If you deal with widespread pain on a regular basis, with no apparent cause, you might have fibromyalgia. Sometimes called chronic pain syndrome, doctors are not sure what causes fibromyalgia. Some think it is related to how the brain interprets and processes external stimuli. A person with fibromyalgia might feel sharp pain from just a touch, when a person without the condition would experience no discomfort.

Most people who suffer from fibromyalgia have days when they have little pain, and other days when they can barely get out of bed. These bad days are referred to as "flairs." In addition, they might be hypersensitive to noises, light, heat, cold, and even smells. They might also have periods of mental confusion, known as "fibro fog." Many people with fibromyalgia also have periods of extreme physical fatigue.

Living with fibromyalgia is challenging. Part of the problem is that so little is known about the condition. You look fine on the outside, but you feel miserable. For those who have never experienced fibromyalgia firsthand, this is a difficult concept to grasp. It doesn't show up on an x-ray or blood test or on a CT scan.

If you have fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndrome, it's important for you to develop a support system. Make your family and friends aware of your limitations, and have them read information about the condition from reputable sources. Help them to understand how you feel.

You'll also need to learn and acknowledge your own limitations. Don't work to the point of exhaustion. When you first begin to feel tired, stop and rest. Learn to say no when you don't feel well. Try to get enough sleep every night by establishing a sleep routine. Keep your bedroom cool and dark, and provide some soothing "white noise" like a fan, or invest in a sound machine that plays calming sounds like rain, the ocean, or a summer night.

Keep your muscles supple with mild exercise and stretching. Therapeutic massage also provides relief to many fibromyalgia sufferers. A wonderful place to exercise is in a swimming pool, where the water relieves the stress of muscles. For moderate to severe pain, a TENS unit can be used.

Many doctors prescribe drugs for their patients with fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndrome. Some of these prescriptions include Lyrica, Flexeril, and Tramadol. If you take pain medications, take them only on your worst days. If you use them frequently, they will lose their effectiveness, and worse, you could become addicted.

Some fibromyalgia victims claim their symptoms improve when they follow a healthy diet. Be sure you get enough protein, fiber, fruits, and vegetables every day. It's also a good idea to include a multivitamin.

Meditation and other relaxation techniques provide relief for some people. You can easily find information about these topics at your nearest library or online.

Finally, understand that you're not alone. Millions of people suffer from fibromyalgia and chronic pain. It's not "all in your head," and you're not crazy. While the condition does not permanently damage your muscles, that's little consolation when you're having a flair. Just try to relax and make those near you understand that you're having a bad day. Follow some of the suggestions above, and remember: This too shall pass.