Fibromyalgia is a common, chronic disorder in which the central nervous system is hypersensitive, leading to pain and tenderness throughout the body.

Fibromyalgia is more than just muscle pain. For many, it’s a misunderstood condition that weaves together physical discomfort, mental strain, and lifestyle challenges. In this article, we reveal 10 shocking secrets about fibromyalgia that often go undiscussed. These insights aim to empower you with practical strategies and a fresh perspective on managing your symptoms. While...

As I write this about the eyes and if fibromyalgia affects them I have noticeably dry eyes. It will probably take me a few sittings to finish this article due to my own eye symptoms which also include blurry eyes. I always need the font to be larger and I hope this helps you too. Of course there are many reasons for eye symptoms such as dryness which include Sjogren's syndrome and some medications. I wanted to write this article as people often do not think that their eye concerns could be related to them having fibromyalgia. So here I will include all the research I have found about fibro and the eyes specifically from studies that have been done and also some suggestions for coping with these eye conditions. Dry Eye Syndrome Risks in Patients With Fibromyalgia: A National Retrospective Cohort Study 2016. In this large Taiwanese study they found that the risk of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) in Fibromyalgia (FM) patients was significant and that the risk was greater among men than woman, which was consistence with the findings of a previous study. They also found that FM patients were getting DES at an earlier age than the people without FM. The overall incidence rate of DES was 7.37/10,000 in the FM population, and 4.81/10,000 in the control group. The age-specific incidence rate was highest among those 50 to 64 years in the FM population. The incidence rate was highest among those aged 65 years and older in the control group. Discordant Dry Eye Disease (An American Ophthalmological Society Thesis) Discordant, in this context, means having dry eye symptoms but a normal eye examination. In addition to having widespread pain and other somatic symptoms, individuals with FM and other centralized pain conditions have significant ocular symptoms, often in the absence of clinical signs of ocular surface dryness. Recent studies that examined this phenomenon found that patients with FM have more dry eye symptoms than healthy controls. Interestingly, these individuals were found to have reduced corneal sensitivity as compared to controls, so we measured both corneal and systemic sensitivity in this study. The results of this in depth study showed that people with discordant dry eye had substantial similarities to patients with FM. There was a lack of ocular surface changes on examination in some who complain of dry eyes, as Central Nervous System processes are responsible for much of the discordance between the severity of symptoms and the degree of ocular surface damage. Fibromyalgia syndrome and the eye - A review states that: Fibromyalgia can be associated with ocular symptoms (foreign body sensation, irritation) and visual disturbances (blurred vision), coexisting with dry eye syndrome and reduced corneal sensitivity. It also says that research shows that there are changes that can be seen in the eyes of people with FM which include the choroid being significantly thinner. The choroid is part of the vascular layer of the eye, and contains connective tissues, and lies between the retina and the sclera. What other eye symptoms may be seen in Fibromyalgia? "Patients can commonly experience symptoms of eye pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision and fluctuating visual clarity, difficulty focusing, visual overload and dry eyes," Dr Mark Pellegrino explains. Experiencing eye issues can be very disconcerting especially after having eye tests and being told nothing is wrong at all. Following are some strategies for treating eye issues. Dry eyes ~ For relief from dry eyes, try: artificial tears which you can purchase over the counter (Try preservative free ones wear glasses instead of contact lenses which dry the eye surface punctal plugs assess medications that you are taking with your doctor to see if any are causing dry eyes use humidifiers for extra moisture in the air blinking more frequently dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids such as flaxseeds read more information about dry eyes Blurred vision check your glasses prescription more frequently look to the long distance more frequently to rest your eyes when reading you may find a different font size that suits you better eg some prefer to read large font books available from libraries Try audible books available from libraries and online Eye pain have your neck and spine assesed as tension and problems in these may cause referred eye pain and headaches Light Sensitivity wear sunglasses and a hat when outside wear sunglasses if driving reduce night driving do not watch screen shows with flashing lights be aware of what lighting suits you have block out blinds or block out curtains in the bedroom investigate coloured lenses in prescrition glasses. Some people find that adding a coloured lens helps eye strain. An eye specialist will help you decide which ones help your vision Of course in general, all fibromyalgia symptoms may be reduced by finding the right level and kind of exercise for you, finding ways to improve your sleep and finding an activity that helps you calm your nervous system by reducing stress. For myself my refered exercise is hydro therapy and I have written about it here. I force myself to go to bed at the same time each night and find that I sleep better on the nights I have exercised. I take melatonin ten mg at night and also magnesium. A hot shower before bed often is also very soothing. Breathing exercises are my go to for reducing stress. I hope this helps you with understanding a bit more about fibromyalgia symptoms and especially that fibromyalgia can affect the eyes. Do you have any suggestions for reducing eye concerns in Fibromyalgia? Please leave your suggestion in the comments below. You might be interested in how fibromyalgia affects other parts of the body. Try: Fibromyalgia and foot pain Fibromyalgia brain study Fibromyalgia and hand skills

