Muscle fibrositis, more commonly known now as fibromyalgia, is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and localized tenderness.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Widespread Pain: The pain is felt in multiple areas of the body, not just in one specific spot.
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Musculoskeletal Pain: The pain originates in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
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Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy are common symptoms.
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Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep are frequent issues.
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Localized Tenderness: Specific points on the body (tender points) are extremely sensitive to touch.
While the term "fibrositis" implied inflammation, it's now understood that fibromyalgia is not primarily an inflammatory condition. The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and psychological stress.
Here's a summary in table format:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Widespread Pain | Pain felt in multiple areas of the body |
| Fatigue | Persistent tiredness and lack of energy |
| Sleep Problems | Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or non-restorative sleep |
| Tender Points | Specific points on the body that are extremely sensitive to touch |
| Morning Stiffness | Stiffness, especially upon waking up |
It is important to note that diagnosis is typically based on a patient's reported symptoms and a physical examination to identify tender points, as there are no specific blood tests or imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis.
In summary, muscle fibrositis, now largely replaced by the term fibromyalgia, describes a syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep issues, and localized tenderness, though not an inflammatory process.
