Fibromyalgia is not in your head.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder of widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep difficulties. It is still not fully understood by scientists but those diagnosed know how serious it is. Sufferer’s struggle with an increased sensitivity to pain, tenderness, and roaming aches chronically.
75-90% of those diagnosed are women, however it can be diagnosed in anyone of any gender, race, or ethnic background, including children. If you have rheumatic diseases, mood disorders, or conditions that cause pain you may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia.
Common Symptoms
Chronic widespread pain - aching, burning, and throbbing are common descriptors.
Overwhelming feeling of being tired or Fatigue
Trouble Sleeping
Muscle and joint stiffness
Tenderness to touch (even clothing can hurt sometimes)
Numbness or tingling in the arms and legs.
Brain Fog / FibroFog - Difficulty concentrating, issues thinking clearly, and memory problems.
Sensitivity to light, noise, odors, and tempurature.
Digestive Issues
And sooooo many more
Doctors you should have: PCP, Rheumatologist, Pain Medicine Specialist, Physical/ Occupational Therapist, Mental Health Professional
My personal advice:
Never stop researching! You have to become an expert in your body because the doctors just don’t have time to understand all of us, especially if you have other conditions so like so many of us.
Every day comes with unexpected symptoms and struggles so finding community that understands what you go through is incredibly important, I highly recommend finding a group or three on your chosen social media platform or checking for any local support groups. Even if you don’t interact it helps you feel less alone to see other people are going through the same things you are. Especially if those in your immediate support system may be struggling to comprehend everything.
If your doctor dismisses you, doesn’t listen, minimizes the effects on your life, or anything else to make you feel small… FIND A NEW ONE! It’s exhausting and so draining, financially, physically, and emotionally I know. But we can’t give up on ourselves, we need to demand the care we all deserve and keep going until we find it.