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Many experts are investigating the cause and effects of fibromyalgia syndrome. It is called a syndrome because it isn't a disease, but a group of symptoms that occur together.
The most common symptom is widespread muscle and/or joint pain. The list of other symptoms is quite long. Not everyone has the same symptoms, but the most common are sleep disturbance, fatigue, headaches, irritable bowel, numbness and burning, restless legs or arms, and difficulty concentrating. Less often, patients also report irritable bladder, problems with hearing, lack of sex drive, and a sensation of swelling.
No one is sure just yet what the exact mechanism is behind fibromyalgia syndrome. Some experts have shown evidence that thyroid problems is the key feature. Others suspect the immune system is the underlying system at fault. It's even possible that the enteric system (digestive nervous system) is where it all begins for some patients.
Many scientists and researchers agree there is a connection between thyroid function and fibromyalgia. But it's not present in everyone and just exactly what the connection is remains to be completely unraveled.
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