Overview
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties. Unlike arthritis, it does not cause joint damage but affects the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals. Fibromyalgia is often triggered by a stressful event, physical trauma, surgery, or infection. It predominantly affects women and is frequently associated with other conditions such as IBS and depression.
Causes and risk factors
The following factors are associated with the development of Fibromyalgia:
- Amplified pain signals in the brain and spinal cord
- Genetic predisposition
- Triggering events: physical trauma, surgery, infection
- Psychological stress
- Sleep disturbances
- Female hormones â predominantly affects women
- Associated with anxiety, depression, and PTSD
- Altered neurotransmitter levels
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of Fibromyalgia include:
- Widespread dull aching pain lasting more than three months
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Sleep problems â sleeping long but waking exhausted
- Cognitive difficulties: memory, concentration, mental clarity
- Headaches including migraines
- Depression and anxiety
- Abdominal pain and IBS symptoms
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Sensitivity to touch, temperature, and noise
- Restless legs syndrome
Diagnosis
Fibromyalgia is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and appropriate investigations such as blood tests, imaging, or specialist review, depending on the specific condition and presentation. Your doctor will consider all relevant symptoms and risk factors before making a diagnosis.
Treatment options
Treatment approaches for Fibromyalgia may include:
- Physical therapy and tailored exercise programmes
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Antidepressants: duloxetine, milnacipran for pain
- Anticonvulsants: pregabalin, gabapentin for pain
- Sleep improvement strategies
- Complementary therapies: acupuncture, massage
- Pain management programmes
- Pacing and energy management
- Hot baths, heat therapy
Prevention
No known prevention, but managing stress, maintaining regular sleep and exercise, and treating depression and anxiety may reduce risk.
Complications
If left untreated or poorly managed, Fibromyalgia can lead to complications including:
Significant disability, impact on work and relationships, depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life.
Sources and references: This article is written in accordance with NHS UK, WHO, and Mayo Clinic clinical guidelines. It is reviewed for accuracy by the SymptomSense content team. ICD-10 code: M79.7. Last reviewed June 2026.