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Conditions > Fibromyalgia > All about Fibromyalgia > The Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
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The Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

The two key symptoms of fibromyalgia are widespread body pain (meaning it affects both sides of the body and above and below the waist) and tender points, or areas of the body that are particularly sensitive to pressure. However, you may not realize you have tender points until your doctor presses on them in an exam.

A fibromyalgia symptoms checklist includes sleep disturbances, severe fatigue, depression and anxiety, cognitive difficulties, headaches, bladder irritability and spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, jaw problems and painful menstruation.

Kathryn :)
28 Aug 2010, 03:08
Hello all fellow sufferers! I've read every story on here and my heart truly goes out to everyone! I am 27 yrs old. I haven't yet been properly diagnosed. After all my extensive research I feel this fits. Sadly there is some relief that comes to mind. I've had irritating nagging pains like tmi, sciatica, and back pain for years. But about 5 mnths ago it all came to whole new level of pain and discomfort! I was desperate for help. After having Mri's I discovered I had a herniated disk, arthritis in my neck and shoulders and some vertebras off. My symptoms were strange tho I had bouts of pain that just left me on the ground practically paralyzed. I'd turn from sweating hot to freezing cold in seconds. My pain would move from one side to the other, from my arms to my leg, from my wrists to my toes. My doctor suggested Reflex sympathetic dystrophy. I refused to accept that and she just sent me with some pills and directed me to pain management. It came on totally debilitating. My symptoms seemed to lighten up and I thought I was getting better. But the chronic pain returned and it's day to day but mostly pain everyday just different someday feels like arthritis everywhere and sometimes feels like nerve pain or deep and always at my joints. Feels a lot like what I hear here. I just pray I find the right Doctors to give me a proper diagnoses. Whatever this is it has forever changed me! In the best way mentally, Spiritually, and emotionally! I'm much stronger in all those aspects. I realize what really matters in life. It's funny how in the moments of complete helplessness we can gain the respect and love of the most simplest acts and even essential components of life! Like water, sun, warmth, a fresh breeze, a friendly smile from a stranger that has no idea they just warmed your heart. Compassion from a stranger, or someone who wants so badly to help you but can't so it stirs them up.I don't know where this road will take me. And at times it's so scary and overwhelming. It's hard to not get depressed when u can't commit to plans for work or family or friends. All we can do for sure is take a day at a time. Appreciating the beauty that surrounds us. It's there I swear no matter how bad it hurts. Just look for that and feel that love let it be your comfort! It's everything! I'm embracing all the lessons on things that really matter that have become so apparent to me! Remember this disease may take a lot from us but it can't take the love that resides in your heart unless you let it! Be strong, focus on loving your body and who you are! Much love from this girl! If anyone has advice for me or needs more words of encouragement please reach out. My little fingers don't always want to type but I do my best everyday and expect that from myself! Kathrynclark08@gmail.com
Janet B.
27 Aug 2010, 17:31
I have been suffering with most of the same pain and the dr. just saying well he just doesn't know what is wrong and I go from one dr. to another. Went to a vein specialist he said it was varicose veins, then I was admitted to hospital for the surgery, then the surgeon said I didn't need the surgery and sent me home. I am now seeing and orthopedic Dr.and he has diagnosed I need a knee replacemet. A knee replacement is only going to alleviate that pain. So I still will have all the other pains. I do take gabapentin,dicolfen. I have been off work for over a year. I have the swelling in my feet and legs also,and it does go down some if I stay laying down with my feet elevated, but that still doesn't help the soreness.I need help with my diagnosis, so I am thinking about chanaging dr.
Lisa
17 Aug 2010, 12:57
I've had "joint" pain for years, but my mind and body went nuts after the shock of being layed off out of the blue. Depression worsened of course, but so did the pain. I was just dx with FM.
My scariest symtoms (just wrote cymbals) include saying the wrong words, word retrieveal, and foggy memory. This is without meds. I'm on unemployment and think I'm blowing interviews with the whole "uh,uh,uh,uh,uh response to questions.
Does anyone else have this problem, not as a side-effect of some drug? Does it get worse?
Becky
01 Aug 2010, 12:21
I have recently been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I have read a lot of comments from people not knowing what is wrong with them and from people knowing what's wrong with them, but can't figure out the right treatments. First off, you need to see a Rhuematologist or an Internal Medicine Dr. to get a proper diagnosis. Last year I went to a family doctor and he and a neurologist diagnosed me with carpal tunnel. I tried wearing the hand brace and taking an anti-inflammitory pill and they didn't work. I had a nerve conductor test done and an mri. after all that i was sent to and orthopedic surgeon to have carpal tunnel release surgery on my right hand. It took months to heal and it didn't change any of the symptoms i was having before the surgery. So I changed dr's and starter seeing an Internal Medicine dr and she took several blood tests, an mri of my spine, i took the nerve conducter test again and i had a few x rays of my wrists and knees.after all that the only thing that showed up was that i had carpal tunnel in both arms. she put me on gabapentin 300mg before bed and 600mg of ibu four times a day for pain. they didn't help, and i noticed that my left leg kept swelling at work, i work on my feet most of the night. i went to the er one morning cause my leg was swollen really bad. the er couldn't find anything wrong with me. i was getting frustrated. i got on web md and typed in my symptoms and fibromyalgia was one of the possibilities. so was lupus and hypotyroidism, but my bloodwork came back negative for both of them. so i mentioned to my dr that it might be fibromyalgia. we went over my symptoms and she said it was a possibility, but she couldn't diagnose it as that because i didnt have most of the pressure points. so, she referred me to a rhuematologist and he upped my dose of gabapentin to 600mg at bedtime. a few days later i had this horrible pain going from my left side of my neck, to my shoulder, down my arm and down my back. it felt like my muscles were being ripped from my body. the pain went away after 15 min. so the next day, i went out to eat and the same pain started up again except the pain started at my jaw. i was in tears when we left the restaurant. on the way to the hospital the pain started to subside. so we went home. while there it started to come back, we went to the er and they did an ekg and bloodwork. I told the er doc that i posssibly had fibro. they couldn't find anything wrong with my heart, but they kept me overnight for observations. the whole night i was there all they gave me was regular tylenol. i was in pain the whole time i was there. the next morning, the dr on call for my reg dr came in to see me. i told him all my problems and he did another ekg and another blood test. 30 min later he came back and said that i had no signs of heart problems now or ever. so he did the pressure point test on me and he concluded that it was fibro. a few days later i went back to the rhuematologist and told him that story and he came to the same conclusion.he kept me on the gabapentin, but changed my dose to 1-2 300mg 3 times a day. i have been taking the max dose (1800mg). i also was told to take a super b complex vitamin and an eggshell calcium with magnesium and vitamin d3 and to take the ibuprofen (600mg)sparingly and a muscle relaxer (800mg) only for emergencies. I have been on the max dose of gabapentin and the vitamins for 4 days now. I still have the pain. I am able to sleep better, but still have to take naps throughout the day. doing household chores wears me out. i have headaches and a pain in the back of my neck. also, if i chew gum too long and when im eating my jaw and neck bother me. sometimes i wonder if im going to make it going to the store for groceries. and if im in the car too long i start hurting. sometimes i feel off balance and i get to where when im talking i slurr my words or get them in the wrong order. even typing this i have to go back and correct myself. i feel so stupid and useless sometimes. im only 37 and i feel twice that. i havent been able to work for 7 weeks now. is there anyone out there who has this and is on disability compensation? i hate to be a burden on society, but that money would be helpful. i just dont know what to expect from this illness.
Shannon Brislawn
20 Jul 2010, 10:14
I am a 32 year old female and I was diagnosed with Fibro a year ago. I had a constant "ache" in my upper thigh that went to the bone, comparative to when you get too cold and your body aches. Often my hands would cramp up making it hard to hold a pen and write. From there my wrists and forearms would cramp up and I was constantly in pain. Sleeping was difficult because I was always in pain and tossing and turning in bed. To make matters worse, I also have Multiple Sclerosis. So I have 1 disease that won't let me sleep and another that makes me feel exhausted all the time. Lyrica by itself did nothing so my doctor upped my Lyrica dose to 150mg 3 times a day and prescribed me Tramadol for pain 100mg 3 times a day which has helped tremendously. I feel helpless most of the time as if I'm a prisoner in my own body. I hear that exercise helps with Fibro however, with my MS I'm always tired, dizzy or feeling absent minded. I try to stay positive but most days it's hard and I feel like I will never feel "normal" again. I would give anything to have my old crappy life again. I had depression issues prior to being diagnosed and now they are even worse, but still I try to smile. I wish all of you the best of luck in your battles and have hope that some day we can get our lives back. God bless
michael scherer
14 Jul 2010, 16:17
I am a 56 year young man who feels 90. I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and have suffered most of the symptoms expressed in the testimonies on this blog. I am now taking cymbalta and gabapentin for pain and depression. Will see what happens. Would like to hear from other men who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
Annette Pratt
28 Jun 2010, 19:24
Whoops seems like someone deleted my post will try again:
Have had fibromyalgia for 40 years after my pelvis dislocated from sacrum. Several ruptured discs that happened all at the same time. It has definitely progressed over the years, and had to quit work in 1986 and have not been able to work since. Until the mid 1990's had only gotten all in my head diagnoses so had no help from medical community. Obviously could never get disablility because all in your head is not an acceptable diagnosis for anything.

