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4 Telltale Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Trinity Pain Medicine Associates Blog 4 Telltale Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
4 Telltale Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects 6.4% of Americans — that’s close to 22 million Americans! —  yet it remains one of the most misunderstood chronic pain conditions. Because its symptoms often overlap with those of other health issues, many people spend years searching for answers before receiving a diagnosis. 

We don’t want you waiting years for a diagnosis. If you’re struggling with chronic pain and suspect that you might have fibromyalgia, come visit our team of double board-certified pain management physicians and anesthesiologists here at Trinity Pain Medicine Associates. 

In the meantime, here are four telltale symptoms of fibromyalgia you can’t miss.

1. Widespread pain that lasts for at least 3 months

The US Pain Foundation estimates that 60 million Americans deal with chronic pain, but there are hundreds of conditions that can contribute to that pain. For example, chronic ankle instability can contribute to ankle pain, while osteoarthritis may cause chronic hip or knee pain.

So, what makes fibromyalgia pain stand out? 

The biggest red flag for fibromyalgia is chronic, widespread pain. Unlike pain that’s limited to a specific injury or body part, fibromyalgia pain often affects multiple areas of your body at the same time.  

2. Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest

Everyone feels tired occasionally. Fibromyalgia fatigue is different. Many people describe waking up exhausted despite getting what should have been a full night’s sleep. Even routine daily activities may feel draining. 

You may struggle to keep up with work, family responsibilities, and even your favorite hobbies. For some people, the fatigue can be just as disruptive as the pain itself.

3. Brain fog and concentration problems

Fibromyalgia is often associated with what’s commonly called “fibro fog.” As many as 80% of people with fibromyalgia experience it.

This symptom can make it difficult to:

Many people say they feel mentally sluggish, especially during symptom flare-ups.

4. Sleep problems

Sleep disturbances are extremely common among people with fibromyalgia. Normally, when you’re in deep, restorative sleep, your brain produces slower delta waves. In some people with fibromyalgia, alpha waves get mixed into their deep sleep stages, almost as if part of their brain is staying partially awake.

While you might feel you’re in phasic alpha sleep, you might notice other issues, such as feeling tired despite getting enough sleep. 

Sleep disturbances can appear before widespread pain develops. Poor sleep can also worsen pain, fatigue, memory problems, and the “fibro fog” commonly associated with the condition. 

Other symptoms can occur, too

Fibromyalgia doesn’t stop at pain and fatigue. Some people also experience:

Because fibromyalgia can affect everyone differently, no two people have exactly the same symptom profile. That’s why it’s important to discuss all of your symptoms with Dr. Classen, Dr. Bailey-Classen, and Dr. Bailey, even those that may not seem connected to chronic pain.

What to expect during your appointment

Historically, fibromyalgia was diagnosed if you had chronic pain for at least three months and you had at least 11 of 18 designated tender points. In 2010, the diagnostic criteria were updated to focus more on the widespread pain and less on the tender points. When we suspect that fibromyalgia may be at play, we look at your symptom severity, whether you’ve had chronic pain for at least three months, and what types of symptoms you have.

That said, there isn’t a single blood test or imaging study that can confirm fibromyalgia. Instead, our team of providers diagnoses the condition by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings. 

We may also order blood tests or other imaging studies to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

From there, we create your fibromyalgia management plan that may include over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, self-care strategies, sleep hygiene tips, and other lifestyle changes. 

When should you seek help?

If you’ve been living with chronic pain, fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained symptoms for months, it’s worth talking to a pain specialist here at Trinity Pain Medicine Associates.

Call 817-332-3664 or click here to schedule an appointment at our Trinity, Florida, office.

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