Fibromyalgia Symptoms in Men, Are They Real?

About 10% of all diagnosed adult cases of fibromyalgia are in men, although this fact is not well-known. Using statistics from the U.S. Government, that means that there are roughly a half million known cases of fibromyalgia symptoms in men in the U.S. alone!

So, what does that mean? It means that fibromyalgia is not just considered a disease of women anymore… and it means that the medical community and general population is beginning to recognize that there is more to this illness than had been previously thought. The recognition of fibromyalgia symptoms in men is catching fire with support groups, which are beginning to accept men into their ranks. And there is now a male member on the board of the National Fibromyalgia Association, formerly occupied only by women. While it’s been a rough journey for men with this disease, the understanding of the catastrophic effects of the syndrome on individuals, both women and men, is beginning to prevail.

It’s still uncertain what causes the disorder… there are many theories… but fibromyalgia seems to be triggered by a physical trauma like a severe illness or accident, or a psychological distress. Fibromyalgia symptoms in men may manifest suddenly and without warning, just as they do in women. What is known now, is that fibromyalgia symptoms in both men and women frequently have a biological marker in common… an above average amount of a neurotransmitter “substance P,”that signals pain, as well as a reduced amount of serotonin which is a pain inhibitor. Estrogen reduces the pain threshold so women are more susceptible to feeling pain. This gives women a greater chance of exhibiting the disease symptoms than men.

The Most Common Fibromyalgia Symptoms In Men:

Widespread pain, with tender points that tend to be more painful than others. These are in the neck, shoulders, back, hips and knees.

Fatigue, which is severe enough to make it difficult to get out of bed in the morning, or even stay awake. Even simple tasks can give the feeling of complete exhaustion.

Stiffness upon waking, which may feel like he overdid his exercise workout, although this feeling may ease up after getting up and moving around a bit.

Irritable bowel syndromecan also be experienced, particularly when in combination with increased pain symptoms and flare-ups.

Trouble sleepingdue to the constant, chronic pain. Poor sleep, insomnia, and bad and even vivid dreams, are reported.

To the average male who may have the syndrome, what do fibromyalgia symptoms in men mean? They mean the same thing to men as to women, although possibly with greater psychological trauma. Proving that the condition is real, dealing with the disbelief of doctors, associates, family and friends, and the terrible stigma of being unable to work or do the things they’ve always been able to do like participate and excel in sports, can take a heavy toll and lead to depression and anxiety in the sufferer.

How Can I Help Him?

Get him to a specialist who can diagnose his condition and educate him about his illness. Be supportive and understanding of the condition and his limitations… and have him start professional treatment.

As a fibromyalgia survivor myself… I’ve found a vastly improved diet to be most effective in relieving the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Targeted nutrition to rebuild the cells and increase oxygen to the tissues can do wonders… reducing and even eliminating the painful points and flare-ups, providing lasting energy, and helping the body to regain its strength and endurance. For more information about using nutrition for the natural treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms in both men and women, click on one of the links below.

Find out how to survive fibromyalgia!