- The symptoms of fibromyalgia tend to fluctuate according to various internal and external conditions.
- Fibromyalgia symptoms are different throughout the course of the day. Shortly after getting out of bed in the morning, the late afternoon period, and the evening are usually times when fibromyalgia symptoms are the most severe.
- Symptoms tend to worsen under conditions of increased fatigue and stress/tension.
- Symptoms can worsen with inactivity, which is why regular movement and low impact exercise is so important.
- Colder months, or when the indoor air becomes drafty can make pain worse.
- Overexertion tends to make the symptoms worse.
- Hormonal changes affect symptoms.
- Many female fibromyalgia patients feel worsened symptoms in the premenstrual phase and during the time of menopause.
- Emotional factors such as anxiety and depression tend to exacerbate the pain experienced by those who suffer from fibromyalgia.