Fibromyalgia
Allergy & Immunology, Rheumatology & Asthma Specialists located in Amarillo, TX
If you spend your days dealing with fibromyalgia, you know it’s hard to get long-lasting relief, and pain often takes a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Constantine K. Saadeh, MD, FAAAAI, FACP, FACR, and the rheumatology experts at Allergy A.R.T.S. in Amarillo, Texas, have extensive experience creating customized treatments that help people with fibromyalgia improve their quality of life. Call the office today or use online booking to schedule an appointment for fibromyalgia care that supports the whole person.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition defined by its symptoms. The primary symptom is muscle pain and tenderness involving a large part of the body.
Some people describe their pain as shooting and sharp, while others have muscular aches, cramps, and twitching. Most people find that the pain is constant but varies in intensity.
In addition to body pain, patients with fibromyalgia have:
Fibromyalgia symptoms typically flare up in response to triggers. The most common triggers include stress, weather changes, excessive physical activity, and anxiety. During a flare, you may have such pain and fatigue that it’s hard to work or take care of your daily responsibilities.
Even though muscle pain is the primary symptom, fibromyalgia isn’t caused by a musculoskeletal disorder. It’s also not an autoimmune disease or the result of chronic inflammation.
The most recent research suggests a central nervous system problem develops when your nerves become overactive, and your brain doesn’t process pain signals properly.
Your provider diagnoses fibromyalgia by reviewing your medical history and symptoms and completing a physical exam. There aren’t any lab tests to diagnose the condition, but they may run diagnostic testing to rule out other conditions.
Fibromyalgia treatment typically includes the following:
Several prescription medications can ease your pain. Cymbalta® and Savella® help balance brain chemicals, and Lyrica® targets nerve and muscle pain. Your provider may also prescribe antidepressants, which do more than treat depression. They also ease pain and fatigue.
Though pain and fatigue make exercise difficult, regular activity helps reduce your pain. Be sure to begin slowly, increase gradually, and balance activity with rest.
Though several triggers can lead to flare-ups, stress is one of the most common. Stress management techniques include medication, massage, and exercise.
If you struggle with body-wide pain and fatigue, don’t wait to seek help from the Allergy A.R.T.S. team. Call the office or use online booking to schedule an appointment and begin your journey to optimal health.