Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Subject: Re: F.M.S.
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area:
Posted by CCf NeuroMD *!* on November 12, 1997 at 14:41:10:
In Reply to: F.M.S. posted by peter sallmaier on November 08, 1997 at 21:00:00:


: Can you please give me any information on a neurologic condition/disease
that's abbreviated FMS.
Thank you.


=
FMS or fibromyalgia syndrome is better known by its other names of fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome or fibrositis.
It is a chronic soft tissue pain syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletel aching, tender points at characteristic sites, generalized stiffness, fatigue and non-refreshing sleep.
There are a number of other symptoms reported in patients with FMS including headache, tingling,
numbness and irritable bowel type symptoms.
The disorder is controversial and difficult to characterize since, despite the widespread symptoms it is difficult to isolate specific abnormalities on examination. There are no laboratory tests or X-rays which are consistently abnormal.
The underlying abnormality FMS is not known either and opinion is divided among experts as to whether it is primarily a physical disorder or a physical manifestation of psychological stress or depression.
Symptomatic treatment includes (among other therapies) the use of tricyclic drugs which have an effect on pain perception and also treat underlying depression if this is present.
Other therapies include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory painkillers, muscle relaxants and corticosteroids.
If looking for more information on this condition is would probably be better to search under the more common name of FIBROMYALGIA as this should yield a great deal more information that FMS which is less commonly used.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes onl;y. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options for your specific medical condition.


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