How does cold weather affect fibromyalgia symptoms. Why do chronic pain conditions worsen in winter. What strategies can help manage fibromyalgia pain during cold seasons. How to create an effective pain management plan for fibromyalgia in cold weather. Why do joints ache more in cold temperatures. What role does inflammation play in cold-related pain flares. How can nutrition and exercise help fibromyalgia symptoms in winter.

The Connection Between Fibromyalgia and Cold Weather

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness. For many individuals suffering from this condition, the arrival of cold weather often brings an unwelcome intensification of symptoms. Understanding the relationship between fibromyalgia and cold weather is crucial for developing effective management strategies.

Cold intolerance, defined as an abnormal sensitivity to cold environments or temperatures, is a common symptom experienced by those with fibromyalgia. This sensitivity can manifest in various ways, including increased pain, stiffness, and even mood changes. Approximately 2% of the global population, or about 160 million people, are affected by fibromyalgia, making it a significant health concern worldwide.

Why Does Cold Weather Exacerbate Fibromyalgia Symptoms?

Several factors contribute to the worsening of fibromyalgia symptoms in cold weather:

• Muscle tension: Cold temperatures can cause muscles to contract and tighten, leading to increased pain and stiffness.
• Reduced blood flow: Colder weather can constrict blood vessels, reducing circulation and potentially increasing pain sensitivity.
• Barometric pressure changes: Fluctuations in air pressure that often accompany weather changes may affect pain levels in some individuals.
• Increased sensitivity: People with fibromyalgia may have a heightened sensitivity to environmental changes, including temperature shifts.

The Impact of Cold Weather on Joint Pain

Joint pain is a common complaint among those with fibromyalgia, and cold weather can exacerbate this discomfort. The stiffening of joints in cold temperatures is not unique to fibromyalgia but can be particularly pronounced in individuals with this condition.

How Does Cold Affect Joint Health?

Cold temperatures can impact joint health in several ways:

1. Synovial fluid thickening: The fluid that lubricates joints may become more viscous in cold weather, reducing its effectiveness.
2. Cartilage contraction: Cold can cause cartilage to contract, potentially leading to increased friction and discomfort.
3. Nerve sensitivity: Cold weather may increase the sensitivity of nerves around joints, amplifying pain signals.

Managing Fibromyalgia Symptoms in Cold Weather

While the cold can be challenging for those with fibromyalgia, there are several strategies that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life during colder months.

Effective Strategies for Cold Weather Pain Management

• Dress in layers: Wearing warm, loose-fitting clothing can help protect joints and maintain body temperature.
• Stay active: Regular exercise, even indoors, can improve circulation and reduce stiffness.
• Use heat therapy: Applying heat to affected areas can help relax muscles and reduce pain.
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining joint health and overall well-being.
• Consider supplements: Some individuals find relief with supplements like vitamin D or omega-3 fatty acids, but consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen.

The Role of Nutrition in Managing Fibromyalgia During Cold Seasons

Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing fibromyalgia symptoms, particularly during colder months when the body may require additional support.

How Can Diet Impact Fibromyalgia Symptoms?

A balanced diet can help reduce inflammation, boost energy levels, and support overall health. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Anti-inflammatory foods: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty fish can help combat inflammation.
• Warming spices: Ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric may help improve circulation and reduce pain.
• Lean proteins: These can support muscle health and provide sustained energy.
• Vitamin D-rich foods: Especially important during winter months when sunlight exposure is limited.

Exercise and Movement Strategies for Cold Weather Relief

Maintaining an exercise routine during cold weather can be challenging but is crucial for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

What Types of Exercises Are Beneficial?

Consider the following exercise options:

• Low-impact aerobic exercises: Swimming in heated pools, stationary cycling, or walking on a treadmill can improve cardiovascular health without straining joints.
• Yoga or tai chi: These gentle practices can improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
• Strength training: Light resistance exercises can help maintain muscle tone and joint stability.
• Indoor stretching: Regular stretching can help maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tension.

Creating an Effective Pain Management Plan for Cold Weather

Developing a comprehensive pain management plan is essential for navigating the challenges of cold weather with fibromyalgia.

