Fibromyalgia patients know this illness is like a war with battles that occur either sporadically or regularly. In addition, every person’s fibromyalgia triggers may vary, and some may not be aware of theirs.
This condition can happen to anyone. But one of the famous people who has been vocal about her fight against fibromyalgia is singer-songwriter, performance artist, and actress Lady Gaga. In a 2018 issue of Vogue magazine, the Born This Way singer opened up about her struggle with this condition and was quoted saying, “People need to be more compassionate. Chronic pain is no joke. And it’s every day waking up not knowing how you’re going to feel.”
If you are unaware of the pain and suffering of fibromyalgia, it can be difficult for you to perceive what transpires in every flare-up. To help paint the bigger fibromyalgia picture for you, we will explore how fibromyalgia unfolds directly through the eyes – and body – of Lady Gaga. This can help you grasp or have a better understanding of this condition and may be essential to let you properly assist your loved ones who may be suffering from the same condition.
Signs of fibromyalgia based on Lady Gaga’s experience
“…a cyclone of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, and panic disorder, all of which sends the nervous system into overdrive…”
These words are just a part of how Lady Gaga describes what she feels. If you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you can probably sympathize with how this condition can cause you so much pain and confusion and make you feel like the suffering will never end. But what exactly do people with fibromyalgia, Lady Gaga included, feel? Here are some telling signs, and no, these are not imaginary:
1. Widespread pain
Most fibromyalgia patients complain about widespread musculoskeletal pain. Pain and tenderness that has been going on for three months or longer is the most common telling sign of fibromyalgia which patients feel in the muscles and joints all over the body. The pain sensation varies, but most people living with fibromyalgia describe them as constant, dull, and widespread. Different fibromyalgia triggers can worsen a person’s pain. This can include poor sleep, stress, weather changes, excessive or lack of activity, or exercise. If you have fibromyalgia, you may notice stabbing, shooting, throbbing, or aching sensations all over your body. You may also feel a tingling, numbing or burning sensation.
2. Fatigue
An unexplainable feeling of fatigue is also common in people living with fibromyalgia. Sometimes severe fatigue still kicks in even after getting some “rest.” It’s not uncommon for fibromyalgia patients to bring up concerns of still feeling tired even after having a whole night’s sleep. Fibromyalgia also triggers sleep issues, including insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome.
These sleep issues may contribute to aggravated symptoms and a person’s decreased ability to process pain. In addition, fatigue and other symptoms can make it challenging for a person with fibromyalgia to keep a consistent daily routine.
3. Memory Issues
Fibromyalgia also brings unexplained memory issues to a person. Fibro fog is described as difficulty concentrating due to pain associated with fibromyalgia. Even the sharpest or most well-versed person known for their vocabulary may end up finding it challenging to sustain conversations and struggle to find the right words to say once fibromyalgia symptoms start kicking in.
Difficulty fulfilling mental tasks and struggling with mental clarity and memory may also occur. A person’s ability to multitask may no longer be possible due to fibromyalgia. There can also be bouts of indecisiveness due to challenges in thought processing.
4. Depression
Sometimes, getting sick can trigger depression because of the changes and the feeling of losing control over your health and body. In addition, a fibromyalgia diagnosis may be difficult to process and accept, especially with the physical challenges and mental stress it brings.
Not being able to do the things you used to love or enjoy can trigger feelings of depression. Also, missing out on social events can make you feel withdrawn from your friends and family. These feelings are valid and can happen to anyone. It will help to acknowledge your feelings, as it is part of your process. It’s also equally important not to lose hope, as there are remedy options you can explore to help manage and reduce your symptoms.
5. Muscle Weakness
Fibromyalgia can cause unexplained muscle weakness and poor coordination in a person. Generally, muscle weakness can signify a loss of muscle strength. And with generalized weakness caused by fibromyalgia, the muscles can be affected all at once or weaken a particular muscle. In addition, sometimes, you may notice involuntary trembling or twitching of a specific muscle due to exhaustion.
Fibromyalgia tends to make your muscles tight and tense most of the time, which brings a feeling of soreness and pain. When your muscles are tight, it can lead to decreased strength and range of motion.
Other famous personalities with fibromyalgia
Feeling disheartened and confused after a fibromyalgia diagnosis can happen. Know that you are not (and never will be) alone in your fibromyalgia battle. This condition affects an estimated five million adults in the US alone. Apart from Lady Gaga, some other personalities and celebrities have spoken up about fibromyalgia, including:
- Morgan Freeman
- Mary McDonough
- Michael James Hastings
- Janeane Garofalo
- Jo Guest
- Kyle Richards
- Rosie Hamlin
- Susan Flannery
- Sinead O’Connor
- A.J. Langer
Common fibromyalgia triggers
In her interview, Lady Gaga attributes her fibromyalgia diagnosis to PTSD caused by psychological stress and an injury she sustained while on tour. Knowing common fibromyalgia triggers may help you manage your condition better. These include:
- Changes in daily routines
- Emotional or psychological stress
- Fluctuating hormone levels
- Poor diet
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in weather or temperature
- Medical treatment
- Poor diet
- Physical stress
- Stressful events
Less-known triggers of fibromyalgia
- Physical trauma or injury
- Lyme disease
- Genetics
- viral infection
- A glitch in the central nervous system
Will fibromyalgia ever go away?
Unfortunately, there is known cure for fibromyalgia just yet. However, experts have been exploring different remedies that can provide relief to people living with this condition. In addition, you can manage your symptoms and flare-ups in different ways, such as medication or a natural relief option called upper cervical chiropractic care.
Through safe and gentle upper cervical adjustments, you can potentially keep your pain at a minimum and manage other symptoms. Exploring your options can help you improve your life quality, maximize your productivity, and have more good days than bad.
Fibromyalgia and Upper Cervical Care
Fibromyalgia patients who endured an injury or trauma in the neck or head years ago can benefit from upper cervical care. This unique and natural technique corrects the alignment of your neck bones. Neck bones are highly susceptible to shifting out of alignment following an injury.
You may consult an upper cervical doctor to know if a misalignment is a reason behind your fibromyalgia symptoms. Once confirmed, your upper cervical chiropractor will recommend adjustments to bring your bones back to their correct spot safely and gently. Once your spine’s balance and alignment get restored, your body will slowly regain its natural healing ability. To find reputable upper cervical chiropractic doctors near you, check out our doctors’ directory and narrow your search by keying your location. You can live a relatively normal life after a fibromyalgia diagnosis with proper care.
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