Chronic Disease Series: Fibromyalgia
Unyielding pain, sleep loss, feelings of depression—these are just some of the symptoms that fibromyalgia patients live with every day. In this blog, we outline some of the basic details of this enigmatic and painful disorder as part of our Chronic Disease Series.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder affecting the musculoskeletal system that causes intense and chronic pain. Although the root cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, body trauma tends to be the most common trigger. Many patients are afflicted with fibromyalgia after they’ve been in a car accident, experienced intense psychological strain, or had repeated injuries.
Who Gets Fibromyalgia?
More than 5 million American adults—ninety percent of them women—are currently living with fibromyalgia. The disorder also runs in families, having relatives with fibromyalgia may make you more likely to develop it.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
People affected by fibromyalgia experience chronic, unyielding pain for three months or more. The pain is typically widespread and affects both the upper and lower halves of the body. The chronic discomfort also sparks other fibromyalgia symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, numbness, and sensitivity to temperature, light, or sound.
Many patients also experience “fibro fog,” which compromises cognitive abilities and causes memory loss.
Living with Fibromyalgia
With the proper treatment plan, patients can manage their illness and maintain a high quality of life. Cymbalta, an antidepressant, is used to alleviate pain and fatigue.
Sleep loss is one of the most debilitating side effects of fibromyalgia, and Prozac can help patients reclaim their eight hours. Over-the-counter pain relievers are sometimes used to manage discomfort, though prescriptions are typically more effective for widespread and chronic pain.
Simplefill is proud to offer prescription assistance to patients living with fibromyalgia. If you need help accessing the medication you need to manage this disorder, apply for our RX assist today. Since 2009, we’ve helped thousands of people advocate for their health by making their medication assistance easier. Every patient should be able to live healthfully and happily. Let Simplefill help.
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