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Fibromyalgia Specialist

Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists

Rheumatologists located in Plantation, FL

When it comes to conditions that cause chronic pain, fibromyalgia ranks near the top, wreaking havoc on the lives of an estimated 10 million people in the United States. Treating fibromyalgia is difficult, since the symptoms are widespread and prone to change, but great strides have been made, which are now part of the treatment protocols at Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists. Guillermo Valenzuela, MD, and Marilu Colon, MD, have brought new hope to their patients in Plantation, Florida, allowing them to enjoy their lives again. To explore the options for treating fibromyalgia, call the office or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.

Fibromyalgia Q & A

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia has been a tricky disorder for medical researchers to pin down because of its widespread effects on your musculoskeletal system. The chronic pain that comes with this condition is indiscriminate, attacking almost anywhere, and it comes and goes, making diagnosis difficult.

What are the Most Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

The chief complaint when it comes to fibromyalgia is the pain, which ranges from mild to severe, and is located in your bones and muscles throughout your body.

Other telltale signs of the disorder are:

  • Fatigue
  • Cognitive problems, which are also referred to as “fibro fog”
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome
  • Headaches

While each of these symptoms is associated with a host of other medical conditions, if you’re experiencing one or more of the above, it’s worth getting checked out for fibromyalgia.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

The cause of fibromyalgia is, as yet, unknown. Researchers believe that your brain’s ability to process pain is compromised, causing it to amplify the signals.

What is known is that fibromyalgia affects women far more than men -- 75-90% of all cases are found in women. Researchers also believe that genetics may play a role, as well as previous emotional or physical trauma.

Lastly, if you suffer from osteoarthritis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, there’s evidence to suggest that you may be more vulnerable to developing fibromyalgia.

What are the Treatments for Fibromyalgia?

The doctors at Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists first work to alleviate your symptoms, especially the widespread pain, using:

  • Over-the-counter medications for pain and inflammation
  • Antidepressants
  • Antiseizure medications

Your doctor may also recommend several at-home remedies that can have a positive impact on fibromyalgia, such as:

  • Stress management
  • Exercise
  • Better sleep
  • Healthier eating habits

These lifestyle changes, combined with the right medications, work well to manage your fibromyalgia. Rest assured, the doctors partner with you every step of the way to ensure that you’re able to lead a healthy, active life, free from the constraints of this chronic pain disorder.

If you’d like to find out about managing your fibromyalgia, call Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists, or schedule an appointment using the online booking tool.

What we offer

Rheumatology & Immunology Services