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There are a number of skin-related fibromyalgia symptoms. It is estimated that 70 to 80 percent of people with fibromyalgia have some sort of skin-related symptoms. Some common complaints include dry skin, itching and burning skin, rashes, mottled skin and bruising. Some of these skin-related fibromyalgia symptoms can make sleeping more difficult, and increase pain and fatigue. Skin problems can also make it hard to choose clothes to wear.
Studies have shown there is a lot going on under the skin’s surface when you have fibromyalgia. Researchers have found there are excessive sensory nerve fibers in the palms of the hands of women with fibromyalgia. Research has also shown that an elevated level of immune-reactive proteins exists just beneath the skin’s surface.
One Swedish research group found there are four times the number of mast cells in the skin tissues of those with fibromyalgia. Mast cells are generated by the immune system and contain substances such as histamine and cytokines. Both of which, may be responsible for causing skin irritations and painful reactions.
With all that is going on just beneath the skin, it’s not difficult to understand how someone with fibromyalgia might suffer from rashes and itching or burning skin.
Types Of Skin-related Fibromyalgia Symptoms
There are a number of different types of skin-related symptoms that occur in fibromyalgia. Many of them are present alongside one another or become chronic problems. Skin-related fibromyalgia symptoms include the following:
- Dry Skin – Many people with fibromyalgia are plagued with dry, cracked skin. Dry flaky skin can appear anywhere on the body, but it particularly affects the hands and fingers. Sometimes this dry skin will begin to peel and cause pain and discomfort.
- Itchy Skin – Itchy skin is usually one of the most common skin complaints among those with fibromyalgia. Of course dry skin and rashes can make your skin itch but most often, with fibromyalgia, it occurs without any obvious cause. It is known as a sensory itch and has to do with how our body interprets pain signals.
- Rashes – People with fibromyalgia often complain of skin rashes. The typical rash associated with fibromyalgia is red and can be flat or raised and bumpy. In some cases, there is also itchiness. Scratching or sun exposure can make the rash burn.
- Mottled Skin – The skin of fibromyalgia sufferers often begins to change color, appearance, or tone. Mottled skin is due to blood vessel changes in the skin that cause a blotchy appearance. These blotches can appear anywhere on the body, particularly on the inside of the forearms and thighs.
- Bruising – Many of us with fibromyalgia experience unexplained bruising. I often end up with bruises on my arms, legs and other areas of the body and don’t remember bumping into anything.
- Painful Skin (Allodynia) – Allodynia is a fairly rare type of pain in which your skin hurts. Allodynia is believed to be a hypersensitive reaction to temperature and stimuli that wouldn’t normally cause pain. Even a light touch to the skin can be unbearable.
If you struggle with intense itching, red rashes or see a huge bruise that you have no memory of creating, you are not alone. These are not symptoms that you would naturally link to fibromyalgia, but they are connected.
I considered myself fortunate because I never experienced skin pain. My clothing or bedding irritated me, but I never experienced pain from someone touching me. That all changed this summer when my skin began stinging and burning. It’s from head to toe…my scalp, face, arms, legs, body, even my eyelids.
If you suffer from skin pain, you may want to read this post about Allodynia.
Do you have any tips for dealing with any skin-related symptoms, or just want to vent? Please leave a comment below.
Hi, I’m Sue. I’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, migraines, multiple chemical sensitivities, depression, and asthma. I want to share information and self-care tips in order to help others with similar conditions live a better life. But, most of all, I want you to know you are not alone…
Kristine says
I know exactly what you mean Sue. Skin pain will come and go for me. I noticed a traveling sensation like a sunburn on legs, thighs, and arms. It usually stays for about 4-5 days, then either moves or abates for a time only to come back. So weird. One of the many adventures of the ‘Fibro Clan’! 🙂
Sue says
Fibro is an adventure for sure. I am thinking temperature and humidity have something to do with it for me. Maybe that’s just wishful thinking, guess I will find out when winter gets here.
Brandi Clevinger says
I have dry skin and the painful skin. Sometimes the wind hurts. 🙁
Thank you for linking up to the Chronic Friday Linkup! I pinned your post to the Chronic Friday Linkup board!
Amelia V. says
I can relate to all of the above symptoms. My doctor took a scraping a few days ago for testing/diagnosis. Hopefully, the test results will show why I have a rash on my thighs and forearm. I have found that prescription triamcinolone helps with some of the rashes, mainly on my forehead and hands. My previous doctor told me unexplained bruising is part of aging, but I find it hard to believe I could have as many bruises as I do without banging into things is from aging.
Sue says
HI, Amelia. I hope you get an answer for your rash. Some doctors want to blame almost everything on aging. I have a woman doctor who is around my age now. Age rarely comes up now. I always have bruises which are unexplained.
Margaret Christensen says
I get bruising amid the rashes, like I’m scratching or pressing too hard. Do you?
Sue says
Yes, Margaret, I do.
Shannon says
Same here, I get a very small bump and it itches then it turns into several small itchy bumps together. When I scratch it it turns bright red and bruises for a week or better. This itching is driving me crazy
Heather B says
My itchy red blisters like that were caused by my nickel intake in my diet. If I limit coffee, tea, chocolate, and nuts, my rash disappears as do most of my Fibro symptoms. Been dealing with that for almost 13 years.
bonnie says
Iam venting and thank you ahead of time. I am in constant pain. It gets worse every year. Now my hips shoot pain down my legs into my calves and I sleep maybe 3 hours a night sometimes not at all. I am in physical therapy now it appears to help a litte. I have horrible skin issues on my scalp none of the foams the doc game me or dandruff shampoos work. I have rashes all over my arms, back and some strange red sore that was very small and now it’s the size of a quarter. My doc sent me for a biopsy it’s not cancer but it seems to get better than then the burning itching comes back.
I can sleep at the drop of a hat anywhere anytime except at night. My fatigue level is like 100%. I use heating pads at night creams medications ok so my point is no one understandshould how miserable I am. My roommate thinks I’m a baby. She has fibromyalgia and never complains about a thing. I don’t understand why I can’t get any empathy and then i feel worse and question is all of this pain and fatigue not really going on? I mean I sleep so much because I’ve been up all night because I can’t sleep lol! Not really funny but I’m tired of being questioned why are you so tired, why do you stay home all the time why this and that.
When I respond about my pain I get the response well why am I not surprised.
I just want to scream BECAUSE I HURT ALL THE TIME I’M TIRED! Right now it’s noon I just want to sleep my pain level is a 4. I anyone has any direction regarding how to communicate better or I don’t know. I would like to be believed in getting some understanding in my relationships.
Sue says
Hi, Bonnie. I am so sorry you are going through this. I used to be like your roommate. My symptoms were mild and I couldn’t understand why some people were so much worse off than I was. I am ashamed of some of the thoughts I had and the judgments I made back then. Now, I am older, (hopefully) wiser, and in a hell of a lot more pain. I realize now that we may have similar symptoms but fibro affects us all differently at different times in our life. We have no control over what other people say, do, or think. But we can change how we respond to it.