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes widespread pain, sensitivity, and chronic fatigue. While the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia include musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, memory challenges, and sleep issues, it can also lead to unusual and unexpected symptoms in some people. Here are some of the less common symptoms of fibromyalgia that you may experience: Table...

You probably know the common fibromyalgia symptoms, but have you ever thought that some of your bizarre symptoms are fibro-related?

"I thought it was completely normal to feel the way I did."

See what leading experts and more than 13,000 people with fibromyalgia have to say.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that often leaves people feeling misunderstood, frustrated, and in pain. It’s not just about the physical aches and pains, but the mental and emotional toll it can take. This article explores how fibromyalgia affects the musculoskeletal system, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the treatments and coping strategies that can help...

Being diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2022 marked the beginning of a challenging journey. If you’re in a similar boat, you understand the frustration of obtaining a diagnosis and the often inadequate treatment plans. Over the past year, I’ve discovered strategies to alleviate my symptoms and better cater to my needs. In sharing these insights, my goal is to offer support to those facing similar struggles. While what works for me may not guarantee results for everyone, I hope you find something beneficial among these suggestions. Feel free to share your own recommendations in the comments! Understanding My Symptoms: Fibromyalgia manifests differently for everyone, and my symptoms range in intensity. Primarily, I experience lower back pain, joint pain, widespread muscle pain and stiffness, and a peculiar sensation I’ve termed “spicy veins.” Fatigue, insomnia, depression, anxiety, headaches, migraines, fibro fog, and sensitivity to cold are also part of my daily battle. It’s essential to note that my journey involved exploring other conditions, leading to the discovery of celiac disease, which might influence some of my symptoms. Let’s dive into all the things that have helped or things that were recommended to me that didn’t help. Medications: Injections & Prescriptions This is the first thing that my doctor recommended, and I’m sure you’ve heard the same. In October of 2022 I was prescribed cymbalta which I took for a few weeks. And yes, it did improve some of my symptoms, namely the spicy veins and joint pain. However, the main side effects I got were constipation and trouble sleeping – which are two of my main triggers. So I didn’t like that I might feel better but my body was still in pain. I’d prefer to make sure my body feels better rather than just not feeling the pain. I also didn’t want to be dependent on a prescription and I had read that coming off of it in the future would be worse than any flare I had ever had. In November of 2022 I was prescribed a steroid pack. This literally didn’t help me at all and instead gave me a UTI. In December of 2022 I got two steroid injections in my lower back. This took a few weeks for me to feel better. After about 6-8 weeks I felt like my pain went from a 10 to about a 6. Which helped, but honestly, for the amount of money I had to pay out of pocket and the stress I went through (I hate needles) it just wasn’t worth it. My doctor said I could get more injections every few weeks but I just don’t think it’s worth it. Medical Marijuana After trying what my doctor recommended I decided to give medical marijuana a try. After all, back pain is the top reason people are prescribed marijuana. In my state I had to apply for a medical marijuana card but the whole process was very approachable and the dispensaries are very nice and comfortable. I met with a pharmacist at the dispensary who recommended a high dose of CBG for my inflammation. I had been taking CDB on its own because that was legal and more accessible, and while I felt it helped my sleep it didn’t help my pain. If you do want to try CDB I really like this brand. I started taking gummies with a 1:1:2 ratio of THC:CBD:CBG and it’s been the best medicine I’ve ever taken. The THC does give a mental high effect – which I was nervous about at first, thinking it would make me anxious. But honestly, having 3-4 hours of some pain relief really helps to take my mind off of everything and just give me a break from the mental load that comes with fibro. I take it as needed and regularly during a flare. I started with about 5mg of a gummy and will go up to 15mg during a flare. I found gummies the most approachable but I’ve also tried tinctures and have had some luck with that but not as consistently. It does help with my pain and tends to give longer lasting pain relief than pain killers, but it’s still not a miracle fix. When I take it I still feel some pain if I’m moving around. But if I’m chilling on the couch or in bed I don’t feel any pain. I like to take it a few hours before I go to bed because it will make me sleepy and I can fall asleep pretty quickly, plus it helps me get really good sleep. I always feel much better first thing in the morning but the stiffness will set in mid afternoon. Turmeric Shots Before my diagnosis, I found that drinking “Golden Milk” right before bed was the only thing that helped me sleep. Here’s how to make it: I make a big jar of the spices mixed together so I can just add a few scoops to my milk every night. This drink helps reduce inflammation and for me at least, encourages sleep. Sometimes I don’t want to drink that much liquid right before bed and honestly, I’m just too lazy to make it before bed. So I