Best Fibromyalgia Doctors in Chennai

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, accompanied by fatigue, sleep disruption, and cognitive difficulties. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is uncertain, but a combination of factors including genetic predisposition, abnormal pain processing in the central nervous system, infections, environmental stressors and physical or emotional triggers are believed to contribute to the manifestation of this condition. Furthermore, it has been observed that individuals suffering from fibromyalgia exhibit heightened sensitivity to pain, altered neural signalling for pain perception, and genetic mutations affecting neurotransmitters in the brain.

In Chennai, a bustling city on the eastern coast of India, residents face a high level of stress associated with urban living such as traffic congestion, noise pollution, and work-related stress, which can trigger or exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. As one of India's leading healthcare facilities, Apollo Hospitals has some of the best doctors for fibromyalgia who can provide effective treatment for this complex disorder.

Types/Stages of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia can progress through various stages and understanding these stages can help doctors for fibromyalgia disorder design appropriate treatment plans:

• Initial Symptoms: This stage is characterised by widespread pain, stiffness, fatigue, sleep issues, and cognitive difficulties.

• Developing Symptoms: During this stage, pain, stiffness and fatigue tend to worsen, with an increase in mood disturbances and cognitive problems.

• Chronic Widespread Pain: This stage is marked by severe chronic pain lasting over 3 months that is widespread throughout the body.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

People suffering from fibromyalgia often experience symptoms such as:

• Widespread pain

• Muscle stiffness and joint pain

• Headaches

• Disruption in sleep

• Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet

• Restless legs syndrome

• Sensitivity to cold or heat

• Difficulties with memory and concentration

• Fatigue

Tests to Diagnose Fibromyalgia

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, the doctors for fibromyalgia syndrome use a combination of tests to diagnose fibromyalgia:

• Medical History Assessment: This involves a detailed discussion about the patient's symptoms and any current or past health problems. The doctor uses the symptom severity (SS) scale to determine the severity of symptoms.

• Physical Examination: The doctor may check for tender points to evaluate the location, severity, and duration of pain according to the widespread pain index (WPI) score.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Fibromyalgia at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

The fibromyositis doctors at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, offer comprehensive treatment options for people suffering from fibromyalgia:

• Medication: Pain relievers (acetaminophen and ibuprofen), antidepressants (duloxetine and milnacipran), and anti-seizure drugs (gabapentin and pregabalin) could be prescribed to manage symptoms.

• Therapies: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling can help in managing the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.

• Self-care Therapies: Stress management techniques, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve symptoms.

• Alternative Therapies: Some patients may benefit from acupuncture, biofeedback, and massage therapy.