Symptoms range from mild discomfort to complete debility and may vary from day to day. Other symptoms include feeling tired all the time, difficulty sleeping, headaches, sensitivity to cold, swollen hands, numbness or tingling, joint pain, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, irritable bowel or bladder symptoms, painful menstrual periods. Diagnosis can take a long time because the symptoms are similar to other medical conditions. The criteria published by the American College of Rheumatology and 20 specialist centers across the US and Canada in 1990 makes it possible to make a diagnosis based on patient history and a physical examination. Treatment Treatment will vary from person to person and the management of these patients can be challenging.
Most people can experience improvement in their symptoms and learn how to manage flare-ups.
Non-narcotic pain medications are used during the day. Sometimes, a low dose of tricyclic antidepressant given before bedtime will improve deep sleep and reduce muscle pain. Low-level exercise is important, including gentle stretching . This needs to become part of an everyday routine to maintain muscle function. Sometimes a warm bath or shower helps relax muscles after exercising.