Bonnie, I want you to stop beating yourself up. It is not your fault that your symptoms are more severe than someone else’s. I know this is easier said than done. Find someone you can talk to. For me, it was easier to talk to a counselor than a friend or family member. Talking with a counselor didn’t make me feel guilty or self-centered. It was all about me and working out my feelings. That is what I was paying for. It was the best thing I ever did.
If you are not getting good quality sleep at night, you are going to be fatigued and in more pain during the day. My doctor knows that good sleep is the primary symptom I want help with and is often the focus of our visit. Pain and other symptoms are secondary.
Since nothing the doctor is giving you is helping with the skin issues, have you considered allergies? Whenever I am exposed to scented products, it affects my skin first. I can only use certain brands of laundry, dish, and bath soaps. Also, food allergies can affect the skin.
Last May I went to my granddaughter’s high school graduation, first, my face, neck, and scalp started stinging and then I had a severe asthma attack. I was diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. I had to clean my house from top to bottom and get rid of as many chemicals as possible. Every time I leave the house it’s a gamble because I can’t control what I am exposed to. It really made me depressed for a while and I am still battling the fatigue.
Take care of yourself, most important be kind to yourself, and always know that venting is welcome here.
Debra Hamm says
I am the same way. I hurt all the time. Can’t touch my arms or legs they hurt so bad. Fatigue is horrible, I have NO energy to do nothing, stay so tired all the time. I had knee surgery 6 months ago, still having problems from that. Now so depressed , getting headache, impossible to work with no energy and NO sleep.. !!! Help!!!
Sue Yilmaz says
God love you Bonnie. Believe me I understand completely as what you have just described is me also!!! I’m tired out trying to explain and it’s so isolating isn’t it. If you ever want to talk/ rant feel free always here to listen and empathise.
Best wishes sue
Niki says
I would reconmend Dermol cream it is brillant . And would have dettol baths and theres a brillant dettol soap too and hibi scrub x
Jenifer says
After years of no one believing me, I am finally vindicated with a fibro diagnosis. Yet, people still don’t believe I have this legitamate disease. Anyway, my legs, below the knee, are always on fire with itching. My legs itch so much I itch them until I bleed. My legs are so dry due this constant scratching. It’s maddening. And, my issue absolutely seems worse at night which keeps me up. I find myself grabbing sharp objects to satisfy these itches; forks, nail clippers, knives, earring posts….anything that is on-hand. Okay, I am don’t venting.
Sue says
Hi Jennifer. Sad to say but there will always be people who don’t believe us or our diagnosis. I have gotten to the point where I just don’t care and am not willing to spend time with those people. I have even walked out on a doctor in the middle of my appointment because she was so condescending. I itch sometimes but never to the extreme you are experiencing. I sometimes take Benadryl, use over-the-count cortisone cream for the itching. Have you told your doctor how bad the itching is? He or she may be able to prescribe something. Vent here anytime. 🙂
Regina says
Hi sue. My name is Jenny also have fibro. I just recently started breaking out on my legs, arms, stomach. Well just all over really. I went to the doctor and she said” you are allergic to something you have come in contact with” This was the first time this has happened to me. Small bumps with red all over then turned blue. Now I am peeling like a burn. My husband even ask if I’ve been to the tanning bed. But no I have not. It itches with burning. I hope this is the last episode of this. Thanks with all the comments.
Sue says
Hi, Regina. If you continue to have problems, I would suggest changing your laundry and bath soap. Hope it was a fluke. Take care!
Jen Berry says
Hi Regina,
I haven’t been diagnosed with Fibro, but I’ve been suffering for more than 4 years now. I kept having all these symptoms and no relief and no answers. The GP sent me to the Rheumatologist and then I self referred to an ENT and now an allergy doc. I am 45 and have 10 different scripts from 4 different doctors and no relief! I broke out in a rash last fall that looked like chicken skin. It was raised red and painful similar to heat rash. I’d been cutting gluten out (and then decided I could eat it again after being off of it for a while) and my body freaked out and I broke out in hives for 3 days straight until I could get med. attention. I got a a steroid shot and was directed to take zyrtec, benadryl and pepcid (each is a histamine blocker that blocks a different histamine). This is a typical protocol when you have idiopathic (unknown cause) hives. I was in sooooo much pain that I was scratching until I bled and I thought I would loose my mind! The hives were all over my body but started out on my palms and the soles of my feet! The skin at all these “hot spots” was red and felt sunburned and irritated. The allergist said it sounds like a job for the rheumatologist and the rheumo. never returned my call! The shot/meds finally helped but my life was derailed for a week! It’s not been until recently when I discover info. on Pinterest of all places that listed every symptom I’ve had and generally has confirmed that I dealing with a fibro issue here!! I’m new at this but since my last body freak out I’ve avoided gluten like the devil and I’ve been feeling much much better. I’ve also cut down on anything alcohol which makes me seem to turn red and blotchy. I think knowing trigger and avoiding them is key. I’ve scheduled an allergy test today just to see if there are true underlying triggers that an allergist can treat with shots. I’ve changed laundry detergent to a clear non scented. I’ve also noticed in the winter is the humidity insides dips too low my skin gets super dry and irritated so I have a humidity meter and try to keep the house at a healthy level.
Michelle says
I’ve had fibro forever…My Dr recently proscribed hydroxyzine to me, for anxiety. It is an antihistamine that can be used for off label purposes I guess…. I’m just wondering if your doctor has considered it for your itching?
Melanie says
I have been taking hydroxyzine forever. It does not do much, but more than Benadryl. I have three first cousins with a fibro dx that I can not seem to get. The more I read the more I know that’s what it is, and yes I do have arthritis as well, but I think there’s something else. It’s either rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis because I am, in fact, autoimmune. It’s frustrating getting a doc to believe what you’re saying and that you’re not a nut job. I’m an RN and still can’t seem to get the respect my 25 years of service. I need to find the right doctor. Pain management etc, I just can’t deal anymore with the skin issues, the fatigue, and the pain. It’s horrid. God bless all y’all and I hope you have a good day! 😘
Katherine Walker says
Hi. I take hydroxyzine, as well, for itchiness. It is better than Benadryl, but now that all these docs are going au naturelle – it’s hard to get someone to prescribe pain medication for this condition. I was taking 1600 mg. of Ibuprofen at a whack, but it caused me to “bleed” internally and the dr. told me to quit. But, now I can’t find a Dr. who will prescribe pain meds who accepts my insurance. I’m changing insurance on the 15th of this month, because Humana is crap. Thanks for letting me vent today. I’ve had it with this pain and no help!!