Key Components of a Cold Weather Pain Management Plan

1. Medication management: Work with your healthcare provider to adjust medications as needed during colder months.
2. Stress reduction techniques: Practice relaxation methods like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to help manage pain and anxiety.
3. Sleep hygiene: Prioritize good sleep habits to support overall health and pain management.
4. Environmental modifications: Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air and maintain a comfortable temperature in your living space.
5. Support network: Stay connected with friends, family, or support groups to combat isolation and maintain emotional well-being.

Understanding the Science Behind Cold-Induced Pain Flares

Research into the mechanisms behind cold-induced pain flares in fibromyalgia is ongoing, but several theories have emerged.

Possible Mechanisms of Cold-Induced Pain

• Central sensitization: Individuals with fibromyalgia may have an amplified pain response due to changes in the central nervous system.
• Autonomic nervous system dysfunction: Cold weather may exacerbate issues with temperature regulation and pain perception.
• Inflammatory responses: Cold temperatures might trigger inflammatory responses in some individuals, leading to increased pain.

Understanding these mechanisms can help in developing more targeted treatments and management strategies for fibromyalgia patients experiencing cold-induced pain flares.

The Psychological Impact of Cold Weather on Fibromyalgia

The relationship between cold weather and fibromyalgia extends beyond physical symptoms, often affecting mental health and overall well-being.

How Does Cold Weather Affect Mood in Fibromyalgia Patients?

Cold weather can impact mood in several ways:

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Reduced sunlight exposure during winter months can lead to depressive symptoms in some individuals.
• Increased isolation: Cold weather may limit outdoor activities and social interactions, potentially leading to feelings of loneliness or depression.
• Anxiety about pain: The anticipation of increased pain during cold weather can cause anxiety and stress.
• Frustration with limitations: Difficulty performing daily tasks due to increased pain and stiffness can lead to frustration and a sense of loss of control.

Addressing these psychological aspects is crucial for comprehensive fibromyalgia management during cold weather seasons.

Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health

1. Light therapy: Using light boxes can help combat the effects of reduced sunlight exposure.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This can help develop coping strategies for pain and mood management.
3. Engage in indoor hobbies: Pursue activities that bring joy and fulfillment, even when outdoor options are limited.
4. Maintain social connections: Use technology to stay connected with friends and family, or join online support groups for fibromyalgia patients.
5. Practice self-compassion: Acknowledge the challenges of managing fibromyalgia in cold weather and be kind to yourself during difficult times.

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of fibromyalgia in cold weather, individuals can develop a more comprehensive approach to managing their condition and improving their quality of life during challenging seasons.

Why Does My Chronic Pain Get Worse in Colder Weather?

• Category:

  Pain Management

• Posted On:
  Oct 26, 2022
• Written By:
  NSPC Team

Why Am I Experiencing Chronic Pain Flare-ups?

As the cold weather sets in, many people with chronic pain conditions find their symptoms worsening. Joints may ache more, muscles may feel tighter, and pains may be sharper. This can be extremely frustrating, particularly when you think you were managing your condition well.

If you’re starting to feel aches and pains in your joints, learn why — and how our team can help:

Joint Pain & Cold Weather

Joint pain is one of the most common types of chronic pain. For many people, the cold weather brings on aches and stiffness in the joints that can be extremely painful.

One reason your chronic pain may worsen in cold weather is that cold temperatures can cause your joints to stiffen and ache. This is especially true if you have conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia, which can cause joint inflammation. Cold weather can also worsen existing muscle pain, and some research suggests that people with certain chronic pain conditions may be more sensitive to temperature and barometric pressure changes.

Tips for Reducing Pain

There are a few things you can do to ease joint pain in cold weather:

• Wear warm, loose-fitting clothing to protect your joints from the cold.
• Exercise regularly to keep your joints moving and improve circulation.
• Take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
• Apply heat or cold packs to the affected area for short periods.
• Eat anti-inflammatory foods.

Adjusting Your Pain Management Plan

A pain management plan is a helpful tool in managing pain. A treatment plan is vital if you’re noticing a new flare-up in pain. There are many things to consider when creating a pain management plan — and your doctor will help you find the options that work best for you.

Seeing a National Spine & Pain Centers Pain Specialist

If you’re struggling to manage your chronic pain, it’s important to talk to a pain specialist. They can help you develop a treatment plan that includes both medication and lifestyle changes to help you find relief.

