DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Chronic Condition

Fibromyalgia

MODERATE

A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Central sensitization syndrome where pain signals are amplified. Affects 2-4% of population, predominantly women.

Global Affected

40.0M

Countries

111

Symptoms

Widespread pain (both sides of body)
Fatigue
Sleep disturbances
Cognitive issues ('fibro fog')
Morning stiffness
Headaches
Irritable bowel syndrome
Anxiety and depression
Tender points

Treatment Options

SNRIs (duloxetine, milnacipran)
Pregabalin
Gabapentin
Low-dose naltrexone
Amitriptyline
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Graded exercise therapy
Physical therapy

Risk Factors

1Female gender (80-90%)
2Age 30-50
3Family history
4Rheumatic disease
5Trauma or infection trigger
6Obesity
7Sedentary lifestyle
8Stress
9Sleep disorders
10Mood disorders

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Clinical diagnosis (ACR 2016 criteria)
  • 2Widespread Pain Index (WPI)
  • 3Symptom Severity Scale (SSS)
  • 4Exclusion of other conditions
  • 5Tender point examination
  • 6Sleep studies
  • 7Psychological evaluation

Prognosis

Chronic condition with fluctuating course; not progressive or fatal. Quality of life significantly impaired. 30-40% achieve meaningful improvement with multimodal treatment.

Prevention

  • No known prevention
  • Stress management
  • Regular exercise
  • Good sleep hygiene
  • Early treatment of triggers

Research Status

FDA-approved: Duloxetine, milnacipran, pregabalin. Low-dose naltrexone showing promise. Neuroimaging research revealing altered pain processing. Exercise and CBT remain cornerstone treatments. Research into small fiber neuropathy connection.

Sources

  • https://medlineplus.gov
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.