In mid 60s found an article from Rheumatology telling all doctors NOT to diagnose fibromyalgia because of the reamifications to the disability rolls and the potential for law suits from surgery and to industry so I knew it was all over for me and the only help would be what I could come up with. The article said fibromyalgia is caused by neurological inflamation. They have known for decades what causes fibromyalgia.

Have used ice, heat, accupressure and sometimes acupunture also chronic pain massage therapy. Understanding my limitations has been critical. Suffer the usual: Just get up off your @ss and go to work, your antisocial etc. Sure understand why so many end up committing suicide. There is no end to it. To abuse someone with a disabling illness is probably the most vile aspect of health care in America today. I have always hoped that somehow they could figure out a way to diagnose it and provide treatment even if they also found a way to deny disability claims only so that those suffering so much could get even a little bit of compassionate care.

I am sixty-one now and have no problems getting diagnosed..not much treatment but at least I don't get slapped in the face in the doctor's office any more.

In public articles the NIH hems and haws and NEVER calls fibromyalgia disabling. In technical journals and news the NIH says: "Fibromyalgia is a debilitating conditions...." and also: "research suggests it is related to a problem with the central nervous system's processing of pain..." Right back where we were in the mid 80's.
Annette Pratt
28 Jun 2010, 18:59
Have had fibromyalgia for 40 years after my pelvis dislocated from sacrum. Several ruptured discs that happened all at the same time. It has definitely progressed over the years, and had to quit work in 1986 and have not been able to work since. Until the mid 1990's had only gotten all in my head diagnoses so had no help from medical community. Obviously could never get disablility because all in your head is not an acceptable diagnosis for anything.

