Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is often a co-existing condition for people with fibromyalgia, according to the Mayo Clinic. The fatigue in CFS and fibromyalgia patients causes great limitations in their work and family lives. Patients suffering from either disorder report symptoms similar to a viral flu, which may be the reason some experts consider the conditions to be the same for some patients, according to the Fibromyalgia Network.
Exhaustion
Fibromyalgia patients who experience extreme fatigue may actually have CFS as well, according to the Fibromyalgia Symptoms website. People with chronic fatigue suffer from extreme exhaustion that can last more than 24 hours following physical or mental exertion, similar to the fatigue fibromyalgia patients experience. Many fibromyalgia patients cannot exercise because they feel too tired. They are advised to exercise in short intervals to keep their bodies in shape.
Pain
Chronic fatigue patients suffer from headaches and pain that moves from one joint to another, the Mayo Clinic reports. People with CFS often complain of unexplained muscle pain. Migraine or tension headaches are among the symptoms of fibromyalgia. People with fibromyalgia also suffer from widespread body pain, including tender points that become painful under pressure. The pain causes a deep, muscular aching or intense burning, according to the Fibromyalgia Network. Many CFS and fibromyalgia patients suffer from jaw pain and morning stiffness. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are reported in many people with fibromyalgia. Abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea are some symptoms of CFS. Many fibromyalgia patients also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.
Sleep Disorders
Unrefreshing sleep is a symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome, according to the Mayo Clinic. People with fibromyalgia also have difficulty falling asleep or reaching a deep restorative sleep, the Fibromyalgia Network explains. They may experience repeated arousals during the night that prevent them from getting a good night’s rest.
Memory Difficulties
People with fibromyalgia experience what is termed “fibro fog” that interferes with the abilities to concentrate or retain new information, especially when distracted. Chronic fatigue syndrome causes loss of memory or concentration, the Mayo Clinic notes.
Additional Signs
Other signs CFS and fibromyalgia patients have in common include depression and psychological problems. Post-traumatic stress disorder and panic attacks may occur in both conditions. Irritability and anxiety disorders occur in many CFS patients. Many CFS and fibromyalgia patients experience shortness of breath and tingling sensations. They also suffer from allergies or sensitivities to foods or substances. Blurred vision is another symptom reported by CFS and fibromyalgia patients.
