Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties.
It affects about 2-4% of the population, mostly women.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it may be related to genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
Fibromyalgia can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it, but there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve the well-being.
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder of pain processing that affects the way the brain and spinal cord perceive and respond to pain signals.
People with fibromyalgia may experience pain in various parts of the body, such as the muscles, joints, tendons, and soft tissues.
The pain may be constant or intermittent, and may vary in intensity and location.
The pain may also be triggered or worsened by physical or emotional stress, weather changes, hormonal fluctuations, or infections.
Fibromyalgia is not a progressive or life-threatening condition, but it can cause significant disability and distress.
People with fibromyalgia may also have other symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue: feeling tired, weak, and drained of energy, even after adequate sleep
- Sleep problems: having difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up refreshed; experiencing restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea
- Cognitive difficulties: having trouble with memory, concentration, attention, and mental tasks; experiencing “fibro fog”
- Mood problems: feeling depressed, anxious, irritable, or hopeless
- Other symptoms: having headaches, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, temporomandibular joint disorders, or postural tachycardia syndrome
Types of fibromyalgia
There are different ways to classify fibromyalgia based on the criteria used to diagnose it.
One of the most widely used criteria is the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria, which was first established in 1990 and revised in 2010 and 2016.
According to the ACR criteria, fibromyalgia can be divided into two types:
- Fibromyalgia with widespread pain index (WPI) and symptom severity (SS) score: This type requires the presence of pain in at least 7 out of 19 body regions and a SS score of at least 5 out of 12.
- The SS score is based on the severity of fatigue, sleep problems, cognitive difficulties, and other symptoms.
- Fibromyalgia with generalized pain: This type requires the presence of pain in at least 4 out of 5 body regions, without the need for a SS score. This type is more inclusive and may capture more cases of fibromyalgia.
Another way to classify fibromyalgia is based on the presence or absence of other medical conditions that may cause or mimic the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
According to this classification, fibromyalgia can be divided into two types:
- Primary fibromyalgia: This type occurs without any other identifiable cause or condition. It is considered to be a primary disorder of the central nervous system.
- Secondary fibromyalgia: This type occurs as a result of or in association with another medical condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, hypothyroidism, or Lyme disease. It is considered to be a secondary manifestation of the underlying condition.
Who is affected by fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or ethnicity. However, some groups of people are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than others. These include:
- Women: Women are about twice as likely as men to have fibromyalgia. This may be due to hormonal, genetic, or social factors that influence the perception and expression of pain.
- Middle-aged adults: Fibromyalgia is more common in people between the ages of 30 and 50, although it can occur at any age. This may be due to the accumulation of physical and emotional stressors that trigger or aggravate the condition.
- People with a family history: Fibromyalgia tends to run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic predisposition to the condition. Certain gene variants may affect the levels or functions of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, that are involved in pain modulation.
- People with other medical conditions: Fibromyalgia may coexist with or be triggered by other medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, chronic infections, thyroid disorders, or osteoarthritis. These conditions may cause inflammation, tissue damage, or hormonal imbalances that affect the pain pathways.
- People with psychological stress: Fibromyalgia may be linked to psychological stress, such as trauma, abuse, violence, or loss. These stressors may alter the brain’s response to pain and emotion, leading to increased sensitivity and distress.
Symptoms and Causes
The main symptom of fibromyalgia is widespread pain that affects different parts of the body.
The pain may be described as dull, aching, throbbing, burning, or shooting.
The pain may vary in intensity and location, and may change over time.
The pain may also be influenced by external factors, such as weather, activity, or mood.
The cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.
Some of the possible factors that may contribute to the development of fibromyalgia are:
Genetic factors
Certain gene variants may affect the levels or functions of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, that are involved in pain modulation.
These gene variants may make some people more susceptible to developing fibromyalgia or more sensitive to pain stimuli.
Environmental factors
Certain environmental factors may trigger or worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as physical trauma, surgery, infection, or significant psychological stress.
