Fibromyalgia is not life threatening and does not cause any permanent destruction to body tissues. Nonetheless, it can cause long-term problems including a dramatic drop in one's energy level. According to the Arthritis Foundation, an estimated 3.7 million Americans have fibromyalgia, making it the second leading arthritis-related condition. Other experts think the numbers are greater, with perhaps as many as one in twenty Americans having this condition. Some rheumatologists say that fibromyalgia is the most common condition seen in their practices, especially among women younger than 50.
Many people often spend years going from doctor to doctor before receiving an accurate diagnosis.
Consequently, people are sometimes told that nothing medically is wrong. Although the cause and cure of this condition are not yet known, treatment is available to help people affected by fibromyalgia. According to the Arthritis Foundation, treatment includes medication that reduces pain and promotes deeper sleep, aerobic exercise, stress reduction and relaxation techniques. Avoid or deal with factors that are known to interfere with what is called stage 4 sleep. Consider massage, sedative baths, stretching exercises, and stress management.