9.Cognitive impairments
In many cases, patients with fibromyalgia start displaying brain abnormalities that translate into memory problems, attention, or retention problems. Their neurochemical disorder is sometimes not only limited to a higher sensitivity to pain. According to studies, their short-term memory is affected by the disease, and the problem gets worse over time. After some time, it will be difficult for them to remember new data and learn new things.
This is not only a subjective problem. It is also measured objectively through imaging tests. According to brain studies, fibromyalgia patients have a low blood flow in certain parts of the brain, and these areas are associated with memory and concentration. They also have neurotransmitter abnormalities, especially in the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, substance P, and norepinephrine. Additional to all of this, pain by itself causes a distraction at the moment and affects the capacity of patients to concentrate and gather new recollections.