Fibromyalgia: Managing Pain, Throat Dryness, and Discomfort

Pain, dry throat, sensation of a foreign body?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing muscle and joint soreness and pain throughout my body.
Three months ago, it suddenly became severe to the point where I needed to stop and catch my breath after climbing just one flight of stairs.
I also feel weakness even when raising my arms, and resting or sleeping does not improve the situation.
I later went to the hospital, and the doctor diagnosed me with fibromyalgia.
Recently, I have been trying to improve my condition through aerobic exercise.
I just started a month ago and feel like there has been some improvement, but recently, the pain has started again in various joints, followed by muscle pain.
After exercising yesterday, when I got home and climbed one flight of stairs, my legs suddenly felt weak and fatigued, and I had to lie down to rest.

Additionally, I feel a sensation of something foreign near my stomach, below my ribs, especially when exercising or coughing, as if there is a hard object inside my body.
Three years ago, I had thrush, which recurred three times, and since then, I have experienced abnormal dryness in my throat.
No matter how much water I drink, it does not help.
Sometimes, even swallowing saliva causes a choking sensation in my chest, and I still experience dryness to this day.
Every time I brush my teeth, I feel like my throat is filled with foam, and I have to cough it out repeatedly and drink water to alleviate the sensation of something stuck in my throat.
I also experience chest pain at times.

Eilleen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/05

Dr. Zhou Jianwen reply Rehabilitation

Based on your concerns, it cannot be solely attributed to fibromyalgia.
I recommend that you consult with a rheumatologist for further evaluation and management.

Reply Date: 2015/09/05

More Info

Fibromyalgia is a complex and often misunderstood condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It can also be associated with a variety of other symptoms, including sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and gastrointestinal issues. Your description of muscle and joint pain, weakness, and throat dryness aligns with common experiences reported by individuals with fibromyalgia.

Understanding Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It is often triggered by physical trauma, infections, or significant psychological stress. The exact cause remains unclear, but it is thought to be related to how the brain processes pain signals, leading to an increased sensitivity to pain.

Managing Pain and Discomfort
1. Exercise: You mentioned starting aerobic exercise, which is a positive step. Regular physical activity can help improve symptoms of fibromyalgia. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling can enhance physical function and reduce pain. However, it’s essential to pace yourself and gradually increase your activity level to avoid exacerbating your symptoms.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy can help manage the emotional and psychological aspects of fibromyalgia. It can provide coping strategies to deal with pain and improve your quality of life.

3. Medications: Various medications can be prescribed to help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. These may include:
- Antidepressants: Such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) or milnacipran (Savella), which can help with pain and improve mood.

- Anticonvulsants: Medications like gabapentin (Neurontin) or pregabalin (Lyrica) can help reduce pain.

- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may provide temporary relief.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can be beneficial. Ensuring adequate sleep and maintaining a healthy diet can also play a significant role in managing symptoms.

Addressing Throat Dryness and Discomfort
The throat dryness and sensation of an obstruction you describe may be related to several factors, including:
- Sjogren's Syndrome: This autoimmune condition can cause dry mouth and throat, often associated with fibromyalgia.

- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux can lead to throat discomfort and a sensation of a lump in the throat.

- Medication Side Effects: Some medications used to treat fibromyalgia can cause dryness as a side effect.

To manage throat dryness:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier at home can help maintain moisture in the air.

- Lozenges: Throat lozenges or sprays can provide temporary relief from dryness.

- Consult a Specialist: If symptoms persist, consider seeing an ENT specialist or a rheumatologist for further evaluation.

Conclusion
Fibromyalgia is a multifaceted condition that requires a comprehensive management approach. It’s encouraging that you have started exercising, as this can significantly improve your symptoms over time. Continue to monitor your symptoms and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any changes or concerns. They can help tailor a treatment plan that addresses both your pain and the discomfort in your throat. Remember, managing fibromyalgia is often about finding the right combination of therapies that work for you.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Fibromyalgia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and often emotional and mental distress. It is believed to involve an abnormal response to pain signals in the brain and nervous system. Common symptoms include tend...

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, ma'am: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. Myofascial pain syndrome is an inflammatory condition affecting the muscle fascia, often associated with numerous tender points and symptoms such as in...

Understanding Your Body's Tension: Insights on Fibromyalgia and Beyond

Hello, doctor. Since March of last year, I have felt as if my body is bound by a rope, similar to Dongpo pork. The thickness of this rope feels about the same as the wire of earphones (the thinner ones for the left and right ear canals). It wraps around my chest and extends to bo...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Mr. Franky, You mentioned that "the sensation travels from the left side up through the neck, passing through the left ear and splitting into two paths around the left eye, then running down the right side of the back to the right palm. Although there is no obvious fe...

Managing Fibromyalgia: Tips for Relief and Self-Care

Hello, doctor. Recently, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia by a rheumatologist at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and the pain has been very troubling for my daily routine. I am wondering if I should visit the orthopedic department at a nearby hospital for more in-depth examination...

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The diagnosis of fibromyalgia primarily relies on symptoms and physical examination. For a definitive diagnosis, a muscle biopsy with pathological examination is required, although this is not commonly performed. For more detailed diagnosis and treatment, you may visit the orthop...

Managing Chronic Pharyngitis: Alternatives to Medication for Relief

Hello Dr. Tsai, First of all, thank you very much for your professional and detailed response. May I further inquire—I've been in the teaching profession for over ten years. Last year, I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and two otolaryngologists, all th...

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Chronic pharyngitis means that the throat has been subjected to long-term irritation (from work or external factors), causing the mucous membrane of the throat to remain in a state of damage without adequate time to rest and recover. Therefore, the focus of treatment is no...