Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body. Individuals may also experience other symptoms such as fatigue, trouble sleeping, and irritable bowel syndrome. The symptoms of fibromyalgia can be unpredictable and disruptive, with appropriate therapies varying between patients.
If you have tried conventional treatments but are still stuck in a cycle of pain or other troublesome symptoms, you may be eligible for medical cannabis as part of your treatment plan.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood. However, it is believed to occur after the body produces an abnormal response to a previous episode of either acute of chronic pain, leading to a generalised increase in sensitivity to pain and muscle tenderness.
Some studies also suggest that genetics may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia, although this is unlikely to be the sole cause.
For many people, symptoms can be triggered by physically or emotionally stressful events, even if there is no single clear underlying cause.
Known triggers of fibromyalgia include:
The main symptom of fibromyalgia is widespread pain, often described as a constant, dull ache. This pain is felt across large parts of the body, most commonly in the neck, shoulders, back and knees.
Unlike short-term illnesses or conditions that can cause generalised pain, fibromyalgia-related pain is long-term (chronic) and usually lasts for at least three months.
People with fibromyalgia may also experience heightened sensitivity to pain, meaning that sensations which are mild for most people can feel much more painful.
In addition to widespread pain, other symptoms can include:
There are no specific tests that can directly diagnose fibromyalgia. Instead, most diagnoses are made by reviewing a person’s medical history alongside a physical examination.
Because symptoms can vary widely, it may take some time to reach a diagnosis. This is partly because many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia can also occur in other conditions. Your GP may first want to rule out conditions such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. These can often be investigated using blood or urine tests, X-rays, or scans.
Having one or more of these conditions does not necessarily mean you don’t also have fibromyalgia.
A specialist will usually consider the following criteria when making a diagnosis:
While there is currently no cure for fibromyalgia and no one-size-fits-all approach, there are a range of treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Treatment usually involves a combination of talking therapies and lifestyle changes, such as gentle exercise or relaxation techniques.
For specific symptoms like pain, anxiety, or sleep problems, some patients may be prescribed medication. If these first-line treatments are not effective, some patients may be eligible for medical cannabis treatment through a private clinic.
View our FAQ’s section and learn more about all the conditions that can be treatable with medical cannabis.
