“It’s a neurological disease driven by the central nervous system ,” says Clauw. “The brain and spinal cord in people with fibromyalgia process pain signals differently than in other people so that they have heightened sensitivity to pain.”
What happens to nerves in fibromyalgia?
Many researchers believe that repeated nerve stimulation causes the brain and spinal cord of people with fibromyalgia to change. This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain.
How does fibromyalgia affect the central nervous system?
Fibromyalgia is the second most common rheumatic disorder behind osteoarthritis and, though still widely misunderstood, is now considered to be a lifelong central nervous system disorder, which is responsible for amplified pain that shoots through the body in those who suffer from it.
Does fibromyalgia affect muscles or nerves?
It causes the immune system to attack the central nervous system (CNS) and damage the nerves ‘ protective coating, which is called myelin. Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects many of the body’s functions. The most telltale symptom is widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles and joints.
Does fibromyalgia cause neurological problems?
FACT: Fibromyalgia is a neurological disease affecting a person’s sensory processing system. Fibromyalgia does not involve inflammation or damage to joints. Brain imaging and studies have shown that fibromyalgia is a disorder of the central nervous system.
What is the root cause of fibromyalgia?
The cause is unknown , but risk factors include traumatic injury, rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, and genetic factors. There is no cure, but medications, exercise, acupuncture, and behavioral therapy can help relieve symptoms and improve sleep quality.
What is the new name for fibromyalgia?
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a serious, long-term illness that affects many body systems.
Can fibromyalgia cause tingling all over body?
People with fibromyalgia may experience numbness or tingling in their legs and feet, which may also be present in their hands or arms. This numbness and tingling is called paresthesia , and approximately 1 in 4 people with fibromyalgia will be affected by it.
Is fibromyalgia a connective tissue disorder?
Fibromyalgia is one of a group of chronic pain disorders that affect connective tissues , including the muscles, ligaments (the tough bands of tissue that bind together the ends of bones), and tendons (which attach muscles to bones).
Does fibromyalgia cause shaking?
Dystonia is the last mysterious fibromyalgia symptom we are describing in this article. If your pain is accompanied by twitching muscles, it means that most likely you have dystonia. This condition is explained as an involuntary muscle spasm and it can affect one part of your body, several parts, or all of your body.
What can a neurologist do for fibromyalgia?
Many neurologists have an understanding of fibromyalgia, but like rheumatologists, they’re not all familiar with it. The pain from fibromyalgia is what typically prompts people to visit a neurologist, and this specialist may prescribe medications to control your pain .
Does fibromyalgia show up on MRI?
While more research is still needed, this discovery is exciting news for fibromyalgia sufferers. It means that an MRI may help both with diagnosing fibromyalgia , as well as the identification of the individual patient’s unique subtype of the syndrome.
What can be mistaken for fibromyalgia?
- Lupus. Like fibromyalgia, lupus affects women primarily, who experience pain in their joints as well as fatigue, memory issues, and headaches and stomachaches. ...
- Multiple Sclerosis. ...
- Rheumatoid Arthritis. ...
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica. ...
- Axial Spondyloarthritis. ...
- Thyroid Disease. ...
- Diabetes. ...
- Anemia.
What organs are affected by fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.
What are the worst foods for fibromyalgia?
- MSG and nitrates (food additives)
- Simple carbohydrates.
- Red meat.
- Caffeine, including tea, coffee, soda and chocolate.
- Yeast and gluten.
- Dairy products.
- Eggs.
- Nightshade vegetables (potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers)
Can fibromyalgia go away?
Fibromyalgia is a complicated condition. It has no specific causes and no known cure . Yet for those who have it — as many as one in 50 Americans — the chronic pain, fatigue, and psychological strain of fibromyalgia are all too clear. Fibromyalgia symptoms are treatable, however.
