Fibromyalgia is a common chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, among other symptoms. It can cause significant pain and fatigue, interfering with a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Although the causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, it is estimated to affect 5 million Americans aged 18 and older.
Research has shown that fibromyalgia patients often see several different doctors before receiving their diagnosis. Fibromyalgia symptoms often mimic other health problems, which can make diagnosis difficult. Understanding the symptoms can help a patient identify their diagnosis earlier so they can find ways to manage their pain.
Here are eight signs of fibromyalgia you should never ignore:
1. Body Stiffness
Most fibromyalgia patients experience body stiffness. This usually occurs in the morning. The feeling of stiffness is similar to that of people with arthritis. It can disappear within 10 to 15 minutes or last most of the day.
2. Abnormal Digestion
Symptoms of fibromyalgia can include constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Approximately 40 to 70% of fibromyalgia patients experience symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, and GERD.
3. Numbness, swelling, or tingling
Many people with fibromyalgia experience a tingling sensation. This often occurs in the arms, feet, hands, and legs—a condition known as paresthesia. For some patients, these sensations may only last a few minutes. For others, the sensations can last much longer.
4. Head-to-toe pain:
About 97% of fibromyalgia patients experience pain throughout their body. Fibromyalgia pain is often described as “deep, sharp, stabbing, or aching.” This type of pain is often constant and does not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers.
5. Spasms of the fingers and toes
Arterial spasms in the hands or feet are a very common symptom of fibromyalgia. This can be due to exposure to cold or stress. The affected areas will develop a pale blue or yellow tint. Arterial spasms are also accompanied by pain.
6. Poor Sleep Quality
Fibromyalgia can make it difficult for a patient to get quality sleep. Studies have shown irregular brain activity in fibromyalgia patients at rest. This irregular brain activity, combined with pain or stiffness, can lead to poor sleep quality.
7. Fibromyalgia Fog
People with fibromyalgia may experience brain fog. Difficulty concentrating and short-term memory problems can be symptoms of fibromyalgia. General feelings of confusion, forgetfulness, and lack of mental clarity may also occur.
8. Temperature Sensitivity
Patients with fibromyalgia often have difficulty regulating their body temperature. They may feel extremely hot or cold when the temperature hasn’t changed dramatically.
