Abstract

UNDERSTANDING FIBROMYALGIA: SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT OPTIONS

Ahmad Mufleh Alenazi*, Ahmad Alhelo Alanazi, Abdullah Saleh Alshowmer, Mohammed Abdullah Alduaybi, Hamoud Ghayyadh Alanizi, Adel Mohamed AlDukain and Mohammed Ayyat Alanazi

ABSTRACT

Background: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition primarily characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. Initially labeled "fibrositis," fibromyalgia was redefined in the 1980s as a disorder linked to central nervous system abnormalities, introducing the concept of central sensitivity syndrome (CSS). As an overlapping disorder with genetic, neurological, psychological, and sleep-related factors, fibromyalgia affects a wide range of body systems and shares symptomatic and causative traits with related CSS conditions. Aim: This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of fibromyalgia, exploring its symptoms, possible causative factors, diagnostic criteria, comorbid conditions, and treatment approaches. Methods: A literature review was conducted to analyze data frommultiple studies examining fibromyalgia’s symptoms, risk factors, central sensitivity markers, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic options. Historical and recent developments in diagnostic criteria were reviewed, including American College of Rheumatology (ACR) guidelines, and the evolving understanding of comorbid CSS disorders was assessed. Results: Key symptoms of fibromyalgia include persistent pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairments, often accompanied by psychological stress. Diagnostic methods have evolved from tender point evaluations to a symptom severity scale and widespread pain index, reflecting fibromyalgia's complex presentation. Genetic predispositions, sleep disorders, HPA axis dysregulation, and psychological stress are recognized as significant risk factors, contributing to central sensitization. Management strategies are multidimensional, combining patient education, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exercise, and, in some cases, pharmacologic support. Nonpharmacologic interventions, particularly CBT and regular exercise, demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing quality of life. Conclusion: Fibromyalgia is a multifaceted syndrome requiring an individualized, multimodal treatment approach to address its diverse symptoms. Advances in understanding CSS and neurophysiological mechanisms provide a foundation for targeted therapeutic interventions. Ongoing research on the biopsychosocial aspects of fibromyalgia may enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy.

Keywords: fibromyalgia, central sensitivity syndrome, chronic pain, musculoskeletal pain, cognitive behavioral therapy, symptom management, diagnostic criteria.