Causes of Fibromyalgia
While the exact causes of fibromyalgia are still unknown, doctors believe that abnormalities in how the central nervous system processes pain signals may play a role. Genetics are also thought to be a factor, as fibromyalgia often runs in families. Other potential contributing factors include:
- Physical or emotional trauma: Injuries, accidents, or stressful life events could trigger the onset of fibromyalgia symptoms in those who are genetically predisposed.
- Sleep problems: Issues with sleep quality and duration are common in fibromyalgia patients and may worsen pain levels. Sleep disturbances are considered both a cause and effect of the condition.
- Hormonal imbalances: Changes in estrogen and testosterone levels during menstruation or menopause may bring on or exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms in women.
Treatment Options for Managing Fibromyalgia Pain and Symptoms
With no cure currently available, Fibromyalgia Treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach typically provides the most relief.
Medication options may include:
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) to reduce inflammation.
- Antidepressants such as milnacipran (Savella), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and pregabalin (Lyrica) which can help with pain as well as sleep, mood, and fatigue issues.
- Sleep aids to improve quality of rest.
Lifestyle therapies that may help include:
- Gentle exercise like swimming, walking, or yoga to reduce stiffness and boost mood without overexerting sore muscles.
- Stress reduction practices such as relaxation techniques, meditation, and deep breathing.
- Heat/cold therapy by applying heating pads or icepacks to painful areas.
- Ergonomic adjustments at work and home to avoid prolonging painful positions.
- A nutritious whole foods diet with adequate hydration and calcium/magnesium supplement intake.
- Getting enough yet restorative sleep through sound darkening, relaxation habits, and avoiding screens at night.
Alternative treatments sometimes used include acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, and probiotic or herbal supplements though more research is still needed.
The Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to help fibromyalgia patients cope with their condition by identifying and changing problematic thinking patterns and behaviors. Many find it a valuable addition to medical care.
During CBT sessions, patients work with a therapist to:
- Explore ways unhelpful thoughts like catastrophizing and all-or-nothing thinking impact their pain, fatigue and mood.
- Adopt coping self-statements that encourage facing difficulties rather than making symptoms the focus of every thought.
- Gradually expose themselves to previously avoided activities and challenges using pacing and goal setting.
- Improve communication of needs to loved ones to decrease relationship stress that can heighten symptoms.
- Develop positive reinforcement for small successes as part of learning to adapt to an unpredictable condition rather than hope for a cure.
While fibromyalgia symptoms may never fully resolve, studies show CBT can significantly decrease pain, fatigue and depressive symptoms long term when partnered with medical care. Its psychologically-focused techniques provide many an added means of actively managing this complex chronic condition.
Finding the Right Treatment Approach
Given the variability in fibromyalgia severity and symptom presentation, treatments will differ for each patient based on their individual needs and preferences. An ongoing discussion with a knowledgeable doctor can help refine the plan over time to find the optimal relief strategy.
While having a chronic pain illness comes with hardships, focusing on small quality of life gains through self-care, support systems and medical/psychological approaches can substantially improve outlook and functionality for people living with fibromyalgia long term. With patience and persistence, a treatment regimen tuned to the individual can be achieved.
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