Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by fatigue and widespread pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons. Previously, the condition was known by other names such as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias. You hurt all over and you frequently feel exhausted. Even after numerous tests, your doctor can't seem to find anything specifically wrong with you.

• fatigue
• Insomnia

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FIBROMYALGIA?

Most people with fibromyalgia say they have several, if not all, of the following symptoms. They are specific tender points that are painful.

1. Pain and flu-like overall body aches that change intensity (sometimes severe, other times moderate). One aspect of fibromyalgia is that the worst pain can be in your lower back one day and in your neck the next day, and maybe your upper back the following day. Frequently what happens is you suffer a combination of medical problems. You never know when or where the pain will be next.

2. Morning muscle stiffness that is common for people with fibromyalgia. Many people with fibromyalgia say that the severe muscle stiffness and achiness is at its worst in the morning. Movements when you get up in the morning or after sitting for a long period look torturous and stiff to onlookers. The stiffness may diminish as you move about but it usually doesn't go away completely.

3. Extreme fatigue or constant exhaustion that occur day after day, even when you haven't done anything. Few people find themselves able to get a satisfactory night's sleep. Many people suffer from bone-numbing exhaustion that goes well beyond simple tiredness. Fibromyalgia pain often serves as the cause for insomnia. It becomes a vicious cycle - lack of sleep makes you feel worse.

4. Frequent or constant trouble sleeping.

5. Family members diagnosed with fibromyalgia (especially a parent or a sibling).

6. Recent physical trauma (for example a car crash or a hard fall).

7. Mental malaise and confusion, often referred to as fibro fog. Included also would be difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and or attention difficulties.

• fatigue

• Insomnia