Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that brings widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This condition may also be accompanied with fatigue and sleep disorders. Medical studies show that as many as six million Americans have fibromyalgia, many of them are women. And no matter how many over the counter muscle relaxants and prescription drugs they take, these individuals still experience pain. The severity of pain that accompany fibromyalgia may vary from person to person. This condition should never be taken for granted even though it is not progressive or life-threatening.
Fibromyalgia can cause pain all over the body but the most commonly affected parts include the elbow, forearm, hip, knee, back, forearm, jaw, and shoulder. In addition to pain, fatigue and sleep difficulties are the other symptoms that can be experienced by individuals with fibromyalgia. These individuals may feel tired even after hours of sleep.
Other symptoms may include the following:
Irritable bowel syndrome (constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc.)
Headaches and facial pain
Depression
Numbness in the hands and feet
Mood changes