Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a stress-related autoimmune disease that affects the muscles. It is an arthritic-type disease that was previously known as rheumatism. Researchers say fibromyalgia affects up to 16 million North Americans, mostly women between the ages of 25 and 45. This multi-organ syndrome is characterized by musculoskeletal pain, stiffness and chronic aches and pains, with the most common symptom being widespread muscle pain.

The pain of fibromyalgia is thought to be caused by a tightening and thickening of the thin film of tissue which holds muscles together.  We have put together a list of signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, supportive natural therapies, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia include:

• whole-body pain with tender spots that hurt significantly when pressed
• impaired sleep, sometimes severe
• depression and anxiety
• dizziness, weakness and confusion
• dysmenorrhea
• inability to exercise
• fingernail ridges
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• irritable bowel and chronic diarrhea
• migraine headaches
• food allergies
• memory problems
• tingling of the skin and other odd sensations
• heart palpitations
• heightened sensitivity to loud noises and bright lights
• non-restorative sleep
• dry mouth
• frequent urination
• muscle twitching
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• restless leg syndrome
• constipation and bloating
• low blood pressure
• whole body pain, aching and soreness

Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

There is no medical test that can definitively diagnose fibromyalgia.  The main determinant is the presence of pain in at least eleven of eighteen specific trigger points, found in pairs around various parts of the body.  Some bloodwork findings may help diagnose fibromyalgia, including tests for hypoglycemia, cortisol, and serotonin levels.

Books for People With Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia:

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

As with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, there is currently no one-agreed upon cause for this disease. As with other autoimmune conditions, many factors combine to produce the varied components of fibromyalgia:

• The Central Cause Seems to Be a Low Level of Serotonin In the Brain, and Reduced Growth Hormone
• Hormone Imbalance, Particularly in Estrogen and Progesterone
• Low Thyroid Function
• Imbalances in DHEA and Cortisol
• Toxic Metals Such as Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, and Aluminum
• Deficiencies of Magnesium, B Vitamins, and CoQ10
• Hypoglycemia and Blood Sugar Imbalances
• Leaky Gut Syndrome and Candida Overgrowth
• Structural Abnormalities Which Develop After a Physical Trauma to the Body, Such as a Car Accident
• A Build-up of Phosphate or Uric Acid
• Emotional Stress or Overexertion

Fibromyalgia Resources

General Patient Resources

• National Fibromyalgia Association

Educating, encouraging and empowering those in the fibromyalgia community. Articles, research community support groups, forums and patient stories.

http://www.fmaware.org/

• Fibromyalgia . com

Join our comprehensive Fibromyalgia Community. Discuss Fibromyalgia and connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

http://www.fibromyalgia.com

• Fibromyalgia-Symptoms . org

Learn about early fibromyalgia symptoms & fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Fibromyalgia treatments, cure, medicine, relief, causes & all fibromyalgia information.

http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/

• Fibromyalgia Network

Don’t just put up with the symptoms of fibromyalgia, learn about treatment solutions. Fibromyalgia Network is here to help.

http://www.fmnetnews.com/

• Fibromyalgia and Fatigue Centers Incorporated

Are you suffering from Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue? Get help with the specialized FFC treatment and wellness plans.

http://www.fibroandfatigue.com/

• Earth Clinic Folk Remedies

Treatment, Cause and Cure, By Jason A. Uttley. … Earth Clinic is now ranked among the Top 10 Alternative Health Sites on the Internet.

http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/fibromyalgia.html

Medical Resources

• Mayo Clinic

Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, treatment of this chronic condition characterized by widespread pain.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia/DS00079/DSECTION=coping-and-support

• Medline Plus

Interactive tutorial, latest news, articles, treatment.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/fibromyalgia.html

• Web MD

Here you’ll find in-depth fibromyalgia information including symptoms, pain relief, and promising treatments.

http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/default.htm