Fibromyalgia

Everyone knows someone with fibromyalgia in their circle of friends. But what exactly is fibromyalgia and what can you do about it?

Fibromyalgia mainly occurs in women. About 1 to 2 percent of the population has the condition, which is characterized by pain in the muscles and pressure pain in the four quadrants of the body (i.e. left and right and above and below the belt). In addition to muscle pain, fatigue, concentration problems, sleep disorders, headaches and muscle stiffness also occur.

The diagnosis is made based on the patient's complaints because blood tests, physical examination and radiographs are all normal. As a result, the cause of the disease is unknown and there is therefore no specific treatment. The treatment consists of simple painkillers such as paracetamol and in the worst cases morphine can be administered. In addition, it can also be treated with antidepressants, cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise therapy, physiotherapy and stress management.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025