Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. Most fibromyalgia patients also experience accompanying symptoms such as fatigue, sleep problems, cognitive disturbances, headaches, depression and anxiety.

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a medical condition characterized by chronic widespread pain. It presents with widespread fibromyalgia pain and tenderness, especially in different parts of the body. Fibromyalgia refers to widespread pain throughout the body, which is often felt deep in the muscles and can persist for long periods of time. People with fibromyalgia may experience a stiff and tight feeling in the muscles. This stiffness can limit daily activities. Patients may also feel increased tenderness at certain points.

What are the causes of fibromyalgia?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it's likely that a number of factors are involved. Some of the main factors thought to contribute to the condition are:

●       Genetic Predisposition: A predisposition to fibromyalgia may be associated with family history. Genetic factors are thought to increase the risk of developing this condition. It is also thought that certain genetic variations may affect pain perception and nerve conduction. Family history can increase an individual's risk of developing the condition.

●       Central Nervous System Problems: Fibromyalgia symptoms can be caused by problems with the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). This can cause pain signals to be processed in abnormal ways. Dysregulation of pain control mechanisms in the brain can contribute to increased pain perception.

●       Chemical Balance Problems: Some fibromyalgia patients have an imbalance of serotonin, noradrenaline and other chemicals. These chemicals help regulate pain perception and mood. An imbalance can increase the severity of symptoms.

●       Infections and Stress: In some cases, infections or intense stress can cause the onset or exacerbation of fibromyalgia symptoms. Immune system responses and inflammation in the body can therefore play an important role.

What are the signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a complex syndrome that presents with widespread pain and other unpleasant symptoms. Fibromyalgia and its symptoms can often progress silently, severely impacting and disrupting a person’s daily life. The signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

●       Widespread pain: People with fibromyalgia experience a constant, widespread feeling of pain in different parts of their body. This pain is often felt in the neck, shoulders, back, buttocks and legs. Muscle pain is common in fibromyalgia patients. The pain is often concentrated deep in the muscles and in connective tissue.

●       Tenderness: Fibromyalgia patients have increased tenderness at certain points of the body. This tenderness is characterized by hypersensitivity to touch or pressure. These points are called "trigger points" and are usually located in areas such as the neck, back, shoulders, elbows and knees.

●       Sleeplessness and fatigue: Fibromyalgia patients often experience sleeplessness. The feeling of not being able to rest during the night can cause fatigue during the day. This constant fatigue can negatively affect daily life activities.

●       Brain fog: Fibromyalgia can impair cognitive functions. Brain fog symptoms such as memory issues, difficulty focusing and loss of mental clarity are common.

●       Headaches: Headaches are a common symptom in patients with fibromyalgia. The headaches can be migraine-like, severe and constant.

●       Immune Problems: Fibromyalgia patients may be more susceptible to frequent infections and may experience immune system problems.

●       Other Symptoms: Fibromyalgia is often accompanied by additional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, digestive problems and urinary tract problems.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

Diagnosing fibromyalgia can sometimes be a challenging process as its symptoms can overlap with other health problems. Diagnosis usually involves a series of steps and requires careful assessment by a health professional. The first step is a careful assessment of the symptoms the patient is experiencing. The doctor will ask the patient for details about pain, fatigue, sleep patterns, brain fog and other symptoms. It is also important how long the symptoms have been present. The doctor then performs a physical exam to assess the tenderness of certain trigger points throughout the body. Patients with fibromyalgia syndrome may show hypersensitivity in certain areas (neck, back, shoulders, elbows, knees, etc.). This tenderness can be an important indicator in diagnosis. Fibromyalgia is diagnosed when certain diagnostic criteria are met. These criteria include experiencing pain when pressure is applied to trigger points in specific areas of the body and that the pain persists for at least three months. It must also be confirmed that the symptoms are accompanied by widespread pain, fatigue and other symptoms. Before diagnosing fibromyalgia, the doctor may do some tests to rule out other health problems. This is to make sure there are no other conditions that mimic the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Once fibromyalgia has been diagnosed, treatment options are discussed with the patient and a treatment plan is created. Fibromyalgia treatment usually focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Treatment options include:

●       Painkillers (Analgesics): Painkillers are used to relieve pain, which is the most common complaint in fibromyalgia patients.

●       Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications can help relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. In particular, medications known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can reduce pain and improve sleep patterns.

●       Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants can relieve pain by reducing tension in the muscles. These medications help manage muscle stiffness and muscle spasms, which are especially common in fibromyalgia patients.

●       Sleep medications: Insomnia and poor sleep are common problems in fibromyalgia patients. Some sleep medications can be used for a better night's sleep.

●       Anticonvulsants: Certain anticonvulsant medications can be effective in relieving fibromyalgia symptoms. They can particularly help reduce nerve pain.

●       Physical Therapy: Physical therapy uses special exercises and techniques to help fibromyalgia patients improve muscle strength, increase flexibility and relieve pain. This can help reduce tension in the muscles and improve mobility.

●       Regular Exercise: Regular exercise is important to relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Mild aerobic exercises (walking, swimming or cycling) and stretching exercises can help strengthen muscles and increase mobility.

●       Healthy Diet: A healthy and balanced diet can boost energy levels and support the immune system. Avoiding caffeine and processed foods can also help manage symptoms.

●       Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. Stress management techniques include strategies such as relaxation exercises, meditation and deep breathing. These techniques can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

●       Hot and Cold Therapy: Hot and cold therapy can help relieve pain and muscle tension. Taking a hot shower, using a heating pad or cold packs can help to temporarily relieve symptoms.

●       Alternative Therapies: Some patients may prefer alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga and meditation. These therapies can help relieve symptoms. However, it is important to talk to a health professional before trying any treatment.

Every fibromyalgia patient is different and the treatment approach should be individualized. Medications, exercises and lifestyle changes should be tailored to each patient's specific needs and symptoms. Continuous research and emerging treatment options are promising to help improve patients' quality of life. It is important to contact a healthcare professional to access the most up-to-date information and treatments.

References:

https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia 

https://medlineplus.gov/fibromyalgia.html 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279092/ 

https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/fibromyalgia.htm 

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibromyalgia/symptoms/ 

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Fibromyalgia