Early signs of fibromyalgia

by Dr. Deborah Bauers

 Fibromyalgia has been called both a disease and a syndrome. From its earliest signs through the development and duration of its more chronic symptoms it is neither life threatening nor degenerative. Its pathology does not manifest as a true disease process and yet the chronic pain that a fibromyalgia sufferer experiences can make it a debilitating condition. Its complex set of physiological abnormalities make it a recognized health issue that can create significant pain and fatigue.

Fibromyalgia is a rheumatoid-like condition that impacts the soft tissues, tendons, and muscles of the body causing exhaustion and discomfort. One of its earliest but most conclusive signs is often recognized and identified as the presence of pressure sensitive trigger points that are quite painful when palpated.  These pressure points are usually located behind the head and neck, on the shoulders, and behind the knees and elbows.

There are numerous symptoms often associated with fibromyalgia many of which can also be symptomatic of other autoimmune diseases.  For this reason, a rheumatologist or physician who specializes in treating autoimmune diseases is the best healthcare professional to diagnose fibromyalgia. Before the diagnosis can be made, blood work and x-rays must be done to rule out osteoarthritis, thyroid problems, and other auto-immune diseases such as lupus, Sjrogen’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.

Earliest symptoms, together with specific pressure points, that often suggest the onset of fibromyalgia include the following:

1. Pain in the groin

2. Difficulty climbing stairs and hills

3. Chronic sinus problems

4. Dry mouth

5.  Stiffness upon waking

6. Dry eyes

7.  Difficulty swallowing

8.  Chronic fatigue

Numerous other symptoms may occur and become chronic as an individual struggles with fibromyalgia over time.  These include:

1. Irritable bowel

2.  Headaches

3. Tingling and/or numbness in the extremities

4.  Depression

5. Bladder spasms

6. Difficulty concentrating

7. Memory loss

8. Dizziness

9. Sleep disturbances

Much controversy surrounds the origins and precipitating factors that may result in an individual having fibromyalgia.  While it was originally believed that this syndrome was largely the result of the psycho-social factors, more recent studies suggest that it may onset after a virus or illness.  Physical trauma to the body, endocrine imbalances, and deficits in the production of neurotransmitters are all being studied as possible stimuli for the onset of fibromyalgia. 

Fibromyalgia sufferers frequently experience hyper-sensitivity to certain sounds, smells, and tactile experiences and are uncomfortable in large crowds or in the midst of a lot of confusion. Prolonged exposure to overstimulation tends to exacerbate both pain and fatigue.

Overall mental health, coping mechanisms, support systems, and ability to manage stress also appear to intensify pain that is felt by fibromyalgia sufferers.  Certain personality types appear more prone to develop this syndrome and individuals who tend to be more negative in their thinking experience greater levels of fibromyalgia-related pain.

Fibromyalgia is best treated by a comprehensive plan that includes pain management, cognitive and physical therapies, and stress management techniques. Fibromyalgia sufferers must learn to set boundaries that ensure that they get enough rest and moderate exercise, while learning strategies to overcome the perception of helplessness that often accompanies the syndrome.