Eight Signs Of Fibromyalgia Usually People Ignore

Fibromyalgia is a common chronic disorder that is characterized by widespread pain, among other symptoms. It can cause significant pain and fatigue, interfering with a person’s ability to carry out their daily activities. While the causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, it’s estimated that it affects 5 million Americans ages 18 or older.

Research has shown that fibromyalgia patients typically see several different doctors before receiving their diagnosis. The symptoms of fibromyalgia often mimicked other health issues, which can make it hard to diagnose. Understanding the symptoms can help a patient identify their diagnosis sooner, so they can find a way to manage their pain.

Here are eight signs of fibromyalgia you should never ignore:

1. Body Stiffness

The majority of patients who suffer from fibromyalgia experience body stiffness. This usually occurs in the morning. The stiff feeling is similar to those who suffer from arthritis. It may fade within 10-15 minutes, or it may last most of the day.

2. Abnormal Digestion

Symptoms of fibromyalgia can include constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. About 40-70% of patients who are suffering from fibromyalgia experience symptoms similar to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Acid Reflux, and GERD.

3. Numbness, Swelling, Or Tingling

Many fibromyalgia sufferers experience pins and needles sensations. This often occurs in the arms, feet, hands, and legs – a condition known as paraesthesia. For some patients, these sensations might only last a few minutes. For other patients, the sensations can last much longer.

4. Head To Toe Pain

Approximately 97% of patients suffering from fibromyalgia experience pain across their entire body. Fibromyalgia pain is often described as “deep, sharp, throbbing or aching.” This type of pain is often constant and unresponsive to over-the-counter pain medication.

5. Finger Spasms And Toe Spasms

Arterial spasms of the hands or toes are a fairly common symptom of fibromyalgia. It can result from exposure to cold or stress. The areas that are affected will develop a blue or pale tint. Arterial spasms are also accompanied by pain.

6. Poor Sleep Quality

Fibromyalgia can make it difficult for a patient to get quality sleep. Studies have shown erratic brain activity in fibromyalgia patients during rest. This irregular brain activity, along with pain or stiffness, can cause poor quality sleep.

7. Fibromyalgia Fog

Fibromyalgia sufferers may experience a brain fog. Trouble concentrating and difficulty with short-term memory can be symptoms of fibromyalgia. General feelings of confusion, forgetfulness, and lack of mental clarity may also arise.

8. Sensitivity To Temperature

Patients with fibromyalgia often have a difficult time regulating their body temperature. They may feel extreme heat or extreme cold when the temperature hasn’t changed drastically.


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14 Responses

  1. Cathy says:

    There seems to be a problem with doctors diagnosing it. my husband has had it for years, but nobody will give him a proper “diagnosis”; not sure what the problem is, possibly insurance companies?

  2. Joni says:

    I’ve been told to see a rheumatologist by my primary care physician. She’s the one who diagnosed me. Now to find the right one!

  3. Crystal Gerlach says:

    Why is #2 strange? IBS, constipation etc are a normal part of fibro. I know….18 years of it now.

    • Judy says:

      I’ve had #2 for years, even before fibromyalgia so: I wasn’t aware that was the cause. I thought it was from gastric problems. Marshmallow root helps the flares, like the cramps and such. You’ll have to go to GNC or a Health food store. You can also drink the tea, but not the candy marshmallows you find in the store. Tsk Tsk. Won’t work. Love my fellow Fibromylgiymites. God Bless Have a good rest of the week.

  4. Amy Prelesnik says:

    I had a test done on my feet and lower legs called ABI. It was because of pain, numbness and tingling. The Dr’s were checking for good blood flow, also to make sure there were no blockages such as blood clots. It came back all clear thank goodness but I still have pain from head to toe. I try and walk and keep active and keep track of my steps for my dr that is helping me to lose weight. I know how to do it I should say, but now I have all these extra things stacked against me making it more difficult.
    I have arthritis, bulging and herniated discs in my back, sacroiliac joint disease on my left side, then throw in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue and depression and PTSD. It’s a work in progress but I am trying to enjoy life and get past the rough times with family and medical support. ?

  5. Karen Parks says:

    My Doctor told me they don’t believe in fibro, saying that something else’s causing your problems. Then another doctor tells me if he believed in it he would tell me my problem is fibro! That tells me I have it but don’t know what to do for it? I have had the symptoms as a child, have Rosatia, have tingling in feet and hands , have eczema, have bruising very easily, IBS, and a host of other things that are associated with fibro, why can’t they help me with a diagnose of fibro instead of beating around the bushy? Exhausting!

  6. Kelly says:

    My neurologist actually diagnosed me. Hes been the greatest with all of this! I couldnt ask for a better Dr! He never stops and just gives up. Hes always willing to try to find a way to make me feel better and make sure no new conditions or issues have started.

  7. Patti Andrews says:

    Have had all these issues and trouble getting a proper diagnosis and a doctor that will help my quality of life is suffering im 56 and not able to work need help PLEASE

  8. bev says:

    i have it my dr sent me to a special nerve dr and he did a blood test i suffered for 2 years before this cause they thought i was seeking attention no now i take meds and cbd lotion to help with pain and i can cope a little better

  9. lucia gregels says:

    I was diagnosed by the Mayo Clinic 30 some yrs. ago after going to multiple Dr.s. I look fine so no one understands what I go through on a daily basis. Headaches, IBS, chronic pain, Reynauds Syndrome, all kinds of sensitivities, etc.

  10. Vickie says:

    I can’t go on with health issues. I need help. I’m taking cbd oil. Not helping, will there ever be he,p for us. I’m ready to give up.

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