Fibromyalgia Specialist

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic medical condition associated with widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and other unpleasant symptoms that can significantly reduce the quality of your life. Fibromyalgia appears to intensify the way your brain processes pain signals.

What are the risk factors for fibromyalgia?

The cause of fibromyalgia isn’t entirely understood, but certain factors increase your risk of developing it. Examples include:

• Genetics
• Family history of fibromyalgia
• Chronic stress
• Infections
• Emotional or physical trauma
• Being a woman
• Obesity

You’re also more likely to develop fibromyalgia if you have a chronic medical condition like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or lupus.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Signs and symptoms that may indicate you have fibromyalgia, include:

• Fatigue
• Widespread pain
• Stiffness
• Cognitive impairments
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleeping problems
• Headaches
• Digestive problems
• Tingling or numbness

Some people with fibromyalgia also experience temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, anxiety, depression, bladder problems, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Discomfort and lack of sleep associated with fibromyalgia can interfere with your ability to function at your best on the job and at home.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

Dr. Goldman reviews your medical history and asks questions about your symptoms. If you’ve had widespread pain for over three months and he rules out other medical conditions with diagnostic testing, Dr. Goldman could diagnose you with fibromyalgia.

What is the treatment for fibromyalgia?

Treatment for fibromyalgia involves relieving discomfort with one or more of the following:

Medications

Medications can ease fibromyalgia symptoms and help you sleep better. Examples include antidepressants, pain relievers, and anti-seizure medicines. Dr. Goldman lets you know which medication is right for you.

Therapy

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling help improve your stamina, strength, and flexibility. They also relieve stress, depression, and pain associated with fibromyalgia.

Alternative medicine

Integrative therapies Dr. Goldman might suggest include massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, and tai chi.

Lifestyle changes

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits helps you better manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Examples include getting plenty of sleep, stress reduction (such as meditation), eating healthy foods, limiting caffeine, and getting regular low-impact exercise.

Don’t let fibromyalgia and its symptoms become debilitating and ruin the quality of your life. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Goldman at Brighton Beach Medical Group by phone or online today.