Fibro Symptoms

From the National Fibromyalgia Association:

What are the Symptoms?



FM is characterized by the presence of multiple tender points and a constellation of symptoms.

-Pain
The pain of FM is profound, widespread and chronic. It knows no boundaries, migrating to all parts of the body and varying in intensity. FM pain has been described as stabbing and shooting pain and deep muscular aching, throbbing, and twitching. Neurological complaints such as numbness, tingling, and burning are often present and add to the discomfort of the patient. The severity of the pain and stiffness is often worse in the morning. Aggravating factors that affect pain include cold/humid weather, non-restorative sleep, physical and mental fatigue, excessive physical activity, physical inactivity, anxiety and stress.

-Fatigue
In today's world many people complain of fatigue; however, the fatigue of FM is much more than being tired. It is an all-encompassing exhaustion that interferes with even the simplest daily activities. It feels like every drop of energy has been drained from the body, which at times can leave the patient with a limited ability to function both mentally and physically.

-Sleep problems
Many fibromyalgia patients have an associated sleep disorder that prevents them from getting deep, restful, restorative sleep. Medical researchers have documented specific and distinctive abnormalities in the Stage 4 deep sleep of FM patients. During sleep, individuals with FM are constantly interrupted by bursts of awake-like brain activity, limiting the amount of time they spend in deep sleep.

-Other symptoms
Additional symptoms may include: irritable bowel and bladder, headaches and migraines, restless legs syndrome (periodic limb movement disorder), impaired memory and concentration, skin sensitivities and rashes, dry eyes and mouth, anxiety, depression, ringing in the ears, dizziness, vision problems, Raynaud's Syndrome, neurological symptoms, and impaired coordination.

I do understand the frustration with you doctor when you are sent for more tests and studies than you knew existed, it is important to have these tests done because Fibro has similar symptoms to other diseases, disorders and syndromes (ie..lupus, cfs, lyme disease, etc..) Please try to be patient while your doctor rules out other causes for you symptoms.

Fibro and CFS are often seen together in patients and the testing will tell your medical team which symptoms are caused by which symdrome so they can better treat you.

Jacki

Thanks for all the info Jacki. I'm sure if we get new members who have fibro this will benefit them tremendously

after 5 years of researching fibro, I have lots of info that I am more than willing to share. If my posting here saves someone else from all that work, then it's well worth the effort on my part.

Jacki