Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by chronic, severe pain throughout the body, especially in the muscles, tendons, joints and ligaments. Fibromyalgia occurs in approximately 2 percent of the population, according to FamilyDoctor.org. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of hereditary factors, illness or infection, and physical or emotional trauma. There are a variety symptoms that can be experienced by those with fibromyalgia.
Widespread Pain
The pain associated with fibromyalgia is a chronic, dull widespread ache that can most often be felt in the muscles. The severity of the pain tends to change based on different factors such as time of day, stress level and physical activity. Muscle spasms often accompany pain. Tender points are also a characteristic of the pain associated with fibromyalgia. Tender points are areas of the body in which intense pain is felt when slight pressure is applied. Common tender points include the back of the head, shoulders, neck, chest, hip and knees, according to MayoClinic.com.
Fatigue and Sleep Disorders
Severe fatigue is also a symptom of fibromyalgia. Although those affected by the condition generally sleep through the night, it is thought that they never reach rapid eye movement, or REM sleep. This type of sleep is when the body reaches full relaxation and restoration. If REM sleep is not reached, fatigue will be experienced the next day. Problems with eye focus, dizziness, balance and coordination can occur as a result of the fatigue. Sleep disorders, such as restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea, are often seen in those with fibromyalgia as well. These disorders are an additional reason for the disturbances in sleep and resulting fatigue. It has been suggested that the sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue may actually be the cause of fibromyalgia, according to Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health.
Miscellaneous
There are a number of other symptoms that can accompany fibromyalgia. Mood changes, most often depression, can occur as a result of the condition. Digestive symptoms, such as heartburn, gas, abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome, are also common, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Numbness and tingling in the extremities or face may also occur and is often causes those with fibromyalgia to undergo a series of tests for other conditions, according to the University of Washington Medicine. Tension headaches and migraine headaches are also a common symptom.