At National Spine & Pain Centers, our network of affiliated physicians is determined to help find you relief from your pain. Find your nearest center online today, and contact us with any questions.

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Fibromyalgia and Cold Intolerance – The Fibro Guy

With winter on the way, I thought it would be a good idea to talk about cold weather and Fibromyalgia, or more simply put, Fibromyalgia and cold intolerance. There was once a time no one had heard of Fibromyalgia, unfortunately, it is now a much more common condition,  seen in around 2% of the population. While this not may seem like much, that’s around 160 million people who are affected by Fibromyalgia. That’s almost 3 times the size of the population of the united kingdom.    

Cold intolerance is defined as an abnormal sensitivity to a cold environment or cold temperatures. Now, when it comes to Fibromyalgia and the cold, it’s not all about shivering. In fact, in some cases, you can experience fatigue and even depression, alongside higher levels of anxiety and feeling colder than the temperature actually merits.  Cold intolerance isn’t regarded as a disease in its own right, but more so a symptom of another condition. In a lot of cases, it’s thought that cold intolerance can be predicted, such as the highly reported cold intolerance in upper limbs, following surgery.  There are a lot of unknowns when it comes to cold intolerance and the evidence we have shows that more research is needed, and as usual, adding Fibromyalgia into the mix can make it even more complicated.

One population study found that the prevalence of cold intolerance among Thai poultry industry workers was a whopping 76%. However, there is a pretty strong correlation between cold exposure for these workers and cold intolerance. The problem we have though is that most people with Fibromyalgia, simply aren’t spending a lot of time in places of temperatures around -20 to -23degrees. 

So what’s going on?

Do those with Fibromyalgia have an intolerance to the cold?

The research on Cold intolerance and Fibromyalgia isn’t decisive, it doesn’t simply state that if you have Fibro you’ll suffer when cold. Some people are affected yes, but another group may be totally fine. So, let’s take a look at the research into fibromyalgia and cold.

One study looking at the link between Fibtomaylgia pain and weather, used daily weather forecasts and questionnaires to see if there was any correlation to increases in pain. Another aim of this study was to find if physiological influences with the weather had any impact on pain. In short, absolutely no change. Temperature, relative humidity, solar flux, and psychological variables influencing the weather–pain interaction, found no prediction of pain increases. However, there were some interesting correlations with Barometric pressure, however, nothing significant. This study determined that the evidence for strong weather–pain association in those fibromyalgia seems limited at best.

A chance discovery, finding that those with Fibromyalgia had extra temperature-sensing nerves called AV shunts, focused new research. AV shunts (Arteriole-Venule Shunts), help to regulate blood flow to the skin for temperature regulation, and it has been hypothesised that those with Fibromyalgia may experience blood flow dysregulation causing pain.

In a study published in the clinical journal of pain, researchers tested for sympathetic responses to temperature stimuli in those with Fibro. They monitored skin temperature, thermogenic activity, circulating glucose and pain. In this study, 13 of the participants were diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, and a control group was made up of 11 people who didn’t have a Fibromyalgia diagnosis.

When measuring stimuli at room temperature there was no difference between the control group and the Fibromyalgia group. However, when it came to the cold stimuli, brown adipose tissue activity increased in controls, more than in the Fibro group, however, the circulating glucose was lower in those with Fibromyalgia. A good point to note here is that females are far less able to recruit brown adipose tissue in response to chronic stress than their male counterparts. This is important when we look at just how high the prevalence of Fibromyalgia is in women, compared to men. Many conditions that come with Fibro, can compromise brown adipose activity, making it less responsive to stressful stimulation. This often manifests as lower body temperature, lower metabolic rate, and lower circulating cortisol. Which has led researchers to believe, that the sympathetic nerves that lead to brown adipose tissues and surrounding tissues, may infact be the reasons for some of the pain associated with Fibro.

What makes this study particularly interesting, is that pain sensitivity did not change. This shows that those with Fibromyalgia, most likely have an impaired sympathetic response to stress. Now, this isn’t a fantastic study, as it’s just not a very large sample size, but it most certainly gives us some insight.

