enabled medical professionals to narrow the possible areas of discomfort experienced due to the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Tender point testing, on the other hand, included 18 designated possible tender points where pain and discomforts are experienced
• However, in 2010, the American College of Rheumatology eliminated tender point testing and approved new provisional diagnostic criteria using widespread pain index and symptom severity scale

Treatment options for fibromyalgia

• Symptom management is one of the effective options for tackling fibromyalgia. The symptoms of fibromyalgia can be confused with many similar conditions. Therefore, there is no universal treatment for fibromyalgia. Prescription medications, behavioral intervention, and exercise will help manage the developing symptoms
• Pain, depression, fatigue, and sleep disturbances can be managed with antidepressants. However, there can be associated side effects and certain withdrawal symptoms after prolonged use of antidepressants. Consult with your primary care provider to identify the possible side effects and understand the minimum dosage requirements to tackle varying levels of severity
• Anti-seizure medication can also be used to alleviate pain in small doses and for short-term relief only

Therapy options for fibromyalgia
Certain therapies are introduced to improve the quality of life

Cognitive behavioral therapy
This therapy is beneficial when combined with a good exercise routine to help you cope with moderate pain.

Mind-body therapy
This therapy focuses on a more holistic approach, combining physiological and physical factors to improve the quality of life.