Scientists estimate that fibromyalgia affects 5 million Americans 18 or older. Between 80 and 90 percent of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women. However, men and children also can have the disorder. Most people are diagnosed during middle age.
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes muscle pain and fatigue (feeling tired). People with fibromyalgia have pain and tenderness throughout the body.
A person may have two or more coexisting chronic pain conditions. Such conditions can include chronic fatigue syndrome, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease, interstitial cystitis, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and vulvodynia. It is not known whether these disorders share a common cause.
The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. There may be a number of factors involved. Some scientists think that a gene or genes might be involved in fibromyalgia. The genes could make a person react strongly to things that other people would not find painful.
A majority of individuals affected by fibromyalgia are women, although men and even children can develop the painful condition. From widespread pain to fatigue and concentration issues, these common yet frequently reported symptoms associated with the condition often cause confusion and misunderstanding in the medical field. Being aware of a few quick facts of fibromyalgia can help you understand the condition and learn how to manage its symptoms. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.