body. People with fibromyalgia also have “tender points” throughout their bodies.
that hurt when pressure is put on them.
can have the disorder. Most people are diagnosed during middle age.
rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other types of arthritis, may be more likely to have it.
cannot be found by a lab test.
both the right and left sides of the body as well as above and below the waist.
2. Presence of tender points. The body has 18 sites that are possible tender points.
point to be “tender,” the patient must feel pain when pressure is put on the site.
on the body are used for diagnosis.
your doctor wants to rule out rheumatoid arthritis, since that disease also causes pain.
for and how each test is part of making a final diagnosis.
affect the joints and soft tissues.
classes of medications that might help improve certain symptoms.
the same time every day — even on weekends and vacations.
○ Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the late afternoon and evening.
sleep. If you feel you cannot get by without a nap, set an alarm for 1 hour.
When it goes off, get up and start moving.
making it hard to sleep.
○ Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
the bathroom do not lead to good sleep.
counselor may improve your understanding of your illness.
problems with your doctor, who can recommend treatment for them.
their endurance and intensity slowly.
will also help you avoid other health problems.