Many individuals keep facing chronic pain that is widespread in the body. Such frequently occurring pain in some or all parts of the body may be indicative of fibromyalgia, patients may not be aware of the problem and might keep trying random treatments to solve the issue. However, it is critical to know that muscle pain that lasts longer than three months is chronic and it can interfere with the routine tasks of an individual. Such pain may also become severe suddenly.
People usually wake up with muscle stiffness and deep pain that may improve slightly as they carry on with their day. However, some individuals may face the same level of pain throughout the day. The pain intensity may vary from one person to another, as some may show mild fibromyalgia symptoms, while others may display severe symptoms. The non-stop pain may affect their arms, neck, shoulders, back, hip, knee, feet, etc. While fibromyalgia does not have a cure, its symptoms can definitely be treated to lead a healthy life.
Is fibromyalgia same as arthritis?
Although the chronic pain in fibrous tissues and muscles affect people the same way as it does in the case of arthritis, both the conditions are not the same. Unlike arthritis, fibromyalgia does not cause inflammation or damage to joints. It does not even cause damage to fibrous tissues or muscles. However, both may lead to tissue and joint pain. In fact, both the conditions may show the symptoms of tiredness and ache. Following are fibromyalgia symptoms that can help you identify this condition and manage your pain accordingly.
- Pain
A deep muscular pain that may start from some part of the body and migrate to almost all the other parts is one of the major fibromyalgia symptoms. While it may be shooting pain in some cases, it may be twitching in others. Different individuals may report varying levels and intensities of pain. The fibromyalgia pain is such that it can be triggered and aggravated by factors like cold weather, fatigue, stress or anxiety, improper or insufficient sleep, and no physical activity or excessive physical activity. - Strange sensations
Along with pain, fibromyalgia symptoms may include a strange kind of sensation, such as numbness or burning. Some people may also experience tingling or pricking. These sensations may intensify pain. - Fatigue and sleep problems
While fatigue is a normal thing to happen to most people, those displaying fibromyalgia symptoms always seem to be worn out. They get much more tired after the day in comparison to a healthy person. Fatigue or loss of stamina may also occur after improper or insufficient sleep. In fact, they may not receive restorative or deep sleep due to pain caused by chemical imbalance in the brain. - Gastrointestinal problems
Individuals might also face intestinal problems such as constipation and gas. Some individuals can also suffer heartburn which can make them feel nauseated. - Muscular issues
As fibromyalgia is a pain in fibrous tissue and muscles, it is bound to show related symptoms. There may be muscle tenderness, muscle spasm, or muscle soreness. - Cognitive and mood issues
Those showing fibromyalgia symptoms may have frequent mood swings as well as anxiety and stress. Further, they may get forgetful. People with fibromyalgia may also display a lack of interest in activities and concentration issues. - Additional symptoms
Apart from the symptoms mentioned, those with fibromyalgia may have headache/migraine, joint stiffness, nervousness, depression, impaired memory, irritable bowel syndrome, dry eyes and mouth, and painful bladder syndrome or interstitial cystitis. Individuals may also have skin sensitivity, impaired coordination, and restless legs syndrome.
What causes fibromyalgia?
Triggered by genetic causes, infection or trauma, fibromyalgia, according to researchers can happen because there is a chemical imbalance in the brain which amplifies the pain signals. While doctors may not know about the exact reasons that may lead to fibromyalgia in a person, they can help identify the symptoms and prescribe certain medications to ease the pain. For the treatment to be effective one has to adopt healthy lifestyle changes as well.
How to manage pain?
While doctors usually try anti-depressants, muscle relaxants, psychotherapy, chiropractic care, massage, and other physical therapies on patients with fibromyalgia symptoms, it is important for patients to make some lifestyle changes to manage pain and correct symptoms. They should have an active exercise routine, like aerobics, low-impact exercises and strength training. They should also perform mind relaxation exercises and meditation as well as develop coping abilities against stressful situations. The workload should be managed well to avoid taxing the body and mind beyond limits.
