Fibromyalgia is not a life-threatening disease and one can recover with certain modifications in lifestyle, says Dr Gaurav Khera, Orthopaedic Surgeon (Karol Bagh) Apollo Spectra Delhi

NEW DELHI, Mar 22 (The CONNECT) - In the last few months, as the country struggled with Covid’s third wave, there is an uptick in the number of patients with fibromyalgia which is a painful condition leading to fatigue and joints, chest wall, elbows, legs, shoulder, and head pain. This condition interferes with one’s ability to perform daily chores with ease.

There are many health problems that cropped up during the pandemic, and one of them is Fibromyalgia.

“It is a painful and chronic condition leading to muscle pain along with fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood-related disorders, and even memory problems,” said Dr Gaurav Khera, Orthopaedic Surgeon (Karol Bagh) Apollo Spectra Delhi.

The symptoms may be similar to arthritis, but it does not cause joint or muscle inflammation. It impacts the soft tissue and not the joints. Fibromyalgia is also a long covid symptom known as FibroCovid. It is seen commonly in women compared to men, he said. 

Dr Khera explained , among long COVID patients, there are various factors that can contribute to the risk of developing fibromyalgia. Being obese or being treated with supplemental oxygen while dealing with COVID-19 can invite this condition. “However, the exact reason behind its occurrence is not clear,” he said.

Fibromyalgia is not a life-threatening disease and one can recover over a period of time with certain modifications in lifestyle like exercise, limiting alcohol, meditation or diet changes. Take medication for nerve pain, cognitive behavioural therapy, and psychotherapy. Though this condition will impact one’s quality of life, it can be tackled with prompt medical attention. Since one will take time to get back on track, one should have patience. Try to eat and sleep well, stay physically active by working out daily, de-stress by doing yoga and meditation and maintain an optimum weight, Dr Khera advised.