Fibromyalgia

What is it?

Fibromyalgia or fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) causes pain all over the body which may be an ache, a burning sensation or a sharp stabbing pain.

Fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and non-painful signals.

What are the symptoms?

By definition, the widespread pain lasts for at least three months. Fatigue is common despite sleeping for long periods of time.

Sleep disorders, such as restless legs and sleep apnoea are frequent. “Fibro fog” impairs the ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks.

Other conditions associated with FMS are irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine and other types of headaches, painful bladder syndrome, temporomandibular joint disorders, anxiety and depression.

What causes it?

It’s thought an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain area that registers pain lies behind FMS.

In addition, the brain’s pain receptors seem to develop a sort of memory of the pain and become sensitised, meaning they can overreact to painful and non-painful signals. Stress, changes in the weather and poor fitness can worsen symptoms.

What’s the treatment?

Exercise has been shown to help reduce pain and improve overall quality of life.

Medications can help reduce the discomfort of fibromyalgia and improve sleep.

Patient choices include painkillers, antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs.

A variety of different therapies such as physical therapy, talking therapy and counselling can help reduce the effect that fibromyalgia has on your body and your life.