Fibromyalgia is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissues. It affects how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, making even mild pressure feel painful.

Key Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

• Widespread muscle pain and stiffness
• Fatigue or feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep
• Tender points on the body (neck, shoulders, back, hips)
• Sleep disturbances or unrefreshing sleep
• Memory problems or “fibro fog” (trouble concentrating)
• Headaches, including migraines
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Depression or anxiety

Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetics: family history of fibromyalgia
• Infections: past illnesses may trigger symptoms
• Physical or emotional trauma: injury or stress may activate the condition
• Abnormal pain response: the brain may overreact to pain signals

Who Is at Risk

• Most common in women (especially between ages 30–60)
• People with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Those with a history of chronic stress, depression, or anxiety

Diagnosis

• No specific test for fibromyalgia
• Diagnosed based on symptoms and ruling out other conditions
• A physical exam and patient history are key
• Widespread pain for 3 months or more, with no other explanation, is usually required for diagnosis

Treatment Options

• Medications: pain relievers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs (like pregabalin)
• Exercise: regular low-impact activity like walking, swimming, or yoga
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to manage stress and pain
• Sleep improvement techniques
• Dietary changes to reduce inflammation and maintain energy
• Physical therapy and massage for pain relief

Living with Fibromyalgia
Although there’s no cure, fibromyalgia can be managed with the right combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and support. Early diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan can greatly improve quality of life.