ASSOCIATED SYMPTOMS

Many, but not all people with fibromyalgia experience these symptoms, which may come and go:

1. Chronic headaches or migraines
2. Irritable bowel syndrome
3. Irritable bladder
4. Premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea
5. Sicca - dry eyes and mouth
6. Sensation of swelling
7. Paresthesias - numbness and tingling
8. Itchy skin, mottled skin, dermographia
9. Poor concentration and memory
10. Anxiety, mood swings or irritability
11. Sensitivity to bright light, loud noise, extreme heat or cold, and stressful situations
12. Caffeine and lactose intolerance
13. Palpitations and chest pain
14. Sensitivity to medications
15. Raynauds - like phenomenon
16. Muscle spasms
17. Temporomandibular dysfunction
18. Environmental sensitivities, eg: cigarette smoke, perfume
19. Vision may be affected though eye examinations are OK

AGGRAVATING FACTORS IN FIBROMYALGIA

• Weather changes
• Cold environments
• Excessive physical activity
• Physical inactivity
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Sleeplessness
• Anxiety, stress, depression
• Mental or physical fatigue

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

CALL THE FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT LINE, in OTTAWA, at (613)-596-5997, or write to:

• The Nightingale Research Foundation

• The Fibromyalgia Network