Another study, published in the journal of pain, Is somewhat better with a slightly larger group. Researchers tested 51 people for their response to temperature stimuli. 23 who had Fibromyalgia and 28 healthy controls. It found that those with Fibromyalgia were not only more sensitive to noxious stimuli. but also to sound, suggesting that hypersensitivity is not just limited to physical stimuli. This does back up a lot of other studies in which we find issues like light sensitivity or photophobia is much more prevalent in the Fibro community than in the general population at 70% and 6% respectively.

But, as is the case with a lot of Fibromyalgia studies, there are a lot of variables that don’t get accounted for. In this study, it was the fact that those participating, were tapering off pain & antidepressant medications prior to starting. If there was ever a variable that’s likely to affect research, it’s definitely this.

A more contradictory study, found in the journal of musculoskeletal pain, blurs things a little. This study got rid of our medication issue in the last study. What they discovered was that there was a noticeable increase in pressure sensitivity, a moderate increase in electrical stimuli sensitivity, but a largely normal sensitivity to heat stimuli. This suggests that Fibromyalgia is not a simple condition of multi-modal hyperalgesia.

A systematic review into the influence of temperature on Fibromyalgia pain, 13 studies, 9 of which found no easily established relationship between temperature and Fibro pain. However, 35 QST (quantitative sensory testing) studies, which is a method used to assess sensory system functioning, were used and 17 of those assessed Cold pain threshold. This showed evidence that was statistically significant in 14 of the 17, showing an abnormal sensitization of the temperature sensation systems. So much so, that some research has looked into alpha 2-adrenergic receptors, hypothesising that a subgroup of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome has an up-regulation of alpha 2-adrenergic receptors causing their exaggerated reaction to cold.

Another Systematic review & Meta-Analysis, which also used studies using QST, found that there was hyperalgesia to cold in 82% of the studies involved, BUT, there were no alterations in the detection of non-noxious cold stimulations. 

Currently, it is supposed that there is a subset of people with Fibromyalgia who seems to have real issues regulating their body temperature, as some studies showed obvious differences in temperature sensitivity and others showed little to none. It’s well known that a lot of individuals with Fibromyalgia end up wrongly diagnosed. Fibromyalgia is more so a culturally adopted label, a diagnosis of exclusion. One condition that many with fibromyalgia end up being diagnosed with, is hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Two conditions in which autonomic dysfunction is incredibly prevalent. Could this be the subset of people that is referred to? Well, it’s definitely a possibility.

Do those with fibromyalgia have an intolerance to the cold?

Well, it just isn’t as simple as that. It’s probably better to think of it as a subset of people diagnosed with Fibromyalgia who are affected. 

What can you do about it?

With winter and the holiday season quickly approaching, it should be something everyone looks forward to. However, for the small subset of those with Fibromyalgia who do struggle with the cold, what can you do about it?

• • With us mentioning a lot of people with Fibromyalgia actually have hypermobility or EDS, we definitely recommended looking into this. It may very well save you a lot of years of headaches.

• • An affordable solution during the increasing energy cost would be an electric blanket. Instead of heating up your whole house, you can use this to heat up yourself. Avoiding being cold and saving on bills. You can even get ones with automatic shut-off timers so using it in bed won’t risk you overheating. 

• • Bundle up! Scarves, coats, and gloves. It can’t be understated how helpful they can be in retaining heat.

• • When it’s cold outside, the heat from your home can easily escape through the windows. To help keep the heat in, close the blinds or curtains at night and during the day when the sun is not shining directly into the room. This will help create an extra barrier against the cold.

• • Reverse your ceiling fan. You may not realize it, but your ceiling fan can actually help to heat your home in the winter. Most ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the direction of the blades. When the blades are spinning in a clockwise direction, they push the warm air that has risen to the ceiling back down into the room where you can benefit from it.

• • Use a space heater. If you have a particularly cold room in your home, a space heater can be a great way to warm it up. Just be sure to follow all the safety guidelines and never leave the space heater unattended.

• • There’s nothing quite like a hot cup of tea or coffee to warm you up on a cold day. So when you’re feeling chilly, make yourself a nice hot drink and curl up with a blanket. You’ll be feeling toasty in no time!

• • Cold showers, while this may sound counter-intuitive, but may help in the long run, by increasing your tolerance to the cold as well as your ability to vasoconstric retaining your body heat. 

• • Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it has been shown to affect our thermoregulation which influences the body’s mechanisms to either warm or cool the body. – not to mention the risk of dehydration increases.

