Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tenderness in muscles and soft tissues. It often affects the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, making people more sensitive to pain.

The exact cause is not fully known, but it is believed to involve a combination of:

• Genetics

• Stress or trauma

• Infections or illness

• Abnormal pain processing in the nervous system
  It may also be triggered after physical or emotional stress.

Fibromyalgia affects 2–4% of the population worldwide, and is more common in women than men. It can occur at any age but is most often diagnosed in middle adulthood.

There is no specific lab test for fibromyalgia. Diagnosis is based on:

• History of widespread pain lasting more than 3 months

• Presence of other symptoms like fatigue, poor sleep, memory issues (fibro fog)

• Excluding other conditions through blood tests and physical exam
  A Rheumatologist is best qualified to make an accurate diagnosis.

Fibromyalgia treatment focuses on managing symptoms, not curing the condition. Common treatments include:

• Medications (pain relievers, antidepressants, nerve pain drugs)

• Lifestyle changes

• Stress management techniques

• Sleep hygiene

• Regular physical activity

• Counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Low-impact exercises can help reduce symptoms and improve function, such as:

• Walking or light aerobic activity

• Stretching and yoga

• Swimming or water therapy

• Gentle strength training
  Start slowly and increase intensity gradually, based on comfort.