Fibromyalgia facts for kids

Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting health condition that causes widespread pain all over the body. It's not just about pain, though. People with fibromyalgia often feel very tired, have trouble sleeping, and might feel stiff in their joints. Sometimes, it can also come with feelings of sadness, stress, or anxiety.

While anyone can get fibromyalgia, it's more common in women and adults. However, even children can sometimes be affected by it. The exact reasons why someone gets fibromyalgia are still a bit of a mystery to doctors.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition that makes your body feel pain in many different places. It's not caused by inflammation or damage to your joints, but rather how your brain processes pain signals. It's like your body's "volume control" for pain is turned up too high.

What are the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

People with fibromyalgia experience several symptoms. These can vary from person to person, but some are very common.

Widespread Pain

The main symptom is pain that spreads across your body. This pain can be a dull ache, throbbing, burning, or stabbing. It often affects both sides of your body, above and below your waist.

Extreme Sensitivity

Your body might become very sensitive to touch, temperature, or even loud noises. Things that wouldn't normally hurt, like a light touch, can feel painful.

Stiffness

Many people with fibromyalgia feel stiff, especially in the mornings or after resting for a while. This stiffness can make it hard to move easily.

Feeling Tired (Fatigue)

Feeling extremely tired, even after sleeping, is another common symptom. This fatigue can be so severe that it makes everyday activities difficult.

Poor Sleep Quality

Even if you spend enough time in bed, you might not feel rested. People with fibromyalgia often have disturbed sleep, which means they don't get the deep, restorative sleep they need.

Thinking Problems (Fibro-fog)

Some people experience what's called "fibro-fog." This means they might have trouble concentrating, remembering things, or thinking clearly. It can feel like your brain is a bit cloudy.

Images for kids

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  Stress and trauma are strongly linked to fibromyalgia

See also

In Spanish: Fibromialgia para niños