Fibromyalgia As a Neurological Disorder

Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that is characterized by extensive pain throughout the body, tender points, fatigue and stiffness in the morning (along with a host of other symptoms). Traditionally considered to be related to arthritis, an increasing amount of information indicates that this chronic condition may actually be a neurological disorder.

The Pain/Brain Connection

• According to an article published in Neurology Now, the pain networks in fibromyalgia patients' brains are more easily triggered than patients who do not have fibromyalgia.

Differences from Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis (which fibromyalgia has been closely linked to in the past) is characterized by pain in the musculoskeletal system. According to Neurology Now, fibromyalgia patients do not show the same musculoskeletal abnormalities as rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Central Nervous System Involvement

• According to Neurology Now, ongoing medical research indicates that fibromyalgia patients have abnormalities in the central nervous system (CNS). Specifically, there appears to be abnormalities in the pathways of the CNS that are responsible for processing pain.

Fibromyalgia as a Result of Neurological Disorder

• According to the National Fibromyalgia Research Association, some theories contend that fibromyalgia may, in fact, be caused by a neurological disorder such as compression of the cervical spinal cord.

When to See a Neurologist

• You should consult a neurologist if, in addition to the pain of fibromyalgia, you experience tingling or numbness in your feet or hands, feel dizzy when you stand up, or experience noticeable weakness of your muscles. Also consult a neurologist if you experience headaches, numbness in your face, sleep apnea, bladder problems, fainting, blurry vision, irritable bowel syndrome or increased clumsiness.