Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia Friendly Exercises Slideshow Treating Fibromyalgia Pain Fibromyalgia Symptoms Quiz

• What is fibromyalgia (FM)?
• What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
• How common is fibromyalgia? Who is mainly affected?
• What causes fibromyalgia?
• How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
• How is fibromyalgia treated?
• What is the difference between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome?
• Is there anything I can do to help me feel better?
• What if I can't work because of fibromyalgia?
• What research is being done on fibromyalgia?

What is fibromyalgia (FM)?

Fibromyalgia (fi-bro-mi-l-ja) is a disorder that causes aches and pain all over the body. People with FM also are tender throughout the body, which is most pronounced at certain regions termed "tender points." Tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs. These points hurt when pressure is put on them.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

People with FM could have:

• Muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Trouble sleeping
• Joint pain, stiffness (sometimes worse in the morning)
• Headaches
• Restless legs
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Problems with thinking and memory (sometimes called "fibro fog")
• Leg cramps
• Feeling nervous
• Depression
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Painful cramping during your period
• Jaw pain
• Upset stomach, cramping, bloating, feeling constipated or diarrhea
• Trouble swallowing
• Frequent or painful urination

How common is fibromyalgia? Who is mainly affected?

FM affects as many as 1 in 50 Americans. Most people with FM are women (about 80-90%). However, men and children also can have the disorder. Most people are diagnosed during middle age. FM can occur by itself, but people with certain other diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and other types of arthritis, may be more likely to have FM. Individuals who have a close relative with FM are more likely to develop FM.