In mid 60s found an article from Rheumatology telling all doctors NOT to diagnose fibromyalgia because of the reamifications to the disability rolls and the potential for law suits from surgery and to industry so I knew it was all over for me and the only help would be what I could come up with. The article said fibromyalgia is caused by neurological inflamation. They have known for decades what causes fibromyalgia.

Have used ice, heat, accupressure and sometimes acupunture also chronic pain massage therapy. Understanding my limitations has been critical. Suffer the usual: Just get up off your @ss and go to work, your antisocial etc. Sure understand why so many end up committing suicide. There is no end to it. To abuse someone with a disabling illness is probably the most vile aspect of health care in America today. I have always hoped that somehow they could figure out a way to diagnose it and provide treatment even if they also found a way to deny disability claims only so that those suffering so much could get even a little bit of compassionate care.

I am sixty-one now and have no problems getting diagnosed..not much treatment but at least I don't get slapped in the face in the doctor's office any more.

In public articles the NIH hems and haws and NEVER calls fibromyalgia disabling. In technical journals and news the NIH says: "Fibromyalgia is a debilitating conditions...." and also: "research suggests it is related to a problem with the central nervous system's processing of pain..." Right back where we were in the mid 80's.
taylor j
25 May 2010, 18:12
It all started a couple year ago for, I mean my legs have been hurting since high school and i thought it was cause i needed to lose weight.In the last couple of years I knew something was wrong with me..It first really started with not being able to sleep and night sweats I had to stop sleeping in a shirt cause it was so bad..then i stared having really bad head aches and jaw pain ,..sometime it would hurt when I had sex or my period...I WAS GOING CRAZY...once the pain was so bad all i could do i scream..I didnt know what was goin on and then i saw a commercail for lyrica and soemthing the lady in commercail mad me feel like she was talkin to me..so i googled fibro and it was a weight was lifted of my chest...I knew this was my problem before even goin to the dr..All the symptoms was me...the other day I was doing some research i found a checklist that goes even deeper...In way im relieved cause now I know whatw wrong but its like my body is betrayin me..its always something hurts burns sometimes i have to take 3 muscle relaxers ..I read that the professional think it trauma or tragedy related..When I was in high school my mother father and sister died.. I was wondering if anyone else have major things in their life that maybe u think was the set off
Kimberley
06 May 2010, 09:45
I have been experiencing widespread pain in my hands, arms, legs, feet and back for several years now. Recently it has exacerbated to jaw pain and headaches on waking. Doctors have put me on everything from Hydrocodone to Lyrica, but with no real concrete diagnosis and no relief. Recently my new doctor suggested it may be FM and put me on 1 Tramadol (Ultram) in morning which has successfully replaced the 12 Ibuprofen a day and allows me to work without pain. Hope this helps someone out there. It has certainly helped me.
Sharoll Kay Kegin
04 May 2010, 10:07
I am 72 years old and have RA. I have had pain in my legs and back and am ok as long as I am up working. I am very active in the daytime. Take care of my greatgrand babies and older and do good while I am doing it. At night I suffer from what I do in the daytime. I am on Neurotin, spelling may be wrong, and it seems to help. I have all the symptons of FM, but have never been told this is what it is. I take Omega 3's, vit b6, calcium,zoloft,Mobic, and get along pretty well. I have stiffness and can hardly walk it I set very long and especially riding for long distances. I have learned to deal with it because I also have Polycystic Kidney disease and do not want to take anything that will cause Kidney failure. I advise anyone to keep active and walk even if it hurts. It will go away to some extent if you will do this.
Mary
27 Apr 2010, 20:36
I was just diagnosed with Fibro last week. It makes sense, now, with all the pain, the numb hands during the night, tiredness, etc etc.
I will admit the braces really help. Also, my dentist made me a mouth guard that wear during night time and that really helps my headaches and jaw aches.
One word of info. My sister has had Fibro for years, and her Dr. put her on one of the medicines, cannot remember the name, and one of the side effects is it effects your kidneys. Her kidneys failed and she ended up in the hospital, they had both quit working. Luckily it was caught in time and gave her massive IV push and got them working again. This worries me, I would suggest before taking any new medicines ask for the side effects. I believe we all have a process to go through that will be a long time.
Mary
Angela
15 Apr 2010, 10:13
Hi, I am very new at this... I am so sorry that everyone has had such a struggle with their pain. I am 34 and a mom of 5 children ages 13, 10, 8, 5, and 1. I homeschool them so I am very busy and feel I don't have time for pain in my body. (sorry if this gets a little long, I feel I need to vent)

About 9 months ago I began experiencing pain in my body in areas that made me feel as if I was an older woman. Just about everytime I would try to go from a sitting position to stand, pain would shoot down to my tailbone, and would make me feel as if I were trying to pick up weights from the chair, and I had difficulty getting up. Once in a standing position the pain would ease away. I also started experiencing numbness, stiffness, tingling, and pain in the joints of both my hands but only when I would wake in the morning. to make a much longer story short, I eventually began seeing a neurologist. After months of seeing him and each time describing to him what was going on and after an EMG, and several blood tests, he said I am a perfectly normal healthy young woman, and my problem was due to stress. He also diagnosed me with Fibro, but also explained to me how he doesn't believe in Fibro. He had me start on Lyrica, which the only difference I have noticed is all the side effects that come with it, otherwise I still have all the same problems. Only I now have been experiencing problems with my knees, feeling as if they are swollen while walking, sometimes there is heat, and then pain, stiffness as well. If I don't wear braces on my hands at night I will wake with stabing pain in my joints. When I do wear them, my joints begin to lock on me as soon as I take them off. After 2 months of being on Lyrica, I went back to the neuro and now he wants to say its stress again because all the blood tests show nothing wrong with me. He wants to prescribe me with some anxiety meds, I dont feel I need! I left very irritated at him, I just didn't feel like he listened to me. I don't want to take this new med. He also prescibed me a smaller dosage of Lyrica - for which I don't think is changing anything one bit. I honestly don't know what to do. After EMG he said I do have a little carpol tunnel and reffered me to a chronic pain place and I will be having injections in my hands. I have pain in my back most of the time. I wake with pain in my back. I have decided to go to a chiropractor to see if he can help. when using my arms to do things like stirring a pan of mac n chees or to pick up things sometimes they just become so fatigued it feels like I've just done some major exercise. Many days I wake and have whole days I deal with being very dizzy.

