Fibromyalgia: Understanding the Widespread Pain, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment – Expert Insights by Dr. Kunal Bahrani

Constant fatigue, body aches, disturbed sleep, and mental fog — these are everyday realities for people living with Fibromyalgia, a long-term neurological condition that affects millions globally. Unfortunately, because symptoms often mimic other illnesses, patients are frequently misdiagnosed or misunderstood.

Dr. Kunal Bahrani, one of the best neurologists in Faridabad and Chairman & Group Director – Neurology at Yatharth Hospitals, emphasizes that early recognition and multidisciplinary care can dramatically improve outcomes. His holistic approach combines medical therapy, lifestyle modification, and psychological support to help patients reclaim energy and quality of life.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep problems, cognitive disturbances, and mood changes. It is thought to result from an abnormal pain processing mechanism in the central nervous system — the brain and spinal cord amplify normal pain signals, causing heightened sensitivity.

While the exact cause is unknown, Fibromyalgia is now recognized as a legitimate neurological condition rather than a purely psychological issue.

Key Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

People with Fibromyalgia may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Widespread pain: A dull, constant ache lasting more than three months, felt on both sides of the body and above and below the waist.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness even after adequate sleep.
• Cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”): Problems with concentration, focus, and short-term memory.
• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or feeling unrefreshed in the morning.
• Mood disorders: Anxiety, depression, or irritability.
• Headaches and migraines.
• Digestive issues: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)–like symptoms.
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet.

The intensity of symptoms can vary day to day and may worsen after stress, physical exertion, or lack of sleep.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

The exact cause remains unclear, but research points to several contributing factors:

1. Abnormal pain processing: Overactivity of pain receptors in the brain and spinal cord leads to amplified pain perception.
2. Genetic predisposition: Fibromyalgia often runs in families.
3. Infections or illness: Viral infections can sometimes trigger the condition.
4. Physical or emotional trauma: Car accidents, surgery, or severe psychological stress may precede symptom onset.
5. Hormonal imbalance: Altered levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine affect pain modulation.
6. Sleep deprivation: Poor-quality sleep perpetuates fatigue and pain sensitivity.

Dr. Bahrani notes that Fibromyalgia is not a sign of inflammation or tissue damage but rather a neurological dysregulation of pain processing pathways.

Who Is at Risk?

• Women are more likely to develop Fibromyalgia (about 80% of cases).
• Middle-aged adults (30–60 years) are most affected.
• Family history of chronic pain disorders increases risk.
• Existing autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Chronic stress, depression, or anxiety.

Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

There is no single test for Fibromyalgia; diagnosis is clinical and based on history and exclusion of other conditions.
Dr. Kunal Bahrani, one of the top neurologists in Faridabad, uses a systematic evaluation approach:

1. Detailed medical history and symptom mapping.
2. Physical examination — identifying tender points and pain distribution.
3. Laboratory tests to rule out thyroid disorders, vitamin D deficiency, anemia, or autoimmune diseases.
4. Neurological assessment to evaluate sensory function and exclude neuropathies.

Diagnosis is confirmed when a patient experiences widespread pain for more than three months without another identifiable cause.

Treatment Approach by Dr. Kunal Bahrani

Fibromyalgia management requires a multidimensional approach that addresses both physical and emotional health.

1. Medications

• Pain modulators: Pregabalin and Gabapentin help reduce pain transmission.
• Antidepressants: Duloxetine or Amitriptyline improve sleep and reduce pain sensitivity.
• Muscle relaxants: Cyclobenzaprine may help relieve muscle stiffness.
• Sleep aids: Low-dose sedatives or melatonin for sleep regulation.
• Vitamin D supplementation if deficient.

Medication alone is not a cure but forms the foundation of symptom control.

2. Lifestyle & Rehabilitation Therapy

Exercise therapy

• Regular low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and yoga help maintain flexibility and release endorphins.
• Stretching and aerobic training reduce stiffness and fatigue.

Sleep hygiene

• Maintain consistent sleep schedules.
• Avoid caffeine or screen exposure before bedtime.

Dietary management

• Balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables.
• Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar.

Stress management

• Meditation, mindfulness, or breathing exercises to calm the nervous system.

Physical therapy

• Customized programs focusing on muscle relaxation and posture correction.

3. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Fibromyalgia often coexists with emotional distress. CBT helps patients:

• Reframe negative thoughts about pain.
• Develop coping mechanisms.
• Reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.

4. Integrative & Complementary Therapies

Under expert supervision, patients may benefit from:

• Acupuncture for nerve stimulation and pain relief.
• Massage therapy to relax tense muscles.
• Hydrotherapy and heat therapy for localized comfort.
• Mind-body techniques like tai chi or gentle yoga.

Dr. Bahrani recommends evidence-based complementary care only as adjuncts to medical therapy.

Living with Fibromyalgia

Living with Fibromyalgia requires resilience and support.
Dr. Kunal Bahrani emphasizes patient education — understanding that the pain is real and manageable is the first step toward recovery.

Self-care tips:

• Track symptoms and triggers in a journal.
• Break tasks into smaller steps to prevent fatigue.
• Seek emotional support from family or counseling groups.
• Focus on progress rather than perfection.

A strong patient-doctor partnership ensures steady improvement over time.

Why Choose Dr. Kunal Bahrani for Fibromyalgia Treatment in Faridabad

As the Chairman & Group Director – Neurology at Yatharth Hospitals, Faridabad, Dr. Kunal Bahrani offers world-class neurological care with a compassionate approach.

What sets him apart:

• Extensive expertise in managing chronic pain syndromes.
• Holistic evaluation — neurological, psychological, and lifestyle aspects.
• Evidence-based treatment combined with modern diagnostic tools.
• Personalized rehabilitation and follow-up care.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration — neurology, physiotherapy, and mental-health specialists.

His patient-centric philosophy makes him one of the best neurologists in Faridabad for Fibromyalgia and other complex neurological disorders.

FAQs on Fibromyalgia

Q1. Is Fibromyalgia a mental disorder?
No. It’s a neurological pain-processing disorder, not a psychiatric condition, though stress and emotions can influence symptoms.

Q2. Can Fibromyalgia be cured?
There’s no permanent cure, but symptoms can be effectively managed through medication, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.

Q3. Does weather affect Fibromyalgia pain?
Yes. Cold, humid, or rainy weather can aggravate pain in some patients.

Q4. How long does it take to see improvement?
With consistent treatment and self-care, many patients notice improvement within 4–8 weeks.

Q5. Should I see a neurologist or rheumatologist?
A neurologist like Dr. Kunal Bahrani is best equipped to evaluate nerve-related pain mechanisms and coordinate multidisciplinary care.

Conclusion

Fibromyalgia can feel overwhelming, but with proper diagnosis, personalized therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, patients can regain control of their lives.

Dr. Kunal Bahrani, Chairman & Group Director – Neurology at Yatharth Hospitals, Faridabad, is a trusted expert who helps patients navigate the complexities of chronic pain with compassion and science-driven care.

If you’re struggling with persistent body pain, fatigue, or sleep problems, consult Dr. Kunal Bahrani, the best neurologist in Faridabad, to explore advanced and holistic treatment options for Fibromyalgia.