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Health A-Z

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-term (chronic) health condition that causes pain and tenderness throughout your body. It causes musculoskeletal pain and fatigue.

People with fibromyalgia usually experience symptoms that come and go in periods called flare-ups. Sometimes, it can feel exhausting and challenging to navigate living with fibromyalgia. The peaks and valleys between feeling good and suddenly having a flare-up of symptoms can feel overwhelming. Fibromyalgia is real, and so is how you feel.

Experts don’t know what causes fibromyalgia, but studies have found that certain health conditions, stress and other changes in your life might trigger it. You might be more likely to develop fibromyalgia if one of your biological parents has it.

Any new pain in your body is often the first sign of fibromyalgia — especially in your muscles. Trust your instincts and listen to your body. Visit a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing new pain, fatigue and other symptoms — even if it feels like they come and go.

Who is affected by fibromyalgia?

Anyone can develop fibromyalgia. It affects people of any age, including children. Around 4 million people in the U.S. are living with fibromyalgia.

People assigned female at birth (AFAB) and people older than 40 are more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia.