Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, and points of tenderness in the body. Symptoms range from mild to severe. Fibromyalgia affects about 5 million American adults, most of them women, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. The illness can occur on its own, but is more frequent in those who have another chronic, rheumatic disease.
Fatigue
Feeling very tired, and getting fatigued even after mild exercise is one of the primary characteristics of fibromyalgia. The Arthritis Foundation reports that 75 to 80 percent of those with fibromyalgia suffer from chronic fatigue. For some, exhaustion makes it difficult to carry out their normal daily activities.
Pain
People with fibromyalgia feel generalized muscle aches and pains. Sensations of numbness and tingling, throbbing, and shooting pains are typical. The pain travels through all parts of the body, and tends to come and go. Tender points along the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms and legs can become very sensitive to touch and pressure. Pain can also be associated with specific parts of the body, producing effects such as migraine, or tension headaches and pelvic pain.
Sleep Problems
Poor sleep proves a common characteristic of fibromyalgia. Even though sufferers usually fall asleep without difficulty, their sleep often becomes disturbed and they don't wake up feeling refreshed. Lack of sleep worsens the symptoms of pain. Increased pain makes it harder to get a good night's sleep, setting up a vicious cycle.
Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are two commonly associated findings with fibromyalgia, according to an article published in the July 15, 2007 issue of the journal "American Family Physician." Chronic pain, anxiety and depression frequently occur in combination. The symptoms of fibromyalgia often respond well to antidepressant medication.
Poor Memory
Many people with fibromyalgia complain of poor memory and difficulty concentrating. A study from the January, 2006 issue of "The Journal of Rheumatology," found that people with fibromyalgia have poor short-term memory due to distraction. The paper states that more research is needed to understand why sources of distraction affect the memory of fibromyalgia patients more than others.
