Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep problems, memory and mood issues. It is a complex condition with no known cure, but symptoms can be managed.
Causes:
The exact causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, but it likely involves a combination of factors:
- Genetics: People with a family history of fibromyalgia may be more likely to develop the condition.
- Infections: Some illnesses may trigger or aggravate fibromyalgia.
- Physical or emotional trauma: A significant event, such as a car accident, surgery, or psychological stress, can sometimes precede the onset of fibromyalgia.
- Central nervous system sensitivity: Fibromyalgia is thought to involve changes in the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, leading to amplified pain sensations.
Symptoms:
Fibromyalgia has a variety of symptoms, which can vary in intensity from person to person. The main symptoms include:
- Widespread pain: This is the hallmark symptom of fibromyalgia. The pain is often described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. It usually occurs on both sides of the body and above and below the waist.
- Fatigue: Persistent and often severe fatigue is common, even after adequate sleep.
- Sleep problems: Many people with fibromyalgia have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. They may wake up feeling unrefreshed.
- Cognitive difficulties: Fibromyalgia can cause problems with concentration, focus, and memory (“fibro fog“).
- Other symptoms:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Headaches or migraines
- Depression or anxiety
- Restless legs syndrome
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
- Painful menstrual periods
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be challenging as there is no specific test for it. Doctors primarily rely on:
- Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, including the location, intensity, and duration of your pain.
- Physical examination: The doctor may check for tenderness at specific points on your body (tender points). While tender points are no longer the sole diagnostic criterion, they may still be considered.
- Ruling out other conditions: Blood tests and imaging tests (such as X-rays) may be used to exclude other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Treatment:
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment approaches may include:
- Medications:
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen may help with mild pain. However, they are often not sufficient for the chronic pain of fibromyalgia.
- Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as duloxetine and milnacipran, can help reduce pain and fatigue in people with fibromyalgia.
- Anti-seizure drugs: Pregabalin and gabapentin are often used to reduce pain and improve sleep in fibromyalgia patients.
- Muscle relaxants: Cyclobenzaprine may help improve sleep and reduce muscle pain.
- Therapy:
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stamina.
- Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist can help you learn ways to perform daily activities with less pain.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy can help you develop coping skills to manage pain, stress, and depression.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Stress management: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress, which can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.
- Regular exercise: While it may seem counterintuitive, regular low-impact exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can help reduce pain and improve overall health.
- Adequate sleep: Improving sleep habits is crucial. This may involve establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine before bed.
- Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can support overall health and may help reduce inflammation.
- Complementary and alternative therapies: Some people with fibromyalgia find relief with therapies such as:
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Tai chi
- Yoga
It often takes a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes to effectively manage fibromyalgia symptoms. It is important to work closely with your doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Looking for compassionate care? Our medical practice can treat patients who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Contact us for more information.
