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Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues ("fibro fog"). It is believed to involve abnormal pain processing in the central nervous system, often triggered by stress, trauma, or infections. While no cure exists, treatment includes medication (e.g., antidepressants, nerve pain meds), exercise, and therapy. 

 

Key Symptoms

• Widespread Pain: Chronic, aching, burning, or throbbing pain throughout the body, lasting at least 3 months.

• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness, even after resting.

• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty staying asleep or waking up unrefreshed.

• Cognitive Issues: Problems with memory, focus, and concentration ("fibro fog").

• Other Symptoms: Headaches, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anxiety, depression, and sensitivity to temperature, light, or noise. 

 

Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers.

• Nervous System Changes: The brain and spinal cord may change, causing pain receptors to overreact to signals.

• Triggers: Physical trauma, surgery, infection, or severe psychological stress.

• Risk Factors: It is more common in women, people with rheumatic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus), and those with a family history of the condition.

 

Diagnosis
There is no specific lab test for fibromyalgia. A diagnosis is generally made if a patient has widespread pain in at least 4 of 5 body areas for at least 3 months, combined with other symptoms like fatigue. 

 

Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving function. 

• Medications: FDA-approved drugs include duloxetine (Cymbalta), milnacipran (Savella), and pregabalin (Lyrica). Others include amitriptyline and cyclobenzaprine.

• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise (aerobic, walking), stress management techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

• Therapies: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and acupuncture. 

 

Complications

• Reduced quality of life, including inability to work or perform daily tasks.

• High rates of comorbid conditions like depression, anxiety, and other pain syndromes.

• Frequent headaches or migraines.

 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) shows promise as a non-drug treatment for fibromyalgia (FMS) by reducing pain, fatigue, and brain fog. It works by breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which repairs brain tissue, increases oxygenation, and decreases inflammation. Standard protocols often involve around 40–60 sessions.

 

How HBOT Helps Fibromyalgia

• Pain Reduction: Studies indicate a significant reduction in tender points, with some patients reporting pain reduction from 17.5 to 5 on pain scales.

• Brain Repair: HBOT addresses the underlying, or "centralized," brain pain by correcting abnormal brain activity in the hippocampus.

• Improved Quality of Life: Patients often experience better sleep, reduced "fibro fog," and enhanced cognitive function.

• Reduced Medication Dependence: Some patients have reduced their reliance on traditional medication for pain management. 

 

Typical Treatment Protocol

• Pressure: Usually 1.4-1.5 ATA.

• Duration: Often 60 one-hour sessions.

• Frequency: Daily, 5 days per week.

 

Clinical Evidence
A study highlighted by Aviv Clinics found that HBOT can improve fibromyalgia symptoms and reduce dependence on medication. A PubMed Central study found that HBOT can improve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Another PubMed Central review found that HBOT is a safe and effective treatment for fibromyalgia. 

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Considerations
While promising, HBOT is not yet considered a standard, mainstream treatment for fibromyalgia, according to MD Hyperbaric. Potential side effects can include ear pain.