Fibromyalgia

FIBROMYALGIA pain

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview

Fibromyalgia is a disorder primarily characterized by chronic muscle soreness and aches throughout the body. Patients experience extreme fatigue and weakness because of which they may be unable to participate in everyday activities or exercise. They may find it difficult to get undisturbed sleep and, over time, the sleep deficit can lead to anxiety and depression. The quality of pain experienced can differ. Patients complain variously of ‘throbbing’, ‘sharp’, ‘tingling’ or ‘roving’ pains.

Unlike conditions such as arthritis, there is no actual inflammation or swelling giving rise to these pains. Further, fibromyalgia pain is not specific to any one part of the body and it may even ‘travel’. Patients typically report a heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as chafing from clothing, bright lights or loud noises.

Hence, it is believed that this disorder has more to do with an abnormality in the body’s ability to perceive and process pain. Based on the lack of objective indications, patients may be told that they are ‘making-up’ or imagining the symptoms and this might discourage them from seeking medical help.

 

Definition

FIBROMYALGIA painFibromyalgia is a chronic condition wherein the patient experiences a range of pains and tenderness throughout the body.

This results in severe fatigue and interferes with normal sleep and behavior patterns. Hence, certain cognitive and mood disturbances can also manifest.

Fibromyalgia is treated by some sources as a ‘functional somatic syndrome’ meaning that it produces somatic symptoms like pain and fatigue without any direct underlying cause like inflammation or injury. However, it is generally believed that fibromyalgia has a biological rather than a psychological basis. It is frequently accompanied by conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue syndrome although it is not clear which causes which.

 

Causes

Research indicates that fibromyalgia is brought on by changes in the way that stimuli are perceived and processed by the nervous system. Those suffering from fibromyalgia experience pain in response to stimuli that are not considered painful by others. Even a slight touch can be painful. This is believed to be triggered by certain changes in neurochemistry and may be attributed to an underlying genetic cause. Onset can be spontaneous or else it may be triggered by traumatic events or certain illnesses. The following are potential risk factors:

  • Psychological stress.
  • Physical trauma, particularly repetitive injury.
  • Having rheumatic or inflammatory disorders such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus increases the likelihood of having fibromyalgia.
  • Having a family history of fibromyalgia.

 

Symptoms

Fibromyalgia fatigueThe most common indication is a chronic muscular ache throughout the body and a resultant fatigue. Symptoms can wax and wane and sometimes subside for weeks or months at a time before reappearing. They may even fluctuate through the course of a day or in response to changes in weather and hormonal activity. On average, female patients reportedly experience these symptoms with greater intensity than males. The following is a more extensive list of possible indications:

  • Widespread dull aches and chronic muscle pain throughout the body.
  • Tenderness and sensitivity to touch and pressure.
  • Tingling or crawling sensations.
  • Difficulty in sleeping, or insomnia.
  • Fatigue.
  • Muscle twitching.
  • Abdominal pain.
  • A sensation of bloating.
  • Nausea.
  • Painful menstrual cramps.
  • Migraine headaches.
  • Numbness in the face or limbs.
  • Tenderness in the region of the jaw.
  • Sensitivity to smells, sounds and lights.
  • Ringing in the ears.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Inability to concentrate or think clearly.
  • A difficulty with memory.
  • Anxiety.
  • Depression.

 

Clinical Complications

Being constantly in pain adversely affects one’s quality of life and mental state. Patients may be unable to undertake recreational or occupational activities. Such withdrawal can leave them socially isolated. Typically, sleep deprivation makes it difficult for the person to remain mentally alert and function normally. Over the long term, this can lead to depression and cognitive dysfunction. A statistical association has been shown between fibromyalgia and a range of other disorders such as endometriosis, lupus, and osteoarthritis. However, it is not clear whether this link is one of causation.

 

Diagnosis

There is no specific test for diagnosing this condition because of the absence of objective pathological causes. There are no laboratory tests or imaging techniques that can offer a positive diagnosis of fibromyalgia. However, these can certainly help in ruling out other disorders that could conceivably be responsible for the symptoms. For instance, having an underactive thyroid gland can also produce fatigue and weakness. A simple blood test easily detects such thyroid insufficiency. If the patient is, in fact, suffering from fibromyalgia, his/her blood sample will test negative for thyroid disorder.

