Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive decline, and mood fluctuations. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not yet fully understood, but researchers believe it’s likely due to abnormal pain signaling in the central nervous system.
This may be a result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors. Other factors that may play a role in fibromyalgia development include physical or emotional trauma, infections, and autoimmune disorders.
Impact of Fibromyalgia on the Body
The Musculoskeletal System
One of the primary areas impacted by fibromyalgia is the musculoskeletal system. People with this disorder often experience chronic widespread pain and tenderness and reduced pain threshold. This can make even the simplest physical activities difficult, impacting mobility, functioning, and overall quality of life.
Fatigue
Extreme fatigue is another common symptom of fibromyalgia. The majority of fibromyalgia patients report experiencing fatigue that is not relieved by rest or sleep. This can lead to daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and a lack of energy and motivation.
Cognition
Often referred to as “fibro fog,” cognitive difficulties are common in fibromyalgia. This can manifest as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and poor decision-making.
Sleep Disturbances
Most people diagnosed with fibromyalgia often experience disrupted or non-restorative sleep. This can cause further fatigue during the day, as well as other symptoms such as headaches, sleepiness, psychological distress, and brain fog. Fibromyalgia has also been associated with an increased risk of developing sleep disorders such as insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea.
Mood and Emotional Health
Fibromyalgia can also take a toll on emotional health. The ongoing pain and other symptoms associated with the disorder can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. The link between fibromyalgia and these mental health conditions is bi-directional; fibromyalgia can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, and these conditions can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms.
The Digestive System
Up to 70 percent of people with fibromyalgia also meet the diagnostic criteria for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. However, it is not clear why these conditions tend to coexist.
The Immune System
While fibromyalgia isn’t an autoimmune disease, it can behave like one. Some people with fibromyalgia experience general symptoms similar to those of autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, such as low-grade fever and swollen lymph nodes.
Sensory Overload
Individuals with fibromyalgia often report being particularly sensitive to stimuli, like sound, light, temperature changes, and touch. Even normal sensations like these can feel overwhelming and lead to severe pain or discomfort.
Is Fibromyalgia Treatable?
While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, there are treatments that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. This includes a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and self-care strategies. Psychotherapy can also help manage the psychological aspect of fibromyalgia.
Final Thoughts
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects the body in numerous ways, from the musculoskeletal system to cognitive functions and even emotional health. Luckily, with proper treatment and self-care, fibromyalgia symptoms are manageable.
But if you have tried traditional treatments without success, it may be time to consider alternative options like ketamine infusion therapy. When administered in small controlled doses, ketamine has been shown to provide rapid and prolonged relief from fibromyalgia pain and other symptoms.
At Boise Ketamine Clinic, we personalize our ketamine treatment plans to suit individual treatment goals for optimal therapeutic benefit. To learn more about how Boise Ketamine Clinic can help you find relief, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
