When Taya Crowell first began feeling fatigued, they didn’t feel too worried. After all, Crowell had just changed schools and was grappling with a suddenly heavier course load. But by their junior year of high school, they knew something was wrong. Pain flooded through their body. Even when they rested, the pain persisted. The fatigue worsened. No matter how much Crowell tried to explain it—that ache that seemed to throb endlessly—it was hard to get across how debilitating her symptoms had become.

Eventually, according to reporting from Emma Widmar of the Racine County Eye, Crowell was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and issues with memory or concentration. 

On one hand, receiving the diagnosis helped Crowell put a name to their symptoms. At the same time, knowing that they had fibromyalgia did little to help with the symptoms. You see, there is no cure for fibromyalgia; there aren’t even targeted treatments. People with this condition may benefit from physical or occupational therapy, regular exercise, pain relievers, or antidepressants. For Crowell, using a cane to assist with mobility on certain days has been very helpful. 

Crowell recently graduated from high school with a 3.8 GPA. Although their condition made it difficult to attend school regularly, they felt supported by the school—and comfortable sharing more information and raising awareness on fibromyalgia. Their experience also empowered them to continue their education on a medical track; one day, Crowell hopes to become a nurse and help others in need. 

What is Fibromyalgia?

Doctors are unsure of the exact cause of fibromyalgia. However, many hypothesize that repeated nerve stimulation causes brain and spinal cord changes that increase pain-causing chemicals. Pain receptors in the brain also become overly sensitive. Genetics, infections, or other environmental or physical causes may play a role. 

Females are more likely than males to develop fibromyalgia. This condition has also been associated with depression and anxiety, temporomandibular joint disorders, migraines, interstitial cystitis, postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and irritable bowel syndrome. To diagnose this condition, individuals must have widespread pain (occurring in 4+ areas of the body) for three or more months.