5 Fibromyalgia Eye Problems and Symptoms You Should Know About

Fibromyalgia Eye Problems You Should Know About

What is fibromyalgia best known for? The first thing just about anyone thinks of when they hear the word fibromyalgia is the chronic pain that it causes. However, there are many other fibromyalgia symptoms to be aware of, and we are going to focus on one in particular today. Fibromyalgia eye symptoms can become chronic and be a debilitating part of the condition.

What should you know about the eye symptoms of fibromyalgia? Is there a natural way to find relief from some of the symptoms of this condition that affects millions of people around the world? Here are some of the things you should know about fibromyalgia if you or a loved one is living with this disease.

Does Fibromyalgia Affect Your Eyes? 

Fibromyalgia primarily affects the muscles and soft tissues and does not directly cause eye problems. However, some individuals with fibromyalgia may experience a range of eye-related symptoms such as dry eyes, eye strain, sensitivity to light, visual disturbances like fibromyalgia and blurred vision, eye floaters, fibromyalgia and eye twitching. These symptoms can be linked to factors such as sleep disturbances and medication side effects. Additionally, fibromyalgia may be associated with ocular symptoms like a foreign body sensation and irritation, often coexisting with conditions like dry eye syndrome and reduced corneal sensitivity.

5 Most Common Fibromyalgia Eye Problems 

Why are the eyes often affected when a person has fibromyalgia? This is a condition that impacts the central nervous system, and it is your CNS that gives the muscles surrounding your eyes the commands they need in order to function correctly. You also need your brain to accurately interpret signals from the eyes in order to see properly. With that in mind, consider the following five symptoms that you may experience regarding your vision. 

#1. Impaired Vision 

One of the significant signs of fibromyalgia is fatigue. It can lead to muscle weakness. When this muscle weakness occurs in the six muscles that control the eyes, impaired vision can result. Things may appear blurred or doubled. Also, a condition that is associated with fibromyalgia – migraines – can also cause visual disturbances. If your vision problems occur before or during a bad headache, this may indicate that you are also experiencing migraines. 

#2. Sensitivity to Light 

Bright or glaring lights can actually be a trigger for fibromyalgia symptoms. They can also make it tough to see. You may want to invest in a pair of good sunglasses for the outdoors and glasses with a glare-resistant coating for when you have to use screens for long periods of time. 

#3. Difficulty Driving at Night

It can be tough to drive at night when the glare from the headlights of oncoming traffic is blinding, regardless of whether you have a condition that makes your eyes more sensitive to light. Now add fibromyalgia into the mix and driving after dark may actually become dangerous. 

#4. Eye Pain 

Fibromyalgia is a painful condition, so this one perhaps makes the most sense. When you are tired or stressed out the effect may become even worse. Fibromyalgia and eye pain pressure patients are also more susceptible to chronic migraines or other headache conditions, along with that, Fibromyalgia and eye socket pain can be related to various types of headaches as well.

#5. Dry Eyes 

The eyes use specific muscles to release moisture. If your eyes are dry, it may be an indicator that something isn’t functioning right. Of course, it can also indicate dehydration, so be sure that you are getting plenty of fluids. The early stages of dehydration can increase pain and cramping in the body, which is something that you certainly don’t need when living with a chronic pain disorder.

fibromyalgia eye problems relief infographic

Caring for Fibromyalgia Eye Problems 

The eye problems that are associated with fibromyalgia are just another part of the neurological effects of this condition. Therefore, in order to reduce eye problems, you have to go after the condition at its core, in the central nervous system. 

One of the best ways to keep the central nervous system working optimally is chiropractic care. In particular, upper cervical chiropractic focuses on the top two bones in the neck, which can have the most significant impact on the CNS. What is the link between the neck and neurological conditions? 

  • Blood flow – The cervical spine facilitates blood flow to the brain through the vertebral foramen. Therefore, the neck must be in proper alignment to ensure every part of the brain is receiving enough oxygen for optimal functionality. 
  • Brainstem function – The C1 (atlas) vertebra surrounds and protects this complicated component of the central nervous system. However, even the slightest of misalignments can put pressure on the brainstem. This, in turn, can affect communication throughout the body. Also, all of the cranial nerves connect through the brainstem. Therefore, all of the body’s sensory information has to go through this point. 

In addition to this, when the upper cervical spine is out of alignment, changes may take place throughout the spine to keep the head balanced. This can also throw off the central nervous system by affecting the spinal cord and the nerves that extend from various parts of the spine. If you're new to understanding these connections and are looking for guidance, consider using The Fibromyalgia Symptoms Checklist for Beginners as a valuable resource to help you navigate the complexities of fibromyalgia and its potential impact on your spinal health.

Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic and Fibromyalgia 

For these reasons, it makes sense that upper cervical-specific chiropractors have found success in helping fibromyalgia patients. In some case studies, patients have even become symptom-free. Whether you are dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, eye problems, migraines, headaches, sensory sensitivities, or any other fibromyalgia symptoms, this may be the natural solution you’ve been looking for. 

If you are living with fibromyalgia, especially if you have a history of head or neck injuries that may have caused a misalignment, please contact an upper cervical practitioner in your area. Remember that the accident does not have to be recent because these small subluxations can work under the surface for years to cause symptoms. The search feature on this website can help you to locate one of our preferred doctors in your area. We hope this is the first step that puts you on the path to better overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Question

What does fibromyalgia do to your eyes?

Fibromyalgia can lead to eye-related symptoms such as dry eyes, eye strain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, eye floaters, and eye twitching due to factors like sleep disturbances and medication side effects.

What Are Uncommon Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

Uncommon symptoms of fibromyalgia may include jaw pain (TMJ), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and skin sensitivities, in addition to more common symptoms like widespread pain and fatigue. Symptoms can vary widely among individuals.

What Are the 2 Most Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

The two most common symptoms of fibromyalgia are widespread pain throughout the body and persistent fatigue or exhaustion.

Does Fibromyalgia Cause Eye Floaters?

Fibromyalgia itself does not directly cause eye floaters. Eye floaters are typically related to changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye or other eye conditions, not fibromyalgia.

What Organ Does Fibromyalgia Affect?

Fibromyalgia primarily affects the muscles, soft tissues, and the nervous system, leading to widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. It does not target specific organs like the heart or liver.

What does a fibromyalgia flare feel like?

During a fibromyalgia flare, individuals often experience an intensification of symptoms, including severe pain, extreme fatigue, increased sensitivity to touch, and sometimes mood disturbances like anxiety and depression. These flares can vary in duration and severity.

Do I Have Fibromyalgia?

If you experience widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and heightened sensitivity to pressure, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and diagnosis.

Does Fibromyalgia Affect Your Eyes?

While fibromyalgia primarily manifests with widespread pain and fatigue, some individuals report eye-related symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. However, these symptoms may not be directly caused by fibromyalgia.

Does Fibromyalgia Cause Swelling?

Fibromyalgia itself typically does not cause swelling. However, individuals with fibromyalgia may experience joint pain and inflammation, and it's essential to differentiate these symptoms from other conditions. Consult with a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

How Does Fibromyalgia Affect Your Eyes?

Fibromyalgia may indirectly impact the eyes through symptoms like fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns. Individuals might experience dry eyes, blurred vision, or light sensitivity. However, these eye-related symptoms are often considered secondary to the primary fibromyalgia symptoms.

 Does Fibromyalgia Cause Dry Eyes?

Some individuals with fibromyalgia report experiencing dry eyes. While there's no direct causal link, factors like fatigue, stress, and medications may contribute to dry eye symptoms. It's crucial to consult with an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

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