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Fibromyalgia Frequently Occurs in Tandem with Interstitial Cystitis, Other Conditions
Clauw DJ. Fibromyalgia and Related Conditions. Mayo Clin Proc. 2015 May;90(5):680-692. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2015.03.014.
This comprehensive article on fibromyalgia was written to help clinicians better understand the disorder, which is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, along with other symptoms that can include fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory problems, and changes in mood. In the past, some clinicians felt that fibromyalgia was a purely psychological phenomenon, but today, experts agree that the evidence is irrefutable that the disorder has strong biological underpinnings, even if psychological, behavioral, or social factors play a role for some individuals. While fibromyalgia can be diagnosed as an isolated disorder, it’s more often found alongside other related conditions, notably interstitial cystitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and tension headache, or in conjunction with arthritis or other diseases associated with persistent inflammation. What treatment works best for fibromyalgia can depend on a number of factors. Individuals with fibromyalgia and arthritis, for example, might have a type of fibromyalgia that responds better to analgesics and nonpharmacologic therapies, while other individuals may do better with surgery or opioids.