Linda says
Have you tried cannabis? It helps with my fibromyalgia and arthritis without the problems of addiction. I will NEVER resort to opioid pain meds when I have a natural alternative I can grow myself.
maureen says
I was told to take zyrtec 2xs a day It helps also with the dizziness
Wendy says
OMG ive been able to live with the pain fatigue loss of libido brain fog but the itchy skin keeps me up all night! Its there during the day too, tickling skin i cant ignore but at night when i’m trying to sleep is the worst! I have noticed it tends to be in same spots, like back of left leg, top of right arm type of thing. My hair on my neck pricks my skin even though my hair is soft. Even my ass itches. The sheets feel soft to the touch yet end up feeling rough in the night. That along with anxiety and constantly feeling like I have to pee and nightly and daily restless legs is making my life miserable. Going to work is hell, i’m too tired from lack of sleep and irritable. I eat healthy, workout every other day at least and do stretches throughout the day. Other than the itching I think the restless legs are the worst. The product “restful legs works sometimes as well as ibuprofen although I got an ulcer from taking too many ibuprofen and drinking too much coffee in the morning just to be able to function at work. I’m somewhat relieve to find that the itching is a side effect of fibro cuz I don’t have a rash, just feel like someone is tickling me with tiny feathers but so much that it drives me crazy. I have no insurance and can’t afford a doctor. I’m going to try benadryl again and see if it helps (tried years ago ) wish I could afford ambien to knock me out every night. I took it years ago when my son was still at home and I had medicare. It was awesome, I could sleep regular hours and have energy during the day. I was able to keep my weight down as a result.
Jen Clinton says
Coffee can cause fibro flare ups, so while it may seem helpful to get you through the day, it could be the very factor in what is making it hard for you to sleep.
maxine says
My mum suffers with R.Arthritis and burning skin rashes that itch like you all describe, my sister has fibromyalgia and is having terrible muscle pain that stops her in her tracks and i am going through numerous tests as my symptoms are widespread, from brain fog, itchy skin, restless legs AND arms, gastro-related symptoms ie paraesthesia of the gut, abdominal lesions that start as dry cracked skin but become infected as im T1diabetic. Our link between these varying symptoms was brought about after all of us over the past 5 years were hospitalised with sepsis. Having read your comment on the culprits being laundry soap etc, all 3 of us were informed about a couple of cytotoxins that are in so many daily cleaning, laundry, shower/bath personal care products and cosmetics, even mouthwashes, that are known to cause Allergic Contact Dermatitis and also possible nerve/neurological damage. These ingredients are: Methylisothiazolinone combined with Methylchloroisothiazolinone. (sorry long words) Ive looked online and Wikipedia and it proves quite an eye opener. I commented about my mum & sisters symptoms because apparently there is a genetic link within the RA family medical history. I use Atarax 2x25mg tablets at night for itching and paracetamol for restless legs but also keeping legs and arms warm seems to help during the day.
Amber Sutton says
Hello, could you elaborate on the cytotoxins your referring to? Methylchloroisothiazolinone? I was diagnosed with Fibro and Chronic Fatigue 30 years ago. I’ve learned to deal with aches, pain, and exhaustion. My issue is a skin burning sensation from stress, heat, allergens such as polyester, chlorine, and cocoa powder, but mostly to the sun. I’m now totally intolerate to sunlight. I’ve been tested for EVERYTHING, so it’s not another disease. Now I’m looking at what else I’m exposed to that could be causing all of this.
Thank you!
Amber
Melanie Marrolli says
Wow your family sounds like mine and you’re right about the allergens. I can’t eat processed food. I have to eat freshly so to speak. It does run in families as it’s also an autoimmune disorder and yep I have that and a type 1 latex allergy. God bless. Hope you and yours are feeling better.
Shelley Fraser says
I can relate to this intense itching that feels like you need to scratch to the bone. This intense itching started this past fall. My doctor said it’s dry skin. Now I have scarring, bad scarring on my legs and my arms.? When the doctor saw it he sent another consult to the dermatologist who didn’t seem to believe in fibromyalgia rashes. !!! My beautiful arms and legs are no more. … It’s a very hard disease to live with.
It is slowly taking away my life.!!
Sue says
Hi, Shelley. It must be nice to pick and choose what you believe about fibromyalgia and its symptoms. Too bad we don’t have that option. The rashes I get are usually an allergic reaction. The biggest culprits are laundry soap, bath soap, and certain things in the air. My skin itches a lot even when there is no rash. By accident, I found that baking soda helps for itching. A while back I started adding a little baking soda to my shampoo because it is supposed to make your hair feel thicker. I don’t think it helped thicken my hair but I noticed that whenever I skipped the baking soda my scalp was itchy. So now I keep a waterproof container of baking soda in the shower and add little to my shampoo, facial cleaner, and bath soap. It has really cut down on the itching. Might be worth a try.
Katherine Walker says
I never thought about baking soda. I’m gonna give it a shot! Thanks, Sue. My dermatologist said for me to take 2 Allegra in the morning and 2 at night along with 3 Hydroxyzine before I go to bed. The RA specialist the regular doc sent me to said I didn’t have Fibro (Ha!!!!) I hope she starts to itch just so she knows what a freakin’ nightmare this is!!!
Cheryl Harris says
Has anyone experienced dark dry patches on the skin?
Sue says
Hi, Cheryl. I haven’t had that problem but maybe someone who has will reply.
Heather says
I have Cheryl. A few spots…My ankle and the tops of my toes. It’s insane. At first I thought my shoe rubbed my ankle the wrong way. It won’t go away. It literally is dark brown and almost callus feeling. Nothing I do will soften it or make it change color. Same with my toes. Brown and rough. I’ve literally used a pumice sponge to scrub to no end to smooth the skin and it hasn’t worked. I have no clue.
Melanie Marrolli says
That’s how I feel. I did have beautiful skin once upon a time. Hugs. I feel your pain. Literally.
Mary says
I have the exact same thing…my shins used to be beautiful, now they are scared, bruised, still itchy …especially aftrr i eat, or am in the sun, covered in flakey raised scars that just peel of patches of skin then bleed it weep
Marian says
Those patches are psoriasis. I also have that.
Alana says
Try using Allegra for the itching and burning, it takes the edge off.
Heidi says
I have developed severe psoriasis on my scalp and it is itchy to the extreme. Has anyone experienced this type is skin irritation with their fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome?
Sue says
Hi, Heidi. I don’t suffer from psoriasis myself but many people with fibromyalgia do. I recently wrote a review about Hemp CBD lotion made by The Fay Farm. It helps with pain and skin conditions. A fellow chronic illness blogger also reviewed the lotion. She has psoriasis on her scalp and has pictures of before and after she used the lotion. It looked like the psoriasis was completely gone. You can see the pictures on her blog.