These factors may activate the immune system, cause inflammation, or alter the brain’s response to pain and emotion.
Central sensitization
This is a condition in which the brain and spinal cord become more responsive to pain signals, even to those that are normally harmless or mild.
This may result from repeated or prolonged exposure to pain stimuli, or from changes in the levels or functions of neurotransmitters that modulate pain.
Central sensitization may lead to increased pain perception, reduced pain threshold, and widespread pain distribution.
Neuroendocrine dysregulation
This is a condition in which the hormones that regulate the body’s functions, such as cortisol, growth hormone, and thyroid hormone, are out of balance.
This may result from stress, inflammation, or genetic factors.
Neuroendocrine dysregulation may affect the sleep cycle, mood, energy, metabolism, and immune system, and may contribute to the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Psychological factors
Certain psychological factors, such as depression, anxiety, catastrophizing, or coping styles, may influence the experience and expression of pain.
These factors may affect the attention, interpretation, and emotional response to pain stimuli, and may also affect the behavior and social interactions of people with fibromyalgia.
What are the risk factors for fibromyalgia?
A risk factor is something that increases the likelihood of developing a condition or disease.
Having a risk factor does not mean that one will develop the condition, and not having a risk factor does not mean that one will not develop the condition. Some of the risk factors for fibromyalgia are:
- Gender: Women are about twice as likely as men to have fibromyalgia. This may be due to hormonal, genetic, or social factors that influence the perception and expression of pain.
- Age: Fibromyalgia is more common in people between the ages of 30 and 50, although it can occur at any age. This may be due to the accumulation of physical and emotional stressors that trigger or aggravate the condition.
- Family history: Fibromyalgia tends to run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic predisposition to the condition. Certain gene variants may affect the levels or functions of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, that are involved in pain modulation.
- Other medical conditions: Fibromyalgia may coexist with or be triggered by other medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, chronic infections, thyroid disorders, or osteoarthritis. These conditions may cause inflammation, tissue damage, or hormonal imbalances that affect the pain pathways.
- Psychological stress: Fibromyalgia may be linked to psychological stress, such as trauma, abuse, violence, or loss. These stressors may alter the brain’s response to pain and emotion, leading to increased sensitivity and distress.
Diagnosis and Tests
There is no single test that can confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
Instead, diagnosis is based on your symptoms, a physical exam, and possibly ruling out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Some of the tests that your doctor may order to exclude other causes of your pain are:
Complete blood count (CBC)
This is done to measure the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood.
A CBC can help detect infections, anemia, or other blood disorders that may cause fatigue or inflammation.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
This is done to measure how fast your red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube of blood.
A high ESR indicates that there is inflammation in your body, which may be caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or infections.
Cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody test
This test detects and measures anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies in your blood.
These antibodies are often present in people with rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause joint pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid factor (RF)
This test measures the level of RF, an antibody that can attack healthy tissues in your body.
RF is also associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
Thyroid function tests (TFTs)
These tests check the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood.
Thyroid hormones regulate your metabolism, energy, and mood.
Low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism) can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, and muscle pain.
Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA)
This test detects the presence of ANA, an antibody that can target your own cells and tissues. ANA is often found in people with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, or scleroderma, which can affect your skin, joints, and organs.
Celiac serology: This test measures the antibodies that your body produces in response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Gluten can trigger an immune reaction in some people, leading to celiac disease, a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and causes symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Vitamin D
This test measures the level of vitamin D in your blood. Vitamin D is important for bone health, immune function, and mood.
Low levels of vitamin D (vitamin D deficiency) can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, pain, fatigue, and depression.
If there is a chance that you may have sleep apnea, a disorder that causes pauses in breathing during sleep, your doctor may recommend an overnight sleep study.
Sleep apnea can affect the quality and quantity of your sleep, which can worsen your fibromyalgia symptoms.
