What Is Fibromyalgia? | Symptoms | Causes And Treatment

13 Minutes

Edited & clinically reviewed by SENSES Team

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CONTENTS

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by body aches. Since it often interferes with sleep quality as well as memory and mood, it’s a difficult illness to manage with the potential to drastically alter daily living.

About 2-4% of the global population has Fibromyalgia, particularly more among women. Frequent medical care for pain symptoms contributes to a significant healthcare burden involving great healthcare costs and productivity loss. Up to 20% of fibromyalgia patients have severe limitations in their ability to work and do daily activities.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition with widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It changes the way the brain and spine deal with pain signals, generally amplifying the experience of pain sensation [1].

Beyond pain, it can impact one’s sleep, memory, and emotions making the usual daily routine hard. Fibromyalgia doesn’t damage the muscles or joints, yet, can hugely affect a person’s quality of life.

The Prevalence Of Fibromyalgia: Who Is Affected

The global population with fibromyalgia is somewhere between 2–4%, depending on its severity. Women are diagnosed more often than men – estimates suggest that between 80 and 90 percent of cases are women.

The condition typically starts in middle age, although it can strike all ages, adolescents or elderly. Although anyone can get fibromyalgia, there’s a greater incidence in people whose family history includes the development of fibromyalgia, which may indicate a genetic component.

10 Root Causes Of Fibromyalgia: Key Factors To Consider

The cause of fibromyalgia is not known, but several factors may be involved. Here are ten potential causes or triggers:

Genetic predisposition: Fibromyalgia is more likely in those who have family members (mother, father, sister, brother, or child) who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia [1].

Central sensitization: Pain is amplified by changes in the central nervous system and sensitivity is increased.

Infections: Some illnesses and infections may bring on or aggravate fibromyalgia symptoms.

Autoimmune issues: Although fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune disease, having another autoimmune disorder can raise the risk.

Physical trauma: Chronic pain syndromes can be triggered by injuries or surgeries.

Emotional stress: Stress over time can cause the body to have a different reaction to pain.

Hormonal imbalances: Symptoms may be due to irregularities of serotonin and cortisol hormones.

Sleep disturbances: Poor sleep quality makes you more sensitive to pain, which in turn worsens symptoms.

Neurological changes: If you experience altered levels of substance P (a neurotransmitter), your pain responses can become heightened [2].

Psychological factors: Fibromyalgia can commonly coexist with conditions such as anxiety and depression, which affect the way pain is perceived and felt.

A Genetic And Environmental Perspective On Fibromyalgia

The risk of developing fibromyalgia is influenced heavily by genetics. It is suggested that having a close relative with the condition will increase the chance of being affected.

Those who are genetically prone may be triggered by environmental factors — including exposure to toxins, chronic stress, or infections. These genetic and environmental components interact together whereby they can precipitate the onset and progression of fibromyalgia [2].

Fibromyalgia And The Role Of Stress And Trauma

Fibromyalgia is a very major form of mood disease caused by stress and trauma, physically and mentally. Events as traumatic as car accidents, or even severe injuries, can springboard the onset of chronic pain.

Long-term stress or other types of trauma, like many instances of physical abuse, can affect the nervous system, making it not process pain as well as it normally should, therefore people may be more prone to get fibromyalgia. Even those already diagnosed are told that stressful periods can also worsen the symptoms, making stress management critically important to the condition.

Symptoms In Females: How Does It Affect Women Differently?

Women are affected more often and with greater severity of fibromyalgia than men. All have the core symptoms – chronic pain and fatigue – but many women experience additional symptoms including painful menstrual periods, more severe migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Higher prevalence in females may be related to hormonal fluctuations, but specifically related to estrogen. The hormonal component is believed to act on the pain pathways to increase the impact of the symptoms, both intensity and frequency [1].

How Fibromyalgia Symptoms Manifest: Physical And Emotional Signs

The symptoms associated with fibromyalgia can be intense and do range in level of intensity with some of them able to change over some time. Physically it can be described as disabling widespread musculoskeletal pain with patients describing the pain as a deep, constant ache lasting at least three months.

