Fibromyalgia, according to the Mayo Clinic, is a condition that causes chronic, widespread pain throughout the body caused by an abnormal nervous system response. It is estimated that approximately 5 million US adults have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, with 90% of all cases affecting women. Currently, there is no cure for fibromyalgia but medications or lifestyle changes may help improve your symptoms.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

The most commonly reported fibromyalgia symptom is pain. The severity of pain one experiences can vary from mild to severe, depending on how you are feeling that day. Other symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

  • Fatigue
  • Widespread muscle aches
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Difficulty focusing (sometimes called “fibro fog”)
  • Headaches
  • Dry eyes
  • Moodiness

Some associated conditions can include:

How can I manage fibromyalgia?

Pain Management

People with fibromyalgia experience widespread pain throughout their body, which causes general fatigue, pain in the muscles and bones, as well as sleep and cognitive disturbances. While there are medications available for fibromyalgia symptoms, non-pharmacological treatment can include massage therapy or acupuncture to help reduce pain and stress levels.

Therapy

There are several types of therapy that may help you manage your fibromyalgia symptoms. Some helpful types of therapy include:

  • Occupational therapy can help you make adjustments to your everyday routine in order to complete tasks in a manner that causes less stress on your body.
  • Physical therapy can improve your strength, flexibility, and stamina. In fact, water-based exercises can be particularly effective when managing your fibromyalgia.
  • Talk therapy (psychotherapy) can be particularly helpful in managing the daily symptoms of fibromyalgia. A therapist can help you develop helpful strategies to manage your symptoms and reduce pain and stress.

You can live with fibromyalgia

It can be challenging to live with and manage fibromyalgia pain, but it is not impossible. With the right treatment, such as medications, therapy, and lifestyle change(s) you can manage your fibromyalgia symptoms and improve your quality of life. By taking a more assertive approach in managing your fibromyalgia, you will feel more confident and empowered – and you will take back control from fibromyalgia!

If you’re interested in learning about a clinical trial for people with fibromyalgia, contact Boston Clinical Trials through this link.