TREATMENT OF Fibromyalgia
The Fibromyalgia syndrome is a common form of widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue (fatigue) that affects approximately 1.5 – 2 million Italians. The term Fibromyalgia means pain in the muscles and fibrous connective structures (the ligaments and tendons). This condition is called "syndrome" because there are clinical signs and symptoms that are present simultaneously (one sign is what the doctor finds in the visit, a symptom is what the patient refers to the doctor). Fibromyalgia often confused because some of its symptoms can be found in other clinical conditions.
Over the past 10 years, however, the syndrome has been better defined by studies that have established guidelines for the diagnosis. These studies have shown that certain symptoms, such as widespread musculoskeletal pain, and the presence of specific areas to acupressure (tender points) are present in patients with Fibromyalgia syndrome and not commonly in healthy people or patients with other painful rheumatic diseases.
The diagnosis of Fibromyalgia syndrome is based on the presence of widespread pain in combination with the presence of tender evocative to acupressure points. There is no review or radiological laboratory that can diagnose Fibromyalgia. These tests can be useful to exclude the presence of other diseases, such as hypothyroidism, which can cause signs and symptoms similar to Fibromyalgia. A careful medical history and a thorough examination may exclude other clinical conditions of chronic pain and asthenia. Because the symptoms of Fibromyalgia are so general and often are similar to those of other diseases, many patients face a complicated and sometimes repetitive evaluations before it is diagnosed the disease. Not all doctors know about Fibromyalgia and is therefore important to see a rheumatology or other doctors who are able to make a correct diagnosis and specific treatment.