Management and Treatment
Fibromyalgia can be effectively treated and managed with medication and self-care strategies.
The goal of treatment is to reduce your pain, improve your sleep, and enhance your physical and mental functioning.
Your treatment plan may include:
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe medications to help relieve your pain, improve your sleep, and treat any coexisting conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
Some of the medications that are commonly used for fibromyalgia are:
Pain relievers
These include over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve), as well as prescription drugs, such as tramadol (Ultram).
Opioid medications, such as oxycodone (OxyContin) or hydrocodone (Vicodin), are not recommended, because they can cause serious side effects and dependence, and may worsen your pain over time.
Antidepressants
These include drugs that affect the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two brain chemicals that are involved in pain and mood regulation.
Examples are duloxetine (Cymbalta) and milnacipran (Savella).
These drugs can help ease your pain and fatigue, as well as treat any depression or anxiety that you may have.
Your doctor may also prescribe amitriptyline (Elavil) or cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), two drugs that can help promote sleep and relax your muscles.
Antiseizure drugs: These include drugs that are used to treat epilepsy, a condition that causes seizures. Examples are gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica).
These drugs can help reduce certain types of pain, such as nerve pain, burning, or tingling sensations.
Pregabalin was the first drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat fibromyalgia.
Therapies
There are various therapies that can help you cope with your fibromyalgia symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Some of the therapies that are recommended for fibromyalgia are:
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises that will improve your strength, flexibility, and stamina.
Physical therapy can also help you reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, and prevent further injury.
Water-based exercises, such as swimming or aqua aerobics, may be particularly helpful, as they are gentle on your joints and muscles.
Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist can help you make adjustments to your work area or the way you perform certain tasks that will cause less stress on your body.
Occupational therapy can also help you learn how to conserve your energy, pace yourself, and use assistive devices, such as ergonomic chairs, keyboards, or tools.
Counseling: A counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist can help you deal with the emotional and mental aspects of fibromyalgia, such as depression, anxiety, stress, or trauma.
Counseling can also help you improve your coping skills, increase your self-esteem, and enhance your relationships.
One type of counseling that has been shown to be effective for fibromyalgia is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a form of talk therapy that aims to change your negative thoughts and behaviors that may worsen your pain and mood.
Self-care: In addition to medical treatment and therapies, you can also manage your fibromyalgia with some self-care strategies that are proven to reduce your pain and disability.
These include:
Exercise: Regular exercise is one of the most important and effective ways to manage fibromyalgia. Exercise can help you reduce your pain, improve your mood, enhance your sleep, and boost your energy.
The best types of exercise for fibromyalgia are low-impact aerobic activities, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
You should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, or 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week.
You should also include some muscle-strengthening exercises, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, at least twice a week.
Start slowly and gradually increase your intensity and duration, and avoid overdoing it or exercising to the point of pain.
If you have any medical conditions or injuries that may limit your ability to exercise, consult your doctor or physical therapist before starting an exercise program.
Sleep: Getting enough good-quality sleep is essential for managing your fibromyalgia symptoms, as sleep deprivation can worsen your pain, fatigue, and mood.
To improve your sleep, you should follow some good sleep habits, such as:
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends and holidays.
Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and heavy meals close to bedtime, as they can interfere with your sleep quality and quantity.
Creating a comfortable and relaxing sleep environment, with a dark, quiet, cool, and well-ventilated room, and a comfortable mattress, pillow, and bedding.
Avoiding naps during the day, especially in the late afternoon or evening, as they can disrupt your sleep cycle and make it harder to fall asleep at night.
Avoiding stimulating or stressful activities before bed, such as watching TV, playing video games, working, or arguing, and instead engaging in relaxing activities, such as reading, listening to soothing music, meditating, or doing breathing exercises.
Avoiding looking at screens, such as your phone, computer, or tablet, at least an hour before bed, as they can emit blue light that can suppress your melatonin production and keep you awake.
