Fibromyalgia and Sleep: Why You’re Still Tired After a Full Night’s Rest

Getting eight hours of sleep should leave you feeling rested, but fibromyalgia fatigue can make mornings feel like you barely slept. Poor sleep quality is a recognized part of fibromyalgia, and you can wake with exhaustion, stiffness, widespread pain, or mental fog even after spending a full night in bed.

At Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants in Oceanside and Encinitas, CA, our experienced team includes board-certified pain specialists Nathan Perrizo, DO, and Brooke Towne, MD, along with physician assistants skilled in chronic pain and spine care.

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. It can also affect how you sleep, think, and feel during the day. Fatigue, stiffness, difficulty concentrating, and nonrestorative sleep are common symptoms, which can make everyday activities feel harder than usual.

Why Does Fibromyalgia Make Sleep Less Restful?

Fibromyalgia can interfere with restorative sleep in several ways:

• Less deep sleep: You may sleep for seven or eight hours without getting enough of the deeper sleep your body needs.
• Frequent waking: Fibromyalgia can reduce sleep efficiency and increase nighttime wakefulness.
• Nonrestorative sleep: You may wake feeling drained, stiff, achy, or mentally foggy despite a full night in bed.
• Pain and sensitivity: Body aches and increased sensitivity can make it difficult to get comfortable and stay asleep.
• Other sleep problems: Insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and sleep apnea can further interfere with restful sleep.

Can Better Sleep Help With Fibromyalgia Fatigue?

Improving sleep habits can be an important part of managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Helpful habits may include keeping consistent bed and wake times, limiting caffeine later in the day, keeping your bedroom dark and quiet, and creating a calming bedtime routine. Pacing your daytime activities can also help prevent exhaustion that can worsen symptoms.

Persistent fatigue deserves attention, especially when it interferes with work, exercise, concentration, or everyday activities. A medical evaluation can help determine how fibromyalgia, sleep concerns, and other factors may be contributing to how you feel.

Talk With Our Fibromyalgia Team Today

You don’t have to settle for waking up exhausted day after day. Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants can evaluate your symptoms and discuss fibromyalgia treatment options to improve daily function and quality of life. 

To schedule a consultation, call our Oceanside location at 760-941-7336 or 760-943-6494, or our Encinitas location at 760-753-1104.