I think most people associate fibromyalgia with mild, general aches and pain, here and there and thinks that "fibro people" are whiners, too sensitive to ordinary pulled muscles, or muscles aches from long walks, etc. So their point of view is that we should pull ourselves together and stop whining and start exercising more, build up resistance and flexibility and stop this nonsense story of pain for invisible reasons. Because of this I don't tell anyone, I don't complain, except to my husband, who understands it after he read into it and accompanied me to many doctor's appointments in the past. Here in the US there is a Lyrica commercial targeting fibro patients and the way they show fibromyalgia (in my opinion) lets most people conclude that fibro is just another type of pain and Lyrica is some sort of Tylenol or Ibuprofen substitute.

Ive been doing it so long now its beginning to wear thin constantly explaining myself. The old “you look ok” and “ but you look so healthy “ replies irritate me now. My own uncle who i havent seen in a while had no idea how bad it had got, he just stood there open mouthed. He kept repeating “i cant believe it “ over and over like i had died or something. Those who matter know and as far as im concerned now i dont see why i should explain myself.

Fibro2012, I have the blue heart badge that says 'not every illness is visible' and I also have stickers in my car that say the same.
If anyone says anything I just point to them. It usually shuts them up, especially when I park in the disabled parking area.
I often find that if I'm using my walking stick no one says anything or even looks bothered, but if don't need my stick one day, you can guarantee someone will either make a comment or glare at me as if I'm committing a crime!
That's when I draw their attention to the 'not every illness is visible' sticker! It works wonders! 😊

People who don't need to know...I tell them nothing. Then there are my regular friends and I tell.them as much as they are willing to hear which is sometimes little. My Mom knows the most because I live with and take care of her. I explained that I felt as if there were two strong animals in me pulling me apart. I went into a bit more detail. She got it. I could tell by the look in her eyes and her acceptance of me. It goes both ways. I don't believe anyone will ever understand the strength it takes to live with this. You.are all incredible.

can;t say I've had too many people to explain it to only my hubby & my doctor. I just explained it to my hubby by saying think how much pain u were in when u slipped a disc, then triple that & u might come somewhere near where I am everyday. Also that the pain never ever goes there is always some residue of pain even after taking all the meds prescribed for me, not one day goes by with out me being in some type of pain whether it's severe or not. Hope that helps xx