What to know about fibromyalgia

Characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue, fibromyalgia is a disorder that experts think amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals. The condition can also have negative effects on memory and mood.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “symptoms sometimes begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event. ... Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than are men. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.”

There is no cure for fibromyalgia, however, medications are available to help manage symptoms. The Mayo Clinic also recommends exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction techniques.

Symptoms:

• Widespread pain. “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 your body and above and below your waist.”

• Fatigue. “People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though they report sleeping for long periods of time. Sleep is often disrupted by pain, and many patients with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.”

• Cognitive di culties. “A symptom commonly referred to as “fibro fog” impairs the ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks.”