Using your bed only for sleep and sex, and not for other activities, such as eating, working, or studying, to help your brain associate your bed with sleep.
How can I prevent fibromyalgia?
There is no known way to prevent fibromyalgia, as the exact cause of the condition is still unclear.
However, some lifestyle factors may help reduce your risk of developing fibromyalgia or prevent it from getting worse.
These include:
Reducing stress
Stress can trigger or worsen your fibromyalgia symptoms, so it is important to find healthy ways to cope with it.
Some stress management techniques that may help are meditation, yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises, biofeedback, or counseling.
Eating a balanced diet
A nutritious diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, boost your immune system, and provide your body with the essential vitamins and minerals it needs.
Some foods that may be beneficial for fibromyalgia are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Some foods that may worsen your fibromyalgia symptoms are processed foods, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and gluten.
Staying hydrated
Drinking enough water can help you flush out toxins, prevent dehydration, and keep your skin and mucous membranes moist.
Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, and dry eyes, which can aggravate your fibromyalgia symptoms.
Quitting smoking
Smoking can harm your health in many ways, such as increasing your risk of cancer, heart disease, and lung disease.
Smoking can also worsen your fibromyalgia symptoms, as it can reduce the oxygen supply to your tissues, increase inflammation, and impair your sleep quality.
Getting regular check-ups
Seeing your doctor regularly can help you monitor your health and detect any potential problems early.
Your doctor can also adjust your treatment plan as needed, and refer you to other specialists or resources that may help you manage your fibromyalgia.
When can I see a doctor?
If you have persistent or severe pain that affects your daily activities, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
Your doctor can help you rule out other possible causes of your pain, such as arthritis, infection, or injury, and diagnose fibromyalgia if you meet the criteria.
Your doctor can also prescribe medications and therapies that can help you relieve your pain and improve your quality of life.
You should also see your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms, such as:
- Increased pain or sensitivity
- Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
- Changes in your mood or mental health
- Problems with your memory or concentration
- Side effects from your medications
- Signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or sore throat
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling
Conclusion
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that can affect your physical and mental well-being.
Fibromyalgia is not a life-threatening condition, but it can have a significant impact on your quality of life and may increase your risk of developing other conditions.
Fibromyalgia can be diagnosed by your doctor based on your symptoms, physical exam, and tests to rule out other causes of your pain.
Fibromyalgia can be treated and managed with medications, therapies, and self-care strategies that can help you reduce your pain, improve your sleep, and enhance your functioning.
Fibromyalgia can also be prevented or controlled by adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, quitting smoking, and getting regular check-ups.
If you have fibromyalgia, you are not alone.
There are many resources and support groups that can help you cope with your condition and live a fulfilling life.
FAQs
What are the common symptoms of fibromyalgia?
Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tenderness in specific areas of the body.
Other symptoms may include headaches, cognitive difficulties, and mood disorders.
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
Fibromyalgia is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and the presence of widespread pain for at least three months.
There is no specific test for fibromyalgia, so the diagnosis often involves ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms.
What are some lifestyle changes that can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms?
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, managing stress, and adopting a balanced diet can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Physical therapy and relaxation techniques may also be beneficial.
Are there medications available for treating fibromyalgia?
Yes, there are medications approved for treating fibromyalgia, including pain relievers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants.
However, the effectiveness of these medications varies from person to person, and a healthcare provider will determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Can fibromyalgia be cured?
Currently, there is no cure for fibromyalgia. However, with proper management strategies, many people with fibromyalgia can experience significant symptom relief and lead fulfilling lives.
Treatment plans are often tailored to individual needs and may include a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and therapy.
How can I support someone with fibromyalgia?
Supporting someone with fibromyalgia involves understanding their condition, offering emotional support, and being flexible and patient.
Encouraging healthy lifestyle habits, providing assistance with daily tasks when needed, and being a good listener can contribute to a supportive environment for someone living with fibromyalgia.