Whats really wrong with me is what I want to know? Does anyone else experience this kind of stuff? I am not a person who stresses out easily, so I just don't understand why he wants to put me on meds for stress. HELP! Have I been wrongly diagnosed? Do I need to find a different doc to get a second opinion? I don't know what to do? After the last appt. I don't feel I can trust the doc.
Lee
12 Apr 2010, 18:13
I just stumbled upon this blog. I too have been suffering with a lot with pain, especially over this past year.I have almost continuous pain in both my hips,thighs and legs. My left hand is half numb up to my wrist.I also see double off and on without pain in my eye. I have seen three eye specialists all have come to the same conclusion, that it is not my eye. They are now testing me for all sort of muscular diseases including but not limited to MS.

I recently developed a new symptom. My whole leg went into agonizing pain and within a matter of five minutes the pain left and my leg felt as if it were on fire.

It is my hope that someone on this blog can furnish me with some answers as to weather or not I may have FM. I thank you all a head of time for any help you can give me concerning this issue.
MountainBrat
10 Apr 2010, 21:08
2 all of u i injured myself by hitting my head and jamming my neck and spine! and have pain still 8 months later. and one Dr, states no'one Dr, has any idea where fibromyalgia comes from? what when you have a head injury or spine the wide spread pain does come from the injury. and that's what fibromyalgia is. for those who have had an injury don't let Dr's tell you fibromyalgia, is not due to your injury because it is! what it does it deadens your nerves in your body and then yes it attacks your nervous system your muscles thats why u then have pain all over exspecially head trama. you have brain stems that goes all the way down to your toes giving signals and Little fibers at the end and those are called nervers and they start to deaden. thats what this one Dr, talks about you don't just get fibro, out of the blue.
Sue
12 Mar 2010, 12:03
I missed saying that I am seeng a chiropractor, a massage therapist and will be seeing an RA against my husband's wishes. He would not hear of my telling him of my symptoms thinking that I was malingering and so refused to pay for my medical bills. He thinks I 'm lazy and even wants to file for divorce because of my not working full time. Yes, FM can wreak havoc on a person's life esp, if one doesn't know enough about it! You are not alone in your suffering! Sue
Sue
12 Mar 2010, 11:32
Kimberly, and all who are also experiencing the angst and shoulderloads of FM. I THINK I have FM, still undiagnosed, but I have all the symptoms. It is in it early stage - 2 years. I am taking the daily NSAID, beta-blocker, anti-HTN med, vitamins, fish oil and statin and intend be as pro-active as possible with my treatment as I am now with my stroke, hyperlipidemia and HTN. I am constantly in chronic pain but am living with it and ACCEPTING IT and know that if I take any more medications, I run the risk of side effects, some of which will stay. FM is here to stay and according to presenters of FM, there is no cure. One good thing: it does not do damage to our organs! Kimberly, and everyone else willing to do so, you can talk to me at justicelady14@yahoo.com. Peace all, Sue
Terry
21 Feb 2010, 14:36
Thank God for this site! I've had symptoms for about ten years but was just diagnosed with RA last year and, just recently, moderate fibro. All my friends and relatives figured I was a hypochondriac and the pain was all in my head, or I was just being dramatic. The pain, depression and loneliness I've felt is incredible. I am sitting here in tears reading all the posts just because I know now that I am not crazy and the pain and the "fog" is real! Wow.
susan abraham
19 Feb 2010, 17:49
I have found some relief with acupuncture. He hooks up an electrical device to the needles,very mild and it does help. It can even help with menstral headaches which are horrific w/my neck problems. Good luck
Helen
16 Feb 2010, 21:37
Does anyone have severe jaw pain as in muscle spasms and tenderness? I wake in the morning with soreness and it just grows worse during the day as my jaws go into spasm.
char
11 Feb 2010, 10:14
I was reading through old messages on this site and this is the first time I have seen anything about the burning sensation. I am glad to know it is linked to the fibro and not just something else weird.
Liz
05 Dec 2009, 22:09
Hello Everyone,
I have just read throughout all the comments everyone has posted; I am sorry for the pain each of you experiences. I am 52 and I have had Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis for about 10 yrs. I was diagnosed at a young age and back then Fibro wasn't easy to diagnose because many doctors didn't believe in the disease. The various symptoms I experienced made me feel like I was going crazy; and yes I get looked at strangely by others when I mention that I am on disability. It took me a long time to let the looks and comments slide off my back. I know what I experienced and had to live with on a daily basis. I was in denial for a long time too, I refused to fill out the paperwork to go on disability after my Dr. recommended I leave my job. I had to learn to put up boundaries with family members, cause they couldn't understand how I couldn't or didn't want to go anywhere; or always cancelling planned outings. That was hard. I guess my advice to you all that this is so new; educate yourselves about the disease and learn to take care of you. Yes, it's hard, but you will have to learn a new way of living and you do get used to it. It's just a matter of making changes. I took my family with me to a doctors appt. so he could explain what I was experiencing was very real, it helped me and them to deal with daily life. I currently take Humira injections, methotrexate, metaxalone, paxil,and naproxsen; amongst other meds for diabetes, high blood pressure. My rheumatologist will give me injections of steroids for times that I need to deal with a special occasion or a trip. Such as when my daughter got married. It helped me get through the day.

