WHAT IS FIBROMYALGIA?

Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), is a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia

As well as widespread pain, other symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

  • increased sensitivity to pain

  • muscle stiffness

  • difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep, which can make you feel very tired (fatigue)

  • problems with mental processes (known as "fibro-fog"), such as difficulty concentrating or remembering things

  • headaches

  • irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a digestive condition that causes stomach pain and bloating

  • feelings of frustration, worry or low mood

The symptoms of fibromyalgia are changeable – for example, they can sometimes suddenly improve or get worse.

See a GP if you think you have fibromyalgia. Treatment can ease some of the symptoms, although they're unlikely to disappear completely.