With fibromyalgia, the nervous system cannot control what it feels. So, normal feelings from muscles, joints and tissue are felt as pain. There may be no harm to the muscles or joints in this condition, but the pain experienced may cause problems such as trouble sleeping, lack of energy or depression.

The cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but some experts have theories about the cause of the condition. It may be caused by overly sensitive nerves or may be a result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. Still others believe it may be caused by a problem with a deep phase of sleep.

The main symptom of fibromyalgia may be a pain in the muscles, soft tissue and the back and neck. Patients may also experience tender points on the body. Tender points are spots on the body which hurt when directly pressed upon.

Sleeping problems and fatigue may also be possible symptoms of fibromyalgia. Still, other symptoms may include headache, trouble concentrating, irritable bowel syndrome and stiffness upon waking up in the morning. Symptoms may come and go, as fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome with no known cure.

A healthcare professional may diagnose a patient with fibromyalgia if the patient experiences chronic pain above and below the waist and on both sides of the body. Additional tests may be administered to rule out any other condition that may cause similar symptoms.

Exercising, reducing stress and practicing good sleeping habits may help to control the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Patients may also be advised to seek counseling to cope with the chronic pain. In some cases, a healthcare professional may prescribe medications to help alleviate certain symptoms of the condition.

Patients experiencing depression as a result of fibromyalgia may be treated using antidepressants and through therapy. Other treatments may be discussed with a healthcare professional.

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