• • The thermic effect of Food such as oats, meat, fish, nuts, and seeds all help increase your metabolism for a few hours, this will create more heat as the body uses energy to digest.

A lot of the issues surrounding Fibromyalgia stem from the changes in how sensory information is processed. Evidence shows that there are changes to how some people with Fibromyalgia process Auditory stimuli, Olfactory and other inputs such as thermal.  Why some people with Fibromyalgia have issues regulating their body temperature and others don’t, hasn’t been fully explored yet. It seems that there is a subset of people with Fibromyalgia who have pain when it gets cold, but what exactly those factors are, is going to need much more research to figure out.

Our internal body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus, it has temperature receptor cells that detect changes in the temperature of the blood flowing to the brain, sending out signals as needed to generate heat or reduce it. The thing is though, the hypothalamus also plays a role in descending modulation. Dysfunction of the descending modulation system is part of the reason why those with Fibtomaylgia are so sensitive to pain. It would therefore make sense (potentially) that if the hypothalamus isn’t functioning correctly, the processing of both pain and temperature would be altered. 

Cold intolerance can be a difficult symptom to deal with, but there are things that can help. If you’re struggling, talk to your doctor about what might work for you.

— The Fibro Guy Team —

causes, symptoms and treatment in Moscow at the FSCC FMBA

Fibromyalgia (fibromyalgia syndrome) is a complex, long-term disorder that is accompanied by widespread pain, severe fatigue, sleep problems. Pain occurs in muscles and joints throughout the body for no apparent reason.

The disease can develop in anyone, including the elderly and children. It is worth noting that fibromyalgia is more often recorded in adult women aged 25 to 55 years.

Scientists suggest that the cause of fibromyalgia is an abnormal reaction of the central nervous system to pain signals that are transmitted throughout the body. In the process of complex diagnostics, it is not possible to establish the nature of the symptoms. Laboratory and instrumental diagnostic parameters are within the normal range.

In clinical practice, doctors use criteria to make a diagnosis. The hallmarks of fibromyalgia are the presence of widespread, intense pain that persists for three months or more, as well as the lack of a clear explanation for the development of symptoms.

A rheumatologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia. Treatment options include patient education, exercise, management of comorbid conditions that may be contributing to symptoms, and medication.

Symptoms

Prolonged, widespread pain in all parts of the body is the main manifestation of fibromyalgia. Pain may be more pronounced in some parts of the body, such as the neck or back. The pain may feel like burning or tingling. The pain syndrome grows slowly, patients seek medical help after a few years, when pain reduces the quality of life.

Patients have many other symptoms that may come and go, get worse or worse over time. It is often difficult to establish a pattern in the appearance of symptoms.

The main signs of fibromyalgia include:

• Generalized pain. The pain is often described as dull. To be considered common, pain must occur on the right and left sides of the body, and above and below the waist;
• Fatigue. “Broken” condition, fatigue immediately after waking up accompanies patients, even despite prolonged sleep;
• Cloudiness of consciousness. Patients complain of problems with thought processes, memory loss, difficulty concentrating.

Fibromyalgia is a multi-symptom disorder.

Common associated features include:

• Hypersensitivity to pain
• Constant muscle tension
• Stiffness in the joints more in the morning and evening hours
• Touch sensitivity
• Sleep disorder
• Headaches, migraines
• Symptoms of anxiety disorder, depression
• Gastrointestinal disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, which is manifested by abdominal pain, bloating, stool disorder

Fibromyalgia patients are more likely to report functional symptoms such as cold hands and feet, wet palms, dry mouth and eyes, and dizziness when changing body position.

Symptoms may worsen or improve depending on the following factors:

• Stress level
• Cold weather, high humidity
• Climate Change
• Morning Hours
• Physical activity level

Causes

The exact causes of fibromyalgia remain unknown and continue to be the subject of scientific debate.

Recent studies show the genetic nature of fibromyalgia. The disease often runs in families among siblings and their parents.

Fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune disease or a pathology caused by inflammation. The main role is played by changes in the functioning of the nervous system. It is believed that people with fibromyalgia have an increased reaction of the central nervous system in response to stimuli in the form of pain symptoms. This reaction is associated with an excessive accumulation of chemicals in the brain that signal pain. It is worth noting that usually these stimuli do not cause pain in healthy people.