Bonnie says
Yes Heidi I have bumps then I scratch them and they bleed it’s aweful!! The derm doc gave me a foam with steroid in it and it makes it worse! I use dandruff shampoo that has conditioner in it and focus on massaging my scalp then i don’t risnce it out until I use my regular color safe shampoo ON MY HAUR ONLY and it’s almost gone! For me the dandruff shampoo goes on my scalp and a moisturizing shampoo on my hair.
I comb my hair in the shower and rinse well. I also use coconut organic oil on my scalp massage and massage it in. Iv cut down to washing my hair every 3 days and the night before I shampoo I really use the oil and massage it into my scalp leave it in overnight. It has really helped.
My next problem are the bumpy red rashes on my shoulders, arms and calves. I’m putting on coconut oils, caster oils lotions like 10 x’s a day. ITS NOT GOING AWAY!
This red concave bump grows larger every month it’s red, itchy, bleeds, crusts over then calms down for a day or so and it starts all over again. My derm doc has done 2 biopsys not cancer. I need to go again I can live like this. So much pain and no one believes me.
Thanks Sue and everyone.
Lisa says
Itching!, when my pain is worse, Fibro and IC
Linda says
Yes! My itching is way worse when the pain gets worse. Rash seems to spread as my pain spreads. Mostly on my torso and upper limbs. Seems so unfair sometimes.
Debby Martin says
I have some skin issues but I also will get sore fingernails. Does anyone else have this complaint?
Sue says
Hi Debby. The only time my fingernails bother me is if I wear nail polish. But heck everything else hurts so why not fingernails, too.
Kathy says
Going crazy with this itching – getting worse! Don’t know what to do! I recently purchased a Quell machine for my back pain, and it seemed to help that, but I wonder if it has made my itching worse. I have not been diagnosed with Fibro yet, but I have ALL of the symptoms. A nurse practitioner told me last week that Doctors call it fibromyalgia when they don’t know what it is. My doctor told me that it was fibromyalgia the last two visits to him. I go see a Neurosurgeon in November and maybe he will tell me the truth.
Sue says
Since the Quell stimulates the nerves I suppose it is possible it could make the itching worse but I can’t say for sure. I find such relief from my Quell I would hate to stop using it. I can only use certain brands of dish soap, laundry soap, and bath soap or the itching is unbearable. Taking Benedryl helps with itching and so does taking a warm bath with one cup baking soda and/or apple cider vinegar. Since the symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to other health conditions most doctors don’t give a fibromyalgia diagnosis until they rule everything else out. My doctor was very familiar with fibromyalgia because her mother has it so in my case, I was diagnosed first and everything else was ruled out by a rheumatologist after that. I hope you get some answers soon. Take care!
Lucy Betz says
Has anyone gotten what looks like lots of mosquito bites all over? It started over a week ago with just 3, but now they’re all over my body. It doesn’t look like a rash, more like bites. They’re not in big clumps, more spread out, but there are a couple of places where there are small groups of 3 to 6 in a smaller area. I went to the ER last night and the PA said he didn’t think they were actual bites, but he had no idea what they are. I’m just looking for answers because they itch like crazy (he didn’t think they were chicken pox or measles though that’s what they remind me of).
Sue says
Hi, Lucy. I wonder if it is an allergic reaction. A few years ago I got small bumps on my hands and wrists that itched reaIy bad. It turned out I was allergic to the dish soap I was using. I changed dish soap and everything was okay. Later, I became sensitive to my laundry and bath soap, too. I can also break out from things in the air like fresh cut hay.
Amber says
Not sure if this is related, but I ended up covered in those type bumps and it turned out to be ringworms. We had a new kitten that was a carrier, not presenting them himself. My doctors said that they couldn’t be that since there so many of them. Well, it turned out to be the case. I used lotions for athletes foot (they are treated the same). Just a thought…
I’m on here looking to see why my skin burns. Ive had Fibromyalgia for 30 years and doctors never connected an intolerance to sunlight could be the problem. If you hear of anything related, please let me know!
Best of luck finding a treatment for your itch!
I totally understand you pain!!
Amber
Margaret Christensen says
That’s how mine are on my legs. The recent dermatology I saw thought bedbugs because they tend to go in lines of 3. But I don’t know how those would have gotten in my house and I’ve looked for signs and nothing.
debbie W says
I just started getting this symptom like bug bites. I get them right before a fibro flare and so far it’s always in the same place on my knee. I’ll get 1 or 2 at a time and itch like crazy. Looks a lot like chicken pox!
Lauren Giacobone says
I get them daily. I went thru all of the allergy testing because I was told by my doctor it wasn’t linked to anything I have. I am a type 2 diabetic NLD and fibromyalgia. They have me on Zyrtec, Zantac and singular ever morning and Zyrtec Zantac and Benadryl every night along with my other meds, they’re still convinced it’s just allergies but now that I’m hearing more stories like yours I’m beginning to think it is definitely fibromyalgia related. Seems to be in the general area where my pain is the worst sometimes and sometimes just everywhere in general. Went to er several times and they treated me like it was an allergic reaction and hives and sent me on my way. Going back in to see my neurologist soon tho.
Jessie says
YES! That’s what I have currently and it’s driving me crazy. My partner says he has no bites on him, because I was wondering if we had bed bugs. My spots start similar to a mosquito bite, but then look more like a rash or chickpox. ANd horrible burning itch! I have them on my foot, one on my thigh, and a couple on my neck. What is going on??
xi says
I was so sick of itchy skin that I would try anything but I now use the Aloe & Jojoba Therapy from Made From Earth. It has calmed my itchy skin it has a nice smell not over powering.
Sue says
I have never tried Aloe & Jojoba Therapy. I like to use Healing Hemp CBD Lotion made by The Fay Farm for pain and itching.
Helen Campbell says
I’ve got a doozie of a skin condition for you. As you all know fibro has a stress related component, my stress manifested itself in a wonderful skin problem called nodular prurigo. I have always had what I called Adult Acne or more to the point, spots that would erupt in a very painful pimple with several cores that just refused to heal for months. I would often get an area that would come up like a shingles outbreak with the pain being severe enough to make you catch your breath when it felt like someone putting a hot poker to my skin. Even the wind blowing on my face was painful.
I had one outbreak in October 2013 that was particularly aggravating, resulting in my doctor removing the offending mass that gave me the diagnosis. I had a blemish free face for 3 weeks until it broke out in another place on the other side of my mouth. After many doctors visits, a truck load of cortisone creams and when I had had just about enough of it all my darling doctor came up with the idea of applying the cream and covering it completely with an opsite strip. I did that for 2 months more and finally it seemed to heal this was in April 2016.
2 years and 7 months of not really wanting to see my reflection in a mirror was over, not that I want to look in the mirror that often.’
Nodular Prurigo consists of thousands of nerve endings and I’m sure each one was firing at the same time. Even over my pain medication it was unbelievably agonizing. Hey, I thought I had a high pain threshold, but this bought me to my knees and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Has anyone else had this problem?
