Fibromyalgia Vs. Lupus
Fibromyalgia and Lupus are rheumatic conditions. Both conditions have specific characteristics and symptoms, and affect many of the same body symptoms. Studies show that approximately 25 percent of people suffering from lupus also suffer from fibromyalgia. Despite the similarities, fibromyalgia and lupus can have different causes, diagnostic methods and treatments.
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Causes
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The causes of fibromyalgia are not known, and the condition itself is not completely understood.
The causes of systemic lupus erythematosus (the most common type) and discoid lupus are unknown. Drug-induced lupus is a result of taking certain prescription medications. Neonatal lupus occurs in a small number of babies born to mothers with lupus.
Characteristics
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Fibromyalgia is a syndrome, or a collection of symptoms, rather than a disease. It is a type of soft tissue rheumatism that does not cause inflammation or joint damage, and is not classified as an autoimmune disorder, as lupus is.
Systemic lupus erythematosus, the most common type, is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease, in which the body's immune system attacks its own organs and tissues.
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Symptoms
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Fibromyalgia and lupus share many of the same symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, muscle pain, stiffness, pain in hands or feet in response to cold, numbness and headaches. There are a wide range of symptoms for both illnesses, and symptoms vary greatly from person to person.
Diagnosis
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Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose, as it is a syndrome and is therefore not associated with a specific, measurable set of symptoms. Because fibromyalgia does not have the same potential for internal organ damage, patients may have a better prognosis when symptoms are caused by fibromyalgia. A diagnosis of fibromyalgia is typically made after ruling out a number of other conditions.
Lupus is also difficult to diagnose, but is sometimes more easily identifiable by organ damage and neurological markers. People with lupus may also display characteristic skin rashes and joint swelling.
Treatment
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As symptoms of fibromyalgia vary from person to person, so does treatment. Anti-depressant and anti-seizure medications are frequently prescribed. Cognitive therapy, acupuncture and lifestyle changes can also help to alleviate symptoms.
Lupus is frequently treated with anti-inflammatory medications, immunosupressants and corticosteroids. Diet and lifestyle changes can also help to alleviate symptoms.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Shaheen Lakhan
