Bipolar disorder and fibromyalgia

I have bipolar disorder I but I also have had for ages several other, more "physical" issues, such as very frequent pain in various parts of my body (not always the same) for no particular reason, and extreme tiredness even when I sleep well over the typical 8 hours (I'm retired already because of the bipolar) - these among other things. I have experienced these often also in the past but not always, so I have never really looked into it. Recently pain and tiredness have become more frequent, basically every day, and was starting to think that it might be because of one of the meds I take, Risperdal, since these symptoms are listed among those known for this medicine.

However today I was researching a bit more into medication for bipolar disorder and pain/tiredness/etc and found mentions of fibromyalgia which prompted me to do some research on this. I am kinda shocked by how many symptoms I have might be associated with fibromyalgia, so much so that I no longer suspect it might be Risperdal or another medicine.

There is a frequent connection between fibromyalgia and bipolar disorder; fibromyalgia also is thought to be caused by some chemical imbalance in the brain which might cause hyper sensitivity to pain, fatigue etc.

I am going to mention this to my nurse on Thursday when I see her, and ask to talk with my doctor about it. I was wondering whether there is someone here with bipolar disorder who has also been diagnosed with fibromyalgia? What's your experience with it?

Thanks.

Hi Linx,

I have no experience with it to be honest, but still wnted to reply.

Despite adjusting medication hwich seems the obvious possibility according to your researches - I know also that some psychologists are specialized in Chronic Pain management; they give several strategies etc.

Wish you all the best, and hope you will find a solutioon for this