10 Root Causes of Fibromyalgia & Treatment Options | Credihealth

Despite being a common chronic condition, fibromyalgia remains one of the most misunderstood health issues today. Many people suffer from widespread pain, fatigue, and brain fog for years, often without a clear diagnosis or cause.

While there’s no single root cause, fibromyalgia is believed to result from a combination of factors that affect how your body processes pain and stress.

In this blog, we’ll explore 10 root causes of fibromyalgia, how they affect your health, and what symptoms and treatments you should be aware of.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes pain throughout the body. It can also lead to fatigue, tenderness, sleep issues, and many other symptoms. This condition can feel challenging and exhausting to live with. Sometimes, you feel good, and sudden symptoms’ flare up (worsening) occur, which can be intense. In the United States, around 2%-3% of people are affected by fibromyalgia. The highest cases occur in women between 20 and 55 years of age. 

Understanding The 10 Root Causes of Fibromyalgia

Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, research suggests several factors that may contribute to its development:

1. Genetics

• A study reports that fibromyalgia is genetic, which means it can run in families.

• Certain gene variations might make you prone to abnormal pain processing in your central nervous system.

• Though having a family history of fibromyalgia does not guarantee that you will develop this condition, it does increase the chances. 

2. Central Nervous System Dysfunction

• People living with fibromyalgia have abnormal brain chemical levels (that carry pain signals), which make them experience increased pain.

• Additionally, the brain and spinal cord can develop more sensitivity to pain stimuli, meaning the non-painful signals become painful.

• Also, this condition changes the way the spinal cord and brain process pain signals, where the brain overreacts to painful as well as non-painful signals. 

3. Physical Trauma and Injury

• Physical trauma and injury can trigger the symptoms by disrupting the ability of the central nervous system to experience pain signals, causing the brain to increase pain sensation.

• Trauma can also cause changes in the brain structure and function, like modified activity in the amygdala (a brain part responsible for processing emotions), which leads to increased pain sensitivity.

• Examples of physical trauma and injury include car accidents, surgery, infection, repeated injuries, or other conditions. 

4. Infections

• Certain bacterial or viral infections like hepatitis B, Epstein-Barr virus, and Lyme disease may trigger the initiation or worsening of existing symptoms of fibromyalgia who are at higher risk.

• These infections can cause increased inflammation and disrupt the immune system regulation, which contributes to chronic pain.

• The anxiety can also lead to fibromyalgia symptoms through sleep disturbances, avoidance behavior, and mood changes. 

5. Hormonal Imbalances

• Low levels of hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine (which are responsible for processing pain) in the nervous system and brain can cause fibromyalgia.

• As these hormones help control metabolism, energy levels, and stress response, their low levels can disrupt pain signals and raise the vulnerability to pain and fatigue.

• Fluctuations of hormones like estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, and menopause can also trigger or worsen symptoms.

6. Sleep Disorders

• Sleep disorders like insomnia, restless legs syndrome, or sleep apnea can cause fibromyalgia as they disrupt deep restorative sleep, which is crucial for pain regulation and muscle repair.

• Poor sleep quality can lead to pain, cognitive issues, and fatigue, which are the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia.

• Also, lack of sleep can intensify the tenderness and pain associated with fibromyalgia. 

7. Emotional & Psychological Stress

• Chronic emotional stress can change the way the spinal cord and brain process painful as well as non-painful signals, leading to increased pain sensitivity.

• In addition, it contributes to central sensitization, when the central nervous system becomes highly sensitive to painful signals, increasing pain sensations.

• Moreover, stress can trigger the increased release of neurotransmitters such as substance P, which contributes to more pain sensitivity. 

8. Autoimmune Disorders

• Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are some autoimmune disorders that increase the chances of developing fibromyalgia. 

• Also, immune system issues like antibodies impacting pain-sensing nerves can increase the risk of fibromyalgia.

• Moreover, chronic inflammation (in the spinal cord and brain) associated with these autoimmune disorders can also contribute to symptoms of fibromyalgia.

9. Gut Microbiome Imbalance

• By triggering systemic inflammation, immune dysfunction, altered metabolism, and poor nutrient absorption, an unhealthy gut microbiome or dysbiosis can lead to fibromyalgia.

• These imbalances can interrupt the communication pathway between the brain and the digestive system, which can affect pain sensation and other symptoms of fibromyalgia.

• Fibromyalgia patients can experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, and food sensitivities. 

10. Environmental Toxins

• Exposure to environmental toxins like heavy metals, chemicals, pesticides, and pollutants may act as triggers for developing fibromyalgia symptoms like pain and fatigue.

