Symptoms like prolonged fatigue and body aches? The cause could be fibromyalgia

What is fibromyalgia?

Chronic pain is a hallmark of fibromyalgia, a pain disorder that results in increased sensitivity to pain in muscles and joints. The disease cannot be cured, but research is advancing to better understand what causes the condition and how it can be treated. Women are more commonly affected by fibromyalgia than men, and the disease impacts both the body and mind.

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia

An overwhelming sense of fatigue and pain that varies from day to day is a common description of fibromyalgia. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

• Fatigue and exhaustion A deep-seated tiredness that does not improve with rest or sleep.
• Pain throughout the body A dull, burning, or stabbing pain that can shift between different body parts.
• Tender and stiff muscles Especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
• Sleep problems Difficulty falling asleep or waking up multiple times during the night.
• “Fibro fog” Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, and difficulty maintaining focus.
• Sensitivity to touch Pain when applying light pressure to certain areas of the body.
• Leg pain and restless legs Many experience aches and fatigue in the legs, making it difficult to sit still or sleep.

Read more about symptoms, causes, and treatment of fibromyalgia.

What causes fibromyalgia?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not yet fully understood, but research suggests that the disease may be due to an overactive pain regulation system in the nervous system. Factors that may contribute to the development of fibromyalgia include genetic predisposition, stress and mental health issues, hormonal changes, and previous injuries or infections.

Living with fibromyalgia

Living with fibromyalgia often means learning to listen to your body and adjusting your lifestyle accordingly. Finding a balance between activity and rest is essential, as is surrounding yourself with supportive people. Despite the challenges of the disease, it is possible to find strategies to feel better and live as normal a life as possible.

If you suspect that you have fibromyalgia or experience symptoms such as constant fatigue and body pain, do not hesitate to seek help. The earlier you receive a diagnosis, the sooner you can begin finding ways to alleviate the discomfort and improve your quality of life.

There are, of course, several other causes of joint and muscle pain besides fibromyalgia. These may include rheumatism, which affects the joints through inflammation, or osteoarthritis, which causes cartilage breakdown. Other possible causes include muscle tension, overuse injuries, neurological diseases, and vitamin deficiency. Obtaining a correct diagnosis is crucial to effectively treating the pain.

Vitamin deficiency can play a significant role in muscle and joint symptoms and should not be overlooked as a potential cause of pain and fatigue. For example, vitamin D deficiency (which is relatively common) can lead to muscle weakness, stiffness, and increased pain sensitivity. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, and muscle and joint pain. Other important nutrients that affect muscle and joint health include magnesium, which helps with muscle relaxation, as well as iron and folic acid, which are essential for oxygen transport and cellular energy metabolism. If you experience prolonged symptoms, it may be beneficial to check your nutrient levels through blood tests and adjust your diet or take supplements as needed to alleviate symptoms.