What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties, making everyday tasks and work difficult.

Fibromyalgia affects up to 5% of the population worldwide. Despite its prevalence, fibromyalgia is often misunderstood, and individuals living with the condition can face barriers in employment and daily life.

Understanding fibromyalgia, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help individuals manage the condition effectively.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, seeking medical advice is the first step toward diagnosis and support.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia presents a range of symptoms that can vary from person to person. Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Widespread pain: Fibromyalgia pain can affect any part of your body, staying in one area, spreading widely, or shifting unpredictably.
• Fatigue: Many people with fibromyalgia wake up feeling tired, even after a full night's sleep. Sleep disorders, such as restless leg syndrome or sleep apnoea, are also common.
• Cognitive difficulties: Often referred to as ‘fibro fog’, this includes trouble concentrating, memory issues, and difficulty focusing on tasks.
• Headaches and migraines
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Sensitivity to light, noise, or temperature changes
• Depression and anxiety

If you experience persistent symptoms that impact your daily life, it is important to see a doctor for further assessment.

Causes and types of fibromyalgia

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but researchers believe it involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some potential causes and contributing factors include:

• Abnormal pain processing: People living with fibromyalgia may have heightened pain perception due to differences in how their brain and nervous system process pain signals.
• Genetics: A family history of fibromyalgia or other chronic pain conditions may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Infections: Certain illnesses, viruses or infections may trigger or worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.
• Physical or emotional trauma:Accidents, injuries, or prolonged stress can trigger the onset of fibromyalgia.

Types of fibromyalgia

While fibromyalgia is generally classified as one condition, it may be categorised based on symptom patterns:

• Primary fibromyalgia: Occurs without any underlying medical condition.
• Secondary fibromyalgia: Develops alongside other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Risk factors

Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing fibromyalgia, including:

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men.
• Family history: Having a relative living with fibromyalgia may increase the risk.
• Other conditions: Autoimmune disorders, arthritis, and mental health conditions can contribute to fibromyalgia.
• Stress and trauma: High levels of stress or past trauma may trigger or worsen symptoms.

Diagnosis

There is no single test to get a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Instead, doctors use a combination of methods, including:

• Medical history and symptom assessment: Discussing pain patterns, fatigue levels, and other symptoms.
• Physical examination: Checking for tender points and ruling out other conditions.
• Blood tests: Used to exclude other illnesses with similar symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases.

A diagnosis is usually confirmed if a person has widespread pain for at least three months without an underlying medical condition that could explain the symptoms.

Treatment options for fibromyalgia

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, several treatment options can be used for managing and treating fibromyalgia:

Medications

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or prescribed pain relievers may help reduce pain and discomfort.
• Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants can help with pain, fatigue, and sleep issues.
• Anti-seizure drugs: Some medications used for epilepsy may help manage nerve-related pain.

Lifestyle changes

• Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, or walking can help reduce symptoms.
• Stress management: Techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be beneficial.
• Sleep hygiene: Establishing a healthy sleep routine can improve rest and energy levels.
• Dietary changes: Avoiding processed foods, caffeine, and excessive sugar may help with symptom management.

When to see a doctor

If you experience chronic pain, fatigue, or cognitive difficulties that impact your daily life, it’s important to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing fibromyalgia effectively.

Finding a job with fibromyalgia

People living with fibromyalgia can face barriers in the workplace, including a lack of awareness or understanding among employers, rigid workplace structures that don't allow for flexibility, or recruitment processes that don't accommodate people with fluctuating symptoms.

However, with the right support and accommodations, individuals living with fibromyalgia can thrive in a variety of roles.

Workplace accommodations

Employers can make adjustments and workplace modifications to help employees with fibromyalgia, such as:

• Flexible work hours to accommodate fatigue and pain management.
• Ergonomic workspaces with supportive seating and standing options.
• Remote work opportunities to reduce commuting stress.
• Scheduled breaks to help manage energy levels throughout the day.

Job ideas for people with fibromyalgia

Certain jobs may be better suited for individuals living with fibromyalgia, particularly those that offer flexibility and low physical strain. Some options include:

• Freelancing or remote work in fields like writing, graphic design, web development or customer support.
• Administrative roles that involve desk-based tasks.
• Counselling or coaching where individuals can use their experiences to support others.

If you’re looking for work, Disability Employment Services (DES) can provide support, including job placement assistance, workplace accommodations, and employer advocacy.

At APM, we help eligible people with disability, injury or health conditions, find meaningful employment and achieve their career goals.

Resources and further reading

For more information and support, consider the following resources:

• Fibromyalgia – Health Direct
• Fibromyalgia – Better Health Channel
• Fibromyalgia booklet – Arthritis Australia
• Fibromyalgia resources – More Good Days
• Fibromyalgia triggers – Medical News Today

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

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