X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasounds may also be performed in order to determine whether there is any physiological basis for the patient’s pain and fatigue.

The American College of Rheumatology has established a guideline for diagnosing fibromyalgia. The first indicator is the persistence of widespread pain over a period of at least three months. By ‘widespread’ it is meant that pain is experienced on both sides of the body, both above and below the waist. Diagnosis may also take into account the number of tender points in the body although this is not strictly followed because of the inherently variable nature of the pain.

 

Treatment & Prevention

fibromyalgia malaiseTreatment – Medication and therapy can help reduce the pain of fibromyalgia.

  • Pain relievers – Over-the-counter medications to help ease the pain can be taken. The doctor may suggest prescription pain relievers. Narcotics are not advised as they could become addictive and worsen the pain over time.
  • Antidepressants – Can help relieve the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
  • Anti-seizure drugs – Medications prescribed to treat epilepsy are often used to relieve certain types of pain.
  • Physiotherapy – A physical therapist can help teach you strengthening, flexibility, and stamina based exercises. Water-based exercises can be particularly helpful.
  • Occupational therapy – A therapist will help you make the necessary adjustments to your workspace and the way you perform your tasks to help you reduce the stress you put on your body.

Counseling is advised to patients suffering from fibromyalgia to help them cope with the pain.

Low FODMAP diet for fibromyalgia

FODMAPs are carbohydrates that are difficult for the gut to digest as they are fermented by the gut bacteria. Due to this fermentation, symptoms such as bloating, gas, stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea occur.

FODMAP in the daily diet include

Fructose – Fruits and honey.

Lactose – Dairy.

Fructans (insulin) – Wheat, onion, and garlic.

Galactans – Beans, lentils, and legumes.

Polyols – Avocado, apricot, cherries, peaches, and plums.

FODMAP stands for

  • F – Fermentable.
  • O – Oligosaccharides.
  • D – Disaccharides.
  • M – Monosaccharides.
    A – and
  • P – Polysaccharides.

Foods such as pasta, noodles, bread, pastries etc, may increase the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Foods such as salmon, trout etc, broccoli, oatmeal, almonds, hazelnut etc. can help in relieving symptoms of fibromyalgia. Consuming a low FODMAP diet can help in reducing the flare-up of fibromyalgia.

Preventions – Fibromyalgia cannot be prevented. Proper treatment and lifestyle changes can help in reducing the frequency and severity of the symptoms.

  • Get adequate sleep – Lack of sleep is both a cause and symptom of fibromyalgia flair-ups. Poor sleep creates a cycle of more pain, making it harder to sleep, which causes more pain and so on.
  • Reduce emotional and mental stress – The symptoms of fibromyalgia get worse with stress. You could try meditation, relaxing, acupuncture etc. to help reduce your stress levels.
  • Get regular exercise – Exercise on a regular and moderate level can help keep the muscles and joints healthy. Do not exert yourself as this can worsen the symptoms.
  • Eating a balanced diet – Certain patients of fibromyalgia have stated that certain food items worsen their symptoms. Having a balanced and healthy diet provides all the nutrients that are required by the body. Reducing caffeine, junk and processed food intake help in making you healthier and controlling your weight. Therefore, reducing the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

 

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • Pay attention to what you eat. Make sure that you have clean, healthy and nutritious food.
  • Reduce stress levels, as stress levels increase the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
  • Exercise
Don'ts
  • Over medicate.
  • Expect an immediate recovery. It will take time for the pain to subside.
  • Overdo thing on a good day. As it could lead to intense pain later.

