Fibromyalgia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Fibromyalgia is a chronic neurological condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep problems, headaches, muscle stiffness, and increased sensitivity to pain. Many people with fibromyalgia also experience memory and concentration problems, often referred to as fibro fog.

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it may be linked to changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals. Certain factors, including physical or emotional trauma, infections, family history, obesity, and autoimmune conditions, may increase the risk of developing fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam.. Treatment focuses on symptom management and may include medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, regular exercise, physical therapy, dietary changes, acupuncture, and other supportive strategies.

Fibromyalgia symptoms

The main symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread pain throughout the body

• Increased sensitivity to pain in certain areas

• Excessive fatigue

• Muscle stiffness

• Frequent headaches

• Sleep disturbances

• Problems with memory and concentration

Some people may also experience less common symptoms, such as tingling or numbness in the hands and/or feet, jaw pain, or digestive problems, including abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Fibromyalgia tender points

Fibromyalgia is known for causing increased sensitivity in specific areas of the body that were once referred to as "tender points," including:

• Upper back

• Front and back of the neck

• Sides of the hips

• Knees

• Elbows

These tender points were previously used to help diagnose fibromyalgia, with doctors applying pressure to determine whether the person experienced an abnormal pain response. However, they are no longer used as part of the current diagnostic criteria.

Confirming a diagnosis

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed by a primary care provider, neurologist, or rheumatologist through a physical exam, review of symptoms, and evaluation of the person's medical history.

To help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as hypothyroidism or polymyalgia rheumatica, the doctor may order tests such as blood work, X-rays, or an MRI.

According to the American College of Rheumatology, fibromyalgia may be diagnosed when a person has widespread pain for at least 3 months, meets specific scores on the widespread pain index and symptom severity scale, and does not have another condition that could explain the pain.

What causes fibromyalgia?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear. However, researchers believe it may be related to changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing fibromyalgia include:

• A family history of fibromyalgia

• Having lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

• Psychological trauma, such as adverse childhood experiences, car accidents, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Physical trauma, such as repeated injuries to a specific part of the body

• Viral infections

• Obesity

Although fibromyalgia can affect people of any age, including children, it is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 60.

Fibromyalgia treatment

Fibromyalgia treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, treatment often includes a combination of medications, psychological or behavioral therapy, physical exercise, and self-management strategies.

1. Fibromyalgia medications

Several types of fibromyalgia medications may be prescribed to help manage fibromyalgia symptoms:

• Antidepressants, such as duloxetine or milnacipran, which can help reduce pain

• Muscle relaxants, such as cyclobenzaprine, which may help reduce muscle stiffness and improve sleep

• Pain relievers, such as tramadol, which may be prescribed in selected cases

• Anti-seizure medications, such as pregabalin, which act on the central nervous system and may help reduce pain

If symptoms do not improve with these medications, the doctor may reassess the treatment plan and consider other options based on the person's symptoms and response to therapy.

2. Cognitive behavioral therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps people identify emotions, thoughts, and daily situations that may worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.

This therapy is particularly helpful for managing stress, which can trigger symptom flare-ups and increase pain levels.

3. Regular physical exercise

Exercise is an important part of fibromyalgia treatment because it can help reduce pain, improve physical function, and promote better sleep.

Aerobic exercise is generally the most recommended type of activity and should be performed for at least 30 minutes, 3 times per week, according to the guidance of a healthcare provider and qualified fitness professional.

4. Physical therapy

To improve mobility and reduce discomfort, a doctor may recommend physical therapy sessions at least twice a week.

These sessions may include therapeutic massage, stretching, and relaxation exercises, which can help reduce pain, improve circulation, and support overall physical function.

5. Anti-inflammatory diet

An anti-inflammatory diet may be recommended for people with fibromyalgia because it may help reduce inflammation that can contribute to symptoms.

Foods rich in magnesium, potassium, and omega-3 fatty acids are often encouraged, including:

• Magnesium-rich foods such as avocados, artichokes, and seeds, which may support muscle relaxation and circulation

• Potassium-rich foods such as bananas, apples, beets, and peas, which may help prevent muscle weakness and cramps

• Omega-3-rich foods such as sardines, salmon, and chia seeds, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain

Regular follow-up with a registered dietitian can help ensure dietary changes are appropriate and effective for symptom management.

Also recommended: 12 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Include in Your Diet tuasaude.com/en/anti-inflammatory-foods

6. Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to help relieve pain.

Although some people with fibromyalgia report improvement in symptoms, research findings remain mixed, and there is no clear consensus regarding its effectiveness.

Home remedies

Some home-based strategies may be recommended by a healthcare provider to complement fibromyalgia treatment.

These may include warm baths, heat therapy, gentle stretching, relaxation techniques, and other self-care measures that can help reduce stress, relax muscles, and temporarily relieve pain.

Possible complications

One of the most common complications of fibromyalgia is "fibro fog," a term used to describe difficulties with thinking, concentration, memory, and mental clarity.

Because chronic pain can affect emotional well-being, people with fibromyalgia may also have a higher risk of developing anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

In addition, people with fibromyalgia tend to have higher rates of hospitalization for other health conditions.

Frequently asked questions

The most common questions about fibromyalgia are:

1. Can fibromyalgia be cured?

No. Fibromyalgia currently has no cure. However, treatment can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.

2. Can fibromyalgia turn into cancer?

No. Fibromyalgia does not turn into cancer and does not increase the risk of developing cancer.

Fibromyalgia is related to changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals, whereas cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.

3. Can fibromyalgia cause bloating?

Yes. Fibromyalgia can contribute to digestive symptoms and abdominal bloating.

This may occur because fibromyalgia is commonly associated with digestive disorders that can lead to constipation, excess gas, and abdominal distension.

4. Is fibromyalgia a degenerative or autoimmune disease?

No. Fibromyalgia is not considered a degenerative disease or an autoimmune disease.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic neurological condition characterized by widespread pain, increased pain sensitivity, muscle stiffness, headaches, fatigue, and sleep problems.

Degenerative diseases involve progressive damage to tissues, cells, or organs, as seen in conditions such as Parkinson's disease and some forms of dementia.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body. Examples include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.

5. What does fibromyalgia pain feel like?

Fibromyalgia pain is often described as intense, widespread, and persistent.

Many people describe the pain as burning, aching, stabbing, or sharp. Although pain can affect the entire body, it is often more severe in certain areas, such as the neck, shoulders, or back.

People with fibromyalgia typically experience muscle pain more often than joint pain, although both can occur.