Sue says
Hi, Helen. I have never heard of nodular prurigo before. It sounds awful. Thank goodness your doctor came up with something that helped.
Katherine Walker says
Went to a Rheumatologist last month. She claimed I do not have Fibromyalgia. I don’t believe her. I currently itch on my left thigh, and if I scratch (have to do it), I break out in huge welts! Talk about miserable! I take Benadryl several times a day and also Cetirizine 10 mg. In the meantime, I discovered I was allergic to my blood pressure med called Lisinopril. Things are getting better, but I still itch. Some days I think I will go crazy!!!!! If you take Lisinopril for high blood pressure, I urge you to read about the drug on line. It will scare you to death!
Linda says
I took Lisinopril for a few months. OMG the pain I ended up with was unbearable! As if fibromyalgia isn’t bad enough, I could barely move. I weaned myself off of it and am afraid to go back to my Dr., my blood pressure is a little high and now I’m afraid to take anything.
Margaret Christensen says
I’ve had the worst rash ever for at least 4 monthe. On my legs it’s raised red spots that go in lines and weird patterns. My knees itch alot but show no rash. The rash is on my stomach, breasts, back, and bum. Even my groin itches terribly and it seems like little balls of dead skin come off there, its where my leg mettes the groin. I have raised scratches on my bum and stomach that look like a talon got me. Have tried steroid dose pack twice and it almost went away then came back with a vengeance. Does this sound familiar to anyone? One biopsy diagnosed folliculitis but the next Derm I saw took another biopsy that I haven’t heard from yet.
Sue says
Hi, Margaret. If the recent biopsy comes back negative then I wonder if could be an allergy to a food, bath soap, or laundry product.
Margaret Christensen says
I also have craniofacial hyperhidrosis, sometimes it’s my boobs and back that sweat too but the,head and face the sweat just pours out and drenched my hair. I’ve had grocery clerks ask if I’m ok, if I need medical assistance.
Sue says
I have been asked that, too. Especially when my face was beet red with the sweating.
BrendaSue Robles Bowers says
Wow! I thought I was the only one that had that problem! Thanks for sharing!?
Renee Ramos Braden says
I have very painful head, face, scalp, hair, eyes, I can’t even use warm water to shower its so painful. I have told my doctors about and I’m dismissed both by primary care and ruemotologist. I also have my right ear that is painful and keeps itching and sometimes ooses, it’s all very overwhelming. Can anybody help? Renee
Sue says
Hi, Renee. For the ear, you should probably see an allergist. My primary doctor sent me to one when antibiotics would not clear up the fluid in my ear. Who knows maybe the head, face, and eye pain is related. Although the painful skin is also a symptom of fibromyalgia itself. You should not have to feel dismissed by your doctors. If at all possible, I would consider finding a different doctor. Take care!
Kim says
I experience annoying itchy spots all the time. Like falling asleep isn’t hard enough but add an intense itch here then there!! However recently I started having itch in my eyelash area, like it makes me want to pull my eyelashes out. There is no rash, no flaking, no one can see anything!!! People think I’m crazy when I say how bad my skin itches! Drink more water, put on lotion!!!! Really!!!! So I guess I’m wondering if anyone else has had this happen to eyes?
Sue says
Hi, Kim. My eyes itch and so does my scalp and face. Allergy eye drops help with the itching eyes and I have found that adding a bit of baking soda to my shampoo, face cleanser, and body soap helps with the itchiness. I still get the random itchiness here and there but not as intense. I have also found that Healing Hemp lotion from The Fay Farm works great for the itching.
Anne Noy says
Agony my skin is so sore every little thing hurts the hell out of me.I’m desperate so I will be trying aloe Vera plant and get the juice from it I’m hoping it works.
Sue says
Let us know how it works. Take care, Anne.
Mary says
Showers have always been extremely uncomfortable. ..the sensation of getting wet…is painful, once wet I am fine. I also have leisons on my legs from what starts out as itchy red bumps the crawl out of shins, at first they are weepy, and itchy links ants live beneath the skin, and then as they heal they become raised dry flakey bumps that just want to be peeled. Very hard to heal.
Sue says
Sounds aweful. Gentle Hugs.
Adams says
Wow! Ive been doing much research anout the symptom of the red marks etc. Well…1yr and a 1/2 ago..all of a sudden…Bam! There they were. 1 or 2 to start. Wow. All over my calves..shins..arms..going to inner thighs…ITCHY! HOLY SMOKES! Embarrassing also. No shorts or cute dresses for summer. This year we had major fires so o really didnt go outside much due to smoke. Anyway. Ive always felt like ants crawling in my head..limbs etc. Thougjt hot flashes were the issue of menopause. Im done thT already. What is your “Rash” called? I had excema my teen years and every so often a flare up when really hot.that kind of stuff. So..ACUTE WAVES OF BODY PAIN STARTS AT MY FEET THEN CRAWLING UP TO MY TORSO AND THEN HEAD. MY POOR BRAIN. I HAVE HAD BLOCKS IN MY NECK..BACK..KNEES. IVE BEEN PUT ON BACLOPHEN AND AVENTYL. Never knew blood pressure meds maybe part of the rash and other symptoms. Hmm. So..thankyou. Just knowing others have complicated conditions has put my brain at ease somewht. Are u able to send a 📷? How do we go about that?
Deborah McLain says
I get a rash on both lower legs and feet it iches and comes and gos now today I have a stinging burning bumpy blistery sipping deal going on the back of my lower neck do I seek attention go to a doctor or what should I do it’s annoy in as hell nothing can touch it with out it hurting bad
Sue says
Hi, Deborah. Rashes that come and go are usually caused by an allergy reaction to something you are exposed to. But there can be other causes so I think you should consult your doctor to be safe. Take Care.
Debra Girard says
This past year I have had unrelenting itching all over. Lotions don’t offer much relief. I have found that mega doses of hydroxyzine does work much of the time. My insurance no longer covers this medication though. Benadryl does NOT work, and I had to stop lamictal because that made the itching beyond unbearable. Now that I no longer have access to hydroxyzine, it is coming back with a vengeance.
Sue says
Hi, Debra. It figures that when you find something that helps, your insurance stops covering it. There are a lot of treatments my insurance won’t cover. It’s really sad.
Jake for Zara says
I notice it only seems to affect women going by this thread. My other half is going through this at the moment and not only is doing her head in, it’s doing mine in! 6 different doctors and GPS have said it’s an allergy. I suspect it’s to do with fibro/ allodyina. Any suggestions ladies?
Sue says
Hi, Jake. Honestly, it could be all three. Fibro, Allodynia, and allergies. Fibro itself causes sensitivity to many different things, especially chemicals that are used in everyday products. My advice is to go as chemical-free as possible and use products that are hypoallergenic.
