Fibromyalgia is not dangerous or life threatening. Nonetheless, persistent symptoms can be very disruptive. Most people feel widespread musculoskeletal pain and stiffness that has lasted for at least three months. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist. Any soft tissue (muscles, tendons and ligaments) may be affected. But soft tissue of the neck, upper shoulders, chest, rib cage, lower back, thighs, arms, and areas around certain joints are especially likely to be painful. Symptoms may occur periodically or can be present in most of the time. Pain may be intense, often described as a constant dull ache. Specific areas of muscle may be tender (tender points) and spasms may occur. Many affected people do not sleep well and feel tired, anxious and depressed, with inability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks. They may also have headaches, bladder or bowel dysfunction, and rheumatologic or endocrine disorders.