FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points — places on your body where slight pressure causes pain. Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men. Previously, fibromyalgia was known by other names such as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias.Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary, depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day.Common signs and symptoms include: Widespread pain. Fibromyalgia is characterized by pain in specific areas of your body when pressure is applied, including the back of your head, upper back and neck, upper chest, elbows, hips and knees. The pain generally persists for months at a time and is often accompanied by stiffness.Fatigue and sleep disturbances. People with fibromyalgia often wake up tired and unrefreshed even though they seem to get plenty of sleep. Some studies suggest that this sleep problem is the result of a sleep disorder called alpha wave interrupted sleep pattern, a condition in which deep sleep is frequently interrupted by bursts of brain activity similar to wakefulness. So people with fibromyalgia miss the deep restorative stage of sleep. Nighttime muscle spasms in your legs and restless legs syndrome also may be associated with fibromyalgia.Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating associated with IBS are common in people with fibromyalgia.Headaches and facial pain. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have headaches and facial pain that may be related to tenderness or stiffness in their neck and shoulders. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, which affects the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, also is common in people with fibromyalgia.Heightened sensitivity. It's common for people with fibromyalgia to report being sensitive to odors, noises, bright lights and touch.Other common signs and symptoms include: Depression Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and feet (paresthesia) Difficulty concentrating Mood changes Chest pain Dry eyes, skin and mouth Painful menstrual periods Dizziness Anxiety This is what I've delt with since I was 15 years old. It lies dormant or flares up uncontrollably. I am having a horrible flare up rightnow. I cannot explain or tell you what the pain in my back is like. It's debilitating and completely discouraging.I pray I'll get relief and relief fast! LONG LASTING RELIEF! Epsom Salt bathes, massage, icy hot rubs and pain relievers can only do so much! I need relief from the inside out!!!!!!! Like, a broken foot isnt' enough, right?ANY HELP OUT THERE????