started making it into shots to take throughout the day. It’s also not the tastiest thing so sometimes it’s better to just take it as a shot and have it over with really quick. I like to drink 1 in the morning and 1 at night or as needed. I got these cute little jars on Amazon to make it easier. You could also make a big batch of it using an old bottle or jar. Here’s how I usually make mine I also find that turmeric and ginger are helpful when the headaches hit. However, it doesn’t typically touch my migraines. Magnesium with Your Water Magnesium is crucial for muscle function, and adding it to your water can be an easy way to ensure you’re getting enough. This may help reduce muscle stiffness and discomfort associated with fibromyalgia. Personally, I’ve found that Calm Magnesium powder has had the best effect and the easiest to take. I take 1-2 scoops in my water first thing in the morning. Pain Management Products: Pregnancy Pillow This was a GAME CHANGER for me! Literally, it sounds so simple and random, but this pillow and I go everywhere together. I move around a lot at night and this pillow makes sure I have support between my knees instead of kicking a regular pillow out while I sleep. It provides versatile support, providing comfort during sleep and relaxation. It can help alleviate pressure points and reduce discomfort. It has a cover you can easily wash. If you prefer to use your own pillow for your head, you can flip it upside down providing more support for your legs and leaving the top open for your favorite pillow. Heated Blanket This has also been a game changer and comes with me wherever I go. I love this blanket for when I’m relaxing, and I have it on me while I work from home too. It has a bunch of heat levels which is really helpful. It’s an easier way to keep me warm than heating my whole house. Heated Neck and Shoulder Wrap When my body gets really stiff, I feel it mainly in my upper back and shoulders. And once those get tight I get really bad headaches and migraines that keep me up all night. This little baby – wow! I just wrap it up and within 10 or so minutes my pain is decreasing and I’m able to fall asleep. I also use it during the day when I start to feel my shoulders tightening. There are versions you can heat in the microwave, but I like this one because I can plug it in and keep it warm for longer. Plus, I don’t like the smell of microwave heating packs and I have to keep getting up to warm it back up. Migraine Hat I know migraines are so hard to deal with, but this hat is a godsend when they hit. You can keep it in the freezer for cold therapy or heat it up in the microwave for heat therapy. Personally, I respond better to heat. I like it because it goes all the way around my head and covers my eyes to block the light out. I find that applying heat to the band across the back of my head helps the most. It usually doesn’t help it go away, but the compression of the hat makes it easier to get through. Ice Roller I don’t know if you experience it, but my face puffs SO easily during a flare-up. This little ice roller is so nice to whip out and roll out the inflammation. You could roll it on other spots too and it can also help with headaches. Magnesium Lotion Magnesium lotion does a much better job of relaxing my muscles than regular lotion. I use it on sore muscles and when I do lymphatic drainage massages on myself. Massage Gun Massaging yourself can be difficult when you don’t have the strength in your hands. This massage gun comes with a bunch of head options to really help you target different muscles. I personally like to use this on my deep glute muscles that tense up during a flare. I also like using it because I can control the level of pressure and work out tight areas without getting fatigued. Foam Roller If you have mobility and strength, a foam roller can be really effective in working out tight muscles and increasing blood flow. It’s also a really affordable option for self-massage. You can get different sizes that each have different levels of intensity. Sauna Bag If I had to tell you to get one thing to help – it would be this! I know not everyone responds well to heat, but my body EATS it up. In less than 5 minutes my whole body relaxes and I can lay more comfortably. Because my head is out I feel like I can handle the heat for much longer, benefiting my body even more. After my time in the sauna my body feels more relaxed, less stiff, and I can walk much better. Sometimes I’ll do a sauna session and roll right into my stretches or gentle yoga to really take advantage of my relaxed muscles. I was going to the sauna at my gym 3-4 times a week, but in the winter when I flare up it takes more out of me to get into my car and drive to the gym than the benefits of the sauna provides. This sauna bag is basically a heated sleeping bag. It has different heat settings but I prefer 131 degrees for about 45 minutes. I typically just put it on the ground in front of the TV and watch a show while I relax, or I’ll read a book while I chill in it. Then I’ll do a lymphatic massage or use a dry brush and then take a shower or relax more in a bath with Epsom salts if I have time. I don’t have the time to do it every day, but when I’m flaring I try to do it at least every other day. Caddy This is another one of my all-time favorite things. When I’m flaring I tend to get settled in one position and I’m there for a few hours. It’s really difficult for me to get up and keep grabbing things. So I keep all my hobby things – books, my iPad, embroidery items etc, and all medications, lotions, and self-care things I need in this cute little caddy. I also keep snacks and water in it. I take it with me wherever I go and it just makes my life easier and more enjoyable. Walking Pad This one is an investment but I highly recommend it...

