Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas known as “tender points.” It is considered a type of central sensitivity syndrome, which means that the nervous system’s processing of pain signals is altered, resulting in increased pain sensitivity.
Other symptoms of fibromyalgia can include sleep disturbances, headaches, cognitive difficulties (often called “fibro fog”), irritable bowel syndrome, and depression or anxiety. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but a variety of treatments can help manage the symptoms, including medications, exercise, stress reduction techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