Stacey says
I actually stumbled upon your blog when I went on a Google search for correlations between skin peeling on my fingers and Fibro. I was only diagnosed recently (just over a year ago) but I’m sure I had been suffering un-diagnosed for years. I’ve had this one spot on the inside of my left foot, just below the ankle bone that itches incessantly! And I mean it’s BAD! To the point that I scratch at it in my sleep to the point of bleeding and now scaring but it still itches. My fingers started peeling when my doctor, misdiagnosing me with other issues, prescribed me Prednasone just before realizing I have Fibro. Usually after prednasone, the side effects go away, sure some take longer than others but the skin peeling on my fingers hasn’t stopped over a year later.
I have only experienced skin pain a few times, usually my face or shoulders. Itchy skin, rashes, mottled skin…all those in some degree or another but only recently I get more than one at the same time. It’s a constant adventure..that’s for sure!
Sue says
Hi, Stacey. I had trouble with my skin peeling on my hands many years ago. My doctor told me to try buying a different dish soap and that worked. Fibro is a constant adventure for sure.
Gail says
I was placed on disability in 2010 and diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2012 by a neurologist and also have a rheumatologist. I’ve had all the itching with rashes and stinging pain like needles, scaring and dry peeling skin, muscle pain, joint pain, fatigue, stiffness, soreness, decreased libido, bruising easily, etc. What has helped me the most for itching is Clobetisol Propionate Gel, 0.05% (RX), Luxiq (RX) (has moose like texture and soft cool feeling, very soothing), Cetaphil Antibacterial bar soap (OTC – Walmart & Target usually carries it and least expensive, ~$3.00/bar but worth it), U-lactin body lotion (order on-line), “All free and clear” laundry soap and sometimes do extra rinse cycle. I stopped using fabric softeners or dryer sheets. I try to stretch and do yoga as much as I can tolerate, walking and swimming, and try to stay busy. I try not to sit too long, I get very stiff and sore, try to change things up, pace myself throughout the day and try not to overdo it with cleaning, yard work, etc. Advil (Ibuprofen) works best for my pain but I don’t need it every day. Trying to eat clean with more fresh fruits & vegetables, less fatty foods, avoiding sugar, drink plenty of water, trying to loose extra weight gained due to decreased activity, and getting a good nights sleep which is “very important”. I take a very small dose of Ativan (RX) 1/2 hour before bed time which helps me relax and fall asleep. Depression can be a culprit also, so make sure you see a specialist for it. Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed to help decrease pain and other issues, anxiety, not getting restful sleep, etc. Try to keep the stress levels down if at all possible. I hope this information has helped some of you who are suffering from Fibromyalgia. If I think of any other helpful ideas I may have left out, I will definitely post them. Take good care of yourselves and hopefully you are able to find what works best for you in alleviating your symptoms.
Sue says
Hi, Gail. Thanks for sharing your good advice. It takes all of these things to manage our health and live as well as possible. That’s why it is so important for each of us to take responsibility for our own health. It’s a lot of work that no one can do for us. I agree with everything you said especially about sleep. It is very important, maybe the most important. If I am getting good sleep I have more energy during the day to move more and make sure I eat healthy meals. If I am not getting good sleep all of my symptoms get worse including depression. Thanks again for sharing! 🙂
Connie little says
I have it round my ankles and my bones hurts bad
Susan says
Hopefully someone knows what I have. For approx 30 yrs (I am 54) I have had a patch of skin suddenly become extremely sore and sensitive. It feels like the nerves are on fire and electric shocks zap me in this patch. It lasted 1-2 days back when it started and used to only happen about 3-4 times a year (the patch was usually on my arms or legs or torso but would move around each time). There is nothing visible where this burning is occurring. No rash, spots, dry skin….nothing. As I am getting older, these episodes are occurring much more frequently (weekly or more) and the patches are either becoming larger (my whole back and sides for example once lasted over a week) or more intense (the one on my leg last night would make my leg jump every time the nerve would “zap”. Does anyone else have these symptoms? I have mentioned them to my Dr who doesn’t have any idea what they could be.Thanks.
Sue says
Hi, Susan. Since there is nothing visible, it could be allodynia which is basically skin pain. Allodynia is believed to be a hypersensitivity to stimuli that would normally not cause pain. The pain can be provoked by a light touch to the skin, pressure from clothing, showering, brushing your hair, or a breeze blowing across the skin. You can read more about Allodynia here. The jumpy leg could be either Allodynia or you could be developing Restless Leg Syndrome.
Ashly says
I have had ffybro for 3 yrs, am 51. I get extreme itchiness it then forms a sore that if i prick and sqeeze the liquid out the itching stops. I get this now and then, it is aweful
Jamila Jones says
I’m so happy I found this site. I have a 23 year old daughter who has been newly diagnosed with fibromyalgia. They have her on gabapentin and Cymbalta but it just doesn’t seem to be working. Everyday there’s a different pain and I’m worried about her mentally because she just wants to give up because she’s always in such horrible pain. I’m trying to get her to be positive as we work with the doctors to get some kind of relief for her pain. It’s heartbreaking to sit and watch her cry and not be her normal self and there’s nothing that I can do for her. I’m hoping that she will be able to read some of you ladies comments and get some comfort knowing that she’s not the only one experiencing these different things with her Fibromyalgia.
Sue says
Hi, Jamila. Your daughter is lucky to have an understanding mother by her side. Fibromyalgia is a hard disease to deal with especially in the beginning when you are going through the grieving process. I hope that your daughter reads some of the articles on the blog and finds comfort in the fact that she is not alone. There are millions of people, of all ages with fibro, who know exactly how she feels. Contact me anytime and I will try to help as best I can.
Darren says
Hello, I was in my late 20’s when I found out after so much back and forth Fibro was the overall illness. Long story short , I was on Paxil, acid reducers, Advil … Daily. It wasn’t until I saw a Nutripathic doctor ( simular to a Naturopath) that treat the cause of the illness, instead of the symptoms. I have come to learn over the past 5 years as I have got of all prescriptions, that diet is the number 1 treatment, along with natural herbal medicines and detoxing. Lifestyle is huge, yoga was a saving grace,and meditation too. I know what it’s like to be young and have this harsh reality, I was like your daughter too, I was on such pain and felt hopeless , as most my freinds around me were healthy and living a normal life for ppl in there 20’s.
One thing I have found is younger ppl are much more open to alternative medicine and new ideas. In my opinion, and probaly most ppl who have got off all meds and brought much healing to there fibro, is that the majority of medical doctors are not very good at treating fibro, they are trained to treat the symptoms of disease with prescription pills, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but that is how they are trained, and there is a lot of $$ in these drug company’s, may be worth researching.
A raw food diet free of any processed foods is the first step, and as my ND and most would agree, say anything else is besides the point. There actually are a lot of good vegan and Paleo dishes, just takes practice. I recommend researching or possibly setting up a meet up which are always free like 15 mins with a ND.
