According to the CDC, Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, sleep disturbances, fatigue, memory, and mental distress. Individuals with this condition are often more sensitive to pain as opposed to someone without.
As a person with Fibromyalgia, when someone asks what it feels like, I often describe it as the feeling you get when you’re coming down with the flu…when your muscles ache and even the slightest task is more difficult than usual— that’s what it feels like. I’ve also always said that it feels like my entire body is filled with sand. Lifting an arm or leg is more difficult than usual because my limbs feel so heavy. Someone with fibro is usually exhausted all. the. time. I could sleep sixteen hours and wake up feeling like I didn’t get a single ounce of rest. I’ve also experienced brain fog, irritability, and depression while having a fibro flare.
Who Does Fibromyalgia Affect?
Anyone at any age (including children!) can suffer from Fibromyalgia, however it is more prevalent in men than women. Fibro co-exists with many other conditions. Individuals who have rheumatic diseases (such as arthritis), anxiety, depression, or other pain-inducing conditions are more likely to develop this condition.
How is this Condition Treated?
While there is no cure, Fibromyalgia can be treated and managed with medication, exercise, therapy, massage, acupuncture, acupressure, and other stress management techniques. I found that massage, cognitive-behavioral therapy, a healthy sleep pattern, relaxation techniques, and mild exercise helps with my case.
Did you know?
🌸 Fibromyalgia accepts nearly 4 million US adults
🌸 The cause is unknown
🌸 Individuals with Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis are more likely to develop Fibromyalgia
🌸 People suffering from Fibromyalgia are more likely to experience major depression
Leave a Reply