Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by severe pain, but its cause is not understood. It is thought that physical and emotional stress can trigger pain symptoms, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. There is also a theory that people with fibromyalgia suffer from an abnormality in the body's response to pain. Problems with sleep and insufficient blood flow may also contribute to fibromyalgia pain. Around 2 percent of the U.S. population suffers from fibromyalgia, reports the Mayo Clinic. Fibromyalgia pain can be mild or severe and debilitating, and can involve a number of other symptoms.
Where Pain Occurs
Widespread and severe fibromyalgia pain must meet certain criteria. Widespread fibromyalgia muscle pain must be present on both, not just one, side of the body, say the experts at the Mayo Clinic. It must also occur vertically throughout the body--both below and above the waistline.
Tender Points
One of the characteristic symptoms of fibromyalgia pain is the "tender points." Tender points are the spots that feel severe pain when you apply pressure. Tender points are often the front of the neck, tops of the shoulders, area between the shoulder blades, the top of the chest, hips, elbows, back of the head and the insides of the knees, say the experts at the Mayo Clinic.
Aches and Pains
Severe fibromyalgia pain often causes muscle aches, but may also affect the joints. It is often compared to the persistent, dull pain of arthritis. However, fibromyalgia doesn't cause swelling and abnormal shape of joints like arthritis, says the National Library of Medicine. Fibromyalgia pain can also cause stiffness of the muscles, and the pain may fluctuate from a deep ache to a sharp, burning pain sensation.
Changes in Pain
Fibromyalgia pain is often most severe in the morning, and tends to subside a bit as the day progresses. It often becomes more severe at night--although the National Library of Medicine notes that many people have severe pain that persists throughout the day without relief. Fibromyalgia pain tends to become more severe after exercise, times of stress and anxiety, and changes in weather (cool and rainy weather).
Fatigue and Disability
People with severe fibromyalgia pain are also plagued with extreme fatigue and exhaustion. Despite getting a full night's sleep, people with fibromyalgia still feel tired, likely because they are unable to get deep, restful sleep, says the Mayo Clinic.
Fibromyalgia pain can be so severe that it can be disabling, preventing people from going to work or taking care of daily household responsibilities. The combination of extreme, persistent pain and complete exhaustion make fibromyalgia a serious and debilitating illness.
Managing Severe Fibromyalgia Pain
The goal of fibromyalgia treatment includes pain-relieving medication and lifestyle changes. Pain medications, ranging from over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to prescription pain relievers, are often part of treatment--in addition to antidepressant medications. Physical therapy is also recommended to improve muscle strength and help to manage pain.
