Fibromyalgia - Introduction

Introduction

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome of unknown causes that results in lasting, sometimes debilitating, muscle pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia is also known as fibrositis or fibromyositis.

General Description of Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Pain. The primary symptom of fibromyalgia is pain. The pain can be in one place or all over the body. The exact locations of the pain are called tender points. Fibromyalgia pain is often described as:

• Tender point pain that occurs in local areas, usually in the neck and shoulders. The pain then spreads out from these areas. The pain actually starts at the muscles. The joints are not affected, although many patients feel that the pain is arising from their joints. There are no lumps or nodes associated with these pain points, and no signs of inflammation (swelling). People who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia feel pain in at least 11 of 18 specific tender points. The skin feels more sensitive to the touch.
• Widespread stiffness, burning, and aching pain. The pain also "radiates," or spreads, to nearby areas. Most patients report feeling some pain all the time, but the intensity of the pain may increase or decrease. Many describe it as "exhausting." The pain can vary depending on the time of day, changes in the weather, physical activity or prolonged inactivity, and the presence of stressful situations. The pain is often more intense after sleep is disturbed.

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Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances. Another major fibromyalgia complaint is fatigue. Some patients report that their fatigue is more distressing than their pain, because it interferes with their ability to enjoy life. Sleep disturbances, particularly restless legs syndrome (RLS), are also very common. Fatigue and sleep disturbances are almost universal in patients with fibromyalgia. Many patients complain that they can't get to sleep or stay asleep, and that they feel tired when they wake up. Some experts believe that if these symptoms are not present, the condition may not be fibromyalgia.

Depression and Mood. Up to a third of fibromyalgia patients have depression. Disturbances in mood and concentration are also very common. These conditions often go undiagnosed.