Symptom 9: Sensitivity to Temperature: The Thermal Quirk of Fibromyalgia
Sensitivity to temperature, both hot and cold, is another common symptom reported by individuals with fibromyalgia. This heightened sensitivity can make it difficult to comfortably navigate environments with fluctuating or extreme temperatures, posing an additional challenge in daily life.
Temperature sensitivity in fibromyalgia can manifest in various ways. Some individuals may find they are intolerant to cold, experiencing increased pain and stiffness in lower temperatures. Others may struggle with heat, finding it exacerbates their fatigue and leads to excessive sweating. In some cases, individuals may be sensitive to both extremes, adding to the unpredictability of the condition.
This symptom is likely connected to the overactive nervous system seen in fibromyalgia. The heightened sensitivity to sensory input extends beyond pain to other sensations, including temperature. This can lead to an exaggerated response to thermal stimuli, resulting in discomfort or pain. (9)
