Recognizing the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Chiropractors commonly see patients looking for back pain relief. However, in some cases, back and neck pain can be a symptom of fibromyalgia. Continue reading to learn about the symptoms of this condition.

Widespread Pain

The most common symptom associated with fibromyalgia is widespread pain that can be throbbing, aching, deep, or sharp and which lasts for at least 3 months and is experienced in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons surrounding the joints. Medical professionals describe widespread pain as that which occurs on both sides of the body and in both the upper and lower halves of the body. The pain can come and go or be continuous, and this symptom is what commonly leads people to visit a doctor.

Ongoing Fatigue

Individuals who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia commonly report waking up tired in the mornings despite sleeping for long periods. Also, their pain symptoms often cause them to wake up throughout the night, and people with fibromyalgia sometimes have sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.

Cognitive Issues

Do you often feel as though you are living in a haze? Experiencing cognitive difficulties that leave you feeling unable to pay attention, focus, or concentrate on mental tasks can be another symptom of fibromyalgia. This type of cognitive issue is referred to as “fibro fog” in individuals who are diagnosed with the condition.

Additional Problems

It’s not uncommon for individuals who have fibromyalgia to report symptoms in addition to widespread pain, cognitive troubles, and fatigue. Lower abdominal pain or cramping, irritable bowel syndrome, severe menstrual cramps, and painful or frequent urination are other common symptoms. Finally, if you have fibromyalgia, then you may experience anxiety, depression, fatigue, tender points, morning stiffness, and tingling or numbness in your arms, hands, legs, and feet.