Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that is characterized by muscle pain and fatigue. The word fibromyalgia is derived from the Latin term for fibrous tissue ( fibro) and the Greek ones for muscle ( myo) and pain ( algia). It refers to the pain in the muscles, ligaments, tendons and other tender points of the body. These tender points can be neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs. This condition is also referred to as a "syndrome" because it has a set of signs and symptoms that occur together. Previously it was known as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias. Around 3-6% of the U.S. population suffers from fibromyalgia. It mostly affects the women of all ages but at the same time men and children are also affected. The disorder usually develops during early and middle adulthood and also during childbearing years of women. It is considered as a very confusing and misunderstood condition due to its common symptoms and normal laboratory tests.

It is often considered as an arthritis-related condition, but it is not a form of arthritis, as it does not cause inflammation or damage to the joints, muscles, or other tissues. It has some similarities of arthritis, causing pain and fatigue and is also considered as a rheumatic condition. It lasts for longer period may be for the lifetime. It is not a progressive problem and improves with the time.

The signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia vary depending on the weather conditions, lifestyle, body conditions and stress. The exact cause of fibromyalgia in still unknown. Its difficult to treat the condition of fibromyalgia as its exact causes is unknown and the doctors are not much aware of the signs and symptoms of the problem.

The NIAMS sponsors research will help many scientists in understanding the specific problems that cause fibromyalgia. This will help in diagnosing and in the treatment of the problem.

The research on fibromyalgia supported by NIAMS covers a broad spectrum, ranging from basic laboratory research to studies of medications and interventions designed to reduce pain.

Symptoms for Fibromyalgia

Due to weather conditions, living habits, body conditions the symptoms of fibromyalgia vary from individual to individual.

The main symptom of fibromyalgia is chronic pain. Pain is felt in almost all tender points but it starts from one point or region and gradually reaches the other parts. The patient also suffers from various neurological complaints such as numbness; burning and tingling sensation that causes more discomfort. The pain and stiffness is worse in the morning. The cold weather, anxiety and stress are some of the pain aggravating factors. The pain is accompanied with fatigue that interferes with the normal performance of daily activities. The fatigue causes more discomfort as compare to pain. Many people with fibromyalgia suffer from sleep disorders. The people usually feel tired after getting up in the morning. They often have difficulty in falling asleep. They frequently get up several times in the night. Some other symptoms of fibromyalgia are:

• Constipation
• Headaches and migraines
• Changes in mood
• Restlessness
• Skin rashes
• Depression
• Lack of memory and concentration
• Dryness in mouth

Causes for Fibromyalgia

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still not known. The scientists are conducting many experiments and researches to know the factors that are responsible for the onset of fibromyalgia. According to many researchers it is a disorder of central processing with neuroendocrine dysregulation. One of the leading theories believed that low levels of a chemical called serotonin might lead to the problem. The chemical serotonin is found in whole of the body and plays an important role in controlling pain and regulating sleep. Blood tests have confirmed that people with fibromyalgia have low serotonin levels. An increasing number of scientific studies conclude that the patient with fibromyalgia shows multiple physiological abnormalities like increased levels of substance P in the spinal cord, low levels of blood flow to the thalamus region of the brain. The other factors responsible for fibromyalgia are:

• Lack of sleep
• Genetic factors
• Hormonal changes
• Trauma
• Overexertion
• Problems in the immune system
• Nutritional deficiencies

Treatment for Fibromyalgia

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is difficult and further causes problem in its treatment also. The doctors can only depend on physical symptoms for the diagnosis. Based on these symptoms doctors have found some treatments that included massage therapy and herbal remedies. Various herbs can be used to reduce pain and stiffness, strengthen the immune system and to stimulate hormones. Siberian ginseng is the energizing herb that helps in dealing with fatigue caused by fibromyalgia. St. John’s Wart is the other effective herb that helps in reducing the nerve pains. Cayenne, echinacea, goldenseal, astralagus, myrrh and chaparral boost the immune system and improve circulation around the tender points. The most effective herb is calendula that has been proved to have beneficial effects in the treatment of fibromyalgia. The herb dandelion reduces the intensity of pain and strengthens the connective tissue. Pine-bark and grape-seed extracts has anti-inflammatory properties that helps to ease pain. Ginger is also an effective herb that acts in the same manner as aspirin. Ginger tea is considered the most effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of pain.