Fibromyalgia: when your whole body hurts — diagnosis and treatment in Chisinau
Fibromyalgia is a real condition in which the nervous system amplifies pain signals. Patients feel pain all over the body, fatigue and sleep that does not refresh them, even though their test results are normal. A correct diagnosis ends the “round of doctors” and opens the way to treatment that genuinely helps.
Fibromyalgia symptoms
The pain is widespread — in the neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs — and lasts more than three months. It comes with fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”) and tenderness to touch.
Symptoms get worse with stress, cold, overexertion or after bad nights. Many patients also have headaches, irritable bowel syndrome or anxiety.
- pain on both sides of the body, above and below the waist
- fatigue and sleep that does not refresh
- problems with memory and concentration
- increased sensitivity to touch and pressure
How fibromyalgia is diagnosed
The diagnosis is clinical, based on symptoms and examination. Tests are important to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms: thyroid problems, vitamin D deficiency, anemia or inflammatory rheumatic diseases.
The rheumatologist also assesses your sleep, stress levels and daily activity — all of these influence the condition and are part of the treatment.
Fibromyalgia treatment: exercise, sleep and the right medication
The most effective treatment combines several things: gentle aerobic exercise increased gradually (walking, swimming, cycling), better sleep and, if needed, medicines that reduce sensitivity to pain.
Common anti-inflammatories and opioids help little in fibromyalgia. Your doctor will choose the treatment that matches your symptoms.
Everyday life with fibromyalgia
Spread your activity throughout the day, with breaks, and avoid “all or nothing” periods. A regular sleep schedule, relaxation techniques and stress reduction lower the intensity of the pain.
Support from family and understanding the condition matter a great deal. Fibromyalgia is not “imaginary” — it is a problem with the way the body processes pain.
When to see a rheumatologist
- your whole body has hurt for more than 3 months
- fatigue keeps you from working or resting
- your test results are normal, but the pain continues
- you have seen several doctors without a clear diagnosis
- the pain comes with sleep and concentration problems
How Laromed Clinic helps
The rheumatologist listens, examines you, reviews the tests you already have and explains in plain words what is happening and what comes next.
- consultation at the clinic in Chisinau or online by video
- joint ultrasound and intra-articular injections
- a written treatment plan and long-term follow-up
- coordination with physiotherapy and other specialties
FAQ: fibromyalgia
Is fibromyalgia a real disease?
Yes. It is recognized by international medical organizations and has clear mechanisms: the nervous system amplifies pain. It is not “all in the patient's head”.
Does it get worse over time?
Fibromyalgia does not damage the joints or affect the organs. Symptoms vary, but with the right treatment most patients feel much better.
What kind of exercise is suitable?
Walking, swimming, aqua aerobics, cycling and stretching, started gently and increased gradually. Sudden, intense exertion can temporarily make the pain worse.
Medically reviewed: Dr. Larisa Rotaru, rheumatologist, MD PhD. The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation.