I was diagnosed with Spondolyosis recently and I know that I should be trying to get physical exercise daily, but this is something I am really struggling with. I hurt so bad cause I have a difficult time walking. My feet hurt, they feel as if they're on fire and feel as if there are sharp little bones in my heels and underneath my toes. Any suggestions?

My best to you all with God's blessings.
Dorenda
27 Nov 2009, 11:11
Shannon - exactly what waiora product does your friend take?
Pam
18 Nov 2009, 10:25
To GG in April of 08-you hit the nail on the head! I get so sick of people thinking I am faking my pain to get sympathy or over reacting to "hard work" (aka being lazy). I would hope that they would be able to experience the pain, fatigue, irritability, brain fog, depression, etc, etc, etc that goes with fibro...walk a mile in MY shoes then come tell me that I am being a whiner.
GMR
16 Nov 2009, 20:57
To Sherri, Sept 3

What I have begun to learn about fibro is that stress is an important trigger, and it sounds like that is a big part of what you're going through--multiple stressors. We all deserve compassion, and I didn't have much else to offer except to say that you are worth being surrounded by caring people--and it's important to be our own best friend and teach people how to treat us (fibro or no fibro). It sounds like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, and that simply is not good for you, given what we are told about this condition. It's always easier said than done when folks tell us to "reduce" or "avoid" stress--especially with all that is going on around us (and in most jobs). I hope folks around you will stop (perhaps) taking for granted their good health and in doing so, see the tremendous effort and contribution you are making to their lives. good luck!
mary kopf
12 Nov 2009, 22:54
Please check out Dr. Sandra Cabot's website. She has helped me and thousands of others. www.liverdoctor.com It could literally change your life!
shannon
12 Nov 2009, 15:31
hi, i posted name wrong.. sorry it is spelling waiora...like i said it is expensive but she says she has not felt this good since she was 20 and she is in her 40's...
shannon
12 Nov 2009, 15:28
i have dealt with widespread pain for some years and my doctor and i both are looking into fibro as the cause...that said my friend has had fibro for 20+ yrs and has never really been out of pain for long...she is now taking something natural call wiora that she swears by...it is expensive but all natural...hope this helps
Lorie
03 Nov 2009, 19:22
Hello, I to have Fiber. I often experience chest pain, in addition to all the other aches, I havent seen to many say anything about chest pain so I was wondering if anyone else gets that as well. I have tried many of the medications and they seem to work for awhile but after awhile it seems as if your body gets to use to them. I do take vitamin D and have tried the new megared (omega) vitamins and this has seemed to given me a little extra energy.
Can anyone tell me do the experience the chest pains as well?
wanda
30 Oct 2009, 20:12
Hi I am having terrible pains in my arm wit numbness in my fingers headaches ibs symptoms bad periods my feet ache heart palpatations xtreme fatigue have not been diagnosed wit anything as I have no insurance my body aches so bad I cry plz help I don't know what to do
Barbara
16 Oct 2009, 11:39
I was diagnosed with RA 1.5 yrs ago but was having symptoms x several years. In addition, I experience tingling and numbness in my hands. Over the years I've been experiencing increasingly sensitive skin to the point where the stitching on sleeve hems is irritating. Is this a fibro symptom? Anyone else with this problem?
Debra
08 Oct 2009, 22:17
In reference to R. Terry 30,Sept,2009. I too suffered blurry vision while taking Lyrica among other negative symptons. I quit taking it which brought my eyesight back. However I need the Lyrica for major nerve pain from a recent back surgery; therefore tried taking a lower dose which erased the blurry vison, swelling etc.

I have not been diagnosed with fibromyalgia but recently have been waking during the night with pain at different sights. I do have pressure point pain and have for quiet awhile; it feels as bruises all over. Fatigue and depression have been a part of my life for many years. From what I hear about no cure and medications not helping would it really be worth seeking a professional diagnosis; or can it even be diagnosed exactly?
Glasseye67
02 Oct 2009, 13:47
I have just recently been diagnosed by a rheumatoid specialist who has been diagnosing fibromyalgia and other similar diseases for many a year. I am a 47 year old male who has continual bone and muscle pain.

It started for me with syatica and has slowly developed into something far more serious. My sleeping has been poor and I find myself becoming excessively tired at least two or three times throughout the day almost falling into a complete sleep, sitting, standing, or while doing work.

I have been taking botoxin needles in my neck for dystonia and shoulder and collar pain.

I have recently stopped my medicines due to other medical problems that I have been having and discovered just how severe the pain was in my ankles and wrists. A severe soreness that on a scale of 1-10 border on an 8 to 9. WIthout pain medicine I am in pretty bad shape.

I contacted my physician and she sent me to the rheumatoid specialist. After the examination which was actually borderline due to the botoxin needles I have been taking, she diagnosed that it was indeed fibromyalgia.

