Rheumatoid fibromyalgia is the combination of two chronic conditions. Both rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia produce chronic pain and fatigue. This condition can be hard to diagnose since the symptoms are very similar.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis causes the pain and swelling in your joints and fatigue. When you have rheumatoid arthritis your immune system attacks the tissue in your joints. This condition can affect any joint but is common in fingers and wrists.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia causes widespread chronic pain. This pain is felt in your muscles, ligaments and tendons. You may also experience fatigue and tender spots. Fibromyalgia pain is like an overall dull ache.

Symptoms

Symptoms of rheumatoid fibromyaglia can be affected by stress, weather conditions, time of day or your level of activity. The symptoms of a mild case can come and go. Patients with more sever cases may experience symptoms on a daily basis. The pain of rheumatoid fibromyalgia is often a combination of the pain of the two conditions. You may have an overall ache and pain in your joints.

Treatment

Medication and improved self care are recommended for treatment. Medication can help reduce pain and help you sleep. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help improve your muscle balance. If your joints become damaged surgery may be needed.

Considerations

Lifestyle changes can be effective in easing the fatigue and pain of rheumatoid fibromyalgia. Reducing stress, exercising, eating healthy foods and limiting caffeine can help you sleep and ease some of the pain.

Source:

The Mayo Clinic

The Cleveland Clinic