Fibromyalgia

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting condition that causes widespread pain throughout the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your body. Along with persistent discomfort, people often feel tired, even after a full night’s sleep, and may find themselves more sensitive to pain than usual. The exact cause of fibromyalgia isn’t fully understood yet, but experts believe the condition affects the way the brain processes pain signals.

Fibromyalgia doesn’t just cause physical discomfort. It can also bring on a wide range of other symptoms, including:

Depression and anxiety
Memory and concentration issues (sometimes referred to as “fibro fog”)
Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Facial or jaw pain
Digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

This condition affects around 4 million adults in the U.S., or about 2% of the adult population, according to the CDC. Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be tricky. There isn’t a single test for it, so your provider will typically review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may order blood work or imaging to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Who Is at Risk?

Fibromyalgia can affect people of all ages, but it’s most common in middle-aged adults. The likelihood of developing the condition increases with age, although it can also appear in children and teenagers.

Several factors may increase your risk:

Autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
Gender, since women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men
Family history, which may point to a genetic link
Chronic stress or past trauma, which can either trigger the condition or make symptoms worse

Even though fibromyalgia can feel overwhelming at times, the good news is that many people find relief through a combination of medical care and healthy lifestyle habits.

Managing Fibromyalgia

While there’s no cure for fibromyalgia, there are several ways to manage the condition and feel better day to day. Everyone is different, so the right combination of treatments will depend on your specific symptoms and lifestyle. Here are some steps that may help:

Stay Active

Gentle movement can ease pain and improve sleep. Walking, swimming, and biking are all great options. Just 30 minutes a day, a few times a week, can make a big difference.

Improve Your Sleep

Better sleep starts with a consistent routine. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, and create a relaxing nighttime environment.

Practice Stress Management

Stress can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms, so it’s helpful to find ways to relax. Meditation, breathing exercises, and gentle yoga can all support your mental and physical health.

Consider Medications

Your provider may recommend medications to help manage pain, sleep issues, or mood symptoms. These may include low-dose antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, or other non-opioid options.

Make Healthy Food Choices

Eating a balanced diet filled with whole foods may help reduce inflammation. Many people feel better when they avoid processed snacks and sugary foods.

Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants Offers Relief From Fibromyalgia

If you think you might have fibromyalgia or you’ve been struggling with ongoing pain and fatigue, don’t wait to seek help. Our team is here to listen, guide you through diagnosis, and build a care plan that fits your needs. Living with fibromyalgia is challenging, but with the right support and tools, it’s possible to feel better and live well.