Food sensitivity testing is a huge step as ppl with fibro have many food allergy and sensitivities.
Just hearing a alternative opinion is worth it, and there is a learning curve to natural medicine.
Hope this was helpful, good luck
Cheryl says
Where do you find a ND and where do you find the testing for food sensitivities?
Angela Stokes says
Im wondering if this is what i am going through i have dry skin all over my entire body just at therub of my finger tip to any part of skin on my body it brings up alot of flaky skin a huge amount almost shocking but… No pain just itchy and alot at all times. It just looks like apatch of dry skin would on my body but instead all over from head to toe. I dont know what else it could possibly be. No lotuon oil nor amount of srubbing slows the flakyness down one bit. #SOCONFUSED
Sue says
Hi, Angela. You may have a fatty acid deficiency. There is an article on ProHealth that suggests taking 6 grams of fish oil or 1 tbsp of flax oil for six weeks to see if that helps. Many medications such as high blood pressure medications can also cause this. If your regular doctor can’t help, maybe a dermatologist or an allergist can help you figure out what is going on.
Sandra sanders says
I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia a few months ago my inflammation markers were high. I have very itchy red bumps on my scalp. Streaks of raised bumpsunder my scalp. Saw a dermatologist he said I had Foliculitis. The clobetasol solution to put on my scalp analog with shampooing with head and shoulders shampoo. Didn’t help then he ordered Ketoconazole 2% shampoo. No results from that either ! If any one has any treatment that worked for them please respond. My scalp is so very painful with open sores all over. My hair has become very brittle. Thanks
Sue says
Hi, Sandra. It sounds awful. I hope someone here can help.
Darren says
Hello, new to talking to other ppl online about fibro, but I just noticed last night the red under skin itchy rash.
As my Naturopathic Doctor – Doctors who treat the CAUSE!!! of illness, not the SYMPTOMS, mentioned to me before this is most likely due to food allergies, which many of us with fibro have a lot of food allergy.
I ate some GF Cheerios last night, flavored Apple ones, my fault, full of chemical additives, and the skin is itchy and reacts with a red blotched appearance.
Again as I know, a raw food diet is the number 1 treatment, vegan, Paleo ….. What ever but the 1st thing is cutting out all processed foods!!
Anything else I do is besides the point
Then the symptoms improve dramatically !!
Best of luck ppl👍🏻
Deb e says
I just found this site today. Some on this thread have said to try a little baking soda, haven’t tried yet but will!
Liesel says
Ask doctor first if your on medications 😊
Liesel says
Well weather is no picnic! Can’t handle too hot and forget cold!!!
But, the PAIN…… I can’t stand to be touched and if I don’t get the pain under control and reach the red zone…. I feel bad for my hubby and pets, because I just get plain irritable😢
I’ve lost all my long beautiful curly hair from pain!!!
I’m bald now! Tried growing back and kept hurting soooo much I would feel bumps and scabs…. shaved my head and yep it was so irritated from the hair! Feels better now the hair is gone!!!!
Just guess I will always wear scarves and hats!
Sue says
Hi, Liesel. I have times when I feel jumpy, irritable, and can’t stand to be touched. I have thought about shaving my head a few times, usually when it’s getting too long. I don’t have the guts to do it. Keeping my hair short does help. 🙂
Mona says
My skin has just begun to act up. My old sweaters cause bumps that hurt first and then are extremely itchy. I need the warm pool for aquafit, but I’m sure that doesn’t help. I take an antihistamine before I get up and I use creams. I ouixbe good most of the day and then it goes crazy in the afternoon. Lu kily I canstillsleep. I feel like I’m going crazy.
Sue says
Hi, Mona. The only way I can wear a sweater is to wear a long sleeve cotton t-shirt underneath it. Sometimes it still makes me itchy. Take care and Happy Holidays.
Amy says
I have to see a doctor ASAP. I have had extreme fatigue and pain with skin flares always in the same area with similar times of the year it looks like a wind burn under my eyes I get swelling too. The most recent is scans and bruises appear all over my legs and back for no reason! It’s very uncomfortable and itchy. I try not to irritate it. I have tried creams and cervue helps a little and non fragrance fee wash. It’s called hydrating ceraVe cleanser. All the scans appear out of no where and this is from recently when I had a tooth extraction and they prescribed me pain killers. It started on my inner and outer ear area. Could it be the dye? Cosine? I don’t know but acne come along with it a like on my face. My body looks like I ran through a barbed wire.similar to other responses and same symptoms on the blog, I have. My hands and fingers severely dry and flaky to where it bleeds. What to do????help please and thank you!
Amy says
Also it’s like sores and scabs on my head and scalp
Sue says
Hi, Amy. I had a similar reaction to a cortisone shot. Not the bruising, but rash and swelling. The skin on my nose peeled for almost a year after, too. I am also allergic to codeine, so painkillers are out for me. I would write down everything you have come in contact with and eaten when your skin flares up. That’s how I realized I was allergic to fresh cut hay and a number of other things. About a month ago my sister went into anaphylactic shock from peanut butter. She’s eaten peanut butter her whole life. We can become allergic to anything at any time.
Mary says
I have a friend who has fibromyalgia. For about a month she’s had rashes and these pustules all over her body. She has also had what appears to be conjunctivitis in her left eye which, along with the rash, isn’t getting better. The eye was bad before the rash appeared…we’re going back longer than one month. She goes to the VA hospital, one of the better ones run by Penn, but the doctors seem clueless. Today as we were talking, she kept swiping at her eye, with gunk coming out of it, scratching her head because now her scalp itches, as do the inside of her nose and ears. She hasn’t been able to drive because of the eye and has another doc appointment this week. The docs have told her to use benedryl for the itching but cannot seem to find its source.I feel terrible about this and wonder if anyone reading has any knowledge of such awful symptoms or if it might possibly be correlated to fibromyalgia, Thanks.
Sue says
Hi, Mary. Unexplained rashes and itching are really common with fibromyalgia. We also have a tendency to become more and more sensitive to things in our environment such as personal products, cleaning products, foods, etc. It is really hard to know if a new symptom can be blamed on fibro or if something else is going on. Even the best doctors have a hard time trying to figure out what is going on when you have fibro. This is only a guess, but I tend to think it could be an allergic reaction. We all need a good friend like you. Bless you.
Heather says
My rashes are 100% related to my nickel intake. Find out what metal you are allergic to and eliminate it from your diet. I control my Fibro now, it does not control me!
Rebecca Slocum says
I can relate to all of the above. Especially the skin pain , and the wind even hurts , or even a light touch to the clothes I wear . The joint pain no sleep. I am miserable more often than not. I also get a rash all over and my legs and arms turn purple and blotchy it looks horrible. I have not had a diagnosis but what I deal with is terrible and I would NOT wish it on anyone. I have tried so many things to relieve my symptoms to no avail.
