Some studies have found that individuals with fibromyalgia exhibit signs of immune dysfunction, including increased inflammatory markers. By promoting a balanced immune response, probiotics may help regulate inflammation and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.
In addition to IBS, fibromyalgia has been linked to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition with similar symptoms in which the small intestine is colonized by colon bacteria.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and milnacipran (Savella) may help ease the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Your doctor may prescribe amitriptyline or the muscle relaxant cyclobenzaprine to help promote sleep. Anti-seizure drugs.
The association between fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome is well-established. Alterations in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome in irritable bowel syndrome have been reported, however, this association is poorly understood in fibromyalgia.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend a multivitamin that includes antioxidant vitamins A, C, D, E, and the B vitamins, as well as calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc to ease symptoms. Coenzyme Q10. This antioxidant, used to convert food into energy, has shown some promise in treating fibromyalgia symptoms.
“Magnesium is necessary for helping to prevent the excitotoxicity caused by glutamate,” says Holton. Magnesium is found in many healthy foods, including legumes (dried beans and lentils), nuts and seeds, avocado, yogurt, bananas, fatty fish, dark chocolate, and dark, leafy greens.
A group of foods classified as omega-3 fatty acids have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines, tuna, bass, and swordfish are good sources of omega-3s. Dark green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are also good options. Eat more fiber.
Fibromyalgia tends to run in families, so genetic factors are likely to contribute to the disorder, but little is known for sure about the specific genes involved. Researchers believe that environmental (nongenetic) factors also play a role in a person's risk of developing the disorder.
The central nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves) transmits information all over your body through a network of specialised cells. Changes in the way this system works may explain why fibromyalgia results in constant feelings of, and extreme sensitivity to, pain.
Although the cause of fibromyalgia is said to be unknown, scientists in general terms understand that the symptoms are caused by a sensitisation of the nervous system causing it to act like an amplifier. Because of this normal stimuli becomes painful and pain becomes much worse.
An important first step to feeling better is figuring out what makes your symptoms worse. Common triggers include: Cold or humid weather. Too much or too little physical activity.
Reducing stress and relaxing
People may benefit from trying to avoid or limit exposure to stressful situations and making time to relax. While techniques such as meditation or deep breathing may help manage stress , it is important that people with fibromyalgia do not avoid physical activity altogether.
Rheumatologists, who have the most experience with diagnosing fibromyalgia. Pain management specialists, who have experience with treatment.
Some viral infections such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS etc. have been associated with fibromyalgia. Depression is a connection with fibromyalgia both as a cause as well as a symptom. An underactive thyroid gland may also precipitate fibromyalgia.
Many fibromyalgia patients have been found to have mycotoxins in their body. Susceptibility to mycotoxins can be affected by genetics, meaning if you have moulds in your home, not all of your household will be affected.
Fibromyalgia has many symptoms that tend to vary from person to person. The main symptom is widespread pain. There may be periods when your symptoms get better or worse, depending on factors such as: your stress levels.
Research has uncovered evidence that FM is an autoimmune disease. Neuroinflammation and small-fiber neuropathy appear to be important elements of it.
It's neither a drug nor a wellness regimen—it's a pulsing beam of light. FibroLux, a laser-based therapy developed by Multi Radiance Medical, became the first so-called “photoceutical” device approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help fibromyalgia patients manage pain.
Flare-ups of mild to severe pain come on suddenly and may feel like aching, throbbing, burning, or stabbing. The pain may be present in multiple tender points throughout the body, often affecting the lower back and legs.
Caffeine, heavy meals, and alcohol should be avoided before bedtime. Individuals should go to bed around the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, even on weekends or after a sleepless night. Exposure to light should be minimized before bedtime.
Fibromyalgia is associated with low levels of many vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins like vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. Many people are also deficient in vitamins A, C, E, and K. Many dietitians recommend getting all your vitamins and minerals through your diet.