Fibromyalgia is a widespread pain condition which includes sensitivity to touch, tight and sore muscles, brain fog (poor concentration and memory etc.), poor sleep, gut irritability, headaches and fatigue. Some people with fibromyalgia (approx. 30%) experience loss of sensation down one half of their body. Difficulty controlling fight and flight in the body is common.
So far, the research shows that fibromyalgia is a kind of nerve sensitivity disorder, not a disorder of the muscles themselves, even though that's where you feel the pain. Some researchers have suggested it might be an autoimmune disease but there is still not enough evidence to be sure about that yet. Most researchers agree that it is a disease of central sensitisation. To read more about this click HERE.
Often there has been significant trauma(s) in the past, sometimes a big viral infection, or a history of significant stress and anxiety.
All are potential triggers, plus a genetic proneness. The gut microbiome is now an important component of fibromyalgia in the research, as well as sleep function. If you think you might have fibromyalgia but don’t have a diagnosis, Dr Jacqui can assess you and confirm (or rule out) a fibromyalgia diagnosis for you. To learn more watch Dr Jacqui’s video.