Fibromyalgia (FM) consists of a collection of signs and symptoms that is regarded as a syndrome rather than a disease. A syndrome is defined as a disease entity identified with certain symptoms. The cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown and it is more of a diagnosis of exclusion, therefore, the condition is diagnosed only when other possible conditions have been ruled out.
Stiffness
Morning stiffness is a symptom of fibromyalgia. Patients have a tendency toward stiffness in the muscles, tendons, joints and ligaments in the early morning hours. Simple tasks become difficult and painful to execute, like, getting out of bed. An article published on the National Fibromyalgia Association's website stated that according to the American College of Rheumatology up to 6 million people in the United States are diagnosed with fibromyalgia with morning stiffness being a common complaint. Fibromyalgia significantly affects the quality of life for most patients, and simple activities of daily living may become burdensome. Morning stiffness is worse in the morning but gradually diminishes as the day progress.This stiffness may have little to do with activity the day before.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Extreme fatigue, or chronic fatigue syndrome, in the morning is the classic hallmark of fibromyalgia. The extreme fatigue is chronic and constant and can be debilitating a person. A study published in a 2001 edition of the quarterly "Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" cited that chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia often coexists and that triggers from the internal and external environment can interfere with hormone production in the hypothalamic region of the brain. The malaise or generalized feeling of being constantly tired predisposes the individual to depression, gradually affecting all aspects of the individual's social, professional and family life.
Pain
Chronic, debilitating pain is one of the symptoms of fibromyalgia patients. The pain is present from the morning until well into the day. The pain over discrete areas of the body can assist in the diagnose of fibromyalgia. An article published in the April 2009 "Science Daily" cited a pilot study conducted at Stanford University School of Medicine in 2008 and reported the administration of low dose naltrexone medication for the treatment of chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients can help to reduce symptoms of pain and fatigue Most patients suffering with fibromyalgia complain of pain over the neck, shoulders and back, including the upper and lower extremities of the body.
