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Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia causes widespread body pain, extreme tiredness and problems with sleep and memory. It is a real, long-term condition thought to involve how the brain and nerves process pain.
Causes & risk factors
- Changes in how the nervous system processes pain
- Often triggered by physical or emotional stress
- Family history
- Poor sleep
- Sometimes follows an infection or injury
Common symptoms
- Widespread body pain
- Severe tiredness
- Poor, unrefreshing sleep
- Difficulty concentrating ("fibro fog")
- Headaches
- Sensitivity to touch, light or noise
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis (no specific test)
- Blood count
- Thyroid function
- Vitamin D
- ESR (to exclude inflammation)
Treatment & management
- Gentle, graded exercise such as walking or swimming
- Improving sleep and managing stress
- Medicines that calm nerve pain or aid sleep
- Talking therapies and pacing strategies
- A combined pain-management programme
When to see a doctor urgently
- Widespread pain and fatigue that is not improving
- New joint swelling, fever or weight loss — get reviewed (to exclude other conditions)
- Low mood or thoughts of self-harm — seek help promptly (crisis line or emergency number if urgent)
- Symptoms significantly affecting daily life
Frequently asked questions
Is fibromyalgia real?
Yes. Fibromyalgia is a recognised condition where the nervous system amplifies pain signals. Tests are often normal, which does not mean the pain is imagined — it is very real and can be managed.
What helps fibromyalgia most?
A combination works best: gentle graded exercise, better sleep, stress management, pacing and sometimes medicines for nerve pain or sleep. Support and understanding also make a big difference.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.