Fibromyalgia (Widespread muscle pain and tenderness) Neutral Bay, Sydney NSW

The symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary from mild to severe. Additionally, symptoms can vary from day to day and can even disappear for years. Symptoms may be unique to each person that suffers from fibromyalgia however, the common symptoms may include:

• Increased sensitivity to pain because there is a decreased pain threshold.
• Increased responsiveness to sensory stimuli for instance, light, smell, heat and cold.
• Heightened fatigue.
• Memory and concentration problems.
• Sleep abnormalities, interruption or other problems.

Some of the less common symptoms of fibromyalgia may include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Overactive or irritable bladder.
• Tingling and/or numbness in the arms and legs
• Depression and anxiety.

Unfortunately, no one knows what causes fibromyalgia. It is believed that fibromyalgia can affect someone after stressful events such as physical trauma, surgery, viral infections and other significant physical or emotional stress. Additionally, fibromyalgia is thought to be the result of genetic and other environmental factors however, it may also appear without any obvious cause.

Fibromyalgia most commonly affects people:

• With a family history of fibromyalgia.
• With lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Who have suffered an illness or viral infection recently.
• With pain from an injury or trauma.
• That are emotionally stressed and/or have depression.
• Who may have had previous pain syndromes.
• With mood disorders.
• That suffer from alcohol or substance abuse.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment can help you manage your symptoms.

At times, the symptoms that you experience as a result of fibromyalgia, such as fatigue or pain, can become more intense. The increase in intensity of a symptom is called a flare. Flares can be triggered or made worse by several factors including: weather changes, overexertion, mental or physical stress (including illness or injury), travelling and hormonal changes.

It is important to understand that triggers vary from person to person. Therefore, by understanding the things that trigger your fibromyalgia symptoms to flare will allow you to manage the condition more effectively, be prepared and improve your overall quality of life and wellbeing.