Fibromyalgia is a common condition that can make people experience body-wide pain and tender points in the joints, tendons and other soft tissues. Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary, depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or the time of day. For some patients, the condition may improve throughout the day and increase again during the evening. For others, the pain may be unrelenting all day long. The disorder can develop on its own or along with conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Step 1
Widespread pain and a constant dull ache on tender points may be felt throughout the body, typically arising from the muscles. There may be additional pain when firm pressure is applied to the specific areas of the body. The pains can mimic the pain of various types of arthritis.
Step 2
There are often multiple tender areas, such as muscle and joint pain on the back of the neck, shoulders, sternum, lower back, hips, shins, elbows and knees. Numbness and tingling may be felt, especially in the hands and feet.
Step 3
Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance will be experienced. Sometimes, pain will increase with activity. The fatigue of fibromyalgia is so exhaustive it can interfere with jobs, personal, social and educational activities, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association. Palpitations of the heart may be noticed at times.
Step 4
Sleeping may be difficult. Many people with fibromyalgia awaken tired even though it seems they had a good night's sleep. Restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea have been linked to fibromyalgia.
Step 5
Tension or migraine headaches could become a problem. Anxiety and stress may bring on pain. Irritable bowel syndrome is sometimes associated with fibromyalgia.
Step 6
Complaints of memory difficulties or difficulty in thinking may accompany the disorder. There may also be co-existing conditions, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder or rheumatoid arthritis.
