Fibromyalgia Fatigue

Besides the overwhelming pain, fibromyalgia sufferers complain of fatigue. We all have periods of fatigue when we do too much, but this type of fatigue is on an entirely different level. It can interfere with your life.  

Fatigue is a part of the everyday life of someone with fibromyalgia. Since the majority of sufferers are women, it was thought that their daily schedules were filled with too many activities. Women and more specifically moms are always working themselves beyond energy levels to get things done.

The fatigue experienced by fibromyalgia sufferers can incapacitate them. Their extreme tiredness saps their energy to do even the simplest activities. It’s as if they are trying to walk on the moon. Some patients aren’t able to work because they can’t make it through the day. Being overly tired makes it harder to concentrate on any activity.

In conjunction with fibromyalgia pain, fatigue is something else. One possible explanation is the lack of sleep that occurs with the condition. Some sufferers have trouble reaching deep REM sleep. During the night, they experience periods of wakefulness that disrupts sleep patterns. Restless leg syndrome and other involuntary movements contribute to the fatigue brought on by sleep.

Fatigue can also be brought on by depression. One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is a depressive state. Anxiety, mood swings, pain, and fatigue are classic when you experience depression. Some people have trouble getting out of bed in the morning or any other time of the day.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is similar to the fatigue experienced with fibromyalgia. Getting out of bed in the morning is difficult. It’s as if all of the energy is being sapped from your body. You rest and rest but the condition never gets better. Even exercise doesn’t improve energy levels.

Fibromyalgia fatigue leads to a lack of meaningful relationships for some sufferers. The fatigue and pain leaves them without the energy to meet with friends or participate in family activities. Instead, many opt to conserve what energy they have and avoid activity.

Such a rundown feeling can be frightening. No matter what is tried, the condition stays the same. Sufferers often find support in groups with other sufferers.

Researchers aren’t sure what to do about the extreme fatigue experienced by fibromyalgia sufferers. Without energy, the appetite wanes and the muscles grow tired. Daily vitamins and watching what you eat can help you deal better with the fatigue but your energy levels are still low.

The answers lie in modifying daily life. Cutting back on activities and giving yourself enough time to get ready in the morning reduces the amount of rushing around and preserves what strength and energy you have. Participating in social settings with family and friends on a limited basis is better than not at all.