Fibromyalgia affects up to 6% of the world's population

The Purple and Orange February campaign aims to raise awareness about a disease that is increasingly common among women aged 30 to 50. Fibromyalgia is a physical condition that affects the body's musculature, with chronic pain being the main symptom that does not show changes in imaging or laboratory tests. According to the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology, this disease affects between 2.5% and 6% of the world's population, being more common in women aged 30 to 50. In the state, about 82,000 people suffer from the condition. In February, the Purple and Orange February is celebrated, a campaign against Lupus, Alzheimer’s, and Fibromyalgia. The campaign emerges as a way to raise awareness about one of the diseases, which causes not only pain but also other associated symptoms such as fatigue, tiredness, changes in bowel habits, memory loss, and concentration issues. The causes of fibromyalgia are still unknown, but factors such as previous physical and psychological trauma, genetic predisposition, and prolonged stress may be linked to the condition. According to orthopedic surgeon and traumatologist Nilo Neto, patients with fibromyalgia exhibit greater sensitivity than usual in specific parts of the body, known as pain points. "As other diseases can also affect the same points, the diagnosis of the disease is made by elimination, examining the patient to rule out the possibility of another problem before confirming that it is a case of fibromyalgia," he explains. [caption id="attachment_39121" align="alignright" width="480"] Credit Mariana Andrich[/caption] Fibromyalgia can be treated, and the management of associated anxiety and depression disorders should be prioritized. "In addition to the use of specific medications for pain, as common painkillers are not effective, it is essential for the patient to engage in some form of physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, and also have psychological support," recommends the doctor. Patients with fibromyalgia typically use various medications to manage pain, which can negatively affect their bodies. Nilo recommends a non-pharmacological option for pain treatment called dry needling. "The procedure aims to release contracted muscle nodules, providing medium- and long-term comfort for the patient," the orthopedic surgeon reported.