Because of potential complications with the use of these medications, you may wish to consult rheumatology before initiating treatment with these agents. This disorder is among the most common conditions seen in a rheumatology referral practice. It is a disease that predominantly affects middle aged women that is characterized by generalized pain, fatigue, and nonrestorative sleep. Many of the same symptoms are seen in veterans with Persian Gulf syndrome. There are no abnormalities noted on radiograph.
Laboratory studies are invariably unremarkable.
The treatment consists of using certain drugs that appear to help control pain and promote more normal sleep. It should be used with caution in older men with prostatic hypertrophy. Patients with signs of depression should be referred for psychiatric evaluation. Aerobic exercise is a critical component of the treatment regimen for fibromyalgia. For example, indomethacin is seems best for spondyloarthritic disorders.