Fibromyalgia FAQ
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Fibromyalgia Frequently Asked Questions
What is fibromyalgia?
What causes fibromyalgia?
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
How is fibromyalgia treated?
Is fibromyalgia genetic?
Can men get fibromyalgia?
What is the current research on fibromyalgia?
How to explain fibromyalgia to others?
What is a fibro flare-up?
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, multiple tender points, abnormal pain processing and frequently psychological distress.
Most people with fibromyalgia also experience sensitivity to touch, light, sound and temperature and cognitive difficulties (Fibro Fog). Often times people with fibromyalgia have overlapping conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, endometriosis, migraines, headaches, vision problems, anxiety, depression, restless leg syndrome, impaired coordination, lupus, arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, skin sensitivities, dry eyes and mouth, dizziness and Raynaud’s Syndrome.
What causes fibromyalgia?
The underlying cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. The central nervous system in those with fibromyalgia has abnormal sensory processing, thus amplifying pain. Research shows physiological abnormalities in those with Fibromyalgia, such as low levels of blood flow to the thalamus region of the brain, low levels of serotonin and tryptophan, increased levels of substance P in the spinal cord and abnormalities in cytokine function.
Studies show that genetics may predispose people to having fibromyalgia. Even with that predisposition, the onset of fibromyalgia is still usually triggered by trauma to the body. Some common examples of that type of trauma would be physical injury (like severe whip lash), an illness (like an infection), or emotional trauma Like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
Doctors perform an exam based on the standardized American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. This criteria specifies 18 tender points around the body that are tested for tenderness and pain. Doctors test these tender points by applying approximately 4kg of pressure. At least 11 of these 18 points must feel painful to get a fibromyalgia diagnosis. Along with the 11+ painful tender points, the patient must also have widespread pain in all 4 quadrants of the body for at least 3 months. Doctors also ask for patient histories, including self-reported symptoms.
How is fibromyalgia treated?
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but changes in lifestyle can greatly improve the quality of life. In recent years 3 medications have been approved specifically for the treatment of fibromyalgia; pregabalin (Lyrica®), duloxetine (Cymbalta®) and milnacipran (Savella®). People experience fibromyalgia differently, so fibromyalgia medicines don’t produce the same results in everyone. Often doctors prescribe non-narcotic pain relievers (tramadol), low doses of antidepressants (tricyclic antidepressants/serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or benzodiazepines.
Gentle exercise and stretching, relaxation techniques, nutrition, alternative treatments and having a good sleep regimen are also important aspects of the treatment plan. Many people with fibromyalgia choose to also use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), prescribed narcotics, physical and aqua therapy, yoga, massage, aromatherapy, accupressure, chiropractic manipulation, hot and cold therapies, biofeedback, counseling, herb and nutritional supplements.
Is fibromyalgia genetic?
Studies show that genetics may predispose people to having fibromyalgia. Even with that predisposition, the onset of fibromyalgia is still usually triggered by trauma to the body.
Can men get fibromyalgia?
Although around 75% of those with fibromyalgia are women, men do get fibromyalgia.
What is the current research on fibromyalgia?
Research is being done on new medications, brain imaging, sub-groups and the central nervous system connection. Much more about fibromyalgia is known now than 5-10 years ago and I am very optimistic about what will be uncovered in the future.
How can fibromyalgia be explained to others?
There are many ways to explain fibromyalgia; using medical terms, analogies and emotional and physical descriptions. Read my approach in my post “Explaining Fibromyalgia to Others.”
What is a fibro flare-up?
A fibro flare-up is an increase in fibromyalgia symptoms compared to what is typically felt by that person. During a flare-up a person with fibromyalgia may feel more fatigued, have more areas of pain, have a higher intensity of pain, have more troubles sleeping or experience more Fibro Fog. Flare-ups can last days to weeks to months.