What Are the First Signs of Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread pain throughout the body. The pain originates from a problem in the nervous system and how it processes pain signals. Besides musculoskeletal pain, the patient also experiences mood, memory, sleep, and fatigue difficulties. 

Researchers believe the disorder amplifies pain sensations by affecting how the brain and spinal cord process signals. 

Developing Fibromyalgia 

The symptoms often develop after surgery, infection, physical trauma, or extreme psychological stress. In some cases, symptoms develop gradually over time without a single trigger. 

It can make it difficult to diagnose the condition. Doctors analyze the symptoms and the location and type of pain to come up with a diagnosis. Identifying the condition early is vital for beginning treatment. 

Causes

Repeated nerve stimulation that changes an individual’s brain and spinal cord is the main cause. The change causes an abnormal increase in the brain chemicals that signal pain. The pain receptors in the brain develop a memory of the pain, becoming sensitized and forcing them to overact to signals. Factors that can cause the change include:

• Infections

• Genetics

• Physical events such as accidents

• Emotional events such as prolonged stress

First Signs

The condition is characterized by tenderness and pain in the muscles and joints. The pain often moves from place to place. Some early signs of the disorder include:

• Lack of energy

• Constant fatigue

• Difficulty sleeping

• Anxiety or depression

• Frequent headaches

• Difficulty concentrating or memory issues

• Muscle cramps or twitches

• Itching or burning skin sensation.

• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet

Severe Symptoms

As the condition continues to worsen, patients usually experience severe symptoms. The intense and constant pain often keeps the patient away from regular activities. Over time, many people become bedridden as they experience pain and constant fatigue. 

The condition can lead to intense emotional symptoms. Many patients take medication to treat anxiety and depression. People with the disorder can experience diarrhea or constipation and bloating. Others complain of stomach pain, nausea, and gas. 

Treatment 

Treatments for fibromyalgia include lifestyle and self-care strategies. Doctors prescribe physical therapy, counseling, chiropractic adjustments, and medications. The goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms and improve the patient’s overall health. There is no single treatment for all the different symptoms. Healthcare providers use different treatment strategies to treat the condition. This is because the severity of the symptoms varies in every individual. 

The pain in the condition occurs in soft tissues, including muscles and joints. It is intensified by brain processing and occurs in the back, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, and hips. A chiropractor can help provide pain relief through strategic adjustment and manipulation techniques. Patients experience pain differently and so need an individualized treatment plan. 

For more on the first signs of fibromyalgia, visit The California Cranial Institute at our Los Gatos, California office. Call (408) 395-8006 to schedule an appointment today.