| Fibromyalgia syndrome patients have
widespread body pain which arises from their muscles. Some FMS patients
feel their pain originates in their joints. Pain that emanates from the
joints is called arthritis; extensive studies have shown FMS patients
do not have arthritis. Although many fibromyalgia syndrome patients are
aware of pain when they are resting, it is most noticeable when they use
their muscles, particularly with repetitive activities. Their discomfort
can be so severe it may significantly limit their ability to lead a full
life. Patients can find themselves unable to work in their chosen professions
and may have difficulty performing everyday tasks. As a consequence of
muscle pain, many FMS patients severely limit their activities including
exercise routines. This results in their becoming physically unfit - which
eventually makes their fibromyalgia syndrome symptoms worse.
In addition to widespread pain, other common
symptoms include a decreased sense of energy, disturbances of sleep, and
varying degrees of anxiety and depression related to patients' changed
physical status. Furthermore, certain other medical conditions are commonly
associated with fibromyalgia, such as: Tension headaches, migraine, irritable
bowel syndrome, irritable bladder syndrome, premenstrual tension syndrome,
cold intolerance and restless leg syndrome. This combination of pain and
multiple other symptoms often leads doctors to pursue an extensive course
of investigations - which are nearly always normal.
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