 

 

 

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CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try CLA supplements, derived…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that rise out of…
What to eat, what not to eat in the South Beach Diet? The South Beach Diet is one among the most popular weight loss programs that have been the talk…
Tart Cherry: The healthiest excuse for taking that second serving of pie Tart cherry has been traditionally used in delectable desserts such as pies. Recent studies have revealed that its…
blood elements analysis
Blood Element Analysis Test A blood element analysis is a blood test performed to measure the level of toxic elements such as…
amylase test
Amylase Test Amylase test is done by checking the level of this protein in the blood sample and also in…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
Rubella IgM test
Rubella IgM Test The Rubella IgM test is a blood test that is performed to diagnose the presence of the rubella…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM antibody. Leptospirosis is…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food that can help…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging from diabetes cure…
Urologist: When should you visit one and why? A urologist can treat not only genitourinary problems of both men and women but also can treat various…
The Cabbage Soup Diet: The healthiest way to instant weight loss Cabbage soup diet rapid weight loss diet for those who want to shed those extra pounds in less…
Quinine: How gin and tonic came to be known as a potent health elixir The discovery of quinine-containing tree bark is sometimes considered the most serendipitous medical discovery of the 17th century.
Inhale oxygen, exhale worries: The top breathing exercises and how to perform them Performing the breathing exercise is like becoming mindful of how you breathe.  Here is a list of breathing…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
LFT-test
Liver Function Test – LFT LFT or Liver Function Test is a blood test used to determine the levels of hepatic enzymes which…
malarial antigen test
Malaria Antigen Test A malaria antigen test is a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) that can detect malarial antigens (proteins) in your…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your family? You would…
avocado benefits
Avocado: 15 reasons why this fruit should be a staple in your diet Did you know that the word avocado literally means "testicles". Don't get grossed out as this power-packed fruit…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
How seitan proved to be a blessing in disguise for vegans worldwide Can only meat-eaters enjoy delicious juicy steaks and burgers? With seitan, the best meat substitute available today,even vegans…
How to correctly perform nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot? Neti pot has been a part of Ayurveda since centuries. This ancient tool is extremely effective in treating…
What is the right way to take a pregnancy test? A pregnancy test is undertaken to determine if you have conceived. A home pregnancy test is the most…
Appendix pain: Recent findings on this not-so vestigial organ The exact function of the appendix is still not clear. Some consider it as an organ that once…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or prediabetes conditions. It…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a particular liver enzyme…
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPIDANTIBODY(APL)_IgG
Antiphospholipid (APL) antibody-IgG The Antiphospholipid Antibody testing is a blood test used to determine an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid syndrome linked…
Strep throat pain
Anti-Streptolysin-O Test The ASO or Anti-Streptolysin-O is a blood test designed to check for the presence of streptococcus bacterial infection…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body. It is also…
Period sanitary napkin-menstruaion-blood-colors
Period blood – what it says about your health Your period blood color and consistency indicate what is happening in your body. Is your blood bright red…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis A virus (HAV),…
hidden benefits walking
9 benefits of walking we bet you didn’t know! Did you know walking can be the miracle pill for eternal youth? Everyone knows walking is good for…
liver detox facts
7 liver detox facts and why ignoring these could kill you! Are you taking care of this organ that handles over 500 different vital functions in your body? Your…
L-theanine attention
L-Theanine: Better sleep, higher focus, and many other benefits Did you know that L-theanine found in green tea can make you sleep better and be focused at…
aspartame or sugar
Aspartame – Hidden truths about this storm in a teacup Aspartame, the artificial sweetener, has gone under the scanner on several occasions for allegedly doing more harm than…
High Fiber Diet – Fire up your fiber intake for these health benefits! Regular bowels, healthy detox, higher immunity, and guaranteed weight loss - a high fiber diet can bring all…
Agave nectar: The bitter truth about this sweetener revealed Agave nectar is considered to be sweeter than the normal table sugar and even contains higher amounts of…
gout diet purines
Gout Diet : Get relief from painful joints by eating these foods Are you a victim of this painful condition? Are medications providing only short relief? Find a list of…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
Oil of Oregano: The one-stop essential oil you’ve been looking for Are you plagued by a weak immune system? High body inflammation accompanied by pain and infections? Why not…
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential health benefits that…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling creeping up on…
shakeology woman
Meal replacement or protein drink? Learn all about Shakeology and its claims Shakeology from Beachbody claims to be the most suitable shake that can aid in weight loss, regulate blood…
hemoglobin variant analysis
Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Hemoglobin variant analysis is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of hemoglobin variants which…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
piles fissure fistula
Allopathy vs homeopathy vs ayurveda treatment for piles, fissures, and fistula Read to know the best form of treatment among allopathy, homeopathy,or ayurveda for piles, fissures, and fistula

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