Fibromyalgia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition, causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, combined with fatigue and sleeplessness. It’s a pain regulation disorder that is classified as a central sensitization condition. In this, fibromyalgia patients become hypersensitive to pain and sensory processing due to amplified neural signaling in the CNS.

Anyone can get affected; however, women are more likely to develop this condition. Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, researchers believe that a combination of factors, such as mental stress, infections, or lifestyle habits, can trigger or worsen its symptoms. Also, if one of the parent is affected, then their children are at higher risk.

Currently, there is no complete cure available, but it can be managed through medications, exercises, and therapy.

Signs and Symptoms

In addition to common symptoms such as pain and fatigue, you may also experience the following;

• Sleep disturbances (non-restorative sleep, insomnia)
• Cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog” – memory issues, difficulty concentrating)
• Headaches or migraines
• Irritable bowel symptoms (bloating, constipation, diarrhea)
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Heightened sensitivity to temperature, light, sound, and odor
• Depression and/or anxiety
• Morning stiffness
• Dry eyes and dry mouth
• Bladder problems (frequent urination, urgency)
• Restless legs syndrome

Symptoms of fibromyalgia in females

Anyone can get affected by this, yet women are at a higher risk of developing this. Here are some of the additional symptoms seen in females;

• Painful Menstrual Periods
• Worsened PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
• Breast Tenderness
• Pelvic pain, urinary urgency, and discomfort

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, researchers believe that a mix of factors, such as stress, infections, trauma, and lifestyle habits, can trigger or worsen its symptoms.

Also, it can be caused by an infection, such as Lyme disease, or trauma (physical or emotional). More than that, you may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia if it runs in your family.

Risk Factors

Listed are the risk factors for fibromyalgia.

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men.
• Age: Older persons (>40 years of age) are at higher risk.
• Other conditions: If you have a condition like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or obesity, then you are also in the scope of developing symptoms of fibromyalgia

Diagnosis

Primarily, fibromyalgia is diagnosed by common symptoms like pain and fatigue, as well as other associated symptoms. Otherwise, no specific diagnostic tests are available for this condition.

However, to diagnose this condition, your doctor may use the differential diagnosis, in which symptoms are eliminated that mimic other conditions.

Additionally, doctors follow specific criteria to diagnose fibromyalgia. You may be suspected of having fibromyalgia if you meet the following conditions:

• Pain is present in multiple areas of the body
• Symptoms persist for at least 3 months and cannot be explained by any other medical condition
• You feel tired even after a proper sleep
• You experience cognitive difficulties, often described as “fibro fog.”
• You have consistent and unexplained fatigue

Sometimes, blood tests or imaging tests are also advised to find out if the symptoms are caused by fibromyalgia or some other conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Treatment

Fibromyalgia is a long-term disorder, although there is no complete cure available. However, several treatment options are available to relieve the symptoms and enhance the patient’s self-efficacy.

Here are the treatments that may be advised:

Medications: Medications are provided based on the patient’s condition. These include,

• Antidepressants: Help to manage depression or anxiety.
• Anti-seizure medications: Used to reduce nerve-related pain and improve sleep.
• Analgesics (pain relievers): Help manage general pain and discomfort.

Note: Often, a combination of medications in adjusted doses is used for better symptom control.

Psychotherapy / Cognitive Behavioral Therapies: CBT helps patients manage emotional stress, negative thoughts, and behaviors that may worsen symptoms. It improves coping skills and mental resilience.

Physical Activity: Regular low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and stretching can reduce stiffness and pain, improve mood, and enhance energy levels over time.

Complementary and Integrative Therapies: Alternative approaches that may offer additional relief include:

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Yoga or Tai Chi
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Prognosis of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that doesn’t worsen over time or damage organs. While there’s no cure, symptoms can be managed effectively with treatment, lifestyle changes, and self-care. Many people lead active, fulfilling lives with proper support and management.

Takeaways

Living with fibromyalgia can be challenging, but with the right diagnosis, treatment, and support, it is manageable. Early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and a positive approach to self-care can greatly improve quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent widespread pain and fatigue, then try to consult the doctor as early as possible.