• These substances can interrupt endocrine function, reduce energy production, and increase oxidative stress, which can worsen the associated symptoms.

• Some toxins can also damage the immune system, which can contribute to chronic inflammation, a key risk factor for fibromyalgia. 

Fibromyalgia Risk Factors

Though what causes fibromyalgia is not definitive, these are the potential factors that can increase the risk of developing it:

• Gender: More common in women, twice as likely to experience it.

• Chronic illnesses: Osteoarthritis, anxiety disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, back pain, and depression are more likely to trigger it.

• Infections: Epstein-Barr virus, Lyme disease, HIV, and Hepatitis C may trigger it.

• Traumas: Physical or emotional trauma or severe injuries can also act as triggers.

• Family history: Family members with fibromyalgia are more likely to increase the risk of developing it.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of exercise or physical activity may also be a contributing factor.

• Mental health problems: Depression and anxiety are common triggers.

What Triggers Fibromyalgia Flare-ups?

Generally, the things that increase your stress can trigger flare-ups, but it can vary from person to person. The potential triggers are:

• Emotional stress is caused by financial conditions, jobs, or social life.
• Changes in your everyday routine.
• Changes in your daily diet or not getting adequate nutrition.
• Hormonal changes.
• Inadequate sleep
• Temperature or weather changes.
• Getting sick
• Starting new medicines or treatments for fibromyalgia
• Changing your fibromyalgia treatment routine.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Recognizing the symptoms early can lead to better management. Common signs include:

Physical Symptoms:

• Muscle pain or tenderness
• Fatigue or low energy
• Face and jaw pain
• Headaches & Migraines
• Digestive issues (constipation, diarrhea, IBS)
• Urinary urgency or incontinence

Cognitive & Emotional Symptoms:

• Memory problems (called “brain fog”)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating

Treatment Options for Fibromyalgia

Managing fibromyalgia often requires a multi-pronged approach. Here are common treatment strategies:

1. Medications:

• Pain relievers: Ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen can help relieve pain.
• Antidepressants: Duloxetine and milnacipran can reduce pain and enhance sleep quality.
• Anti-seizure medications: Gabapentin and pregabalin to improve sleep and alleviate pain.

2. Physical and Movement Therapies: 

• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve range of motion, boost strength, and manage cardiovascular fitness. 
• Movement therapies: Low-impact aerobic activities like Tai Chi and yoga to improve balance, flexibility, and overall health.
• Therapeutic massage: Relieves muscle pain and tension. 

3. Psychological & Behavioral Therapies: 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Teaches coping strategies to manage stress, pain, tenderness, and other fibromyalgia symptoms.
• Stress management: Practice techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises to manage stress and overall well-being. 

Complications of Untreated Fibromyalgia

Without proper management, fibromyalgia can lead to:

• Poor sleep
• Increased pain and fatigue
• Mental health issues like anxiety and depression
• Trouble concentrating
• Memory problems

Note: If you see any changes in symptoms, especially if they are impacting your mental health, seek medical guidance. 

How To Prevent Fibromyalgia?

As the causes are unknown, it is not possible to prevent fibromyalgia completely. There’s no proven way to prevent fibromyalgia entirely. However, you can reduce your risk and manage symptoms with these lifestyle strategies:

• Manage stress by practicing meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness.
• Follow a healthy diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to avoid triggers of fibromyalgia.
• Get adequate sleep every night to reduce fatigue and improve overall health.
• Practice low-impact exercise such as yoga, swimming, and walking regularly to relieve pain, boost endurance, and improve physical function.

Final Thoughts

Fibromyalgia is a complex, chronic condition that often stems from multiple overlapping issues, such as stress, hormonal imbalance, infections, and neurological dysfunction. By understanding the 10 root causes of fibromyalgia mentioned in this article, patients and healthcare providers can work together to create more targeted, effective treatment plans.

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, fatigue, or other unexplained symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis and a personalized approach to managing the root causes can make a significant difference in your quality of life.

FAQs

What is the number one trigger for fibromyalgia?

Prolonged or severe stress is the number one trigger that impairs the nervous system and increases pain sensitivity.

What not to do during a fibromyalgia flare-up?

Avoid intense exercises, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing or sitting, as they can worsen symptoms.

Does sugar make fibromyalgia worse?

Yes, excessive use of sugar can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms as it leads to inflammation and weight gain, which increases pain and fatigue.

Does sitting make fibromyalgia worse?

Yes, prolonged sitting can worsen muscle pain and stiffness, which are common symptoms of fibromyalgia.

What is the best vitamin for fibromyalgia?

Vitamin D is the best vitamin as it helps manage pain, sleep disturbances, and fatigue.