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Have you ever felt like your body is constantly fighting against you, but you couldn’t pinpoint the source? Maybe you have a nagging pain that moves around your body, or you feel tired all the time. Fibromyalgia is a condition that triggers various symptoms, which may affect your quality of life. Discover common and rare fibromyalgia symptoms in females and the treatment options.
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Fibromyalgia, also known as fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain. It can affect both males and females, but it’s more common among women. This commonly coexists with other disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It can affect anyone, even kids, but it’s usually common among middle-aged individuals, and your risk increases as you get older.
It’s currently believed that fibromyalgia is a combination of psychological, physical and biological factors.
Doctors believe fibromyalgia is caused by a combination of several factors. However, people with any of the following conditions are more likely to acquire it:
Here are the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia in females. Note that there aren’t new studies about fibromyalgia symptoms in females based on age, as the symptoms can vary from person to person.
You may feel as though your whole body aches, especially in certain body parts, such as the neck and back. The pain can feel like a bad muscle ache or a pulled muscle, just like the sore feeling after working out. Because of such discomfort, it can be difficult for people with fibromyalgia to function normally. In severe cases, it may hamper one’s ability to do easy tasks like doing errands or going on trips.
Allodynia is a rare nerve condition that triggers pain when you touch something that normally wouldn’t cause pain, such as touching the seam of your socks. It’s a stinging or burning pain, often associated with sunburn. This condition is associated with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and postherpetic neuralgia, a type of nerve damage that happens after shingles.
Do you constantly have muscle aches and feel fatigued most of the time? These are telltale signs of fibromyalgia. Commonly known as fibro fatigue, you may feel overwhelming tiredness even after adequate sleep.
Fibro fog is a term used to describe when people with fibromyalgia have thinking-related troubles, such as poor concentration, memory and mental alertness. The pain caused by fibromyalgia can cause forgetfulness and difficulty focusing, which can be a major roadblock, especially for individuals who study or work.
The pain, chronic fatigue and brain fog can contribute to negative emotions. The constant discomfort and exhaustion can naturally lead to frustration, sadness, irritability and a sense of hopelessness.
Restless legs syndrome is a condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs. After moving the legs, you may feel discomfort that’s aching, pulling, throbbing, itching, creeping or crawling. Any person can have this syndrome, but it is more likely to occur among middle-aged women.
One of the most common fibromyalgia symptoms in females is the tingling sensation in the hands and feet. Sometimes, it may be felt along the arms, legs and face. This condition is usually associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, which can add to the confusion you may feel when you’re wondering if you have fibromyalgia.
Also known as paraspinal lumbar tenderness, it’s a very common symptom of fibromyalgia in females. Around 52% of individuals with fibromyalgia experience this symptom. The pain can be felt in the upper or lower back, and it can trickle down to the buttocks and legs.
A study shows that people with remission or mild fibromyalgia have poorer quality of life than individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. The combination of the mentioned symptoms can significantly hamper you from enjoying your daily activities and hobbies. The pain, fatigue, brain fog and other unexplainable discomfort you experience may force you to stay indoors.
Dizziness is a lesser-known symptom of fibromyalgia. The pain presents itself differently among various individuals. You may feel as though you are about to lose consciousness or fall, or perhaps your feet are wobbly.
The clear causes of fibromyalgia remain elusive today. However, scientists and doctors have found ways to manage the condition. Here are treatment options for fibromyalgia in females.
Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage your symptoms. Common meds include duloxetine and pregabalin, but the final prescription will be determined by individual needs, depending on the severity and cause of your discomfort.
Low-impact exercises like walking, jogging and swimming are usually recommended, along with strength training and stretching. Adults are recommended to get 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise, but depending on your discomfort level, your doctor or trainer may craft a personalized training program for you.
This involves creating an environment that helps promote proper rest, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and incorporating calming practices before bedtime.
Got more questions or concerns about this condition? Find out the answers below.
The condition is not caused entirely by stress, although an event that causes physical or emotional stress can trigger the onset of discomfort.
Kevin Hackshaw, MD, board-certified rheumatologist, says, “Fibromyalgia is a response to various environmental stressors. While interplay exists between psychiatry, rheumatology, and neurology with regard to this condition, ample evidence has been provided that indicates fibromyalgia is a true condition caused by neurochemical changes that are occurring in the brain chemistry.”
Your doctor may require laboratory tests and X-rays to rule out diseases resembling fibromyalgia.
If you have this condition, it’s best to avoid participating in activities that worsen your symptoms. Such activities may include high-intensity exercises, prolonged standing or sitting or anything that can cause you stress.
Some rare symptoms of fibromyalgia include bladder pain, excessive sweating, skin lumps, face or jaw pain and digestive problems. Remember that many conditions may mimic fibromyalgia. Many arthritis symptoms in females can mimic fibromyalgia. It’s best to get an expert’s advice to get proper treatment.
Knowing the symptoms of fibromyalgia in women is the first step toward healing. Understanding the many ways this condition can manifest empowers you to advocate for proper care and diagnosis. Talk to your doctor if you can relate to various symptoms.
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