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The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are the pain in the body that lasts for at least 3 months and that can become more intense when some points of the body are pressed, the so-called points of fibromyalgia. In addition, other symptoms may appear, such as frequent tiredness, sleep disturbances and tingling in the hands and feet, for example. Know other fibromyalgia symptoms.
The pain of fibromyalgia, despite being widespread, is more intense when pressing the painful points that, until now, are known 18, being located:
- On the front and back of the neck;
- On the back of the shoulders;
- Upper chest;
- Upper and central back;
- On the elbows;
- In the lumbar region;
- Below the buttocks;
- On the knees.
The following image illustrates the location of pain points for fibromyalgia:
Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome most common to occur in women between 35 and 50 years old and whose symptoms, especially pain, become more intense after physical activity or exposure to cold. Although the causes are not fully understood, it is believed that fibromyalgia may be related to genetic or psychological factors. Learn more about fibromyalgia.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of fibromyalgia must be confirmed by the general practitioner or rheumatologist by assessing the individual and family health history and the signs and symptoms presented by the person. In addition, a physical examination is done that consists of applying pressure to the painful points of fibromyalgia.
Thus, the diagnosis is confirmed when severe pain is seen in more than 3 areas of the body for fear of 3 months, or when less severe pain is noticed in 7 or more areas of the body for at least 3 months.
In addition, according to the intensity of symptoms and regions in pain, the doctor can identify the severity of fibromyalgia and, thus, indicate the most appropriate treatment to relieve and control the onset of symptoms.
In this way, the doctor will be able to indicate the use of anesthetic medication, massage or physiotherapy sessions, or alternative therapies, such as aromatherapy or acupuncture, for example. See more details of fibromyalgia treatment.
Check out in the video below some stretches that can be done daily to relieve symptoms: