This is why it’s very important to recognize the early signs of the condition in order to start with the treatment as soon as possible and prevent severe pain.
Since there’s no cure for fibromyalgia, you can manage it with the help of light exercises, medications and cognitive behavioral therapy.
The muscle pain and tenderness can become a real problem after a while, and even painkillers won’t work. The condition doesn’t have an effect on the physical system only – it can also destroy your mental health.
CAUSE AND DIAGNOSIS
The exact cause of fibromyalgia hasn’t been found yet, and there are no specific tests that can detect it. Doctors usually diagnose fibromyalgia by asking the patients if they have a list of symptoms you can see below.
MUSCLE AND BODY SYMPTOMS
Muscle pain
Muscle twitching
Morning muscle stiffness
Muscle swelling
Muscle tenderness
SLEEPING PROBLEMS
Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Hypnic jerk
Fatigue
Difficulty sleeping
Muscle twitching and cramps overnight
SINUS AND ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
Earaches
Itchy ears
Ringing ears
Shortness of breath
Excess mucus in the lungs
Post-nasal drip and runny nose
DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS
Bloating, nausea, pelvic pain
IBS
Frequent urination
SENSORY PROBLEMS
Increased sensitivity to smell, light and temperature changes
Difficult seeing in low light
COGNITIVE PROBLEMS
Poor coordination and balance
Difficult recognizing familiar surroundings and faces
Tingling in the arms
Language impairment
Short-term memory problems
REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS
Low sex drive
Impotence
PMS
CARDIOVASCULAR PROBLEMS
Irregular heartbeat
Valve problems
Symptoms similar to a heart attack
SKIN, NAIL AND HAIR PROBLEMS
Curved or ridged nails
Hair loss
Scarred or easily bruised skin
MENTAL PROBLEMS
Mood swings
Anxiety and irritability
Panic attacks
Depression
OTHER SYMPTOMS
Sudden weight loss or weight gain
Vision problems
Night sweats
Headaches and migraines
Carb cravings
Chocolate cravings
If you notice that you’re experiencing some or a combination of symptoms from the list, we suggest visiting a doctor as soon as possible. In order to treat and prevent fibromyalgia, you can use acupuncture, breathing exercises, yoga or Tai Chi. Add some anti-inflammatory foods in your diet such as ginger and turmeric, and make sure to get magnesium, vitamin B12 and vitamin D supplements.
