What Is Fibromyalgia?

By albert

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome is a condition that presents with aches and pains in many parts of the body. Fibromyalgia also causes sleep problems and fatigue that does not go away with rest, and may make its victim oversensitive to such stimuli as hot or cold temperature, pressure, bright lights and noise.

Fibromyalgia is usually diagnosed in people aged between 35 and 45 years, although some of the symptoms may have started much earlier. The condition affects more women than men and is more likely to occur in those who are obese, have another rheumatic condition like arthritis, have had trauma affecting the brain or spinal cord, or are suffering from emotional stress. People who smoke also have a higher risk.

1. Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Symptoms of fibromyalgia include a persistent dull pain that affects many parts of the body and goes on for three months or longer. The pain affects both sides of the body and occurs in both the vertical and horizontal halves of the body. Most people with fibromyalgia also experience chronic fatigue even when they spent a significant amount of time sleeping.

Fibromyalgia victims may also experience other sleep issues such as sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome. Additionally, they may suffer from impaired attention and other cognitive problems including poor concentration and poor focus. The condition may also occur together with conditions such as migraine and other headaches, irritable bowel disease, and temporomandibular joint pain.