What are the main fibromyalgia symptoms? Anyone living with fibromyalgia will tell you there are so many symptoms. In fact, before I was diagnosed I use to try to remember them all when I went to a new specialist by working through the parts of my body and listing all the symptoms in each part. For example head was scalp pain, blurry vision, tingling in lips and jaw pain and a feeling I could not relax my jaw. As you can see there are a lot of unrelated, unique symptoms and not every person will get all of these and they will not get them all at the same time as the symptoms fluctuate. So here I will be listing the main symptoms that most people get. 18 Tender Points of Fibromyalgia (scroll down for image with more detail) One unique thing about fibromyalgia is the 18 tender points on the body. These are specific locations, in the diagram above, that hurt when pressed. People who do not have fibro only feel pressure, not pain, when touched on these points. These are the main symptoms of Fibromyalgia: Widespread, chronic, muscle pain and tenderness (tender points) · pain in arms, legs, neck, shoulders, back, hips Often with: · Morning stiffness · Headache · Fatigue · Sleep disturbances including insomnia, inconsistent sleep patterns, unrefreshed sleep · Memory problems · Light sensitivity · Dizziness · Numbness/tingling in arms/legs Sometimes also: · Irritable bowel syndrome · Bladder control problems · Depression · Anxiety American College of Rheumatology (ACR) fibromyalgia tender points 1990 classification criteria If you are trying to get a diagnosis of fibromyalgia (FMS) you may want to see the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia. This was endorsed in 2010. Prior to this the tender points were used as a major diagnostic tool. Now that we have the 2010 criteria it does not mean that the tender points have magically gone away. They can still be used as a diagnostic tool but they are only part of what is needed. Here is an excerpt from the ACR. If you are looking for a more in-depth list I suggest you go to MORE INFORMATION ON SYMPTOMS OF FIBROMYALGIA Thanks for dropping in today and if you have just been diagnosed you may want to sign up for my coping tips for living with fibromyalgia. I have been living with fibro for 20 years and have found many helpful ideas to help you reduce the many symptoms you may have.

