Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. Medically, fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals. Symptoms often begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In some cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event. Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men. Many individuals who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and depression.

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors, with family history being one potential factor in susceptibility. The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of the body and above and below the waist. Fibromyalgia is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other conditions must be ruled out through diagnostic tests before it can be diagnosed. There is no definitive cure, but a multidisciplinary approach including medication, physical therapy, exercise, and stress-management strategies can help manage symptoms.