The development of fibromyalgia can provoke acute conditions. These include acute infectious diseases, traumatic injuries. Provoking factors also include intense physical activity, emotional stress.

Diagnosis

Fibromyalgia is a diagnosis of exclusion. There is no specific diagnostic test for fibromyalgia, and the symptoms that patients describe are similar to a number of other conditions. Before making a diagnosis, the doctor must rule out all possible causes of symptoms.

Fibromyalgia can occur in isolation, as well as against the background of other rheumatic diseases. Often coexists with psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. For this reason, each patient at the appointment is asked to fill out an anxiety and depression questionnaire.

A rheumatologist deals with diagnostic issues, confirms the diagnosis and prescribes effective treatment to control the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Attention is drawn to the three characteristic features of fibromyalgia, which include:

• Generalized severe pain
• Presence of symptoms for three months
• Absence of other health problems that could explain the pain and other symptoms

Diagnostic criteria include widespread pain in all parts of the body for at least three months, as well as pain when pressure is applied to trigger points in certain anatomical locations. The pain threshold at these points is reduced.

Painful points are identified symmetrically on both halves of the body. The force of pressure should not exceed 4 kg. The doctor can use a dolorimeter – a device that gives a dosed load.

It should be noted that according to the latest recommendations from 2016, the determination of sensitive points is not required. The key criteria are widespread pain for at least three months.

To qualify, pain must be in at least four of these five areas:

• Left upper area including shoulder, arm, jaw
• Right upper region including shoulder, arm, jaw
• Left lower region including thigh, buttock, leg
• Right lower region including thigh, buttock, leg
• Vertical which includes the neck, back, chest or abdomen

The doctor conducts a physical examination, during which he identifies or excludes other causes of muscle pain. An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) as well as polymyalgia rheumatica can mimic fibromyalgia. Blood tests allow you to establish the presence of the described diseases.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia are also similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. A careful examination, questioning, as well as laboratory and instrumental diagnostics allow the attending physician to detect these conditions.

To exclude other conditions that may have similar symptoms, the doctor prescribes tests:

• General and biochemical blood test;
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate;
• Antibodies to cyclic citrulline-containing peptide;
• Rheumatoid factor;
• Thyroid hormones;
• Antinuclear antibodies.

Treatment at the Federal Scientific and Practical Center

Standard approaches to the treatment of fibromyalgia include drug therapy, behavioral therapy and patient education, and exercise programs. The maximum effect is achieved when using several types of treatment.

Non-drug therapy

• Physical exercise. Research shows that outdoor exercise is the most effective treatment. They activate a powerful pain relief system, it is recommended to perform in addition to drug treatment;
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapeutic technique that has shown the greatest effectiveness in the treatment of fibromyalgia. CBT focuses on understanding how thought processes and ingrained habits affect pain and other symptoms. The technique focuses on changing the emotional response and behavior;
• Alternative acceptable therapies that include acupuncture, physiotherapy, massage, myofascial relaxation may be useful in combination with primary treatment.

Medical therapy

The goal of conservative therapy is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

To control the manifestations of fibromyalgia, drugs from the following groups are used:

• Pain medications available without a prescription. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen may be effective in reducing pain symptoms;
• Antiepileptic drugs. Epilepsy medicines help reduce certain types of pain. Pregabalin is the first drug approved for the treatment of fibromyalgia. This drug blocks the excessive activity of nerve cells involved in the transmission of pain impulses;
• Antidepressants. The drug relieves pain and fatigue.

Complications

Pain syndrome, chronic fatigue, sleep problems disrupt the daily routine at home and at work, reduce the quality of life. Lack of understanding of one’s own condition, difficulties at the stage of diagnosis, long-term treatment lead to persistent depression and health-related anxiety. To correct the complications of fibromyalgia, you need to contact psychotherapists, psychiatrists.

Forecast

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pathology that significantly affects the quality of life, but it is still considered benign. Timely seeking medical help, the doctor’s attentive attitude to the patient, the patient’s desire to provide self-help and adjust their lifestyle are key factors in achieving recovery.