Sue says
Hi, Rebecca. On average, it takes over 2 years to get a diagnosis. Even with a diagnosis, not much will change when it comes to symptom relief. That is the saddest part. You just have to keep trying different things, again and again.
Rose says
I have several health conditions including fibromyalgia. Therefore it’s really hard to say which is causing which symptoms.
I do suffer from all over body sensitivity with the added skin disorders / issues . July 2017,
I was diagnosed as having stress related boils n mild cellulitis. It’s now January 2018 I’m still having cores piercing my skin all over as they feel like needles piercing through my skin from inside out.
Is this fibromyalgia related , stress related boils/ carbuncles or what is it.??…
This has absolutely drove me crazy as I keep searching for answers I’ve been to the E.R x4
The Doctor office twice.
I have taken over 200 oral antibiotics, 1.5bag intravenous antibiotics, 3 prescription topical antibiotics , case of peroxide, case of alcohol, 4-5 tubes topical Neosporin, a different over the counter topical as well. All this since July 7th 2017
Still dealing with small seeded needle like cores piercing through all over my body. Including my lips. It has been very painful now it’s very much annoying with declining pain .
What is This. ??
When or How Long will it take for it to go away?? Or is it something I’m dealing with for life? . Could it be an STD ?? Please Help .. !!!!
I’m absolutely Miserable .
Sincerely,.
Misery Rose
Sue says
Hi, Rose. Since the boils are continuing after all this time and treatments, you should go back to your doctor. Usually boils are relatively easy to treat are gone within a couple of weeks. I think it is time for your doctor to look for the underlying cause of the boils. From what I have read, boils that won’t go away can be caused from several things like thyroid problems, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications. If your doctor can’t help, I would ask for a referral to one that can. I hope you find some answers soon.
parvin roohi says
I have noticed recently that my skin like chicken skin on my neck and bumpy .there is no rash but burning sensation .and now my face burns too but there is no bumps .I use natural moisturiser that I make it myself.would you tell what is the problem? Should I go to dermatologist? Thanks.
Sue says
It could be possible you are having a reaction to one of the ingredients in your natural moisturizer. Maybe you could experiment with the ingredients to see if it makes a difference. Burning and painful skin is a problem for a lot of us with fibromyalgia. I don’t know whether a dermatologist could help or not.
Natalie says
I was just diagnosis with fm and every new symptom worries me. The skin pain is the worst I don’t want my clothes to touch me. When it’s really bad I’ve noticed my veins are really popped out about 5-10 minutes after pain has started, when the pain eases the veins fade too and it seems like pain is coming from the vein, does this happen to you or anyone you know with fm have this issue too? Is it the fm or something else? Also I had pain a little above the knee and a few minutes later the was a small lump where the pain was the lump stayed for a few hours and went away samething happen on the side of lower abdomin area and again below my neck above my clavicle. The lumps are soft it’s like swelling in a small area and always goes away. So by the time I am at the Dr office it’s gone and the samething with the veins but the vein thing happens almost daily and some times when they fade and all swelling is gone it leaves a bruise.
Sue says
Hi, Natalie. Is it the fm or is it something else? That is a question those of us with fibro ask a lot. It is a hard question to answer because fibro has so many symptoms and there are also many coexisting conditions. For those reasons it is a good idea to keep track of your symptoms and tell your doctor about any new symptoms that crop up. There are problems with blood flow in FMS. My veins do the same. The bruising and swelling is also typical. FMS affects every system in the body. Some of the symptoms seem so bizarre, you may wonder if you are losing your sanity. No matter how crazy your symptoms seem, I guarantee that many us with FM have experienced the same thing. Feel free to ask any questions you have and I will answer as best I can, and so will some my wonderful readers. Just know you are not alone and there is help whenever you need it.
Tess says
Natalie 🙂 Hello! I’m Tess (I hope you read this ) and I’ve been living with fibromyalgia knowingly for almost a year now (June) I was living in the dark 3 years prior to that though.
I have never experienced personally what you are talking about, nor have I read anyone else with the pain/ lumps appear disappear and leave bruising . . . But My Daddy had this happen a few weeks ago. I made him go to the ER because I have to drag my Mom and Dad there because they used to live on denial. . .anyways my dad found out he had DT deep thrombosis from his upper thigh (next to his groin) all the way down to his mid calf. One totally HUGE BLOOD CLOT! The interesting thing that I connected to yours was the veins popping out and the pain . My dad had that happening from his late 20s on. We all thought it was weird but it seemed to work out OK. Now hes 65. And on warfarin for a while. And has to lay or sit with his knees above his heart until this huge CLOT stabilizes.t hen he will need to slowly exercise. If it was me and I was worried I would ask a close friend who is with me or I can send a picture to and ask what they think, at least I would take pictures Everytime I had an issue, maybe put a quarter by it for size comparison. I would honestly go to the ER and say this has been happening (point to your lump) explain the pain explain the places it pops up and more than likely they can do a few tests. If not the ER maybe urgent care. But go your life is important. They can do this test even if your symptoms are gone now that you !ade it to urgent Care but the lump is gone you know?
A D-dimer test. This test measures a substance in the blood that’s released when a blood clot dissolves. If the test shows high levels of the substance, you may have a deep vein blood clot. If your test is normal and you have few risk factors, DVT isn’t likely.
Venography. This test is used if ultrasound doesn’t provide a clear diagnosis. Dye is injected into a vein, and then an x ray is taken of the leg. The dye makes the vein visible on the x ray. The x ray will show whether blood flow is slow in the vein. This may indicate a blood clot.
Other less common tests used to diagnose DVT include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scanning. These tests provide pictures of your organs and tissues and are commonly used to diagnose pulmonary embolisms (PE
It may not be this but if you could find out now it is better than when you are literally suffocating like my mom did when she had a blood clot in her lung. I would rather people think about their personal safety and best interest and not be afraid to take care of themselves. My husband I honestly think he thought I was just depressed so he built resentment up for three years but now almost a year of being on medicine and learning my new me limitations boundaries do and don’ts hes just picked up a ton of responsibility, and we both and our 4 kids are happy when Mommy can shop or watch kids play at the park or do the dishes!!! Don’t think that just because you used to be wonder woman and could do everything. . . That you can just as fast now. Some days I’m not to put clean clothes on, or brush my teeth. Look at those huge steps as victories. Don’t squash what little you do to FM. I do my best to continue to teach my kids to continue to look at the I cans and stay positive with me, because you know that’s something I won’t let fibromyalgia steal from me. I have hard days and maybe a hard 3 days where I barely leave bed. But Gods graces are new every morning and I keep that small mustard seed of faith😇although on those hard days even finding faith as tiny as that can be difficult. This is my first time responding to any FM stuff. So thank you for reading😊