How do I describe fibromyalgia?

[Gerry23]

I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia a year ago, I haven't told anyone, I have used all sorts of excuses for not being well e.g.: aches & pains are me getting old, tiredness is me over doing it, headaches or sickness I must have eaten something dodgy.
I have decided it's time to tell close family ( I can't keep making excuses) but I don't know what to say, or how to explain it. Can anyone help with a simple explanation please.

[perseus]

Hi Gerry, welcome to the forum. I didn't live in a family, but friends and even close relatives often seem oblivious or sceptical. This isn't helped by some in the medical profession attempting to label it as a psychological condition. There are a few guides that may be helpful, I hope you have more success than me!

https://fibromyalgia.newlifeoutlook.com ... romyalgia/

https://www.everydayhealth.com/fibromya ... et-it.aspx

[*Lisa*]

Hi,

I would say I have been diagnosed with a chronic pain condition that comes with many symptoms the main ones being muscle stiffness and pain, fatigue... ( a few other main symptoms that effects you mostly) then I would print off some information or find info over the internet for them to read as it’s too complex to put it into a few words.

I’m sure they will ask questions. If any of your family are concerned and need further information or advice they are welcome to register here and we will help.

[Painintheneck]

Gerry, My own definition of fibromyalgia is: a chronic pain syndrome which comprises only multiple symptoms without verifiable physical changes and which is not transmissable. Perhaps you could ask the person who made your diagnosis how he/she would define it.

Reviewed and revised by the author.

[Cornish]

Do you mind me asking why you havn't shared up until now? I often wonder how to explain it too. I don't want everyone knowing but sometimes it would be useful to be able to come up with an answer as at the moment I sort of ' um and ahh' and say I get very tired and the pain can be bad. thanks for asking this as I've been wondering too.