What is Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body, along with fatigue, sleep problems, memory issues, and mood swings.

Researchers aren’t exactly sure what causes fibromyalgia, but they believe it has something to do with the way your brain and spinal cord process pain signals. Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men, and it often begins after a physical or emotional trauma, surgery, infection, or significant emotional stress.

There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. These include medication, exercise, acupuncture, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Here are the symptoms of fibromyalgia:

  • Widespread pain: This is the most common symptom of fibromyalgia. The pain is often described as a dull ache that lasts for at least three months. It can occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist.

           

 

Fibromyalgia widespread pain

  • Fatigue: People with fibromyalgia often feel tired, even after a good night’s sleep. This fatigue can make it difficult to do daily activities.
  • Sleep problems: People with fibromyalgia often have trouble sleeping. They may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. This can worsen fatigue and pain.
  • Cognitive difficulties: People with fibromyalgia may have trouble with thinking, memory, and concentration. This is sometimes called “fibro fog.”
  • Other symptoms: Other symptoms of fibromyalgia may include headaches, anxiety, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.

If you think you may have fibromyalgia, please see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.