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Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue are not the same condition. However, they can be triggered by the same problem, and they often co-exist together. In fact, one of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is extreme fatigue. Both of these conditions amplify symptoms in the person suffering from them.
Are Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Really the Same Condition?
The issue of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) vs. fibromyalgia (FM) is on the minds of doctors, those who suffer from these disorders, and family members of those who suffer. Some doctors care for FM and CFS as one condition, while others care for them separately. It is a common belief that one is just a variation of the other. Interestingly, the Arthritis Foundation has published research indicating approximately 50 to 70 percent of people with one diagnosis fit the criteria for the other. Why is this the case? It may be due to:
- The lack of reliable tests to confirm or deny either condition
- Their similarities
- The fact that these conditions often co-exist
What Symptoms Are the Same?
Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue have a number of similar symptoms. These include:
- Extreme exhaustion
- Cognitive issues (trouble thinking and reasoning)
- Problems with memory
- Waking up feeling as tired as you did when you went to sleep
- Clumsiness and impaired coordination
- Dizziness
- Widespread pain which is chronic
CFS and FM also have similar triggers:
- Psychological or physical stress
- Not getting enough sleep
- Injury or an accident
- Physical exertion
- Acute illness
There are also a number of overlapping conditions that fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue are connected to such as:
- IBS — irritable bowel syndrome (bloating, constipation, or diarrhea)
- TMJ — temporomandibular joint syndrome
- Headaches that are chronic
- Depression and anxiety
Why Are They So Similar?
No one is really sure why these conditions are so much the same, but there are some theories. One commonly accepted theory is they both have similar underlying features, especially not keeping neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) properly regulated. Researchers over the years have tried to find the right classification for FM and CFS. They have tried functional somatic syndromes, neuroimmune disorders, neuroendocrine immune disorders, and multisystem illnesses. However, the most recent term used is most accepted by the medical community. It is called central sensitivity syndrome or CSS.
When you have CSS, you have a similar key feature: it involves the function of the central nervous system. For some reason, it has become highly sensitive to certain triggers. It may be sensitive to touch, certain foods, chemicals or fragrances, certain temperatures, bright or flashing light, loud or repetitive noises, or other environmental factors. This is seen in the overlapping conditions mentioned above and is predominant in both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.
So, What Are the Differences Between Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue?
Differences do exist between FM and CFS, but they are subtle. It is more like one symptom is more prominent in one condition than the other. As an example, primarily chronic fatigue is known for extreme exhaustion while fibromyalgia is known more for widespread pain. However, both conditions have these symptoms, just in varying degrees.
Chronic fatigue is more likely to have flu-like symptoms, such as a sore throat, swollen glands, and chronic low-grade temperature. Whereas fibromyalgia always has chronic pain and sometimes pain from even a light touch.
Both conditions have adverse reactions to exertion, but this is much more true for those with chronic fatigue and is called post-exertion malaise. While these two conditions do share a number of overlapping symptoms, fibromyalgia is known for numerous pain conditions and sleep problems not connected to chronic fatigue.
So, What Is the Link Between the Two?
As we mentioned previously, the central nervous system plays a key role in both of these conditions. The central nervous system is made up of the brainstem, the brain, and the spinal cord. The brain receives and sends messages via the spinal cord about the function of the body. The central nervous system must be in top performance in order for the body to work at its optimum. When researching the role of the brainstem in both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, a definite connection is seen.
A study was conducted of fibromyalgia patients using blink reflex to see if their cognitive reaction was impaired. Ten female FM patients and twenty-six healthy controls were observed. It was concluded that blink reflex was normal; however, blink reflex prepulse inhibition was reduced in the FM patients, indicating changes at the brainstem level.
Another study looked at CFS patients for brain perfusion abnormalities. The study noted that hypoperfusion was confirmed in all CFS patients and not in those without the condition.
So, what is behind the problem with the brainstem?
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue — the Connection
One thing that is often overlooked when seeking to help patients with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue is a misalignment of the bones of the upper cervical spine. The C1 and C2 vertebrae were designed to protect the delicate brainstem. A minor accident, a trip and fall, sporting activities, whiplash, or any type of blow to the head or neck can cause these bones to misalign. Once this happens, the brainstem comes under stress and is no longer able to function at its peak. Since the brainstem plays such a vital role in the onset of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, you can see how this can become a real problem.
Dr. Dickholtz, a renowned upper cervical chiropractor, partnered up with a psychiatrist and a medical doctor in order to confirm this type of care actually helps FM patients. The results revealed that all saw improvement in social and physical skills, overall health, and increased energy levels after receiving upper cervical care.
Here at Source Chiropractic and Wellness in Draper, Utah, we have been specially trained to find these misalignments and the work with our patients to correct them using a very gentle, precise method. Our patients usually see positive results in just a few adjustments.
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Cheney, call our Draper office at 385-331-7035. You can also click one of the buttons below.
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