Fibromyalgia is a condition that is often difficult to diagnose. It causes pain throughout the body, including the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Even the slightest pressure might cause pain in areas around the body, called tender points. Fatigue also plays a major role in fibromyalgia. In many cases it is unknown how the disorder starts, but many patients have symptoms soon after a physical or emotional trauma, according to the Mayo Clinic. Medications, including antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs, are effective in reducing the pain from fibromyalgia. Physical therapy is also used to restore muscle balance and reduce the widespread pain. Counseling also helps patients deal with the disorder.
Pains
The widespread pain is described as a dull ache in areas around the body that seems to emanate from the muscles. Effected areas include the back of the head, between the shoulder blades, top of the shoulders, front sides of the neck, the upper chest, outer elbows, upper hips and inner knees.
Headaches
At least half of people with fibromyalgia suffer from migraine or tension headaches, according to the Fibromyalgia Network. They can occur two or more times a week. The pain from the shoulder, neck and head muscles may be responsible for tension and migraine headaches.
Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, also known as TMJ, causes tremendous pain in the jaw and head for many fibromyalgia patients. The problem is believed to be related to the pain in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the jaw joints.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
People with fibromyalgia often feel tired during the day or even after awakening from a long night's sleep. It is believed they do not really fall into a deep restive sleep. Sleep disturbances are either associated with the fatigue or arise later on. They include sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome.
Concentration
Some people with fibromyalgia have difficulty concentrating and often have problems with memory or retaining new information, especially if distracted. This mental disorder has been referred to as "fibro fog," and it can interfere with daily life and work.
Physical Difficulties
Because of the pain, it's often a problem to do intense exercise or even vigorous physical activities if you have fibromyalgia. People with the disorder often become achy and tired following an exercise program. They are advised to do exercise in short intervals, about five minutes at a time, to stay active but prevent pain to the muscles, the Fibromyalgia Network explains.
Sensitivity
Fibromyalgia often causes an extreme sensitivity to bright lights, loud noises, odors and foods. Some patients even become sensitive to the medications prescribed to them.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
It is estimated that nearly half and possibly more of fibromyalgia sufferers also experience constipation, diarrhea, frequent abdominal pain, bloating and nausea.
Other Symptoms
There are other symptoms that accompany fibromyalgia that may include depression, irritable bladder, lupus, osteoarthritis, chest pain, acid reflux, shortness of breath, burning eyes, dizziness, post-traumatic stress disorder and rheumatoid arthritis.
