Which condition is characterized by pain, fatigue, and tender points within the muscle?

Fibromyalgia is distinguished by its hallmark symptoms, which include widespread pain, significant fatigue, and the presence of tender points in various muscle groups throughout the body. This condition affects the way the brain processes pain signals, leading to increased sensitivity to pain. Additionally, individuals with fibromyalgia often experience associated symptoms such as sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and mood issues, which further contribute to the fatigue and discomfort they experience.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis primarily impacts joint inflammation and is characterized by symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Osteoarthritis is another form of arthritis, but it primarily involves the wear and tear of cartilage in the joints, leading to localized joint pain and stiffness rather than the widespread muscle pain associated with fibromyalgia. Gout is characterized by sudden and severe pain, typically in the joints, due to crystallization of uric acid and does not present the same muscle tenderness or widespread symptoms found in fibromyalgia.