Fibromyalgia presents as a cluster of symptoms most commonly reported by patients with the disorder. The symptoms can present upon physical examination, however, no scientific diagnostic tests presently exist to definitively diagnose Fibromyalgia. The defining symptom of the condition is widespread pain in the muscles and connective tissues, with specifically heightened pain at nine defined pressure points along the body. Patients also report an incapacitating fatigue and chronic sleep disturbances. Other symptoms include: bowel and bladder abnormalities, headaches, nerve pain, muscle twitching, skin tingling, temperature sensitivity, and shooting pains through the spine and/or limbs and feet. Many patients with Fibromyalgia experience cognitive dysfunction often referred to as 'brain fog' or 'fibro fog,' which causes impaired concentration, short term memory, and attention span loss. Some patients report a 'cognitive overload' or an inability to multi-task and perform at a previously functioning rate. Fibromyalgia is often associated with and shares some symptoms of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus may also suffer from Fibromyalgia.