What is Fibromyalgia? Living with fibromyalgia is tough. It invades all parts of your body and affects your quality of life. The major symptom is pain,

Oh, the joys of fibromyalgia and its unpredictable temperature swings! If you've ever felt like your body is hosting its own climate change conference, you're

A man's guide to understanding fibromyalgia. This is my husbandry point of view on one of my wife's chronic illnesses, fibromyalgia.

Living with fibromyalgia can feel like an uphill battle, especially when foot pain adds to the daily struggle. You’re not alone if you’ve noticed your feet hurting more than usual. Many with fibromyalgia experience specific foot pain that’s hard to explain but impossible to ignore. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this discomfort and explore...

"I took this picture to prove that what I was experiencing was real."

It’s hard to know what the true symptoms of fibromyalgia are, because the symptoms are so various, so small and so big, and can be easily confused with the symptoms of another disease. For a person who suffers from fibromyalgia whether they know it or not, even the littlest physical malfunction can be taken as...

I wanted to provide you with a checklist for fibromyalgia symptoms because my wife suffers from this disease. Fibromyalgia symptoms...

Hi Everyone,

Learn simple ways to ease fibromyalgia symptoms without medication. Find relief with natural methods designed to soothe pain and boost your well-being.

"Fibro doesn’t care if you have things to do that day; if it is a bad pain day, it is a bad pain day.”

Do you ever feel something crawling on your skin, but nothing is there when you look? If so, you may be experiencing a symptom common in people with fibromyalgia. Crawling sensations are often one of the first signs of fibromyalgia, yet other conditions, such as anxiety or stress, can also cause them. By understanding this...

What is Overactive Bladder? It may also be called sensory bladder or Urgency or Irritable Bladder or neurogenic bladder. These are terms used to describe a bladder condition that causes more frequent and urgent urination. Find out more about the connection between Fibromyalgia and the bladder including what is an overactive bladder, the causes and first line treatments. This need to urinate originates as a sensation in the bladder when the bladder fills. Many people who have fibromyalgia, and other chronic illnesses, do not get these messages. The fibromyalgia connection with overactive bladder. In July 2023 we did a Poll on irritable bladder in our Fibromyalgia group asking Do you get increase in urinary urgency or frequency (irritable bladder)? 33 said yes and 3 said no. In this large 2012 study of 920 people they found overactive bladder (OAB) is associated with Fibromyalgia (FMS). Moreover FMS increases with severity of OAB. This systematic controlled study in 2021 confirms that fibromyalgia is associated with overactive bladder symptoms. The relatively high prevalence of 93% indicates that overactive bladder is an important urological association of fibromyalgia and should be routinely assessed in these patients. What goes wrong in Overactive bladder Several muscles and nerves need to work together for our bladders to hold urine. Nerve muscles go back and forth between the brain and the muscles. If the nerves are damaged the muscles may not get the messages to relax or tighten at the right times. While this was not a large survey it does say that irritable bladder is experienced by a large percentage of people with Fibromyalgia. Causes of Overactive Bladder. There are many causes and you may have a combination of them: Hormonal changes during menopause Enlarged prostrate Some medications Kidney problems Herniated disc Neurological conditions Multiple pregnancies Vitamin D deficiency Aging Diabetes Extra weight Back or pelvic issues What you should do if you have symptoms of Overactive bladder. there are many treatment options so you should ask your doctor for a referal to a urologist if they cannot hel you. Below is an example of what would be the first options for treatment but there are also medications and surgical procedures. The following information is from The Urology Group which was founded in 1924, and provides Northern Virginia and Greater Washington area with the most up-to-date urologic care available. First line treatments: Behavioral Therapy for Overactive Bladder Fluids: Normal intake is 64 ounces (two liters) daily. Avoid bladder irritants: Trial of Frequency/Urgency Diet, which includes caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, acidic foods, carbonated beverages. Quit smoking. Weight loss: Weight loss of 8% decreases incontinence episodes in half. Bladder retraining: Training your bladder to hold urine for longer and learning how to suppress the urge. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Four to six week course of therapy to identify and strengthen pelvic floor muscles. This often includes electrical stimulation of the muscles. RESOURCES: Overactive bladder patient guide PDF from Urology Care Foundation Overactive bladder assessment tool PDF Overactive bladder diary PDF Managing OAB at work and on the go Fact Sheet SOURCES: FIBRO CONNECT Facebook group poll. The association between overactive bladder and fibromyalgia syndrome: a community survey. The Urology Group First Line Treatments Urology Care Foundation

