Signs, Causes, and Management of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, also called fibrositis, is a condition characterized by widespread muscle and tissue pain. Individuals with fibromyalgia often have specific trigger points that become tender when pressed, typically located in areas like the neck, shoulders, chest, arms, hips, and legs. Additional symptoms may include chronic exhaustion, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and cognitive difficulties. Those with lupus or certain arthritis types are more vulnerable. If trigger point pain lasts over three months, consulting a healthcare professional is advised.

Fibromyalgia symptoms include:

• Localized trigger point pain
• Sleep issues
• Persistent fatigue
• Cognitive and memory concerns
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Menstrual cramps
• Restless legs
• Numbness or tingling in extremities
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or temperature
• Depression and anxiety

Fatigue in fibromyalgia often exceeds normal tiredness, with sufferers feeling exhausted despite sufficient sleep. Sleep tends to be light, and deep sleep phases are often disrupted. Morning stiffness, lasting over 15 minutes, resembles that of some arthritis types, impacting daily activities like walking or exercising.

Potential Origins of Fibromyalgia

The exact causes remain uncertain, but several factors may contribute:

Genetics

A family history increases risk, yet specific genes are unidentified. Emotional or physical traumas may trigger symptoms in genetically predisposed individuals.

Trauma

Physical injuries, accidents, or emotional trauma, including war experiences or violence, can lead to fibromyalgia, especially when trauma results in persistent stress responses.

Stress

Chronic stress can cause hormonal imbalances, potentially contributing to the onset of fibromyalgia, with effects lasting long after the stressful event.

Health Conditions

Post-infectious states like Lyme disease, viral infections, lupus, or arthritis have been linked to the syndrome. Lower serotonin levels, which regulate calmness and pain thresholds, may also play a role. Women are more affected than men, possibly due to hormonal factors such as menopause, though research continues.

Many fibromyalgia sufferers also experience sleep disturbances. Previously thought to be caused by depression, current understanding recognizes that poor sleep quality, pain, and fatigue can lead to anxiety and depression, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms.

Common Triggers

Triggers include genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, traumatic events, or poor health. Women, especially those with autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, are more often diagnosed.

Effective management involves medications such as Lyrica or Savella, lifestyle adjustments like balanced diet and regular exercise, stress management, and proper sleep hygiene. Therapy may also help alleviate symptoms.