Fibromyalgia
Also known as: Fibromyalgia Syndrome, FMS
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties often called 'fibro fog.' It is believed to result from abnormal pain signal processing in the central nervous system. While there is no cure, a multimodal treatment approach can significantly improve quality of life.
Symptoms
Causes
- Central sensitization (amplified pain processing in the brain and spinal cord)
- Genetic predisposition affecting pain neurotransmitters
- Physical trauma, surgery, or infection as triggering events
- Prolonged psychological stress
- Abnormalities in serotonin, norepinephrine, and substance P levels
Risk Factors
- Female sex (diagnosed twice as often in women)
- Family history of fibromyalgia
- Existing rheumatic disease such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- History of physical or emotional trauma
- Mood disorders including anxiety and depression
Diagnosis
- Clinical assessment using the American College of Rheumatology criteria
- Widespread pain index and symptom severity scale evaluation
- Blood tests to rule out thyroid disease, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Exclusion of other conditions that mimic fibromyalgia
Treatment
- FDA-approved medications: duloxetine, milnacipran, pregabalin
- Low-dose tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline) for sleep and pain
- Regular low-impact aerobic exercise (walking, swimming, cycling)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy for pain management
- Sleep hygiene optimization
- Complementary approaches such as acupuncture and massage therapy
Prevention
- Regular physical activity to maintain pain thresholds
- Stress management techniques such as meditation and mindfulness
- Maintaining consistent sleep schedules
- Early treatment of mood disorders
When to See a Doctor
- You experience widespread pain that persists for more than three months
- Fatigue is severe enough to interfere with work and daily activities
- Cognitive difficulties are affecting your ability to function
- You need help distinguishing fibromyalgia from other conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
Related from the Supplement Library
Magnesium Glycinate
StrongMineral · Improves sleep quality and onset
Vitamin D
StrongVitamin · Bone health and calcium absorption
CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)
StrongCompound · Mitochondrial energy production (ATP)
SAM-e
ModerateAmino Acid · May improve depression symptoms
Melatonin
StrongCompound · Regulates circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle
These supplements have been studied in relation to Fibromyalgia. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.
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