Fibromyalgia is a chronic, long-term condition that results in pain all over the body. As well as fibromyalgia pain, it can also lead to other symptoms including extreme fatigue, headaches, muscular pain and stiffness, a low mood, anxiety, brain fog (such as problems concentrating on tasks and remembering things) and difficulty sleeping.
There’s a lot of research being conducted into the exact cause or causes of fibromyalgia pain but as yet, it’s still not fully understood. However, researchers think it’s linked to an imbalance of certain brain chemicals and how the brain and central nervous system process pain messages.
Fibromyalgia can be triggered by a physically or emotionally traumatic event such as an accident or injury, bereavement, relationship breakdown, surgical procedure or difficult childbirth.
It’s difficult to diagnose and as yet, there isn’t one definite test for the condition. Therefore, it’s also difficult to know how many people are affected, but it’s estimated to be around 1 in 20 people. It’s more common in women and tends to develop between the ages of 30 and 50 years old.
Currently, there’s no cure for fibromyalgia, although some people find that taking pain relief medications and anti-depressants help, along with talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
However, there are lifestyle adjustments that can help you manage your symptoms, here’s our top ten fibromyalgia treatment suggestions…
