Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men. Family history also is a risk factor. A person may be more likely to get fibromyalgia if a parent or a sibling has it. Some other medical conditions raise the risk of fibromyalgia too. These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Very common

More than 3 million US cases per year

Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured

Requires a medical diagnosis

Lab tests or imaging rarely required

Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong

Symptoms

Requires a medical diagnosis

Fibromyalgia symptoms include pain throughout the body that has lasted for at least three months. Often, the pain is described as a constant dull ache. Tiredness, also called fatigue, is another key symptom. A person may have trouble paying attention and focusing on mental tasks too.

People may experience:

Pain areas: in the muscles, abdomen, back, or neck

Pain types: can be chronic, diffuse, sharp, or severe

Pain circumstances: can occur at night

Gastrointestinal: constipation, nausea, or passing excessive amounts of gas

Whole body: fatigue, feeling tired, or malaise

Muscular: muscle tenderness, delayed onset muscle soreness, or muscle spasms

Mood: anxiety, mood swings, or nervousness

Sleep: difficulty falling asleep or sleep disturbances

Sensory: pins and needles or sensitivity to pain

Cognitive: forgetfulness or lack of concentration

Hand: sensation of coldness or tingling

Also common: depression, flare, headache, irritability, joint stiffness, painful menstruation, sensitivity to cold, or tingling feet