Fibromyalgia: A Real Chronic Pain Disorder
Fibromyalgia is a central pain sensitization disorder, not a psychological complaint.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Fibromyalgia is a central pain sensitization disorder, not a psychological complaint.
What you need to remember
- Management — Graded aerobic exercise, cognitive behavioural therapy, some medications (duloxetine, pregabalin).
Widespread pain, fatigue, non-restorative sleep, cognitive symptoms (fibro-fog).
Management
Graded aerobic exercise, cognitive behavioural therapy, some medications (duloxetine, pregabalin). Opioids are not indicated.
Coexisting sleep apnea, depression, and hypothyroidism must be actively sought.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Cognitive
- Related to thinking: memory, attention, learning and decision-making.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Fibromyalgia: A Real Chronic Pain Disorder?
- Fibromyalgia is a central pain sensitization disorder, not a psychological complaint.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Fibromyalgia: A Real Chronic Pain Disorder?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Fibromyalgia: A Real Chronic Pain Disorder?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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