Is fibromyalgia more common in women? Answer this and other questions

Estimates show that fibromyalgia affects 2% of the Brazilian population. The neurosurgeon clarifies myths and truths about the disease

A fibromyalgia It is a disease that is still often underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Characterized by persistent chronic pain, tiredness and mood changes, research suggests it affects between 2% and 4% of the world’s population.

Subsequently, the Dr. Marcelo Valadares, neurosurgeon and researcher in the Neurosurgery Discipline of the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the State University of Campinas, clarifies common doubts about the disease, including: “is it true that fibromyalgia affects women more?” and “can the treatment of this condition be carried out only through the use of drugs?”. Watch:

Fibromyalgia is more common in women

REAL

Estimates indicate that between 80% and 90% of fibromyalgia cases occur in women between 30 and 50 years old. Science has searched for explanations as to why fibromyalgia is more prevalent in women.

“Among the factors involved are hormonal fluctuations, which play a role in pain sensitivity, nervous system regulation, genetics, and psychosocial problems, such as chronic stress, and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression,” he lists Dr. Marcelo

The expert also reveals it women, compared to men, tend to have lower levels of serotonina neurotransmitter associated with pain sensitivity.

The only symptom is chronic pain

Myth

A chronic body pain it is the main symptom of fibromyalgia, but we must not forget that it can also trigger numerous other disorders, for example mental confusion, sleep disorders, fatigue, cognitive problems, muscle stiffness and increased sensitivity.

” Fibromyalgia can manifest itself differently in each person. While some people may experience intense pain throughout the body, others may have localized pain in specific areas. Additionally, symptoms can vary in severity. Personalized and multidisciplinary treatment is essential to address this variety of symptoms,” he comments.

Treatment can be carried out only with the use of medications

Myth

Since there is no cure for fibromyalgia yet, treatment is targeted relief of symptoms and improve the quality of life. This can be done by taking several measures and It’s not just about the use of drugs.

“In addition to medications, it is necessary to include treatments such as physiotherapy, the inclusion of physical exercises in the routine, such as pilates, occupational therapy, relaxation techniques, changes in diet and lifestyle, among other multidisciplinary approaches “, points out .

It can occur in children

REAL

Although it is more common in adults, fibromyalgia can also occur in adolescents and children and, at this stage of life, it can be even more difficult to reach an accurate diagnosisas younger people often have difficulty recognizing and expressing symptoms.

Diagnosis can be complicated

REAL

According to Dr. Marcelo, diagnosing fibromyalgia can be very difficult because, in addition to there being no specific test to detect it, the disease causes symptoms similar to those of others.

In this sense, to confirm the presence of fibromyalgia, it is essential that the doctor carries out a detailed clinical evaluation, analyzing the patient’s history, complaints and investigating the possibility of other conditions that could trigger the symptoms presented.

Fibromyalgia is caused exclusively by psychological factors

Myth

To the The exact causes of fibromyalgia are not yet knownHowever, there is evidence that there are genetic, hormonal and social influences on the development of the condition. Symptoms of fibromyalgia can be aggravated by stress, emotional tension, anxiety and depression, says expert.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.