Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome affecting approximately two percent of the American population, according to the Mayo Clinic. The syndrome consists of many different symptoms and medical problems that can range from being mild and easily treated, to severe and debilitating. It affects more women that men, and can have varying, widespread effects on an individual's life.
Fatigue
Fibromyalgia can cause fatigue and lack of energy, even after a full night of sleep. The Mayo Clinic states that many doctors who study this disease hypothesize that this is because individuals with fibromyalgia do not enter the deep restorative stage of sleep. Sleep disorders are also common in individuals with this disorder, including sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome, adding to the lack of deep sleep and resulting fatigue. Nearly 90 percent of individuals with fibromyalgia describe their fatigue as moderate or severe, similar to that of the flu, according to the University of Washington.
Pain
A common effect of fibromyalgia is widespread pain, similar to a dull ache in the muscles, states the Mayo Clinic. It usually occurs on both sides of the body, above and below the waist. Parts all over the body may feel tender, and according to the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, the pain can wane with the weather, time of day, level of activity and stress level.
Mood Changes
The University of Washington notes that about a quarter of patients with fibromyalgia are clinically depressed at the time of diagnosis, but many individuals with the disease experience feelings of sadness and changes in mood and cognition. Concentration may also be affected. Many individuals with fibromyalgia also have histories of anxiety or depression, and symptoms of mood disorders can overlap with those of fibromyalgia.
Comorbid Conditions
Various other conditions tend to overlap with fibromyalgia, including migraine headaches, gastrointestinal problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, depression, endometriosis, post traumatic stress disorder and rheumatoid arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic. The National Fibromyalgia Association also lists coexisting conditions as including vision problems, skin rashes, irritable bladder, ringing in the ears and changes in coordination.
