Fibromyalgia Symptoms

One of the reasons fibromyalgia is not as well understood as it could be is because patients have reported such a wide variety of symptoms. However, there is some consistency, particularly with the primary symptoms.

Primary Fibromyalgia Symptoms

The main or primary symptoms of fibromyalgia are:

Chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain

This means pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons, described by sufferers as stabbing and shooting; with deep muscular aches, throbs and twitching, and can pop up on any part of the body.

Fatigue

This means fatigue that is so pronounced that it is almost incapacitating, such that limbs feel like they have weights attached to them.

Disturbed sleep

This may mean one of a number of different sleep disorders, such as alpha-EEG anomaly, sleep apnea, bruxism (grinding the teeth) or restless leg syndrome (RLS)

Common Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Other symptoms reported by those suffering from fibromyalgia include the list below. Keep in mind that symptom severity differs from person to person and not everyone with fibromyalgia will experience one, a few or all these symptoms:

Headaches

Migraines and tension headaches affect about 70% of patients

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Between 40 and 70% of patients suffer from constipation, diarrhea, frequent abdominal pain, abdominal gas, and nausea.

The ?Fibro Fog?

Technically called discognition, the ?Fog? is a common symptom, causing confusion, memory problems, an inability to concentrate, and more.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ, or lockjaw)

As many as one of every four patients suffer from TMJ, which causes severe pain in the jaw, face, and head.

Some additional symptoms, reported with less frequency, include:

Pelvic pain
Sensitivity to noise and temperature
Anxiety and depression
Skin rashes and sensitivities
Dry eyes and dry mouth
Ringing in the ears
Raynaud's Syndrome (discoloration of the fingers and/or toes)

Fibromyalgia Support Groups

The Fibromyalgia Support Groups at SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.