The typical pain is accompanied by stiffness, especially when just getting out of bed or after being still for a while. In many people, they also have tender points – definite areas of the body which are very sensitive to pressure.

Fibromyalgia can emotionally make you frustrated and sad along with being anxious. Due to the physical limitations the condition affords, and due to how chronic it is, people with the condition are sometimes very depressed and anxiety-ridden. It also makes fibro fog, or cognitive difficulties, common, and concentration and memory problems are common.

Chronic Pain And Fatigue: Hallmarks Of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia has chronic pain and fatigue as its hallmark symptoms. This pain can move around the body and what feel like muscle, tendon, or ligament pain. It can be a dull ache that intensifies with pressure or pains that also burn or stab.

Fatigue in fibromyalgia is more than just ‘being tired’, it’s a deep lack of energy where you are unable to undertake simple tasks you once could. Along with other symptoms, these patients wake from sleep feeling exhausted, as sleep has not refreshed them.

Is Fibromyalgia Curable Or Do I Have To Live With It Forever?

Currently, there is no cure for fibromyalgia and the condition is usually considered to be a chronic, lifelong condition. However, the symptoms can range from mild to severe and can change in severity from case to case and from day to day. In some people, symptoms may come and go, or even get better or go away completely (remission).

The duration of these periods may be determined by a person’s stress management, lifestyle changes as well as compliance with a treatment plan. While fibromyalgia needn’t be a life sentence, for most, the condition can’t be cured and must be managed over the long haul.

Managing Fibromyalgia: Can Symptoms Be Reduced

A cure is unlikely, but many people can limit the effect of fibromyalgia symptoms through a combined approach to treatment. Treatment includes medication, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and restful sleep. Low-impact exercise such as swimming or walking may improve your strength and stamina without worsening your pain [3].

Dietary changes and other stress management techniques — including things like mindfulness meditation or yoga — can also help to better manage symptoms. By putting these approaches together, many patients can get a better quality of life.

What Affects The Course Of Fibromyalgia

Symptoms sometimes get better, sometimes get worse, sometimes stay the same. High stress affects flare-ups – they depend on it. Like physical inactivity, physical inactivity may increase stiffness and pain, and regular mild exercise and manage symptoms.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can also make a big difference to a patient’s case. If diagnosed early on and they have ongoing support, their symptoms may be better controlled than someone whose diagnosis is delayed.

Physical Side Effects Of Fibromyalgia: Beyond Pain

Pain is the hallmark symptom of fibromyalgia, but this condition is characterized by other physical side effects. Many suffer from insomnia or restless leg syndrome which prevents them from getting a deep, restorative sleep. A lack of quality sleep only makes the fatigue worse and piles onto a cycle of tiredness and pain. Headaches, jaw pain (commonly due to temporomandibular joint disorders), and digestive problems—such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)—are also other physical symptoms [3].

On top of this, we see increased sensory responses, where many of the patients become sensitive to sound, light, and temperature differences. Sometimes it can also be harder in daily environments such as bright shopping centers or a lot of people gathered. These symptoms together help build up the physical burden of living with fibromyalgia.

Living With Fibromyalgia Produces Emotional And Cognitive Side Effects

Fibromyalgia doesn’t stop at physical pain; it can be devastating to emotional well-being. It is a persistent condition that the feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression make it even worse, especially when the condition gets in the way of work, socializing, or hobbies. But an important aspect of managing fibromyalgia is the impact on mental health — stress and anxiety … can make physical pain even worse.

Other typical cognitive problems include fibro fog, which is memory and concentration problems, and clarity of thought issues [2]. This cognitive impairment causes difficulties with focusing on tasks remembering information and following conversations. For those who need to continue to function on a high level cognitively, it could potentially be one of the most challenging aspects of fibromyalgia.

Side Effects Of Medications For Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia itself is not treatable, but there is a lot physicians can do to help manage pain, sleep issues, and mood disorders, largely by using medications, which often do have side effects. Antidepressants like duloxetine and amitriptyline may help with pain and sleep as well, but can cause dry mouth, drowsiness or gain weight. Other medications that may be used to lessen nerve pain are anti-seizure medications such as pregabalin and gabapentin, which can cause dizziness, swelling in the legs, and fatigue.

