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Unraveling The Mystery: How Does Fibromyalgia Start?

Unraveling The Mystery: How Does Fibromyalgia Start?

As fibromyalgia is a common disease, many question: how does it start? Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tenderness in localized areas known as tender points. Despite being recognized as a medical condition for over 150 years, the underlying cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown.

In this blog, we will discuss some of the theories surrounding the onset of fibromyalgia.

The Role Of The Brain In Fibromyalgia

One of the leading theories on the cause of fibromyalgia involves abnormalities in the way the brain processes pain signals. Research has shown that individuals with fibromyalgia have heightened sensitivity to pain, which may be due to changes in the way their brains process pain signals. Specifically, studies have found that individuals with fibromyalgia have altered levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which can affect pain perception.

In fact, brain imaging studies have shown that individuals with fibromyalgia have changes in brain activity in regions that process pain signals. While it is not yet clear why these changes occur, it is thought that they may be related to stress, trauma, or other environmental factors.

The Genetics Of Fibromyalgia: Are You At Risk?

Another theory on the cause of fibromyalgia involves genetics. Studies have shown that fibromyalgia tends to run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic component to the disorder. However, researchers have not yet identified a specific gene or set of genes that are responsible for fibromyalgia.

It is thought that multiple genes may be involved, each contributing a small amount to the overall risk of developing fibromyalgia. Additionally, environmental factors such as stress, trauma, or infection may interact with genetic factors to trigger the onset of the disorder.

Trauma & Fibromyalgia: A Complex Relationship

Some believe that experiences, such as physical or emotional abuse, may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that individuals who have experienced trauma are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than those who have not. It is thought that trauma may trigger changes in the brain and nervous system that make individuals more sensitive to pain.

Additionally, trauma may affect the immune system, leading to inflammation and other changes that contribute to the development of fibromyalgia.

The Role Of Sleep Disturbances In Fibromyalgia

Many individuals with fibromyalgia say they have difficulties with sleep, including trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up feeling rested. While it is not yet clear whether sleep disturbances are a cause or a symptom of fibromyalgia, research has shown that they may be a contributing factor. Lack of sleep can lead to increased sensitivity to pain, as well as changes in hormone levels and immune function.

Furthermore, individuals with fibromyalgia may have abnormal levels of certain hormones, such as cortisol and melatonin, which can affect sleep quality.

The Gut-Brain Connection: Could It Play A Role In Fibromyalgia?

Some research has suggested that the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract, may play a role in fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that individuals with fibromyalgia have different levels of certain types of bacteria in their gut compared to healthy individuals. Moreover, there may be a connection between gut health and brain function, as the gut and brain communicate through a complex

Coping With Fibromyalgia

Coping with fibromyalgia can be challenging, but there are many techniques and strategies that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. These strategies include practicing relaxation techniques, exercising regularly, using heat therapy, getting enough sleep, connecting with others, practicing good self-care, considering alternative therapies, using pain management techniques, managing stress, and seeking professional help.

With patience and persistence in finding the strategies that work best for you, it is possible to manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia and lead a fulfilling life.

The Takeaway

As a ketamine infusion clinic dedicated to helping individuals manage chronic pain, we understand the challenges that fibromyalgia can bring. While the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, there are many strategies and techniques that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. At Advanced Wellness And Pain, we offer ketamine infusion therapy as a treatment option for individuals with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions.

If you’re struggling with fibromyalgia, we encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider about the various treatment options available. As always, our team is here to support you on your journey towards a pain-free life. Contact us today to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy and how it may benefit you.

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James T. Leathem, DO

Dr. James Leathem is a board-certified anesthesiologist and a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists. He was born and raised in Connecticut and graduated from Florida Southern College with a bachelor of science in marketing management with minors in sociology and communications. He obtained his medical degree from Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency in anesthesiology at Michigan State University and its affiliated McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital.

In 2015, after residency, Dr. Leathem returned to Arizona to practice anesthesiology. He joined Red Mountain Anesthesiologists and worked primarily at Banner Baywood Medical Center in Mesa, performing 100% of his own cases. He was made partner in the group after demonstrating 3 years of anesthesia excellence and administering over 4,000 anesthetics. In 2019, a corporate change occurred and an opportunity presented itself in which he was able to transition out of the hospital to surgery center and clinic-based anesthesia.

Dr. Leathem realizes that the only constant in life is change. In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, his career took a different direction. This change led him to collaborate with Dr. Wong and Dr. Sharma and they founded Advanced Wellness and Pain (AWAP). Their mission is to provide a variety of state-of-the-art procedural services that improve patients’ quality of life and overall physical and mental well-being.

Dr. Leathem believes that we are all a work in progress and that each day, one should strive to make positive changes in their life. He is here to help empower each patient on their journey to be their best self and live their best life. When you are being cared for by Dr. Leathem, you can be assured that he will give you his undivided attention and time.

Gregory Wong, MD

Dr. Wong is a Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and a member of both the American Society of Anesthesiology and the Arizona Society of Anesthesiology. He did his undergraduate training at the University of California at Davis, Davis, California; doctorate training at The University of Health Sciences of the Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, IL; and his post-doctoral training at the Integrated Program at the University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ. He has spent his whole 24-year career practicing in Arizona.

Dr. Wong grew up in the Bay Area of California. He is married and is raising three daughters. At the early age of 12 years old, he knew he wanted to become a physician. His love of the human spirit, intrigue of human physiology, and compassion for human suffering led him to the path of anesthesiology and pain medicine.

Today, Dr. Wong realizes patients need a holistic biophysical-mental-spiritual care. This philosophy has brought him to the studies of regenerative medicine and infusion therapies. He has firsthandily witnessed the overwhelming success of these therapies for treating chronic pain and depression and the return of patients of “life-functionality.”

“There has never been a time more important than now to advocate for our patients in these difficult times. We owe it to our patients to offer these state-of-the-art treatment modalities that weren’t available before.”

Deepak Sharma, MD, MBA

Dr. Sharma is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists. He completed three degrees at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA: a Bachelor in Finance, a Master in Business Administration, and a Doctor of Medicine. He went on to complete residency at the Mount Sinai Morningside-West Hospital System in New York, NY and post-graduate fellowship at Stanford Medical Center in Palo Alto, CA.

Dr. Sharma is committed to treating his patients as a whole with a comprehensive biophysical-mental-spiritual approach. He is a lifelong learner and is constantly researching cutting-edge therapies backed by scientific studies. He has taken a particular interest in regenerative and infusion therapies after witnessing firsthand their significant benefits on those suffering from chronic pain and depression. In his free time, Dr. Sharma enjoys spending time with his family and friends, hiking, traveling, reading, and meditation.

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