Fibromyalgia is widely acknowledged to be a medical illness. However, myths regarding this poorly understood condition persist. Read on to learn about some of the most common fibromyalgia misconceptions.
Myth: Fibromyalgia does not exist.
Truth: Fibromyalgia is a real medical condition that includes specific medical criteria for diagnosis. The disease causes widespread pain and affects up to 4 percent of adults. Aside from pain, common signs of fibromyalgia include:
- Problems with memory and thinking, known as “fibro fog”
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Headaches
The nervous system is involved in fibromyalgia. It’s widely thought that brain chemical imbalances cause people with fibromyalgia to process pain signals differently than people without the condition.
Myth: Fibromyalgia can't really be diagnosed.
Truth: Although there’s no single laboratory test that can diagnose fibromyalgia, there are specific criteria to receive a diagnosis. The primary criteria is widespread pain in at least four areas in the body that has been present for at least three months. A healthcare provider (HCP) will use questionnaires to determine the extent of your pain and severity of fatigue, sleep, and cognitive symptoms. Based on your score, they can make a diagnosis.
Myth: Fibromyalgia only affects middle-aged women.
Truth: While most people diagnosed with fibromyalgia are female, men can have the disease, too. In fact, some research suggests that the prevalence of fibromyalgia is similar in men and women. Some of the disparity may be explained by the symptoms experienced by men. They may be less sensitive to pain and have fewer tender points. In addition, some men may want to avoid the social stigma of having what has often been considered a “female illness.”
Myth: There are no effective fibromyalgia treatments.
Truth: Fibromyalgia has several treatment options. In addition to over-the-counter pain relievers, medications can include antidepressants to help relieve pain and fatigue. Anti-seizure drugs can also help relieve pain. A healthcare provider (HCP) may also recommend physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or counseling. Self-care, including stress management, adequate sleep, and regular exercise, is considered a cornerstone of fibromyalgia treatment.
What works for one person may not work for another, however. It’s important to work closely with an HCP to refine and modify your fibromyalgia treatment.
