The causes of fibromyalgia are equally as broad as the disorder and the treatment. Normally when someone gets hurt our brain will send a signal indicating there is an injury, it is painful and eventually the pain will subside. However when living with fibromyalgia the pain does not subside which leads some doctors to believe there is a glitch in the brain’s processing abilities. Potentially there may be more cells in your body that carry the pain signals and fewer that slow it down which amplifies pain. Some common causes for this disorder and some people may have multiple causes are:

• Genes – sometimes this disorder will run in families in which parents will pass on genes that make you more sensitive to pain. Depression or anxiety can also make you feel more sensitive to pain.
• Other diseases – arthritis or an infection can increase your pain
• Emotional or Physical Abuse – children who are abused are more likely to have this condition, as they get older. This may happen based on how the body handles stress.
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder – some people with mental health issues also struggle with coping mechanisms to mitigate pain.
• Gender – women are more likely to experience fibromyalgia – doctors think this may be contributed to how women handle pain.
• Anxiety and Depression – mood disorders also seem to affect fibromyalgia
• Lack of Exercise – people who are not physically active also seem to be more likely to experience fibromyalgia.

There is no cure for fibromyalgia however depending on the symptom there are various ways to treat components of fibromyalgia. To treat fibromyalgia broadly most doctors will prescribe medications, self-care strategies and lifestyle changes. Some medications prescribed will relieve pain and help you sleep better at night. Some drugs ease aches and pains, while others may boost your energy or improve your sleep. The FDA has approved three drugs to treat fibromyalgia: Cymbalta (antidepressant), Savella (milnacipran) and Lyrica (anti-seizure medicine). Antidepressants are used even if you are not depressed because they raise levels of chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine that help control pain. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors can help with pain, sleep problems and sad moods. And then SSRIs are good for your pain and depression.

Self-care strategies to help fibromyalgia not rule your life include speaking with a therapist on strategies to help mitigate pain and recognize that it is normal to feel stress and anxiety. Additionally, a physical therapist can help you improve your strength and reduce some of the stress on your body. Since there is no cure for all drug to treat fibromyalgia you may have to take a variety to get relief. Ensuring that you are well rested, eating healthy and exercising regularly are essential parts for living a healthy lifestyle with fibromyalgia.