Fibromyalgia Symptoms

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

While the most common symptom of fibromyalgia is body aches or pain, often times this pain can lead to other related symptoms including:

• Areas of tenderness and sensitivity 
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Fatigue 
• Sleep problems, including insomnia and irregular sleep patterns 
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Jaw pain and discomfort
• Numbness in the hands and feet
• Trouble with memory and concentration, sometimes called fibromyalgia fog

These symptoms can lead to subsequent symptoms including:

• Cold or flu-like symptoms
• Weight gain/loss
• Nausea 
• Dizziness
• Headaches 

Fibromyalgia Pain

Fibromyalgia pain can range from a dull ache to deep sharp and throbbing pain and discomfort. There are also common tender points, or areas of the body that are usually affected. The tender points tend to be around joints, although the pain is actually coming from the muscle around the joint, rather than the joint itself. 

Fibromyalgia Fog

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can cause cognitive difficulties, often referred to as fibromyalgia fog (fibro fog). Symptoms may include:

• Difficulty concentrating 
• Memory issues
• Trouble staying alert

Are There Different Symptoms of Fibromyalgia in Men vs. Women?

Often times, yes. Fibromyalgia symptoms can be more severe in women than in men. Women’s fibromyalgia symptoms have been found to be more widespread pain, severe irritable bowel syndrome and more fatigue. It is also common for women to experience painful menstrual periods with fibromyalgia.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

Until recently the cause of fibromyalgia was uncertain, but new evidence suggests that the cause is neuroinflammation, or inflammation in the brain. This likely leads to irritation of the brain’s pain nerves causing a dull aching sensation in different areas of the body. Past injury and trauma have also been linked to fibromyalgia, especially head trauma. The condition has also been linked to post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). Some researchers believe that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients manage fibromyalgia symptoms by addressing thought patterns that contribute to pain perception and stress.

Fibromyalgia Risk Factors

There are a number of factors that cause some people to be more at risk for developing fibromyalgia, including gender, age, family history (as fibromyalgia can run in families) and other health conditions, especially rheumatoid arthritis. People with fibromyalgia may also experience coexisting sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea, which can worsen symptoms.

From the early onset of symptoms to the management of chronic fibromyalgia symptoms, our dedicated team will help you to identify and understand your symptoms. If you have any questions about symptoms you may be experiencing, schedule an appointment today.