Fibromyalgia Health Center

Fibromyalgia Causes

What Are Risk Factors for Fibromyalgia?

Risk factors are distinct characteristics researchers have identified that may increase your chance of getting a certain illness. While researchers have identified some common risk factors for fibromyalgia, there are still many people with the disease who have none of these traits. Also, some women have fibromyalgia with certain diseases, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or other autoimmune diseases. But others have fibromyalgia without any underlying disease.

Possible risk factors for fibromyalgia include:

• gender (usually female)
• genetic disposition (may be inherited)
• menopause (loss of estrogen)
• poor physical conditioning
• surgery
• trauma to the brain or spinal cord (after an injury, accident, illness, or emotional stress)

How Do I Explain Fibromyalgia to my Family and Friends?

There is simply no single theory that explains the cause of fibromyalgia. Neither do we know what causes fibromyalgia to flare up.

Whatever the cause, the unending pain, tender points, and insomnia or sleep problems are guaranteed to increase the fatigue and depression you feel. This, in turn, leads to increased anxiety, reduced activity, and greater pain. Disordered sleep, even lack of REM sleep, can reduce your energy levels. If it continues over time, it can lead to a decrease in the body's ability to repair damaged tissues.

Once your doctor makes a proper fibromyalgia diagnosis, effective treatment for fibromyalgia can be started. That way, you can manage the symptoms and preserve your quality of life.