Fibromyalgia Clinic

Welcome to the Fibromyalgia Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group. We specialize in providing comprehensive care for fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Our team of experts is dedicated to offering personalized treatment plans, advanced diagnostic tools, and ongoing support to help you manage your condition effectively and improve your quality of life.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a complex, chronic condition marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain, accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and mood issues. It affects the way the brain processes pain signals, leading to heightened sensitivity to pain. Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors.

Fibromyalgia Treatments in Dubai

At our Fibromyalgia Clinic, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to manage and alleviate symptoms:

• Medications:
  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage pain.
  • Antidepressants: Medications such as duloxetine or milnacipran to help with pain and improve sleep.
  • Anti-Seizure Drugs: Gabapentin and pregabalin may be used to reduce pain and improve symptoms.
• Physical Therapy: Customized exercise programs designed to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function while managing pain.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A form of psychotherapy that helps in managing the emotional aspects of fibromyalgia, including stress and anxiety.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on improving sleep, stress management, and dietary changes to support overall health and well-being.
• Complementary Therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga to complement traditional treatments and enhance symptom relief.

Causes of Fibromyalgia

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetics: A family history of fibromyalgia may increase the risk of developing the condition.
• Infections or Illness: Some cases may be triggered by infections or illnesses that impact the body’s pain response.
• Physical or Emotional Trauma: Stressful events or trauma may play a role in the onset of fibromyalgia.
• Neurochemical Imbalances: Imbalances in brain chemicals and neurotransmitters may affect pain perception and contribute to the development of fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread Pain: Persistent pain throughout the body, often described as aching, burning, or throbbing.
• Fatigue: Chronic tiredness and a feeling of exhaustion that does not improve with rest.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and non-restorative sleep.
• Cognitive Issues: Problems with memory, concentration, and mental clarity, often referred to as “fibro fog.”
• Mood Disorders: Depression, anxiety, or heightened sensitivity to stress.

Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

Diagnosing fibromyalgia involves:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessment of symptoms, pain locations, and overall health.
• Exclusion of Other Conditions: Ruling out other conditions that may present similar symptoms through blood tests and imaging studies.
• Diagnostic Criteria: Evaluation based on criteria set by medical guidelines, including the presence of widespread pain for more than three months and associated symptoms.

Fibromyalgia Recovery and Management

Managing fibromyalgia effectively involves a combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments:

• Regular Follow-Up: Ongoing consultations to monitor progress, adjust treatments, and address any new symptoms.
• Self-Management Strategies: Techniques to manage symptoms daily, including relaxation exercises and stress management practices.
• Patient Education: Providing resources and support to help you understand fibromyalgia and its management.