Although fibromyalgia is often mistaken for an arthritic disease, it is actually a functional disorder of the central nervous system. This means the problem does not lie in the joints or muscles themselves, but in the way the brain and nervous system process pain.
Fibromyalgia is neither an autoimmune disease nor a critical illness in the traditional sense, but the condition can lead to permanently reduced functionality and is therefore often equated with a disability.
Research shows that genetics play a role. Fibromyalgia is hereditary to some degree, and several family members may have the condition. But genetics alone do not explain who develops fibromyalgia. Stress, past physical or psychological trauma, and infections often act as triggers that activate an underlying vulnerability.
Who gets fibromyalgia?
Why it often takes time getting diagnosed
Getting a fibromyalgia diagnosis can be a long and frustrating process. Many patients go from doctor to doctor for years because the symptoms are diffuse and overlap with other conditions. There is no blood test or scan that can confirm fibromyalgia, so the diagnosis is primarily based on symptom descriptions and ruling out other diseases.
The current ACR criteria (American College of Rheumatology) focus on widespread pain lasting at least three months combined with other symptoms such as fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties. Patients are typically referred to a rheumatologist or a pain clinic, where specialists can carry out the necessary evaluation.
At Anodyne Care, we help with quick clarification. If you already have the diagnosis, we start treatment immediately. If you still lack a diagnosis, we guide you through the process and ensure you get the right evaluation from the relevant specialists.
Fibromyalgia manifests differently from person to person, but there are recurring patterns most patients recognize.
Nausea, dizziness, and cognitive problems
Fibromyalgia and nausea often go hand in hand. Constant pain and central sensitization affect the nervous system in ways that can trigger nausea and dizziness. Many also experience “brain fog,” which includes forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and mental haze that makes it hard to work or follow conversations.
Chronic fatigue and sleep disturbances
Fatigue is not just ordinary tiredness. Fibromyalgia is a pervasive exhaustion that does not disappear with rest. Many describe it as constant flu-like fatigue. Sleep disturbances worsen the problem - either difficulty falling asleep or frequent awakenings that prevent deep, restorative sleep.
Although the causes of fibromyalgia are not easy to understand, we know that central sensitization plays a key role. The nervous system becomes hypersensitive and amplifies pain, so normal stimuli are perceived as painful. Stress is one of the biggest triggers, and both acute and chronic stress significantly worsen symptoms.
Cold affects many negatively. Fibromyalgia and cold are a poor combination, as low temperatures increase muscle stiffness and pain. Many therefore experience worsening symptoms in winter or cold environments.
Interestingly, there is also a link between fibromyalgia and ADHD. People with ADHD have an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia, possibly because both conditions involve dysregulation of nervous system signaling. Similarly, there is a connection between fibromyalgia and hypermobility. People with more elastic connective tissue often suffer from chronic pain.
Although fibromyalgia is not an inflammatory disease in the classical sense, recent research shows there may be a minor degree of inflammation in the nervous system, contributing to the pain experience. This underscores that fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome with complex neurological components.
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that requires a holistic approach. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to live with the pain and fatigue you experience today. Many of our patients at Anodyne Care experience a 30-70% reduction in symptoms when they receive the right, individually tailored treatment.
We know fibromyalgia cannot be cured, but we also know your quality of life can be significantly improved. Through our combined treatment methods - medication, medical cannabis, physiotherapy, and psychological support - we help you regain control over your everyday life.
You deserve to attend family gatherings without being exhausted afterward. You deserve to sleep well at night and wake up with energy. You deserve to live the life you want - not the life dictated by a chronic condition.
Take the first step today. Contact us for a non-binding consultation on how we can help you get your everyday life back.