I have had irritable sleep for as long as I can remember tossing back and forth and waking up several times completely in the night. I ended up in the hospital once from lack of sleep causing me to have severe pains in my chest and labeled as a minor heart attack. Currently I am taking prescribed sleeping pills and antidepressants that help very much with the pain and my sleeping problems.

On the outside I appear very normal but at times I feel as if I am drained of energy for no apparent reason.

I have no idea where this is going when it comes to any career and continuing work. Currently I am unemployed.

I wanted to post this here so that maybe my story and experiences can help other people who may have fibromyalgia.
R. Terry
30 Sep 2009, 18:46
Hello Everyone:
I'm sorry everyone is feeling so badly. I can understand, I have many of the same issues. I had psoriasis for about 20 years. The Psoraisis turned into Psoriatic Arthiritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis-Doctors are not sure. The arthritis is causing my fybromalgia. It's like a downward spiral. One thing causes another. I take ibupropen, methotraxate, Humira injections, folic acid, prednisone, alluprinol,gabapentin,and a sleeping pill every night. I also have central sleep apnea and I have had gout. I think I will be having hip replacment surgery, soon. I wonder a little about what good it does to have good hips if you have bad ankles and knees. I also have an opthamologist appointment next week. I think I will be diagnosed with glaucoma or ivitis. I'm getting blurry eye sight. I thought it was caused by the medication. I stopped taking my medication and my eye sight did not get better, so I started my medication again. I hate taking all this medicine, but it does help a little. I have issues like many of you about trying to explain how I feel, so people in my life will understand that I cannot do things I used to do. I think they think it's just a matter of will and toughness. I have reduced my hours at work slowly from 40 hours to 8 hours, now. I'm fortunate to have a job I can do a few hours from home. Well-LOL- to everyone.
Jinx
28 Sep 2009, 20:35
I am now on Robaxasil - a prescribed anti-inflammatory with codeine. I suffered from brutal side effects with Lyrica and my body got used to the Naproxin and norflex so we switched my meds to Prozac and Tylenol 2 and like i said now I am on this new prescription which has no side effects and works great for now. I also do accupuncture and massage. I am getting worse despite the meds because they only act as a bandaid.
Sherri
03 Sep 2009, 18:02
I have a question. I have had fibro for about five years and I have been able to work even though it wasn't always easy.
But for the last 4 or 5 months, my fibro has been unbearable. I still have a job; but daily I am having to face the fact that I am not able to work any longer. I have no quality of life because it takes all I can give to just get thru 4 days of work each week. By about 1pm each day, I am in so much pain and fibro fog that I can't remember what I've done or what I need to do.
I've noticed that many of you are on disability. How do you know when it's time? And what do you do if your family (of 6) depends on your income to pay the bills?
I am humbled by my current level of pain and fatigue. I don't know how much more I can take - and my boss and husband are both pretty demanding of me.
It's as if they want me to "snap out of it" and go back to my productive former self. I try and try; but I can't seem to get on top of my pain and fatigue like I used to.
Any thought?
Thanks for listening to me. It feels good to be able to be honest and say "I feel like crap and I don't know what to do!"
Sherri
Not sure
05 Aug 2009, 01:57
Hi all..

I've been reading through some of these posts and wondering if anyone can explain to me if I am just crazy, or if I may have something similar.

Most recently I was given a MRI for a head injury at work. Come to find out, my doctor told me that I have arthritis in my neck and upper back, and possibly my lower back too. He told me that it was probably more than I should have for 35 years old.

I have been suffering from all kinds of pains, especially after the head injury. I currently am being treated by a doctor my the injury and in the office, see a massage therepist. The therapist does trigger point on me and in some areas of my body I am tender to the point that I almost jump off the table. Also, I have constant pain in my mid-back area, head, neck and spine. Oh yeah and I have been having major nerve issues and have twice now had an anxiety attack, thinking I was having a heart attack. I also always feel like I always need a massage. Over the past year I have seemed to become more tired than usual every day and have gained some weight.

I am not taking any medications, other than basic stuff like tylenol or advil (to ease the pain).

I have no idea what is going on with me. I just really need some advice on what the next step is. I have never had to deal with anything like this and have always been active playing sports and such....so this is all foreign to me.

