Fibromyalgia in Santa Marta, Colombia

What is fibromyalgia?

It is a chronic condition causing widespread muscle and joint pain, along with fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, memory and concentration problems and often anxiety or depression. It is linked to increased nervous system sensitivity to pain.

How is it diagnosed?

No blood test or scan confirms it. Diagnosis is clinical, based on symptoms and their duration. Tests are used to rule out similar conditions such as thyroid problems or rheumatic diseases.

How is it treated?

Gradual aerobic exercise has the strongest evidence, even if it is hard at first. It is combined with education about the condition, better sleep, psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy and, in some cases, pain-modulating medication. The goal is to regain quality of life and function.

Which specialists are involved?

A rheumatologist usually makes the diagnosis. Pain specialists, physiatrists, physical therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists help with management. A team approach works better than treating each symptom separately.

Find fibromyalgia specialists

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