What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia in Australia has many causes and because the symptoms overlap with other conditions it can take a long time to be diagnosed.
Fibromyalgia is an ongoing medical condition that can feature muscle pain all over your body.
Severe fibro pain makes it tough to work, exercise and socialise. It can be tough to explain how challenging it is to live with the flare ups.
What causes Australians to suffer fibromyalgia?
Exact causes of fibro are difficult to pin down however many sufferers have experienced a physical trauma such as a car accident or a mental trauma such as PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Lack of exercise, stress or changes in diet can worsen symptoms.
What symptoms affect Australians?
Fibro symptoms vary in severity and duration but the most common are muscle pain and joint pain that can affect any part of the body. The frequency of the pain can have a dramatic impact on all aspects of life from work, to exercise and social outings.
Other symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Moodiness
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Restless legs
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lack of exercise endurance
- Headaches
Why is it so hard to get a diagnosis?
Getting a fibromyalgia diagnosis in Australia can take a very long time. Due to the varying symptoms and overlap with other conditions, many tests and treatments may be required to rule out other conditions. Rheumatoid arthritis, depression or neurological disorders and many other conditions can all cause widespread pain similar to fibromyalgia.
