Pain is Central: Unlike lupus, which attacks various organs, fibromyalgia's main symptom is widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. This pain is often described as aching, burning, or throbbing.
Fatigue is a Debilitator: People with fibromyalgia often experience overwhelming fatigue, even after a full night's sleep. This exhaustion can significantly impact daily activities.
Sleep, Not Your Friend: Fibromyalgia disrupts sleep quality. You might wake up frequently feeling unrested, even if you slept for long periods.
Cognitive Fog is Real: Difficulty concentrating, remembering things, and mental fogginess are common symptoms, sometimes referred to as "fibro fog."
Sensitivity Overload: People with fibromyalgia may be hypersensitive to pain, light, noise, temperature changes, and even touch.
The Cause is a Mystery: The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, but researchers believe it's linked to abnormal pain processing in the brain and spinal cord.
There's No Cure, But There's Hope: While there's no cure for fibromyalgia, treatments can help manage symptoms. These include medications, exercise, stress management techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.