Fibromyalgia

South Lake Pain Institute

Pain Medicine & Anesthesiology located in Clermont, FL

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that can develop in anyone, but 75-90% of all those with this debilitating condition are women. The doctors at South Lake Pain Institute have extensive experience developing holistic treatment plans to relieve your symptoms and help you live well by managing chronic pain. If you have questions about fibromyalgia or would like to schedule an appointment, call our office in Clermont, Florida, or book an appointment online.

Fibromyalgia Q & A

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness in your muscles and soft tissues. You may be diagnosed with fibromyalgia when your pain lasts longer than three months and there’s no other underlying medical condition causing it.

Although what causes fibromyalgia is unknown, emerging evidence points to changes in your brain and nerves that make you hypersensitive to pain.

In addition to pain that’s often severe, fibromyalgia causes symptoms such as:

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Stiff muscles
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Difficulty concentrating (fibro fog)
  • Depression
  • Anxiety or depression

Fibromyalgia symptoms may develop gradually, but up to 25% of patients say their fibromyalgia was triggered by physical or emotional trauma, an infection, or injury.

Am I at risk for developing fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia occurs more frequently in women than in men. You may also be at a higher risk if you smoke, have a close relative with fibromyalgia, or you have another autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

How is fibromyalgia managed?

The doctors at South Lake Pain Institute work with each patient, searching for the most effective way to relieve their pain and renew their energy while helping them learn to live each day to the fullest despite the pain.

This approach reflects the reality that fibromyalgia is widespread, chronic, and doesn’t have a cure. Several types of medications provide some pain relief, including a few that are FDA-approved for fibromyalgia.

However, the most important part of your treatment focuses on ways you can manage your pain every day. Your doctor at South Lake Pain Institute teaches you ways to support your health such as:

Modifying eating habits

Fibromyalgia symptoms worsen when you eat an unhealthy diet. Your doctor at South Lake Pain Institute offers dietary guidance, helps you plan a nutrient-rich diet and teaches you about nutrients that are often deficient in patients with fibromyalgia.

Engage in regular exercise

Staying active, even with gentle exercise, boosts your energy and relieves pain. Your doctor at South Lake Pain Institute helps you develop an exercise routine that starts slowly, includes activities that are safe for you, and teaches you how to pace yourself so you know when to rest.

Whether you need a thorough exam for widespread pain or you’re already diagnosed with fibromyalgia and need help managing your symptoms, call South Lake Pain Institute or book an appointment online.