Pain/Rheumatic

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.

8

Symptoms

4

Causes

7

Treatments

2

Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Fibromyalgia. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Widespread pain described as a constant dull ache lasting at least three months
  • Fatigue
  • Cognitive difficulties (fibro fog)
  • Sleep problems
  • Headaches
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
  • Sensitivity to temperature, light, or sound

Causes

  • Exact cause unknown
  • Altered pain signaling in the brain and spinal cord
  • Genetic factors
  • Possible triggers: infections, physical or emotional trauma

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination
  • No definitive laboratory test
  • ACR criteria: widespread pain for 3+ months with no underlying condition
  • Rule out other conditions

Treatment

  • Medications (antidepressants, anticonvulsants, pain relievers)
  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Counseling
  • Exercise
  • Stress management
  • Sleep hygiene

Risk Factors

  • Female sex
  • Family history
  • Rheumatic diseases (RA, lupus)
  • Mood disorders
  • Physical or emotional trauma

Prevention

  • No proven prevention
  • Regular exercise and stress management may reduce risk

Prevalence

Affects approximately 4 million US adults (about 2% of the population).

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