Symptom 7: Headaches: The Persistent Pain of Fibromyalgia
Frequent headaches, particularly tension-type headaches and migraines, are common in individuals with fibromyalgia. These headaches are more than just a passing annoyance; they are persistent and often debilitating, adding to the daily burden of pain.
The onset of frequent headaches in fibromyalgia can be subtle, initially dismissed as the result of stress or a busy lifestyle. Over time, however, these headaches can become more frequent and more severe, often accompanied by other symptoms such as light sensitivity or nausea, particularly in the case of migraines.
The connection between headaches and fibromyalgia lies in the central sensitization hypothesis. This theory suggests that the nervous system in fibromyalgia patients is overly responsive, leading to an increased perception of pain. This heightened sensitivity may also apply to the cranial structures, resulting in frequent, severe headaches. (7)
