Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that results in musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, poor sleep, and issues with mood and memory. The symptoms can present themselves after a physical trauma or accident, or as a result of a surgery, an infection, or due to intense, psychological stress. It can be absolutely debilitating.
At North Texas Internal Medicine Specialists in Plano, Texas, Mihaela Perijoc, MD, MHA, and the team go all out to find the best treatments for their patients, as well as helping them manage their symptoms. We know how much of a life disruption fibromyalgia can be and how it can affect so many parts of your life. There is no cure, but medicine and a variety of approaches can help.
Researchers believe that fibromyalgia actually changes the brain by repeating and increasing nerve stimulation and pain signals in the brain. This makes your brain’s receptors overly sensitive to pain and can have them overact.
In other words, neurotransmitters may think there is pain in your body when there really isn’t any. In addition to the previously noted suspected causes, genetics can play a major factor, as can being female. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women are twice as likely to develop this condition than men.
If you’re dealing with fibromyalgia, some of the symptoms you may experience are:
The first step is to get a correct diagnosis, which isn’t as clear-cut as it may sound. Dr. Perijoc goes through at least 18 body points that could be sore and tender, and she notes whether this pain is unexplained and has been bothering you for more than three months.
This information, along with a list of your other symptoms, makes things clearer and helps her rule out other possible causes. There’s no cure for fibromyalgia, so Dr. Perijoc creates an individualized plan to manage your symptoms and increase your quality of life.
You need to be as healthy as you can be in other areas, which is why she approaches your treatment with a full variety of options. Medicine is a likely option, as is regular exercise, especially aerobic exercise, and movements and stretching activities like yoga and tai chi are very helpful.
A healthy diet and mind are also essential, so eating well and reducing your stress are imperative. Physical and occupational therapy is also a significant way to deal with your physical ailments.
If we diagnose you with fibromyalgia, we work with you to create the best and most personalized plan to increase your quality of life. Don’t wait any longer. Call us now for an appointment or use the handy Book Online tool here on our website.
