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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Do any of you find it hard to be around people? For some reason my pain level goes sky high when I am around people for any amount of time.

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Centerville, GA

Being around family doesnt bother me as much but going out in public is the worst. Going to church, weddings, etc or just out to shop really take a toll on my pain level. Wondering if I am alone in this issue.

November 17, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members deeply resonated with the challenge of being around people when living with chronic pain, with many describing how crowds, noise, and... Read more

Members deeply resonated with the challenge of being around people when living with chronic pain, with many describing how crowds, noise, and social settings trigger increased pain, sensory overload, anxiety, and overwhelming fatigue that can last for hours or days. Several members shared coping strategies they've found helpful, including wearing dark sunglasses indoors, limiting time at gatherings, being honest about their limitations without making excuses, and reminding themselves that attending events often feels worthwhile afterward even when it's difficult in the moment. A recurring theme was the tension between wanting to stay connected to loved ones and community while honoring the body's very real need for rest, quiet, and the safety of home where pain can be managed without the added stress of performing or keeping up appearances.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Nope I'm the same. Other than work and home I don't go out much. The fatigue and pain come in waves that I can't control. Usually evenings are the worst.

November 17, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

People (all except immediate family) really stress me out and make my pain much worse. I avoid large gatherings if I can. I don't make excuses, I tell people the truth and if they really care, they understand. If not, oh well, I don't miss them. My husband really champions me in this. He's seen the pain and it's effects. He knows I have always had a really high pain tolerance and when I say I hurt too bad to do something, he knows it's got to be very bad.

November 21, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes I have found that i can only spend limited amt of time with people.
No more long conversations. Sensory overload or something & the pain gets worse.

November 17, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

No. Ive been to a wedding and a christening since this got out of hand and it was so painful. The back spasms , and rib spasms were horrendous. I couldnt wait to get home. Plus all the people, loud noise etc. I just felt in the way. We have a wedding next July. I doubt i will go to it. Indrrad the thought.

November 17, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes, it’s stressful. Too much noise. It’s an overload to my senses and causes anxiety.

November 17, 2017

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