Fibromyalgia Symptoms What is Fibromyalgia?       Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain illness characterized by widespread musculoskeletal aches, pain, and stiffness, soft tissue tenderness, general fatigue, and sleep disturbances. The most common sites of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle, and hands, but any body part can be affected. Fibromyalgia patients experience a range of symptoms of varying intensities that wax and wane over time. Virtually all of the symptoms of FM can be related to the functioning of the Nervous System. Who is affected?       It is estimated that approximately 5-7% of the U.S. population has FM. Although a higher percentage of women of all ages and races are affected, it does strike men and children. Because of its debilitating nature, fibromyalgia has a serious impact on patients' families, friends and employers, as well as society at large. What are the Symptoms?       FM is characterized by the presence of multiple tender points and a constellation of symptoms. These symptoms are related to irregular activity in the Central Nervous System Chronic Fatigue Episodes of Collapse Fibro Fog (Perception of the world at a distance) Impaired Memory and Concentration Sleep Disturbances Impaired Coordination These symptoms follow the distribution of the nerves from the spine into the body Dry Eyes and Mouth Headache & Migraine Dizziness or Vertigo Ringing in the Ears Sinusitis Allergies Tempromandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) Irregular Heart Beats (Arrythmias) Shortness of Breath Indigestion Acid Reflux Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Colitis Irritable Bladder Skin Sensitivity and Rash Restless Leg Syndrome There is Hope      If you have FM, you will be suffering from many, if not all of the above symptoms. Many people have FM and have not been diagnosed. If you have or have not been diagnosed, there is hope for your recovery.