An overview of fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic illness characterised by widespread pain and tenderness (sensitivity to touch) and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, intestinal disorders and alterations in sleep and mood.
Fibromyalgia affects at least 1 in 40 people worldwide and usually develops between the ages of 25 and 55, although children can also develop it. It occurs more frequently in females than males (9:1).
The causes of fibromyalgia are complex and not fully understood. However, it is known that changes in the central nervous system give rise to abnormal pain processing and perception. Additionally, damage and impaired function within mitochondria (the powerhouses within cells that produce energy) contributes to pain and fatigue. Evidence suggests inflammatory, immune, endocrine, genetic, and psychosocial factors may play a role.
Although not currently classified as an autoimmune disease, it commonly occurs alongside other autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
A rheumatologist typically diagnoses fibromyalgia after ruling out other causes when a patient experiences widespread pain for at least three months, with additional symptoms of fatigue, waking unrefreshed and cognitive (memory or thought) problems. "Widespread" is defined as pain on both sides of the body, above and below the waist.
Currently, there is no cure for fibromyalgia, and treatment focuses on improving symptoms with pharmaceutical drugs (antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics and anticonvulsants), non-drug interventions (exercise and massage) and psychological therapy.
Potential triggers
- Genetic predisposition
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Chronic stress
- Physical trauma or injury
- Emotional trauma
- Chronic inflammation
- Changes in gastrointestinal microbiome
- Intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”)
- Toxin exposure
- Impaired thyroid function
- Autoimmune disease
Signs and symptoms |
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Musculoskeletal |
Muscle pain, multiple tender points, joint stiffness, cramping, fatigue, restless legs, jaw pain |
Neurological |
Concentration and memory problems (sometimes called “fibro fog”), anxiety, depression, sleep problems, dizziness, numbness |
Digestive |
Abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome |
Reproductive |
Menstrual pain |
Eyes |
Sensitivity to light, blurred vision |
Skin |
Rashes, crawling sensation under skin, dry skin |
Long term holistic treatment aims
- Improve quality of life by addressing the predominant symptoms (pain, fatigue, altered mood and sleep, brain fog).
- Address underlying mitochondrial, neuroendocrine, and immune changes.
- Support the nervous system if stress is ongoing.
Nutritional recommendationsPlease contact your health professional for the prescription of herbal and nutritional remedies. |
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5-Hydroxytryptophan |
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Acetyl-L-carnitine |
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B vitamins |
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Coenzyme Q10 |
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Magnesium |
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Omega-3 fatty acids |
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Palmitoylethanolamide |
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S-adenosylmethionine |
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Vitamin D |
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Herbal recommendations |
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Regulate stress |
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Muscle spasm & cramps |
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Nervous system |
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Improve sleep |
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Pain & inflammation |
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Support mood |
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Address underlying viral infections |
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Diet & Lifestyle recommendations |
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General dietary advice |
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Dietary exclusions |
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Mind-body therapies |
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Acupuncture |
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Manual therapies |
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Exercise |
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Seek Medical Care
Treatment recommendations should not replace medical treatment. Consult your primary healthcare professional to check drug and herb/nutrient interactions or if you have concerns about fibromyalgia related symptoms.