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Fibromyalgia

Understanding Chronic Widespread Pain

  • Most commonly affects women between 20–50 years, but men and children can also develop the condition

  • Often linked to arthritis, physical or emotional trauma, and poor sleep quality

⚠️ What Causes Fibromyalgia?

The exact cause is unknown, but several factors contribute:

  • Heightened sensitivity in the nervous system (even mild pressure can feel painful)

  • Disturbed sleep, especially a lack of restorative sleep, worsens symptoms

  • Emotional stress, anxiety, and depression may contribute or trigger flare-ups

  • Genetic predisposition and other chronic illnesses may increase risk

🔍 Key Symptoms

  • Widespread body pain (arms, legs, back, shoulders)

  • Tender muscles and joints, stiffness throughout the body

  • Fatigue and low energy

  • Mood changes, irritability, and depression

  • Memory problems, lack of concentration (often called “fibro fog”)

  • Sleep disturbances – especially non-restorative sleep

  • Other symptoms:

    • Headaches

    • Digestive issues (IBS, bloating, constipation/diarrhea)

    • Numbness or burning in hands and feet

    • Palpitations and dizziness

🧪 How Is It Diagnosed?

There is no single test for fibromyalgia. Diagnosis is based on:

  • Patient-reported symptoms

  • Physical examination

  • Exclusion of other conditions like arthritis, thyroid issues, or myositis

  • Sometimes, questionnaires and pain mapping are used as supportive tools

💊 Treatment & Management

While fibromyalgia can be painful and tiring, it does not cause tissue damage and is manageable with a holistic approach:

🔹 Medications:

  • Pain relievers like paracetamol or NSAIDs

  • Antidepressants to improve sleep, mood, and pain sensitivity

  • Anti-seizure medications to reduce nerve-related pain

  • Sleep aids if needed to improve rest

🔹 Non-Medical Approaches:

  • Regular, low-impact exercise (walking, yoga, swimming)

  • Physical and occupational therapy to improve daily function

  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and stress management techniques

  • Relaxation practices like mindfulness and deep breathing

🧠 Behavioural Tips for Daily Life

    • Pace your activities to avoid overexertion

    • Schedule time for hobbies and relaxing routines

    • Avoid triggers like stress, lack of sleep, overactivity, and cold/damp weather

    • Work with a behavioural therapist if dealing with persistent anxiety or depression

🛌 Sleep Tips for Fibromyalgia Patients

    1. Maintain consistent sleep and wake times

    2. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals in the evening

    3. Don’t nap for more than 30–60 minutes during the day

    4. Exercise daily—but avoid late evening workouts

    5. Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet

    6. Use your bed only for sleep and rest

    7. Try to unwind before bed (no screens or stressful activity)

📍 Consultation Available At
Dr. Praveen Kumar M
MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology)
Daivik Arthritis and Rheumatology Centre
📞 Contact: +91 80846 4458 | +91 86189 76431

Disclaimer: This information is intended for patient education only. Not to be used for self-medication or legal purposes.

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