What Is Fibromyalgia or Myalgic Encephalopathy?

Fibromyalgia also known as Myalgic Encephalopathy (M.E.) is a chronic condition and people with it often describe symptoms of hurting all over their body and feeling consistently exhausted. Many times Doctors who examine people with Fibromyalgia cannot find anything that is specifically wrong, even after a number of tests.

People with fibromyalgia have “tender points” on the body. Tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs. These points hurt when pressure is put on them.

Fibromyalgia Trigger Points

People with fibromyalgia may also have other symptoms. Some of these Fibromyalgia symptoms include:

• Morning stiffness
• Trouble sleeping
• Headaches
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Fibro Fog- Problems with thinking and memory

The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. However, there may be a number of factors involved. Fibromyalgia has been linked to:

• Repetitive injuries
• Stressful or traumatic events, such as car accidents
• Illness
• Certain types of diseases

Fibromyalgia can also occur on its own.

Some researchers believe a that a gene or genes might be involved in fibromyalgia. The genes could make a person react strongly to things that other people would not find painful.

Fibromyalgia, now also known as Myalgic Encephalopathy Fibromyalgia is showcased May 12th by numerous awareness groups. These group try to create awareness for the invisible disease, Fibromyalgia.

Some people support Fibromyalgia awareness by wearing a the purple colored ribbon on their clothing. The purple ribbon also represents pain awareness.

Fibromyalgia Ribbon

 Resources: http://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia_ff.asp  http://www.disabled-world.com/health/fibromyalgia/