Fibromyalgia is not just a label; it’s a clinical syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain. But it’s more than just pain. Fibro comes with a host of other symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, and brain fog.
For years, Fibromyalgia was shrouded in skepticism, with some dismissing it as a “trash can diagnosis.” Although some folks thought it was a made-up thing for many years, Fibromyalgia is as real as it gets.
Decoding Fibromyalgia Pain
The first step in tackling fibromyalgia is understanding the nature of its pain. Unlike nociceptive pain, which arises from specific injuries, Fibromyalgia pain is termed “nociplastic pain.”
This type of pain stems from a dysregulated nervous system, resulting in hypersensitivity to pain signals. It’s the kind of pain that doesn’t always make logical sense; it can be deep, aching, burning, stabbing, or associated with numbness. And it’s not just in one spot; it’s all over, from your head to your toes.
The Origins of Fibromyalgia
Many patients ask, “Why did I get Fibromyalgia?” While the exact cause remains elusive, research suggests two predominant mechanisms: the “top-down” mechanism and the “bottom-up mechanism.”
In the “top-down” mechanism the brain fails to send adequate “stop pain” signals, leading to persistent pain. The “bottom-up” mechanism, however is due to nerve reorganization, resulting in a continuous pain signal to the brain. Why one mechanism develops in one person versus another is likely related to genetics and other medical conditions.
Spotting the Signs of Fibromyalgia
Recognizing Fibromyalgia can be a bit tricky, but there are some clues to watch out for. Do you feel achy all over, with no good reason? Are you always tired, forgetful, and cranky? Pay attention to how you feel in the mornings – do you wake up feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck? These could be indicators of Fibromyalgia.
Opening the Dialogue with Your Doctor
Starting a conversation about Fibromyalgia with your doctor is the first step to feeling better. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and concerns openly. Remember, discussing Fibromyalgia with your doctor is not a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your health. A treatment plan may include medications but there are also many lifestyle changes that have been proven to help with pain.