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, can give temporary relief but they can lead to stomach upset or, with long-term use, liver or kidney problems [3]. The most common conundrum with medication is balancing the benefits of this treatment with the management of side effects and this balance often requires careful adjustment and frequent communication with your healthcare providers.

How Doctors Diagnose Fibromyalgia: Tests And Criteria

There is no one test to confirm the presence of fibromyalgia; it’s a complex diagnosis. Doctors instead rely upon a mixture of patient history and symptom assessment along with physical examination. One key criterion for diagnosis is pain that is widespread and has existed for at least three months, is present on both sides of the body and above and below the waist.

Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) can be used by doctors to measure pain how much pain is present and the number of other symptoms like fatigue and cognitive disturbances. Blood tests are usually carried out to see whether some other condition causing similar symptoms can be ruled out, such as thyroid problems or rheumatoid arthritis.

Differential Diagnosis: What Are Other Conditions That Mimic Fibromyalgia?

Like many other chronic conditions, fibromyalgia can be hard to diagnose because it shares symptoms. Because the pain and fatigue associated with these conditions are similar, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and multiple sclerosis (MS) require doctors to distinguish between them. These items can be ruled out or diagnosed by tests such as rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA), or imaging studies [3].

Fibromyalgia also overlaps with other conditions such as depression and generalized anxiety disorder as the symptom of sleep problems and concentration problems are the same. These conditions can be quite tricky to diagnose and it requires a thorough patient history and systemic view of all symptoms.

Why Does It Take So Long To Be Diagnosed With Fibromyalgia?

Diagnosis of fibromyalgia often takes months or even years. To some extent, the exclusion of other illnesses and the variability of symptoms accounts for this. However, the diffuse nature of their symptoms stimulates frustration in many patients, as some healthcare providers will misconstrue or dismiss these symptoms.

No conclusive tests for making a definitive diagnosis, so several tests might be required to prove that there are no diseases and that it is completely functional. This diagnostic journey needs to be a component of care with an understanding of the patients’ experience, providing validation, and providing care.

Fibromyalgia Relief Through Lifestyle Changes

Fibromyalgia symptoms can be greatly helped through lifestyle adjustments. Low-impact, regular exercise—walking, swimming, yoga, for example—can help increase flexibility, strength, and energy. Endorphins also released during exercise work as natural painkillers and can help elevate mood. Eating a balanced diet filled with inflammation-fighting foods, including fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help lower inflammation and improve overall health.

Another big part is stress management because stress can cause symptoms to flare. Patients can use mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation to keep their emotions in balance and hopefully prevent stress from aggravating their already ailing condition. A consistent sleep pattern is just as important because it can prevent sleep disturbances that are a common side effect of fibromyalgia.

Medications For Fibromyalgia Management

Medications can help you with fibromyalgia symptoms. These can be directed to get relief from specific problems such as pain, sleep, and mood. Duloxetine and milnacipran are antidepressants that are sometimes prescribed to do more than treat depression: they help to alleviate pain and improve sleep. Pregabalin and gabapentin are anti-seizure drugs that may be taken to decrease nerve pain and improve sleep quality.

Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) may help some people, but they are not as effective for fibromyalgia’s chronic pain as other medications. Muscle-relaxing drugs may also be used to help muscle stiffness, particularly at night. Combining medications and trying out different dosage levels is important work to do with healthcare providers because it helps find the right mixture and dosage that manages symptoms with the least side effects.

How Physical Therapy And Exercise Help With Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia treatment includes physical therapy, which is aimed at strengthening the muscles and reducing the pain through exercise. A physical therapist can work out an individualized exercise program that focuses on gentle stretching, sustainable aerobic conditioning, and strength training. The exercises are aimed at helping overall mobility and diminishing stiffness.