Any advice?
Marilu Hagen
04 Aug 2009, 10:42
Hi, I'm new to this this site, I'm glad I found it. I too have Fybro also Hypothyroidism,
Lupus and Arthritis in lower back and hips. I too get looks when I mention I'm on disability because there is no outward sign of sickness except the pain look on your face. I have been on all kinds of medications and nothing helps. I'm trying to look into natural remedies. If anyone has a suggestion, please let me know. Thanks
JB
03 Aug 2009, 02:48
I was diagnosed with Fibro about 2 weeks ago but I'm still scared that it might be something serious. I have pain all over, arms-most especially my left bicep like i just did a hundred reps of bicep curls, sometime my right, my right leg feels like i pulled a mucsle, neck, upper and lower back pains. Not only I have this symptoms, they also diagnosed me with Acid Reflux. So as you can see, when my left arm pain, acid reflux and tingling feeling in my fingers and toes all happen at the same time...i'm always thinking that i'm having a heart attack - i've been to the ER twice and the EKG are all normal as also my blood test..then comes anxiety attack where i get shortness of breath and chest pain. I get really scared. Im so new to this whole thing that i feel like crying thinking about it. I don't know know what to do but I know that I have to cope with it mentally...that was an advised given to me but it's hard to do.
Beth
13 Jul 2009, 06:12
Hi everyone,
I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia about 13 years ago...I was only 30 years old. As a doctor myself, I was able to find another doctor that knew what it was All about even back then and believed it was a true illness.
Over the years, I have found the sleep quality has been the key to my ablility to function the best. Stay away from sleep aids that are benzodiazepines if you can....they help you fall asleep, but inhibit the deep stage 4 sleep that is so importants. As adults, stage 4 sleep is the only time we produce Growth Hormone...a vital endocrine hormone in fibromyalgia.
I have found the using a low dose of cyclobenzaprine (a muscle relaxant) helps me get the best quality of sleep without being groggy the next day. But everyone responds to medications differently...so ask your doctor first of course. Also, some mild exercise is so important..find a balance between too little and too much. I also sing in a barbershop group....it helpsme breath deeply an completely and fully and for me, at the same time, is my a passion.
Good luck! Beth
Kelly
11 Jul 2009, 20:26
I was diagnosed a couple weeks ago with FM after almost 3 years of excruciating pain, fatigue, migraines, confusion, ...well most of you know the laundry list of symptoms. The doctors I've seen included internists, gynecologists, a back surgeon. The rheumatologist who diagnosed me was lucky number 7 and by the time I saw him, I'd had so many x-rays and tests performed, I dreaded a doctor's visit. It felt good to finally have a name put to these crazy symptoms, but in the same instance, I've never felt more scared and alone. Some days I'm still in shock, other days I'm angry at the world, but most of the time I feel overwhelmed. People just can't understand what we go through and I find we live in an unsympathetic society. Before the pain, fatigue, forgetfulness - - I would've been described as an educated, motivated wife & mother. I always took care of everything and tried to help everybody. Since, I've been sick, all that has changed. I don't know who I am since this disease. I can't do most of the things I used to do. It's so hard to mourn the loss of good health and the person you used to be while trying to come up with the best game plan to fight this illness. There are days when I feel like I've accomplished a lot just by getting dressed! Sometimes I feel like my family is tired of hearing about it and they just want to ignore it. That only makes it worse. There are no local support groups for FM where I live. I stumbled across this website in search for more info. on FM. It's nice to hear from people who truly understand. To each of you who've shared your story and for those who take the time to read mine, thanks so much!
Sylvia
19 Jun 2009, 19:10
I have had fibromyalgia symptoms since 2002. I have taken several types of test (scans), all negative. My blood test has shown a very low amount of vitamin D and I have been taking 62,000 units each week for 6 months. Results from taking the D have not change my pain nor other symptoms, but has made my hair faster and my nail tougher than ever.

My symptoms have been reduced since I started taking vitamin supplements. I am able to get out of bed and do some house work and even cook dinner without a problem. I am not totally pain free, but doing allot better.
Alana
28 May 2009, 23:41
I have been having symptoms for many years and all they could tell me is that I was suffering from anxiety and depression..... I was not. 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with Lupus.....my levels have always been too low to treat but high enough to say I have it.... over the years I have been getting worse almost to a point where I could barely walk....I wake up in the mornings with all extremities on fire and swollen....can not put weight on my feet for at least 20 minutes after I wake up and can not use my hands at all for about that long also.... I am 35 years old and can not do any of the things I used to do 3 years ago.... I was a runner.....I attempted that again after 2 years of not and was unable to use my left leg for about 3 weeks.....that is when I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Everyone I talk to about this tells me that I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia because they really do not know what is wrong with me.... It is very upsetting. I have every single sympton and have had them all of my life.... the migraines, the abdominal problems, sleep disorder, severe menstrual bleeding and cramping, head to toe constant tingling which causes tension then turns to pain..... they have tried me on the Lyrica and I had severe side effects to that.... I am now on the Neurontin.... It seemed to help for a few days make things a little tolerable.... but now am starting to feel the same as before......what should i do???? I have so many questions..... thanks for whomever reads this and understands.
Kimberly
26 May 2009, 13:51
Angie-
I would love to "converse" but I have not been diagnosed....would love to hear how yours was pinned down.I'm changing jobs soon and don't want any dx on my "record." I described my "fog" to a linquist who said it was aphasia which scared me (actually, I think it specifically "anomia"). I'm tired of recounting all my pains to my husband when he asks how I feel- I feel like I'm complaining. He wants to buy me a whirlpool but I have no idea if it is even good for my pain....it is very lonely!
If you want to converse let me know and I'll post my gmail. best- Kimberly
angie
26 May 2009, 06:50
I have just been diagnosed with having fibromyalgia after many trips to the docs loads of bloodtests ecgs and loads of other tests.I saw a rehumatoligist and upon examing me and asking me questions i was diagnosed with having this extremely painful and disabiling illness.I am in constant pain all over my body have real bad migraines blurred vision dizziness and sllep problems along with loads of other symptoms.Would any one on here that is suffering like i am like to be in touch as i feel that at the moment i am so alone with having this horrible illness.
Kimberly
19 May 2009, 11:25
Can anyone who has been diagnosed tell me specifically where you get pains? How long do they stay in one place? Are they similar to muscle or nerve pain? I have so many that come and go and, occasionally , very specific areas are hit hard for weeks. I'm tired of going to the doctor for more tests and no dx....
OlgaM
04 May 2009, 18:07
GG I hear you.
Thats what sometimes I say also if they would feel it for a day.And what makes it worse is that sone day your in bed in horrible pain and then the next day you could be like if nothing happened,and it makes it hardfor people to understand it.

