In my case it was, it can progress frighteningly quick if you refuse to let it win and are active when you fatigue. You learn to feel the start of fatigue and you know the point you need to rest. Listen to your body it will let you know when you need to stop and relax.

oops I was wrong there are 7 and here is a link to read them:

http://fibromyalgiaresources.com/the-7-stages-o...

I have had fibromyalgia for 33years and yes I does get worse as it progresses. And as it does unseen things will surface. I was diagnosed in early stage one now I am heading through state 4.

I believe it's the stress that makes it seem progressive. Stress causes more pain, then our reaction and treatment of the pain can cause more stress. As can how we handle stress. Getting older obviously will make it a little harder, but for me, getting on top of stress, saying no, keeping good friends close, getting a good medical team, cutting off toxic people, getting psychological help etc. Diet, few meds.. see my bio for more.. also get a good remedial massager who is well trained and understands fibro. We, like everyone get aches and pains from sitting, standing, and need a good massage.

For me I stepped back a wrote out what I could do 20years ago, then 15 years ago, then 10years, 5years, and now. And wow yes it does progress and it isn't until you look back a old journals etc that you actually see what activities it has taken away, what diet changes we have had to make, lifestyle changes, friends that have come and gone as well as have stayed with you.