Prevention

Prevention is to eliminate provoking factors. The following recommendations will help control the manifestations of fibromyalgia:

• Allow enough time for rest and recovery each day. Deep breathing exercises and meditation practices help reduce the stress that triggers symptoms;
• Organize a sleep schedule. It is recommended to go to bed and get up at the same time. An hour before bedtime, as well as in the first two hours after waking up, it is worth limiting the time on the phone. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages, avoid daytime naps. These factors can disrupt nighttime sleep;
• Exercise regularly in the fresh air, move, stay active. Regular exercise reduces pain, promotes a surge of energy, and eliminates fatigue. It is recommended to slowly increase physical activity day by day.
• Focus on things to come, not on things that are painful.

References

1. Teplyakova OV, Popov AA, Volkova LI, Sarapulova AV. Fibromyalgia: clinical picture and variants of the disease. Modern rheumatology. 2020;
2. Chichasova N.V. Fibromyalgia syndrome: clinic, diagnosis, treatment. breast cancer. 1998.

This article is informational and is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If signs of discomfort appear, you should contact your doctor.

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Fibromyalgia (fibromyalgia syndrome) is a common neurological problem characterized by widespread pain and increased (painful) sensation in the body. Common complaints also include increased fatigue and sleep disturbances. Pain and sensitivity can come and go and move around the body.

Fibromyalgia occurs in 4 out of a hundred people. Women suffer from it 8-10 times more often than men. The disease usually begins in adulthood (between 20 and 50 years), but can occur in both adolescents and the elderly. At risk are patients with chronic diseases of the joints and connective tissue, such as osteoarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.

Fibromyalgia Causes

The causes of the disease have not been clearly established. It is assumed that they can be different for different people. Obviously, fibromyalgia is not the result of an autoimmune, inflammatory, joint or muscle disease. Fibromyalgia can be inherited. There are likely certain genes that can make people more prone to fibromyalgia and other health problems associated with it. However, fibromyalgia itself is not a genetic disease.

Most often, there is a trigger factor that “triggers” fibromyalgia. It could be back problems, arthritis, injury, or other physical stress. Emotional stress can also be a trigger.

More recently, fibromyalgia has been described as a central pain amplification disorder, meaning that the level of pain in the brain is too high. It is assumed that the brain and nervous system cannot process pain signals in the usual way, which leads to increased pain. In some studies, the change in pain processing in people with fibromyalgia has been confirmed by scan results. The researchers also found insufficient levels of serotonin in the nervous system and a subsequent imbalance in the cerebrospinal fluid involved in pain signaling.

Although fibromyalgia can affect quality of life, it is still considered medically benign. It does not cause heart attacks, strokes, cancer, physical deformities, or death.

Manifestations of fibromyalgia

The main manifestation of fibromyalgia is an increase in the sensitivity of the body (up to pain). People may complain of musculoskeletal pain, soreness and stiffness in various parts of the body, as well as sleep disturbance and fatigue. Some patients report that fatigue is the most annoying aspect of fibromyalgia as it can affect mood, concentration, memory, and the ability to think clearly.

A complete list of possible symptoms of fibromyalgia also includes:

• headaches;
• joint disorders;
• irritable bowel syndrome;
• poor circulation and tingling in the periphery;
• urgent urge to urinate;
• allergic reactions.

The pain of fibromyalgia tends to spread and is usually felt as aching or burning. It varies in severity, but tends to be more severe on the most frequently used areas of the body. Fatigue also varies in severity – up to complete exhaustion.

Many people experience flare-ups, when symptoms suddenly get worse. Some people with fibromyalgia report that their pain gets worse in very damp, cold or hot weather.

With mild or moderate symptoms, people can continue to lead normal lives. However, when severe, fibromyalgia can affect people to the point where keeping a job or normal social life seems impossible.

Fibromyalgia diagnostics

There are currently no specific tests to diagnose fibromyalgia, and many people with the condition have normal blood tests, x-rays, and scans. However, these studies may still be necessary, as they will allow the doctor to exclude other causes of complaints.

Currently, the diagnosis of fibromyalgia is established by a combination of the following factors:

• pain in the whole body is felt for at least 3 months;

• there are cognitive problems such as poor memory and comprehension difficulties;

• sleep does not contribute to the restoration of strength, fatigue accumulates.

Management and treatment

Currently, this painful condition is considered incurable.