Question to Emmana:
Where can I find info on the alkaline diet. My grandmother was talking to me about it,but she was saying I should eat potatoes and you say not to? Im confused
Brittany
21 Apr 2009, 04:22
I am 26 years old and I became ill about 2 years ago, right after giving birth to my second child. I have experienced symtoms from what started as a horrible sore throat and dizziness to extreme muscle pain to IBS to a heart arithmia. I also had the burning sensation on the skin and occasional numbness and pins and needles. My body was breaking down. The worst part was I felt so scared and so alone. Doctors could not physically find anything wrong so they told me I was postpartum. One even said that maybe having two kids was just too much for me to handle. My family even started to believe the doctors. It hurt but I knew my body and I was determined to find what was wrong. It took countless doctors and a lot of my own research to lead me to a Rheumatologist who told me that I had Fibromyalgia. He was very nice but like so many doctors just wanted to give me a prescription which is okay but not what I wanted. I already was put on pills for my heart. I wanted an all natural approach so I began taking a product called Body Balance which has really helped me. If anyone is interested in learning about it take a look at www.lifeforcehealthsite.com
Emmana
14 Apr 2009, 02:21
Oh forgot really important point. Drinking even on cup of coffee is like drinking pure acid. it also removes 2 cups of body fluids as it is tremendous diuretic and incredibly toxic. using spouse and or children as excuse is not viable. My husband eats and drinks everything i cannot and after 3 years eating the way i do the last thing i want is to eat his stinky food!! Ha! Even just giving up coffee and eating more raw green foods will help immensely. the current mode of eating for most of the civilized world is dead food without anything for the body to rebuild healthy vital cells to heal the body so it just falls further into degeneration. The food you eat causes the disease therefore you can change the way you eat and heal your self as i did. Am 59 and looking great according to everyone who sees me! Lot's of pure water is essential too. If you must have one cup of coffee per day then at least drink 2 cups of water straight after it to replace the fluids you will lose.
Emmana
14 Apr 2009, 02:13
Been coping with RA and fibromyalgia for several years now. Was crippled from RA 3.5 years ago to the point that i could not draw, paint or key in these words. I deal with these naturally to good effect. I eat a high alkaline diet as close to 80% alkaline as i can. No wheat, meat, sugar, dairy or fast foods. Nightshade family such as potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant, tobacco and peppers bring back the pain over night so i do not take any of these. you may discover that eliminating these foods will assist in pain and anti-inflammation. Also take hemp oil and hemp protein &/or hemp seeds daily. Lost 70 pounds in 1 year and have diabetes II completely under control now. If i eat the old way am flattened by searing, burning, agonizing pain for 2-3 weeks so not worth it. Also look 10 years older during an episode and must give up aerobics and tai chi until back on the program. I do not do any drugs whatsoever. NSAIDS erode the cartilage and make the body more acid:: this is what brings on the pain:; high body acids! Make and drink fresh juiced green drinks: celery, cucumber, parsley, zucchini, cilantro each day. This neutralizes the body acids. Even one cucumber blended then drink alkalizes the body and reduces body acids therefore pain is reduced. Heaven!! When i adhere to the strict but life promoting diet i am well. Try it for a month to find how you feel. Self love and self-respect is a huge help too. Bromelain great for inflammation and boswellia and mangosteen.
Susie
11 Apr 2009, 22:52
I often feel like I have acid running thru my body-burning, stinging along with numbness and tingling.

I often feel that I'm just getting old and I'm sick & tired of a body that is hard to get to move like it used to and endless pain!

You are so right - no one seems to understand the disease and often not believed.

Has anyone found any meds that really work?
Anonymous
10 Apr 2009, 09:47
14 years ago I was diagnosed with sero-negative Rheumatoid Arthritis by a rheumatologist. He treated me with Plaquenil and NSAID's all of this time. I had not shown a significant amount of swelling in all of these years but I have had a tremendous amount of pain and fatigue throughout the whole time. My doctor retired last June and another doctor took over his practice. When I first saw the new doctor in October, he seemed to be questioning the diagnosis of RA and asking about my sleep patterns and anxiety levels. I was a little taken aback that he was questioning my long-standing diagnosis of RA but I did some research on my own about fibromyalgia. After reading several articles, I began to see the light that my symptoms were more closely described by fibromyalgia than RA. After seeing the new doctor again yesterday, I am comfortable with my new diagnosis of fibromyalgia and hopeful that I will be able to relieve some of the pain, fatigue, burning, aching, and anxiety by changing my sleep habits and increasing my exercise. I also hope to eliminate some of the meds I have been taking for about 14 years.
GG
08 Apr 2009, 16:58
Sometimes I wish that the pain of Fibro could be seen on the outside, in order that people could have a little more sensitivity to the fact that pain changes everything( maybe friends could understand that if you are not working due to the pain, it does not mean this is a babysitting opportunity, or an invite to something where you are going to be sitting or standing too long, or that your motivated exercise buddy thinks this is the time to push you to walk around the block where there are steep areas, no sidewalks, uneven surfaces, grass whatever, or you would not be pulled into reading someone's graduate research project- because you are such a good writer.
I have not been prepared adequately to deal with this pain and other conditions related to it, like RA, and Osteo. I wonder if special Ops traing in the Military would be enough. Sorry for the downer- just would like to leave the pain in some triple titanium sealed vault with a non breakable code as the lock and thrown in the bottom of the sea of Antartica.
gg
Julie
07 Apr 2009, 16:31
I also have the burning sensation and often numbness & tingling in my arms and legs. I've talked to others with fibro who have the same thing, but you should definitely talk to your dr about it.
Heller
30 Mar 2009, 18:19
I often experience a burning sensation in my extremeties, especially upon awakening. Is this/could it be another symptom of fibro?
Thanks

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