by Kristy Lynn

Created on: October 12, 2009

Pain so severe that you wish you'd get hit by a bus. That is the number one symptom of fibromyalgia. I know, because I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia eleven years ago. Back then, the only symptom the doctor was concerned with was inflammation and tenderness in what's been called "tender points." The doctors convinced my mother and I that it was all in my head, and I simply needed a therapist. Since then, I've been experiencing more symptoms than I can name. Every time I go to the emergency room with any un-explained symptom, the doctor says it's from fibromyalgia.

Severe pain is the number one, most commonly known symptom of fibromyalgia. Most patients suffer from pain in at least eight "tender points." There are generally eighteen of these points throughout the body. In some extreme cases, patients experience pain in every muscle and joint through out the body. It's been suggested that patients have extreme inflammation, but in most cases there is no inflammation, and if there is it's short lived.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome can also be considered a symptom of fibromyalgia patients. This includes abdominal cramping, constipation, diarrhea, and in extreme cases both. IBS can be diagnosed through a number of tests, including the upper GI. Although it's a seperate condition, it's still considered a symptom of fibromyalgia. It can be treated seperately, but still will continue to return as long as the fibromyalgia is present.

Chronic fatigue is another common symptom of fibromyalgia. Most patients wake up feeling like they haven't slept all night, and the tiniest tasks make them feel as if they ran a marathon. The constant weakness can be so dibilitating that holding a pen can be like lifting a mountain with your little finger.

Sleeplessness is not only a symptom of fibromyalgia, but can increase the effects of other symptoms. I'm happy if I only wake up three times throughout the night. Most nights fibromyalgia sufferers wake up three to five times. Lack of sufficient sleep can cause more tension, pain, fatigue, and lower the immune system.

A lower immune system and trouble absorbing essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients are two more symptoms of fibromyalgia. One doctor actually warned me not to be surprised if I "catch everything under the sun," and I have. Any fibromyalgia sufferer should take a number of vitamins and immunity boosting supplements.

If anyone reading this article has any of these symptoms, or has already been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, there are now fibromyalgia clinics all over the country. Good luck!

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