It's been two years since I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Learn 8 things I wish I had known when I was first diagnosed.

Sudden, intense cold grips your body as you move between rooms, causing uncontrollable shaking and chattering teeth. This experience is common among those

"I thought it was completely normal to feel the way I did."

Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, can cause unexpected symptoms like internal tremors. These tremors, often described as vibrations inside the body, may be related to nervous system dysfunction. While not experienced by all fibromyalgia patients, internal tremors can be distressing and impact daily activities. Understanding the connection between fibromyalgia and internal tremors is crucial for...

Fibromyalgia (FM), is a long-term medical condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain all over the body.

Hey there, fibro warriors! Let's dive into this fascinating topic that many of us can relate to. It's that puzzling paradox of having a high pain tolerance

It's good that Lady Gaga was talking openly about fibromyalgia, don't you think? Here are some things that she has said about living with it... Living with any chronic pain condition is not fun and to get support for it from people in the limelight is wonderful. I think this is especially true of Fibromyalgia which still has the stigma of not being taken seriously, by many people, even some in the medical profession. When people are in the process of getting a diagnosis we have to tell them to make sure they go to a professional who believes in Fibromyalgia. You don't have to say that about many other conditions! So when Lady Gaga began talking about having Fibro it felt like the Fibro community around the world was being given validation. As we would expect from Lady Gaga she was being outspoken about what it's like to live with this chronic pain condition. In her 2017 documentary Gaga: Five Foot Two we see her in pain and having ice-packs, massages and medications but it is not explained. After the release of the film Lady Gaga tweeted to her fans: "In our documentary the #chronicillness #chronicpain I deal w/ is #Fibromyalgia I wish to help raise awareness & connect people who have it." 12th September 2017. 12th September 2017 12th September 2017 on twitter In her cover interview for Vogue, in October 2018, Gaga discussed her past trauma and it's affects on her chronic pain. "My diaphragm seizes up. Then I have a hard time breathing, and my whole body goes into a spasm. And I begin to cry," she told the magazine. "That’s what it feels like for trauma victims every day, and it’s . . . miserable. I always say that trauma has a brain. And it works its way into everything that you do." In the same interview she talked about how people perceive fibromyalgia and other chronic illnesses: "I get so irritated with people who don't believe fibromyalgia is real. For me, and I think for many others, it's really a cyclone of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, and panic disorder, all of which sends the nervous system into overdrive, and then you have nerve pain as a result," she said. "People need to be more compassionate. Chronic pain is no joke. And it's every day waking up not knowing how you're going to feel." Quote from Vogue 2018 Quote from Vogue 2018 Quote from Vogue 2018 We hope that Lady Gaga will continue to speak out about Fibromyalgia to help the cause of Fibro. We wish that she would talk about her treatments to help the millions of people who live with it.

Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia. Some are common and obvious, others are strange and unexpected.

Fibromyalgia and lupus have many similar symptoms and are both chronic health conditions. However, they are different conditions with different prognosis.

Managing fibromyalgia pain can be a challenging endeavor. Individuals with fibromyalgia often experience widespread musculoskeletal pain along with other symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues. In the quest for safe and effective treatment options, tramadol has emerged as a potential pain relief medication for fibromyalgia. Tramadol is a medication that is being explored...

All about how showering with Fibromyalgia is difficult due to allodynia, depression, dizziness, and lack of energy; and how to improve the experience.