Fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, in addition to fatigue and sleeping difficulties. In Canada, it is thought to affect approximately 2 per cent of people, with 80-90 per cent of cases affecting women.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

This condition is believed to affect the central nervous system, which is why it is often associated with widespread pain in one or places in the body. Other related symptoms can include:

• Heightened sensitivity to touch and pressure
• Severe fatigue
• Lack of concentration or memory
• Sleep problems
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation or diarrhea

Diagnosing fibromyalgia

There is currently no diagnostic test to confirm fibromyalgia. Your health care provider may diagnose it after ruling out other conditions. It is worth noting that having widespread pain, sleep issues, and fatigue does not automatically mean you have fibromyalgia.

Treatments for fibromyalgia

There is no cure for fibromyalgia but a combination of medication, exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures, as well as other lifestyle changes, may reduce the symptoms.

Prescription medication options

Likewise, there is no single medication that works for people living with fibromyalgia. Instead, your health care provider may focus on the symptoms that affect you most. Health Canada has approved two medications for treating the symptoms of fibromyalgia:

• Pregabalin: an anti-convulsive drug
• Duloxetine: an anti-depressant drug

Since fibromyalgia does not typically involve inflammation, you may not benefit from taking anti-inflammatory drugs unless you have another inflammatory pain condition. Depending on your pain, some individuals can benefit from using analgesics such as acetaminophen. Only in severe and difficult to treat situations should opioids be carefully considered.

Other helpful treatments

Combined with prescription drug treatments, you may benefit from therapeutic treatments and other lifestyle changes such as:

• Massage therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Acupuncture
• Gentle exercise
• Improving sleep habits
• Making healthy eating choices

Many people living with fibromyalgia have also benefitted from seeing a registered psychologist for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which can help you identify and change thought patterns related to chronic pain. Because stress and anxiety can worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia, relaxation and mindfulness training can also provide positive benefits when used with (or without) prescription drug treatments.

If you have experienced widespread pain that lasts for more than three months, speak with your health care provider.

The information provided in this article is for personal use, reference, and education only. ASEBP does not provide medical advice. Before starting any medication or product, you should always consult with your pharmacist, health care provider, or call Alberta Health Link at 811.