Exercise is especially good because it can boost circulation, relax muscle tension, and make the body a better producer of natural painkillers. When a patient starts, they are encouraged to start with short low-intensity activities and as they grow fitter, the activities can be made longer and more intense. Physical activity can also help fight fatigue and boost mental clarity, so it’s also important for keeping your fibromyalgia under control.

How To Cope With Fibromyalgia Pain

Being diagnosed with fibromyalgia means that you learn to cope with daily pain by setting up ways to improve your quality of life. Avoid over-exertion, a common symptom that flares up caused, by pacing activities—by breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

Patients need to know and have breaks for complete rest planned out throughout the day. Assistive devices such as ergonomic furniture and tools to reduce strain can help make household chores as well as work manageable.

In addition to pain-decreasing medications, relaxation techniques are also important. Soaking in hot baths, using warm compresses applied to sore muscles and gentle massage, and aromatherapy using essential oils, such as lavender, may help people relax and improve sleep. Being able to use a pain diary, patients can determine triggers and make their routine as comfortable as possible.

Building A Support System: The Importance Of Family And Community

People who have fibromyalgia need a strong support system around them. Regular emotional encouragement can be gotten from support by your family, friends, as well as, healthcare professionals to be able to cope with daily challenges. Talking openly about the condition helps people you love to understand their limitations their needs and the condition.

Also, it is helpful to participate in support groups in person or through the Internet. They provide a sense of community and a place to share experiences, coping strategies, and advice. Having other people share the same sort of chronic illness can help alleviate a sense of isolation that sometimes comes along with chronic illness. Besides, knowing that other people also face these challenges can be very comforting and motivating.

Resources For Fibromyalgia Patients: Finding Help And Support

There are many organizations and resources available to people with fibromyalgia. Educational materials, support group access, and symptom management tools are available through the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA) and The American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA). Integrative medicine centers may be for those in search of whole or holistic care like receiving acupuncture, massage therapy, nutrition counseling, and more.

Fibromyalgia online discussion forums and social media communities can also be good resources to learn more about the disease and get support from your peers. Their platform allows people to share personal experiences, tips, and encouragement. Seeing a multidisciplinary care team that includes a rheumatologist, pain specialist, and psychologist gives you a better chance of managing fibromyalgia.

1. Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Fibromyalgia. https://www.healthline.com/health/fibromyalgia

2. Cleveland Clinic. Fibromyalgia. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4832-fibromyalgia

3. Medical News Today. Everything you need to know about fibromyalgia. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/147083

FAQs

Could Fibromyalgia Result In Digestive Problems?

Fibromyalgia is associated with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and other bowel issues. People with fibromyalgia frequently experience symptoms like bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. The reason these digestive problems occur may be because the digestive tract is overly sensitive in this case, as in the way fibromyalgia makes the muscles and joints overly sensitive to pain. Sometimes, stress can be managed, and following a balanced diet can help to reduce these symptoms.

Is Fibromyalgia More Common In Certain Climates Or During Certain Weather?

Fibromyalgia can affect people everywhere, but many people find that cold damp and quickly changing weather tends to make things worse. Some people’s pain levels or stiffness can be increased by changes in barometric pressure. Climate effects are very much individual, though, and some people may favor warmer climates, while others don’t notice much difference. Patients need to find out what sort of environment suits them best.

Does Fibromyalgia Cause Problems With The Immune System?

Although it’s not classified as an autoimmune disease, there appears to be some evidence suggesting that people with the condition have weaker immune responses and are more inclined to infections. Prolonged stress and poor sleep, which are both common with fibromyalgia, can even undermine the immune system. This might increase the likelihood that you get colds and other minor infections. But fibromyalgia doesn’t cause problems with your immune system directly.

What Natural Supplements Can Help With Fibromyalgia?

Natural supplements such as magnesium, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and vitamin D may help people with fibromyalgia with muscle pain and fatigue, some people with fibromyalgia discover. Anti-inflammatory properties are also known for omega-3 fatty acids (in fish oil). Herbal supplements such as turmeric, and ashwagandha are also sometimes used for their pain-reducing and stress-reducing properties. But always remember to check with a healthcare provider before trying any supplements to make sure they are safe, and won’t mess up with other medicines.

Fibromyalgia