Fibromyalgia Specialist

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a painful condition that causes widespread discomfort. It can diminish your ability to complete simple daily tasks, go to work, or take care of your family.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by ongoing, severe fatigue that lasts at least six months without a known cause.

If you have either of these conditions and want symptom relief, see the experts at Rheumatology Associates for an evaluation.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread (all-over) pain throughout your body
• Discomfort that lasts at least three months
• Ongoing fatigue
• Difficulty focusing or paying attention
• Headaches or migraines
• Muscle or joint pain

Chronic fatigue syndrome has similar symptoms, and the two conditions can happen at the same time.

What are the risk factors for fibromyalgia?

While anyone can develop fibromyalgia, things that increase your risk of developing it or chronic fatigue syndrome include:

• Family history of fibromyalgia
• Infections
• Car accidents or other physical trauma
• Ongoing stress
• Being a woman
• Arthritis
• Lupus
• Weak immune system

Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome both cause a poor quality of life when left untreated. See the Rheumatology Associates team at the first sign of a problem.

How does my provider diagnose fibromyalgia?

To diagnose fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, your specialist asks about your symptoms and medical history. They check your vital signs and complete a physical exam to look for signs of musculoskeletal problems. 

Providers often diagnose fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome after thoroughly reviewing your symptoms. However, they might need blood tests, a psychiatric assessment, imaging procedures, or other diagnostic tests to detect or rule out underlying causes.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

Treating fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome will depend on your condition and how severe it is. The experts at Rheumatology Associates usually start by recommending healthy lifestyle changes, like stress management, regular exercise, a nutritious diet, not smoking, and improved sleep habits. They might also suggest you try dietary supplements.

Rheumatology Associates providers offer medications to reduce ongoing pain or improve your mood. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling can also help you cope with fibromyalgia pain or constant fatigue.

If you suspect you have fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome and want symptom relief, call the Rheumatology Associates office today or book an appointment online.