Fibromyalgia/CFIDS Health Channel

Definition

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome of chronic fatigue and diffuse muscle pain and sleep problems. There is not yet a proven cause, but there is some evidence to suggest that it may be created by a certain central nervous system abnormality that heightens a person's sensitivity to pain.

Alternative Names

Fibrositis, fibromyositis, fibrositides.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

People with fibromyalgia have pain in many muscle groups and feel tired much of the time, yet their doctors tell them they can't find anything wrong with them because there is no definitive lab test from which the diagnosis can be made. In most case, the doctor cannot find an anatomical or laboratory abnormality. Fibromyalgia is not a disease but a condition, thought to be a response to stress such as an injury or infection (e.g. Epstein-Barr virus) or stressful emotional event. It is more common in women than in men - nine out of ten fibromyalgia patients are women. Certain people who are more susceptible to stress than others may also be more susceptible to fibromyalgia.

It is estimated that six million Americans suffer with fibromyalgia. As many as 20% of the patients seeking treatment from rheumatologists may have fibromyalgia. The syndrome usually occurs in people ages 20 to 65 years old, peaking at age 35 years. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a common comorbidity, as are myofascial pain syndrome and depression. It is possible that there is a common genetic predisposition to fibromyalgia and depression.

Symptoms

The hallmark of fibromyalgia is tender points of the body.