Fibromyalgia is a complex and chronic health condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by fatigue, cognitive disturbances, and emotional distress. It affects millions of individuals, primarily women, and remains one of the most misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed conditions. Unlike conditions with visible or measurable damage, fibromyalgia is classified as a central pain processing disorder, meaning the brain and spinal cord amplify pain signals more than usual.
At May-Grant OB/GYN, our providers recognize the impact that fibromyalgia can have on daily life. Although the condition does not cause physical damage to joints or organs, the pain and fatigue it produces are very real. For many patients, especially women in midlife, fibromyalgia creates a daily struggle that affects personal well-being, work, relationships, and emotional health. Our goal is to offer compassionate care, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment options to help manage and reduce symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia presents with a variety of symptoms that can vary in severity and duration. The hallmark of the condition is widespread body pain that lasts for at least three months and affects both sides of the body as well as areas above and below the waist. The pain is often described as a constant dull ache, with periods of heightened sensitivity.
Other symptoms may include:
- Chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Sleep disturbances, including restless or unrefreshing sleep
- Cognitive issues, often referred to as “fibro fog,” which include difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and mental fatigue
- Headaches or migraines
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive issues
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Sensitivity to noise, light, or temperature
- Anxiety and depression
Because these symptoms overlap with many other conditions, fibromyalgia is often a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other potential causes must be ruled out before a definitive diagnosis is made.
Possible Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, but researchers believe it involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. One prevailing theory suggests that fibromyalgia patients have an increased sensitivity to pain due to abnormal processing of pain signals in the brain. This hypersensitivity may be linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Fibromyalgia often develops after a physical trauma, infection, surgery, or significant psychological stress. In other cases, it appears gradually without any obvious trigger. Women are disproportionately affected, and the condition often develops between the ages of 30 and 50. A family history of fibromyalgia or other chronic pain conditions can increase one’s risk. Mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, may also contribute to the onset or worsening of symptoms.
How Fibromyalgia Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing fibromyalgia requires a thoughtful and thorough approach. At May-Grant OB/GYN, our team of providers listens carefully to each patient’s symptoms, history, and overall health picture. There is no single test that confirms fibromyalgia, but diagnosis can be made using established criteria developed by the American College of Rheumatology.
One key criterion is the presence of widespread pain for at least three months. This includes pain on both sides of the body, above and below the waist. Additional criteria include a count of specific tender points on the body and the presence of other symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive issues, and sleep disturbances. Blood tests may be used to rule out other conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders that can present with similar symptoms. Once other causes are excluded, a diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be made with greater confidence.
Treatment Approaches for Managing Symptoms
While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, effective treatment is available to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. At May-Grant OB/GYN, our care approach includes personalized treatment plans that combine medical therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support.
Medications often play a role in symptom management. Common options include low-dose antidepressants to address pain and sleep disturbances, medications like pregabalin or gabapentin to reduce nerve-related discomfort, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for occasional pain relief. However, medication is only one piece of the puzzle.
Lifestyle interventions such as regular, low-impact exercise—like walking, swimming, or yoga—have been shown to significantly reduce symptoms. Physical activity can improve pain tolerance, boost mood, and enhance sleep quality. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling may also be helpful in managing emotional stress, anxiety, or depression that often accompany chronic illness.
Complementary and Holistic Therapies
In addition to traditional treatments, many patients find relief through complementary therapies. These include acupuncture, massage therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Such treatments can reduce muscle tension, ease stress, and promote relaxation.
Nutritional changes may also play a role in symptom management. Some patients report improvement after reducing inflammatory foods or identifying potential sensitivities. While dietary modifications won’t cure fibromyalgia, they can contribute to overall wellness. At May-Grant, our providers may work alongside other specialists, including physical therapists, dietitians, or pain management experts, to ensure comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.
Living With Fibromyalgia
Living with fibromyalgia often requires a shift in lifestyle and expectations. It may take time to find the right combination of treatments that offer consistent relief. Managing stress, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and pacing activities throughout the day can go a long way toward improving function and quality of life.
Many people with fibromyalgia live full and active lives. The key is recognizing your limits and creating a self-care routine that supports your body. Family, friends, and trusted healthcare providers can offer vital encouragement. At May-Grant OB/GYN, we are committed to helping our patients navigate chronic conditions like fibromyalgia with respect, expertise, and ongoing support.
Support and Resources at May-Grant OB/GYN
If you are experiencing chronic pain, fatigue, or other unexplained symptoms, don’t ignore them. While fibromyalgia may not be visible, its effects are deeply felt. Our team of providers at May-Grant OB/GYN—with locations in Lancaster and surrounding areas—is here to help you get the answers you deserve.
We understand that fibromyalgia is not just a physical condition—it also affects emotional and mental health. That’s why our approach emphasizes both symptom relief and emotional support. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with symptoms for years, we’re here to partner with you on the path toward better health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fibromyalgia
Is fibromyalgia a form of arthritis?
No, fibromyalgia is not arthritis. While both involve pain, fibromyalgia affects soft tissues and how the nervous system processes pain, not the joints themselves.
Can fibromyalgia be cured?
There is currently no cure, but many people manage symptoms successfully through a combination of treatments, lifestyle changes, and support.
Does exercise make fibromyalgia worse?
Initially, exercise may feel challenging, but regular low-impact activity can reduce pain and improve function over time.
Is fibromyalgia a mental health condition?
No, but it is often associated with mood disorders like anxiety and depression. These can both result from and worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.
Are symptoms consistent day to day?
Symptoms can fluctuate. Many patients experience “flare-ups” where pain and fatigue intensify temporarily. Managing triggers can help reduce flare frequency.
Empowering Your Journey to Wellness
Fibromyalgia is a life-altering condition, but it does not define you. With understanding, proper diagnosis, and a team committed to your care, you can find ways to manage symptoms and reclaim your quality of life. At May-Grant OB/GYN, we recognize the challenges fibromyalgia presents, and we are here to help every step of the way.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore your symptoms or looking for better treatment options, our team is ready to support you with compassion and expertise. You don’t have to face chronic pain alone. Reach out to one of our Lancaster-area locations to begin your journey toward relief and renewal.
Resources:
Clauw, D. J. (2014). Fibromyalgia: A clinical review. JAMA.
Goldenberg, D. L., Burckhardt, C., & Crofford, L. (2004). Management of fibromyalgia syndrome. JAMA.
Häuser, W., Bernardy, K., Arnold, B., Offenbächer, M., & Schiltenwolf, M. (2009). Efficacy of multicomponent treatment in fibromyalgia syndrome: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Arthritis Care & Research.
