Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, cognitive issues (often called “fibro fog”), and sleep disturbances. It is classified as a central pain syndrome, meaning it affects how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.

Although the exact cause is unknown, fibromyalgia is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.

• Widespread pain – Persistent, dull aching that affects both sides of the body and occurs above and below the waist.
• Fatigue – Even after adequate sleep, individuals often feel exhausted due to disrupted rest.
• Cognitive issues (“fibro fog”) – Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or staying focused.
• Sleep disturbances – Restless sleep, insomnia, or sleep disorders like restless leg syndrome.
• Sensory sensitivity – Increased sensitivity to light, noise, temperature, or touch.

Fibromyalgia frequently overlaps with other chronic conditions, including:

• Autoimmune & inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome.
• Chronic pain syndromes: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), migraines.
• Mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Sleep disorders: Insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome.

Women are diagnosed more often than men, suggesting a potential hormonal or genetic influence. Family history also plays a role, as individuals with relatives who have fibromyalgia are more likely to develop the condition. Some infections, including viral or bacterial illnesses, have been linked to triggering or worsening symptoms. Physical or emotional trauma, such as injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is another potential trigger. Additionally, people with other chronic illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, have a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia, indicating a possible connection between autoimmune conditions and central pain processing dysfunction.

• Centralized nociplastic pain causing fibromyalgia: an emperor with no cloths? (2022)
• Behavioural therapy app for fibromyalgia (2024)
• Antibodies induce fibromyalgia symptoms (2021)
• Fibromyalgia: an update on clinical characteristics, aetiopathogenesis and treatment (2020)